Kyoto

The Kanji of the Year in Japan

Every year, on December 12th, the kanji of the year is announced at Kiyomizu Temple in Kyoto. It is called “今年の漢字® (kotoshi no kanji)” in Japanese. In December, there are many TV programs predicting this year’s kanji. Here is an explanation of the kanji chosen for this year (2022) and those chosen in the past. …

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Visit the Colorful Yasaka Koshindo Temple -Kyoto-

There are thousands of temples in Kyoto so this tiny Kyoto hidden gem is easy to miss! Located in Higashiyama area in Kyoto, the colorful Yasaka Koshindo (八坂庚申堂, official name: Daikoku-san Kongo-ji Koshin-do) temple or “pom pom temple” should definitely be added to your bucket list, especially if you are looking for a unique place …

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Where to Buy Japanese Incense

You have all heard of incense, this distinctive stick that releases a unique fragrant smoke when burned. Used in many temples in Japan, it is also widely used by particulars at home for many purposes. Japanese incense is renowned for its high quality and the finesse of its fragrance. It has been used in Japan …

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Discovering Traditional Japanese Crafts at Tayuh Kigyo, Textile Manufacturer of “Tango Chirimen”

About Tango Chirimen Tango Chirimen” (“shrunken surface silk textile”) is one of the most famous textiles of Kyotango and is well known throughout Japan. It is a type of silk fabric used for kimonos, and is characterized by its unique bumpy surface.The history of Tango Chirimen dates back to around 1720, when some craftsmen went …

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