Our Journal

Why Japanese Streets Grow Colorful as Tanabata Approaches
Why Japanese Streets Grow Colorful as Tanabata Approaches
As Tanabata draws near, Japanese streets glow with colorful decorations — from tanzaku wishes to paper “denguri” ornaments, every corner sparkles with summer magic. Read more...
Akafuku’s “Tsuitachi Mochi” — A Special Wagashi Available Only on the First Day of Each Month
Akafuku’s “Tsuitachi Mochi” — A Special Wagashi Available Only on the First Day of Each Month
Akafuku’s July Tsuitachi Mochi—Sasawarabi Mochi wrapped in bamboo leaves, a melt-in-your-mouth sweet offered only on the first day. Read more...
[Toki’s Landmark Spot] Donburi Hall & the Story of Seafood Rice Bowls
[Toki’s Landmark Spot] Donburi Hall & the Story of Seafood Rice Bowls
Visit Toki’s Donburi Hall — a Mino ware landmark where you can make your own rice bowl, enjoy local ceramics, and savor delicious seafood donburi. Read more...
“Fukumi Tenbyō” by Taneya
“Fukumi Tenbyō” by Taneya
Hello, this is Eri! The other day, I visited Taneya’s facility La Collina in Ōmihachiman, Shiga Prefecture. The architecture in harmony with nature, the beautiful scenery, and the thoughtfully designed... Read more...
Celebrate Tanabata with Mino Ware
Celebrate Tanabata with Mino Ware
Celebrate Tanabata with refreshing Mino ware. Inspired by the stars Vega and Altair, set your table with cool somen noodles, star-shaped bowls, and bamboo leaf plates for a touch of... Read more...
Enjoy Chilled Soup in Mino-ware Bowls
Enjoy Chilled Soup in Mino-ware Bowls
Hello, this is Eri. June is supposed to be the rainy season, but here in Toki City, Gifu Prefecture, it already feels like midsummer! The sun is strong, and I... Read more...
Savoring Chilled Fruit in Silverware
Savoring Chilled Fruit in Silverware
The other day, I visited T9 Cafe in Tajimi with a friend who came to visit from Tokyo. Whenever she visits Gifu, it's become our tradition to explore various cafes!... Read more...
“Utsuwa” (Ceramics) Gifts for Father’s Day
“Utsuwa” (Ceramics) Gifts for Father’s Day
On Father’s Day, a subtly beautiful ceramic gift can speak more than words. Here are 5 Japanese Mino-ware vessels — from beer mugs to small bowls — that blend utility... Read more...
Mino Ware for Bread? Yes, It Works Beautifully!
Mino Ware for Bread? Yes, It Works Beautifully!
You might think, “Aren’t Japanese tableware just for Japanese food?” I used to think the same. But ever since I started using Mino ware in my daily life, I’ve realized... Read more...
It All Begins with The Clay
It All Begins with The Clay
Hi, this is Eri. When we think of pottery, we often picture the shape, the glaze, or the final beauty of the piece. But today, I’d like to talk about... Read more...
The Making of Mino-ware: From Clay to Everyday Use
The Making of Mino-ware: From Clay to Everyday Use
Hi, this is Eri. In my last blog post, I shared a bit about the origin of Mino ware and how it all begins with the clay. This time, I’d... Read more...
What Is Mino-ware? A Gentle Introduction from Everyday Moments
What Is Mino-ware? A Gentle Introduction from Everyday Moments
Hi, this is Eri. I’ve always loved looking at tableware and kitchen goods.When I go to cafés or restaurants, I often find myself noticing the plates before the food.Wondering “Where... Read more...