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Traditional Kintsugi vs Modern Kintsugi: what is the difference and how to choose a suitable practice.
Traditional kintsugi vs modern kintsugi explained. Explore cultural roots, materials, food safety, kits, and how to choose the right kintsugi path and tools.
mikster
1 day ago7 min read


The Matcha Boom and Bust: How Global Demand Is Disrupting Japanese Green Tea Culture
The global matcha boom is fueling a shortage in Japan. Learn how overconsumption is disrupting Japanese green tea culture—and what we can do about it.
mikster
Jun 216 min read


Part 2 - Stride with Care: How to Wear, Maintain, and Appreciate Japanese Sandals (Guide on Setta-wearing)
How to Wear Japanese Sandals In Part 1, we explored the history, types and craftsmanship behind traditional Japanese setta sandals. Now,...
mikster
May 255 min read


What are Japanese sandals called? What's the difference between Setta and Geta? (Part 1)
Traditional Japanese sandals are not only iconic in appearance but also rich in cultural meaning. From occasions that call for kimono attire (like matsuri and tea ceremonies) to modern minimalist fashion, these sandals have evolved over centuries to become both a symbol of heritage and a stylish statement. If you've ever wondered what Japanese sandals are called or the difference between setta and geta, you're not alone.
mikster
May 165 min read


Stride with Class: The Comeback of Handmade Japanese Sandals (Setta)
Step into effortless style with handcrafted Japanese setta sandals—where minimalist design meets timeless craftsmanship. Made in Nara, these refined sandals feature tapered silhouettes, premium materials, and iconic details like chara-chara metal pins. Tradition redefined for modern fashion.
mikster
May 134 min read


Handmade for Her Hands: A Thoughtful Mother’s Day Gift that Honors Her Strength and Intention
This Mother’s Day, pause and reflect on the quiet strength, care, and intention she’s shown—often unseen, but never unfelt. Celebrate her with a gift that honors who she is: a handmade Japanese wood bento box, crafted with the same care she lives by. Thoughtful, timeless, and made to last.
mikster
Apr 243 min read


Real Japanese Craft Apprenticeships vs. Tourist Cultural Immersion Programs: What You Need to Know for your next Japan travel craft experience
Japan has long embraced a system of deep, immersive apprenticeship known as deshi-iri, where an apprentice trains under a a master.
mikster
Mar 169 min read


From Crisis to Alliance: Reviving Japan’s Iconic Bentwood Bento Boxes
Part 2 on The Uncertain Future of ShibataToku Bentwood Shop For those of you who have been following the journey of 6th-generation...
mikster
Oct 17, 20245 min read


What is Urushi? Why Is Urushi So Expensive and Have a Short Shelf Life?
The True Value of Urushi: Why This Priceless Natural Lacquer Deserves Your Respect Premium ki urushi is Japan-grown urushi with the...
mikster
Oct 5, 20245 min read


Japanese Wood Bento Box Challenge: A Stacked Bento Box Dressed to Impress (1)
The possibilities with a beautifully crafted wooden bento box are endless. But how far would you go with it? As our iconic Japanese wood...
mikster
Sep 8, 20243 min read


Japanese Wood Bento Box Challenge: A Stacked Bento Box Dressed to Impress (2)
Welcome to another chapter of our Japanese Wood Bento Box Challenge! For the home chefs and foodies out there, a handcrafted wooden bento...
mikster
Sep 8, 20243 min read


Kintsugi Tools, Tips, Tutorial: Carving and Adjusting Bamboo Spatulas
Among the many reasons we love practicing traditional kintsugi is the beauty of the handmade tools involved, such as the authentic maki-e...
mikster
Aug 14, 20242 min read


From Tree to Treasure: Shiro Yanagi’s Urushi Journey
Shiro Yanagi’s extraordinary journey nurturing and crafting from the urushi tree, preserving the tradition of lacquer craft.
mikster
Aug 3, 20243 min read


Unveiling the Truth About Kintsugi Kits: Did you pay over $100 for BBQ Skewers?
Truth About Kintsugi Kits: Did you pay over $100 for BBQ Skewers? Time to up the game (and your tool box)
mikster
Jul 17, 20242 min read


Bento Box Meal Prep Tips: Easy Lunch Ideas with Japanese wood bento box.
Easy lunch ideas using traditional Japanese wood bento boxes. Makes your day more enjoyable with a beautiful, well-balanced meal on-the-go
mikster
Jun 1, 20243 min read


Useful Kintsugi technique: Preventing Urushi Brown Stain in Kintsugi Repair on Porcelain and Light-color Clay
Useful Kintsugi technique: Preventing Urushi Brown Stain in Kintsugi Repair on Porcelain and Light-color Clay
mikster
May 28, 20242 min read


Tabi Talk: Why Tabi Socks Make The Perfect Spring Accessory
Japanese tabi socks make perfect spring accessory.
mikster
Apr 20, 20243 min read


BEYOND BENTO at Fukuoka Design Award - Rethinking traditional Japanese wood bento box.
BEYOND BENTO at Fukuoka Design Award - a design project for a traditional Japanese wood bento box.
mikster
Mar 8, 20244 min read


Time-Honored Tradition Meets Modern Convenience: The Benefits Of A Wooden Bento Box
What is so special about Japanese bento boxes? There are many food storage options out there, but none are quite as distinctive as a the...
mikster
Mar 4, 20243 min read


Japan Travel Workshop 2023: Japanese Lacquer & Kintsugi Workshop
In the serene heart of Japan, where tradition meets nature's beauty, we unveil a remarkable opportunity that celebrates the artistry of...
mikster
Sep 15, 20233 min read
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