Kokeshi dolls are a traditional craft beloved by the common people of Miyagi Prefecture. But what about traditional crafts beloved by the samurai class? During the Edo period, Sendai, a city of one million people, was known as the Sendai Domain, and was a regional center of the Tohoku region.
Chimon
The Oga Shinzan Folklore Museum presents the legend of Namahage through skits. Namahage, a visiting deity, is a representative folk legend of Oga City, Akita Prefecture, and is designated as an Important Intangible Cultural Property of Japan.
The more you get to know Fukushima Prefecture, the deeper you'll find it to be known as the "gateway to Michinoku." Among these, Nihonmatsu's washi paper has a history unmatched by any other region. From a simple atmosphere to a solemn one...
Chimon
In the southern Aizu region of Fukushima Prefecture, there is a post town that has existed since the Edo period. Even now, in the 2000s, the town is lined with thatched-roof houses, and it feels as if time has stood still...
Chimon
When people visit Aizu, they tend to focus on Tsuruga Castle and Nisshinkan, but we mustn't forget Nanokamachi Street, located just outside the city center. Here, you'll find traditional Aizu shops...
Chimon
Aizu cotton is a traditional cotton fabric handed down in Aizu County, Mutsu Prefecture. It is woven using a plain weave method and is characterized by a navy blue background with white stripes. It is durable, thick, and has a plump texture...
Chimon
Kakunodate, a tourist spot in Akita, is a lovely town lined with samurai residences and exuding a historical atmosphere. It is also popular for its weeping cherry blossoms in spring and autumn leaves in fall. Kakunodate is also home to Akita's specialties and traditional crafts...
Have you heard of the fabric called "Yonezawa Tsumugi"? Yonezawa Tsumugi, also known as "Safflower Tsumugi" or "Okitama Tsumugi," is a popular tsumugi fabric for people of all ages and genders. It is made using only natural dyes, including safflower, to create vibrant colors...
Chimon
Living in Akita Prefecture, I have many opportunities to see lacquerware. At a Japanese restaurant, I suddenly noticed that the small bowls and sake cups I saw were made of carefully layered lacquerware, giving them a glossy sheen.
ako
Akita Prefecture is home to a variety of pottery, including Naraoka ware, a type of pottery with a mysterious blue color. Each piece has its own unique history, and today they are loved by people both inside and outside the prefecture as souvenirs and traditional crafts.
ako
