Asakura Fumio (1883-1964) is sometimes called the "Rodin of Japan", a modern, Western-style sculptor whose work is characterized by true-to-life imagery that was ahead of its time in Japan. Although born and raised in Oita, Kyushu, he came to Tokyo as a young man to study at the Tokyo School of Fine Arts and then … Continue reading Asakura Museum of Sculpture – the legacy of a great 20th century artist
The ginkgo tree is the official tree of the Tokyo Metropolitan District, having been selected for that honor by popular vote in 1966. While these trees are ubiquitous across the city--the majority of the half million trees lining Tokyo streets are ginkgo trees--they are at their most stunning during the month of December, when their … Continue reading Going for gold — Tokyo’s ginkgo trees in their full glory
November 20, 2016, was the culmination of a 3 week long promotion of Tohoku products at the Toranomon Hills complex in the area becoming known as "Shintora" (combining the names of the Shinbashi and Toranomon districts of Tokyo). The absolute highlight of the day was the Shintora Matsuri Parade, featuring troupes from the six major … Continue reading Shintora Matsuri Parade: bringing Tohoku to Tokyo
This article describes a walk that includes a brief stretch of the Tokaido around Shinagawa-juku and then following the Meguro River to its mouth and the modern waterways of the area. (Archived article - Originally published by Japan Today.)
This article takes readers on a walk to visit Japan's seven lucky gods at shrines and temples in the Shibamata neighborhood of northeast Tokyo. Such walks are a popular new year's activity, said to bring luck and fortune to participants. In addition, the walk is fun and interesting! (Archived article – Originally published by Japan … Continue reading Shibamata’s seven lucky gods walk
This article describes the O-eshiki festival that takes place at Ikegami Honmonji Temple from October 11 to 13 every year, with the major parade and ceremonies from nightfall to midnight on the night of October 12. (Archived article - Originally published by Japan Today.)
Jigsaw Japan 