Stories
Where to Stay in Hokuriku: Ryokan, Boutique Inns, and Mountain Retreats
Staying in Hokuriku is as much about atmosphere as location. From riverside retreats in Toyama to minimalist hotels in Kanazawa and intimate inns in Fukui’s mountains, accommodations here reflect the region’s close relationship with nature and craft. These selected stays offer thoughtful design, seasonal cuisine, and a sense of place—making them ideal bases for exploring Hokuriku’s quieter landscapes and traditions.
What to Do in Hokuriku: Crafts, Villages, and Living Traditions
Hokuriku offers experiences rooted in making, movement, and quiet observation. Visitors can explore centuries-old villages, walk through preserved geisha districts, and witness traditional crafts such as metal casting, knife making, and washi paper production. In Ishikawa, long-established traditions of lacquerware and Kutani ceramicware reveal how surface, form, and function evolve through generations of artisans. From moss-covered shrine paths to hands-on workshops and Zen meditation, these activities show how history and daily life remain closely intertwined across Toyama, Ishikawa, and Fukui.
Where to Eat and Drink in Hokuriku: Ramen, Sushi, Soba, and Sake
Hokuriku’s cuisine is shaped by its geography, where alpine rivers meet the deep waters of the Sea of Japan. From Toyama’s famously fresh sushi and rich black ramen to handmade soba in Fukui and centuries-old sake breweries in Kanazawa, food here reflects both abundance and restraint. This chapter of the series focuses on local specialties and the artisans behind them, revealing how regional ingredients and tradition define the Hokuriku table.
Boxed In Beauty: A Digest of the New York Times Article on Japan’s Deeply Rooted Packaging Culture
Boxed In Beauty: A Digest of the New York Times Article on Japan’s Deeply Rooted Packaging Culture
Exploring how Japan’s reverence for boxes—crafted from paulownia wood, lacquer, and cloth—reflects centuries of artistry, order, and cultural meaning.
Kiriko Glass Art: A Timeless Japanese Tradition
Kiriko Day celebrates Japan's timeless glass art, showcasing the intricate craftsmanship of Edo and Satsuma Kiriko. These beautifully cut and colored glass pieces blend tradition with modern elegance. Honored in Japan and admired globally, Kiriko reflects the enduring artistry of Japanese culture, making it a symbol of beauty and innovation in both décor and everyday life.
Toshiko Takaezu: A Legacy of Form and Spirit at Cranbrook
Handcrafted gem from Kodo kiyooka
We’re thrilled to introduce two exquisite additions to our collection by master ceramicist Kodo Kiyooka. Known for his impeccable artistry and ability to blend tradition with contemporary aesthetics, these mugs are no exception. Each piece is a testament to Kiyooka’s dedication to craftsmanship and timeless design.
Shohakuyu Mug
The Shohakuyu mug features a serene white glaze with subtle blue undertones, reminiscent of misty mornings and tranquil skies. Its soft, organic shape is perfectly suited for a comforting cup of tea or coffee, making every sip feel like a mindful moment.
Hekikaihaku Mug
For lovers of the ceramic work’s depth and complexity, the Hekikaihaku mug is a gem. With a rich, gradient blue glaze that evokes waves meeting the horizon, this mug invites you to savor the beauty of nature with every use.
Both mugs are handcrafted with a unique glaze finish, ensuring no two are exactly alike. They are perfect as a gift or a personal indulgence for those who appreciate the beauty of Japanese ceramics.
Elevate your daily rituals with these stunning works of art from Kodo Kiyooka.
Kintsugi saved art piece
I was heartbroken upon receiving @ogataatushi's rice bowl, but my feeling was lifted when the #Kintsugi art revitalized it..!