My Thoughts on Haggling Over Handmade Prices
As I run Tokita Kobo, I am fortunate to meet many people who pick up our creations and say things like: “What a great idea!”“It must take a lot of…
New Item: Kimono Omamori Charms – A Little Piece of Japan to Carry Every Day
If you’ve been following Tokita Kobo for a while, you may remember our previous blog about the meaning of Omamori, the traditional Japanese good luck charms. Today, we’re excited to…
What Do We Do During Heavy Weather at an Outdoor Market?
During the summer, we attend many outdoor markets. We love seeing so many people enjoying the warm weather, exploring local businesses, and spending time with family and friends. Summer markets…
What Is Yukata? A Light and Evolving Summer Kimono
When summer arrives in Japan, the streets come alive with the soft colors and breezy silhouettes of yukata (浴衣). Lighter and more casual than formal kimono, yukata are a seasonal…
Why Japan’s Soccer Team Uses a Three-Legged Crow: The Story of Yatagarasu
As the 2026 FIFA World Cup brings excitement to cities across North America, soccer fans can be seen proudly wearing jerseys representing nations from around the world. While these uniforms…
Exploring Japan’s Most Sacred Shrine: A Journey Through Ise Jingu
When people think of Japan’s most sacred Shinto shrine, the name that comes to mind is Ise Jingu (Ise Grand Shrine). Located in Mie Prefecture, Ise Jingu has been a…
Visiting Kimono Reborn Tokyo: Where Tradition Finds a Second Life
Kimono Reborn Tokyo is a boutique dedicated to giving new life to vintage kimono through thoughtful redesign and upcycling. Rather than preserving kimono only as archival textiles, the store transforms…
Seto City, Aichi: A Living Landscape of Japanese Ceramics
Seto is one of Japan’s most historically significant ceramic production centers. Located in Aichi Prefecture, the city has been producing pottery and porcelain for over a thousand years. The name…
Exploring Nagoya Castle: A Symbol of Strength and Beauty
During my recent trip to Japan, I had the opportunity to visit one of Nagoya’s most famous landmarks: Nagoya Castle. Although I have visited many historical sites throughout Japan, Nagoya…
Taisho-Inspired Kimono Bow Workshop Report
Thank You for Joining Our Workshop! Before I share the workshop highlights, I would like to thank everyone who participated in my Taisho-Inspired Kimono Bow Workshop at Anime North. It…