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Month: September 2024

CategoriesExperience

Do You Know the Best Walkable Cities in Tokyo? 3 Commonalities Between Ginza and Shinjuku’s Kagurazaka

By ninjakotan

Do You Know the Best Walkable Cities in Tokyo? 3 Commonalities Between Ginza and Shinjuku’s Kagurazaka   Ginza is well-known to many, while Shinjuku’s Kagurazaka is less recognized. For example, according to WordStream’s “Free Keyword Tool,” the term “Ginza” is searched 74,000 times in the U.S., whereas “Kagurazaka” is searched only 1,900 times—a difference of 39 times. However, Ginza and Kagurazaka share several similarities. Today, I will explain three of these commonalities.   1: Both Follow Edo Period Town Layouts and Are Among the Best Walkable Cities in Tokyo The Japanese term “Gin-bura” suggests that Ginza is a city that is enjoyable to walk through. This walkability is due to its Edo-period (1603-1868) town layout. Each city block is 120 square meters, smaller than Marunouchi or Nihonbashi’s 240 square meters, making streets close together with various shops lining the roads, keeping you entertained as you stroll.  A Nikkei Newspaper article on August 25, 2024, mentioned that “although Ginza has a glamorous image, the alleys are dark and winding.” The article also pointed out that the depth of the town’s structure is what makes walking through Ginza enjoyable.  Kagurazaka is also known for retaining its Edo-period town layout, making it aread moreDo You Know the Best Walkable Cities in Tokyo? 3 Commonalities Between Ginza and Shinjuku’s Kagurazaka

CategoriesExperience

Why Did Natsume Soseki, Famous for I Am a Cat, Love Kagurazaka, Tokyo?

By ninjakotan

Why Did Natsume Soseki, Famous for I Am a Cat, Love Kagurazaka, Tokyo? Exploring Kagurazaka Through the Eyes of Natsume Soseki, Famous for Works like I Am a Cat The internationally renowned author Natsume Soseki (1867-1916) is famous for works like I Am a Cat and And Then. He often featured Kagurazaka, Tokyo, in his novels. One major reason for this was the presence of the popular “Yose theater” called Ushigome Waradana-tei, which was located between Zenkokuji Temple and Kagurazaka Ue along Jizo-zaka. The Yose were traditional Japanese theaters where performances like Rakugo (comic storytelling) and Kodan (narrative storytelling) were held. Kodansha, the second-largest publishing company in Japan, also derives its name from ‘Kodan,’ reflecting the past popularity of Kodan performances. Today, only four Yose theaters remain in Tokyo: Shinjuku Suehiro-tei, Asakusa Engei Hall, Ikebukuro Engeijō, and Suzumoto Engeijō in Ueno. Soseki had a great fondness for Rakugo and Kodan and frequently visited Waradana-tei. In his later years, Soseki lived just a 10-15 minute walk from Kagurazaka, at what is now the Shinjuku City Natsume Soseki Memorial Museum. Kagurazaka was the closest entertainment district to his home, and his novels describe dining in various restaurants there. A Kodan Performance atread moreWhy Did Natsume Soseki, Famous for I Am a Cat, Love Kagurazaka, Tokyo?

CategoriesExperience

What is Zen? Visual and Clear Guidance at Denchuji Temple in Tokyo

By ninjakotan

What is Zen? A Simple Answer, Hard to Grasp: Visual and Clear Guidance at Denchuji Temple in Tokyo   Exploring the Simple Complexity of ‘What is Zen’: Insights from the Soto Zen Sect For many travelers, both foreign and Japanese, understanding ‘What is Zen?’ really means is a challenge. Even the Japanese find it difficult to articulate. However, according to the website of the Soto Zen sect, the answer is remarkably simple: ‘Shikantaza’, or just sitting. This practice involves sitting earnestly without any secondary purpose. Although simple, understanding that Zen sitting, ‘Shikantaza’, is about more than just sitting idly can be complex. Soto Zen teachings explain that sitting in meditation is not a means to an end but an expression of enlightenment itself. This practice helps us detach from selfish desires and the superficial distractions of daily life. Achieving Harmony in Zen: Balancing Posture, Breathing, and Mind Another crucial aspect of Zen is achieving harmony between body (posture), breath (breathing), and mind (adjusting your mind) through stabilizing the body and focusing the mind during sitting. However, visualizing this harmony and deeply comprehending it can be challenging without proper guidance. Visualizing Zen: Tailored English Instruction for Foreigners at Denchu Temple Atread moreWhat is Zen? Visual and Clear Guidance at Denchuji Temple in Tokyo

CategoriesExperience

The Allure of Hokusai’s Ukiyo-e: “Express it More Vividly than Reality”

By ninjakotan

The Allure of Hokusai’s Ukiyo-e: “Express it More Vividly than Reality”     Bridging Perceptions and Realities in Ukiyo-e Art Within the Tokyo Metropolitan Government’s “Traditional Crafts of Tokyo” website, there’s a description of the charm of Ukiyo-e as “Express it more vividly than reality.” This phrase beautifully captures the essence of Ukiyo-e.  Peter Drucker, a lover of Japanese paintings, noted the difference between Japanese and Western art as follows: “The characteristics of Japanese art can arguably be described as perceptual rather than conceptual, designed rather than realistic, topological rather than geometrical, and integrative rather than analytical.” This correlates well with the idea of “Express more vividly than reality.”  World-famous Ukiyo-e “Great Wave off Kanagawa” by Hokusai The “Great Wave off Kanagawa” by the painter Katsushika Hokusai is perhaps the most famous Ukiyo-e. This dramatic composition, with its high, swirling waves and boats engulfed by the sea and Mount Fuji in the distance, has captivated audiences globally. In 2023, it fetched $2.76 million at an auction in New York. In July 2024, it was selected for Japan’s new ¥1,000 note.    Mastering the Art of Ukiyo-e: Craftsmanship and Technique Ukiyo-e is a design that results from the craftsmanship of painters. However,read moreThe Allure of Hokusai’s Ukiyo-e: “Express it More Vividly than Reality”

CategoriesExperience

Experience the Authentic Washoku (Japanese Food) Cooking Class in Tokyo

By ninjakotan

Experience the Authentic Washoku (Japanese Food) Cooking Class in the Heart of Tokyo   Introducing Authentic Washoku (Japanese Food) Cooking Class Led by a Chef Are you ready to dive into one of Japan’s most treasured cultural experiences? Whether you’re a foodie or a cultural enthusiast, our Washoku (Japanese Food) Cooking Class offers a rare opportunity to not only learn how to cook authentic Japanese dishes but also to understand the deep cultural and spiritual significance behind every ingredient and technique.  Taught by Emiko Masuda, an experienced instructor who holds a chef’s license and is also an expert in the Japanese tea ceremony, this class goes far beyond simply eating Japanese food—you’ll learn about its history, the careful preparation methods, and the etiquette that makes Washoku so unique. In this hands-on cooking class, you’ll experience a whole new level of engagement with Japanese cuisine, taught in English to ensure a seamless learning experience. This is your chance to experience the real essence of Washoku right in the heart of Shinjuku, Tokyo! What is Washoku? Washoku, Japan’s traditional dietary culture, is more than just a way of eating. It’s a way of life that is deeply connected to nature and theread moreExperience the Authentic Washoku (Japanese Food) Cooking Class in Tokyo

CategoriesExperience

Join Our Tea Ceremony Class in Shinjuku, Tokyo

By ninjakotan

Discover the Heart of Japanese Tradition: Join Our Tea Ceremony Class in Shinjuku, Tokyo   Tea Ceremony Class, led by Urasenke Associate Professor Are you looking for a way to deepen your understanding of Japanese culture while finding a moment of peace in the hustle and bustle of Tokyo? Why not join our Tea Ceremony (Chado, Chanoyu) Class, led by Urasenke Associate Professor Emiko Masuda—a rare chance to experience this cherished tradition directly in English.  Held at Chawa Masudaya, a tea shop founded in 1930, this unique class is designed for travelers seeking an authentic and immersive experience of Japanese culture. Whether you’re new to the tea ceremony or looking to deepen your knowledge, this class offers an exclusive opportunity to engage with one of Japan’s most spiritual and culturally significant practices. What Makes the Japanese Tea Ceremony So Special? The tea ceremony is much more than preparing and drinking tea—it’s a deeply spiritual and cultural experience that dates back centuries. Introduced to Japan along with Buddhism, the ceremony became a meditative practice for the educated elite. It beautifully blends spirituality with cultural appreciation, offering a moment of tranquility and reflection in our fast-paced lives.  At the heart of theread moreJoin Our Tea Ceremony Class in Shinjuku, Tokyo

CategoriesExperience

Join a Wagashi-Making Class in Kagurazaka, Tokyo

By ninjakotan

Unlock the Secrets of Traditional Japanese Sweets: Join a Wagashi-Making Class in Kagurazaka, Tokyo If you’re traveling to Japan and looking for an immersive cultural experience, why not expand your creativity through the art of wagashi-making? Step into the world of traditional Japanese confections and discover how these delicate sweets beautifully capture the essence of Japan’s four seasons. The wagashi-making class is offered as part of ‘Premium Food Experience Tours: Kagurazaka Artisan Delicacies,’ alongside the tofu-making and parfait-making classes. Among these, the wagashi-making class stands as the flagship offering, both in name and substance, of Kagurazaka Artisan Delicacies. Baika-tei: A Time-Honored Tradition in Kagurazaka Founded in 1935, Baika-tei has been a beloved name in Kagurazaka, known for crafting exquisite wagashi (Japanese sweets) using only the finest, all-natural ingredients. Baika-tei is especially famous for its signature Anko (sweet red bean paste), which is carefully prepared in 23 unique varieties to complement the outer layer of each seasonal wagashi perfectly.   Wagashi-Making Class at Fufumi-an: A Hidden Gem in Kagurazaka, Tokyo The wagashi-making class takes place at Fufumi-an, a serene and beautifully designed tea house tucked away in the hidden backstreets of Yokotera-machi in Kagurazaka. Literary figures once loved this peaceful enclaveread moreJoin a Wagashi-Making Class in Kagurazaka, Tokyo

CategoriesExperience

Experience Tokyo’s Traditional Dyeing Industry in Shinjuku

By ninjakotan

Reservations for “Oedo Shinjuku Konya Meguri” Begin on September 9. Experience Tokyo’s Traditional Dyeing Industry in Shinjuku   Explore the Art of Indigo Dyeing: Experience Traditional Tokyo’s Culture at the “Oedo Shinjuku Konya Meguri” From Thursday, October 31, to Sunday, November 3, 2024, the “Oedo Shinjuku Konya Meguri” (hereafter referred to as “Konya Meguri”) will be held. The term “Konya” refers to a dyeing shop. During the Edo period, “Aizome” (indigo dyeing) was the dominant dyeing method, leading to the term “Konya” being used as a general name for dyeing craftsmen. In Japanese, the word “Kon” represents the indigo color used in dyeing, and “Ya” means shop. This event offers you the opportunity to observe and experience the traditional dyeing process involved in creating kimono, deepening your understanding of Tokyo’s Japanese culture. Reservations for Tours and Experiences Open Monday, September 9, at 10:00 AM There are many steps involved in turning a roll of fabric into a kimono. A highly developed division of labor has evolved over time, encompassing dyeing techniques such as Edo Komon, Edo Sarasa, and Tokyo Hand-Painted Yuzen, as well as skills like Edo Embroidery, family crest painting, and finishing processes such as dye correction, steaming, andread moreExperience Tokyo’s Traditional Dyeing Industry in Shinjuku

CategoriesExperience

What is Matsuri (Japanese Cultural Festival)? (3)

By ninjakotan

What is Matsuri (Japanese Cultural Festival)? (3): The Most Important Concepts of Matsuri – “Hare” and “Ke”   ‘Hare’ and ‘Ke’ Is Important for Matsuri (Japanese Cultural Festival) Hare and Ke are Japanese terms that express the rhythm of daily life. These concepts were introduced by the folklorist Kunio Yanagita, who pointed out that Japanese life, centered around rice farming, followed the cycle of Hare and Ke. This concept of Hare and Ke is important for understanding Matsuri (Japanese Cultural Festival). Understanding ‘Hare’ and ‘Ke’: The Balance of Special Occasions and Daily Life in Japanese Culture Hare (晴れ) refers to special occasions such as shrine festivals, temple ceremonies, New Year’s celebrations, seasonal festivals, and life events like weddings and funerals—times of “non-daily” activities. On the other hand, Ke (褻) represents the “daily” aspects of life, such as work and regular routines. The term “Hare” comes from the word “hare,” meaning “bright,” and is still used today in expressions like “Hare no Butai” (a once-in-a-lifetime important event) and “Haregi” (ceremonial clothing worn on special occasions). Hare Days: How Special Occasions Transform Daily Life in Japan Hare days bring change and a sense of purpose to otherwise monotonous lives. On these days,read moreWhat is Matsuri (Japanese Cultural Festival)? (3)

CategoriesExperience

What is Matsuri (Japanese Cultural Festival)? (2)

By ninjakotan

What is Matsuri (Japanese Cultural Festival)? (2): The Reason Why Matsuri Has Seasonality     Understanding the Reason Behind the Seasonality of Matsuri (Japanese Festivals) Yesterday, I explained why Matsuri (Japanese festivals) are held only once a year. The timing of these festivals is determined by their purpose, often based on specific historical days related to the shrine. In this post, I will discuss the seasonality of Matsuri (Japanese festivals) and the reasons behind it.  Reisai (annual festivals) are held at different times depending on the shrine, as each shrine has a unique historically significant day. For example, even among major shrines in Japan, the dates for Reisai are quite different:  Examples of Reisai (Annual Festivals) Dates: Kasuga Taisha: March 13 Katori Shrine: April 14 Heian Shrine: April 15 Izumo Taisha: May 14 Kamo Shrine: May 15 Atsuta Shrine: June 5 Yasaka Shrine: June 15 Hikawa Shrine: August 1 Kashima Shrine: September 1 Dazaifu Tenmangu: September 25 Meiji Shrine: November 3   Exploring the Seasonal Significance and Reasons Behind the Diverse Dates of Reisai in Japan Why are the dates of these Reisai so different across Japan? This is because Japan has traditionally been an agricultural society, with a yearlyread moreWhat is Matsuri (Japanese Cultural Festival)? (2)

CategoriesExperience

What is Matsuri (Japanese Cultural Festival)? (1)

By ninjakotan

What is Matsuri (Japanese Cultural Festival)? (1): The Reason Why Matsuri is Held Only Once a Year   Do You Know Why Matsuri (Japanese Festivals) Are Held Only Once a Year? Japanese festivals are popular among foreign travelers. While festivals exist worldwide, the unique decorations, large scale, and long history of Japanese festivals, such as the Mikoshi (portable shrines) and Dashi (floats), are particularly captivating. Even for Japanese people, who generally appreciate minimalist aesthetics like Wabi-Sabi, the extravagant decorations of festivals stand out as something different.  However, many of these festivals are held only once a year (for one or a few days), which can be disappointing for travelers whose schedules don’t align with the timing of the festivals. So, why are Matsuri (Japanese festivals) held only once a year? Let’s explore the reasons.  The Purpose and Timing of Japanese Matsuri In short, the timing of festivals is determined by their purpose. Many festivals are held as a form of prayer for good fortune, such as “bountiful harvests,” “abundant fish catches,” “prosperous business,” “warding off epidemics,” “health and safety,” and “prosperity of descendants.” The timing and events of these festivals vary greatly depending on their specific purposes.  Japanese festivals areread moreWhat is Matsuri (Japanese Cultural Festival)? (1)

CategoriesExperience

The Beauty of Geisha Lies in the Grace of Her “Shosa(Movements)”

By ninjakotan

The Beauty of Geisha Lies in the Grace of Her “Shosa(Movements)”: Experience the Beautiful Geisha in Tokyo Geisha are beautiful, and not just in appearance. Their refined movements enhance their beauty and make them shine. In Japanese, these movements are called “Shosa,” which refers not only to physical actions but also embodies one’s demeanor and cultural values through these actions. In a previous blog, we discussed “Reigi” (Respect and Etiquette) in martial arts, noting that the beauty perceived in martial arts also stems from the graceful way practitioners bow and carry themselves. Today, we will discuss the beauty of a geisha’s “Shosa.”   Mastering Grace: How Geisha Cultivate Their Elegance The elegance of a geisha’s movements often originates from traditional Japanese dance. The allure of this dance lies in the graceful movements performed while wearing a kimono. These movements reflect the essence of Japan, including virtues like respect, humility, and gratitude. A straight posture, movements that follow a clear line, and smoothly curved motions all extend the kimono’s beauty and Japanese aesthetics. Geishas refine their “Shosa” through practices like tea ceremony and flower arrangement. The beauty of their language also contributes to their exquisite conduct. I highly recommend observing geishas’read moreThe Beauty of Geisha Lies in the Grace of Her “Shosa(Movements)”

CategoriesExperience

September Parfait Announcement: Have You Heard of the Sweet “Nagano Purple” Grapes?

By ninjakotan

September Parfait Announcement: Have You Heard of the Sweet “Nagano Purple” Grapes?   Indulge in Seasonal Delights: September’s Parfait Featuring Nagano Purple and Shine Muscat Grapes At “Couches de bonheur” in Kagurazaka, Shinjuku, we change the parfaits we serve in our “Parfait and Tea Tasting” class every month to match the season. For September, we are featuring a parfait that uses grapes and Japanese pears sourced from “Yasai no Kanematsu” in Matsushiro Town, Nagano City, Nagano Prefecture. The grapes used are Nagano Purple and Shine Muscat. Nagano Purple is a sweet grape developed in Nagano Prefecture by crossing “Kyoho” and “Rizamat” varieties. It is seedless and can be eaten with the skin. It is rich in polyphenols, glucose, fructose, and minerals. Development began in 1992, and the variety was registered in 2004. The “Rizamat” variety originates from Uzbekistan and is considered one of the most luxurious and rarest grape varieties in Japan, with very limited production. On the other hand, Shine Muscat is a popular grape variety registered in 2006. It has an appealing appearance and exudes a sense of luxury. “Couches de bonheur” sources its fruits from “Yasai no Kanematsu,” a long-established greengrocer founded in 1917. They handle vegetablesread moreSeptember Parfait Announcement: Have You Heard of the Sweet “Nagano Purple” Grapes?

CategoriesExperience

Learning the Samurai Spirit in Tokyo

By ninjakotan

Why is Reigi (Respect and Etiquette) Necessary in Martial Arts? Learning the Samurai Spirit in Tokyo   The Foundation of Martial Arts: Reigi (Respect and Etiquette) It is said that “Budo” (martial arts) begins and ends with Reigi (Respect and Etiquette). Many Japanese view martial arts and Reigi as inseparable. Martial arts, which evolved from traditional Japanese martial techniques, aim to develop character through practice and training. Hence, alongside physical conditioning and mastering techniques, Reigi is highly valued. By learning martial arts, one also acquires proper manners and Reigi. The term “Budo” (martial arts) refers to a broad category, including Judo, Kendo, Kyudo, Sumo, and Karate. Judo: A Martial Art or a Sport? Judo, one of the martial arts disciplines, is an Olympic sport. At this year’s Paris Olympics, there was the debate in Japan over whether Judo is a martial art or a sport. In Japan, Judo is taught not only to focus on winning or losing but also to emphasize Reigi. I was a Judo club member during my high school days and was taught these Reigi (Respect and Etiquette). However, outside Japan, some countries and athletes focus more on the competitive aspect of Judo as a combatread moreLearning the Samurai Spirit in Tokyo

CategoriesExperience

Why Do We Feel Both ‘Iki’ and ‘Wabi-Sabi’ in Tokyo’s Kagurazaka?

By ninjakotan

Why Do We Feel Both ‘Iki’ and ‘Wabi-Sabi’ in Tokyo’s Kagurazaka? Embracing Iki: The Thoughtful Development of Kagurazaka Kagurazaka is a neighborhood known for its ‘Iki (Sophisticated).’ The residents of Kagurazaka have established a town development plan called the “Kagurazaka Machizukuri Kensho,” which aims to create “The town of Iki where tradition and modernity meet – Kagurazaka.” The basic policies for town development include creating “a town where commerce and residential areas coexist,” “a town adorned with traditional charm,” and “a town that is enjoyable to stroll through.” Even the organization responsible for the town’s development is named the “NPO Iki-na Machizukuri Club” (NPO Sophisticated Town Development Club). Iki: The Timeless Elegance of Kagurazaka’s Edo and French Influences The concept of ‘Iki’ is an aesthetic that developed during the Edo period. Under restrictions such as luxury bans, a sophisticated urban culture emerged, characterized by understated elegance, like the Edo Komon (a type of traditional patterned fabric). ‘Iki’ refers to beauty that is simple yet exudes taste and individuality. Kagurazaka, a street built by the third shogun, Tokugawa Iemitsu, still retains its Edo-period layout and is a neighborhood steeped in Edo culture. The long-standing geisha district culture also remains. With theread moreWhy Do We Feel Both ‘Iki’ and ‘Wabi-Sabi’ in Tokyo’s Kagurazaka?