Hanami, a traditional custom of Japan, has its roots in the Nara period. It is a practice of admiring the fleeting beauty of flowers in full bloom. This custom is practiced during spring, mainly with the famous cherry blossoms, called Sakura. Hanami also includes the appreciation of apricot flowers (Ume), which bloom earlier, as well …
Omizutori (お水取り) or the Torch Festival is a Buddhist religious rite. It is celebrated every year in the Nigatsu-do of the Todai-ji temple, in Nara, Japan. It is considered one of the oldest and most important religious events in the country, dating back over a thousand years. The event takes place during the month of …
Hina Matsuri is a holiday celebrated in Japan every year on March 3. It is also called the “Doll Festival”. Why this name? Due to the tradition of displaying porcelain dolls called hina-ningyō. This holiday is celebrated to honor young girls and wish them a happy and prosperous life. The tradition of Hina Matsuri dates …
In Japan, Setsubun is a traditional festival celebrated on February 3. It marks the transition from winter to spring according to the ancient agricultural lunar calendar of Chinese origin. This festivity has deep meaning. Indeed, it combines ancestral rituals, symbols and community spirit. Historical Origins of the Setsubun Festival The origin of Setsubun dates back …
Setsubun and mame-maki, the national spring festival in Japan Read More »
Japanese knives are famous for their exceptional sharpness, durability and refined aesthetics. Their unique quality appeals to chefs and cooking enthusiasts around the world. Find out why these kitchen tools are so popular and explore our selection at Nippon Boutique. Why Choose a Japanese Knife? Japanese knives offer unparalleled precision thanks to their high-end steel …
Japanese Knives: Craftsmanship and Excellence for Your Kitchen Read More »
The Yuki-onna, or “snow woman”, has fascinated people in Japanese folklore for centuries. She embodies the icy and mysterious beauty of winter. This legendary character remains one of the best known in Japanese folk tales. Origins The legends of the Yuki-onna come from the mountainous and snowy regions of Japan. These stories have been passed …
Christmas is a festive time for many cultures around the world, and also in Japan. Although the country is not traditionally Christian, the celebration of Christmas has become increasingly popular over the years. Especially with a mix of Japanese and Western culture. In this article, we will explore how the Japanese celebrate Christmas. But also …
Christmas in Japan: Between Japanese and Western Traditions Read More »
The Sega Dreamcast, launched in 1998, is an iconic console that has left its mark on the video game industry. It stands out for its bold design, cutting-edge features and incredible catalog of games. Even decades later, it remains a reference for nostalgic gamers. A bold launch for a cutting-edge console Sega launched the Dreamcast …
Sega Dreamcast: A Revolution in the History of Consoles Read More »
Makuras are essential Japanese cushions for everyday comfort. These little wonders combine practicality and culture. Used in Japanese tradition, they provide pleasant support while offering a unique aesthetic touch. Discover their history and why they have become essential in Japanese homes. What is a Makura? The word “makura” literally means “pillow” in Japanese. This small …
Japan, a land of innovation and tradition, is home to unique theme parks. Offering unforgettable experiences, these magical places delight young and old alike. Here is a selection of the best theme parks in Japan, not to be missed. 1. Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea Tokyo Disneyland, inspired by American parks, offers famous attractions like Pirates …
