This article describes thirteen festivals or other special events taking place in Tokyo during Golden Week 2017. (Archived article - Originally published by Japan Today)
Category: Tokyo
Influential art: exploring the world of Hokusai Katsushika
The Japanese artist known to the world as Hokusai Katsushika (1760-1849) was born Nakajima Tokitaro in what is now Tokyo's Sumida ward. In a career that spanned seven decades, he moved more than 90 times and used at least 30 different names. His best known genre was the ukiyo-e print, but in fact he explored--and … Continue reading Influential art: exploring the world of Hokusai Katsushika
A lesson in the importance of not disturbing spirits
Otemachi, the district that sits between Tokyo Station and the Otemon gate of the Imperial Palace has long been one of Tokyo's main business centers. Over the last 20 years it has seen incredible architectural changes bringing a new vibrancy to the area as old buildings are pulled down to make way for new office … Continue reading A lesson in the importance of not disturbing spirits
Tracing the Tachi-ai River to its source, while enjoying cherry blossoms
Tracing the Tachi-ai River to its source, while enjoying cherry blossoms is an article describing a walk through a neighborhood of suburban Tokyo that includes blooms and blossoms, several historical buildings, and the source of a river. (Archived article - Originally published by Japan Today)
Firewalking at Mt. Takao-a dramatic way to purify
In many cultures, fire is regarded as a great purifier. Japanese Buddhism is one such culture, and one of the most dramatic purification rituals is firewalking. A chance to observe this tradition first hand is coming up on March 12, 2017, so if you'll be in Tokyo, mark your calendar and make plans to go … Continue reading Firewalking at Mt. Takao-a dramatic way to purify
Hina Dolls at Meguro Gajoen–all kinds of traditions at once
This time of year in Japan, displays of Hina dolls are ubiquitous. Historically the third day of the third month is Girl's Day (while the fifth day of the fifth month--now the Children's Day public holiday--was Boy's Day). The traditional observation of Girl's Day included displays of Hina dolls--dolls depicting a king, queen and courtiers … Continue reading Hina Dolls at Meguro Gajoen–all kinds of traditions at once
Plum Blossoms: Harbingers of Spring
One of the many things I love about winter in Japan is that it is the season when plum trees bloom (at least in the coastal areas). I admire the tenacity of those little flowers, which open themselves in the dead of winter and continue to bloom--and send their pretty fragrance into the cold winter … Continue reading Plum Blossoms: Harbingers of Spring
Atago Hill – success is on the rise
On a clear winter's day in 1634, Tokugawa Iemitsu, the third shogun of the Tokugawa dynasty, was riding his horse south of Edo Castle, together with a number of retainers. He was returning to the castle from having worshipped at Zojoji Temple, a major temple complex with which the Tokugawa family have a long and … Continue reading Atago Hill – success is on the rise
Finding good fortune on a walk through Yanaka
This article takes readers on a walk to visit Japan's seven lucky gods at shrines and temples in the historic Yanaka neighborhood of Tokyo. Such walks are a popular new year's activity, said to bring luck and fortune to participants. (Archived article - Originally published by Japan Today.)
Finding good fortune on a walk through Yanaka
This article takes readers on a seven lucky gods pilgrimage through the Yanaka area, a Tokyo neighborhood popular with tourists, although most probably miss many of these sights. Learn more in this article. (Archived article originally published by Japan Today.)
Haneda Chronogate – package processing to rival the North Pole
If Santa and his elves find themselves overwhelmed with preparing and delivering Christmas packages, they would do well to turn to Haneda Chronogate for help. Opened in 2013, Haneda Chronogate is the flagship facility of Yamato Holdings Co., Ltd. (also known as "kuro neko"), the shipping firm that first conceived and developed TA-Q-BIN, express package … Continue reading Haneda Chronogate – package processing to rival the North Pole
The Tokyo Christmas Market – another Hibiya Park triumph
You can feel it in the air, even in Tokyo. Christmas is coming. Tokyo gets itself into the Christmas spirit with festive lighting displays on major thoroughfares, shopping centers and tower complexes as well as seasonal decorations in department stores and other public venues. And from December 16 to 25, Hibiya Park is host to … Continue reading The Tokyo Christmas Market – another Hibiya Park triumph
Jigsaw Japan 