New Year in Japan

New Year's day is a big holiday in Japan, and traditionally, there are decorations that are associated with the New Year like pine branch, cut bamboos, woven dried rice stalks.  I vaguely thought of the decrease in these decorations at homes and cities for the last few years, but this year, I became aware of… Continue reading New Year in Japan

Good way to see the Japanese culture, design and values

One good way to see the Japanese culture, design and values would be to visit TOTO showroom in Tokyo. It's a totally Japanese language, Japanese place, but that makes it even more interesting to observe. TOTO is a kitchen, bathroom ceramic goods manufacturer, and they are doing quite well. In this tough economic time, the… Continue reading Good way to see the Japanese culture, design and values

Luxury found in Tokyo

According to Merriam-Webster dictionary, luxury means a condition of abundance or great ease and comfort : sumptuous environment.  It also means something adding to pleasure or comfort but not absolutely necessary, or an indulgence in something that provides pleasure, satisfaction, or ease. With such definition, living in Tokyo is full of luxury with TOTO toilet… Continue reading Luxury found in Tokyo