The hotel consists of an entire alley of renovated old machiyas, which were originally built over 110 years ago. This private escape offers a quaint atmosphere, that is reminiscent of the old geisha neighborhoods. Beautiful wooden facades accompanied with moody lantern lights – and the feel of time standing still. Nostalgia, privacy, and calm at its best.

Going into Tsubaki Street feels like stepping into a movie, a small nostalgic universe in one alley – truly inviting guests to stay and be absorbed in it.

Nazuna Kyoto Tsubaki St. – Through the Elements

The rooms, accommodating 2-3 guests, come in five different themes. “Take” (bamboo), “Mizu” (water), “Iwa” (stone), “Hana” (flower), and “Ha” (leaf). All are individual and uniquely follow the themes to the very last detail. From the overall décor to art pieces and glassware a little escape into beautifully designed representations of each theme. So if you are a fan of a more natural and earthy feel, ask for the beautiful bamboo room. But if you feel most at home on a cliff overlooking the sea, the Iwa or Mizu room might be what you are looking for.

The stay provides the best of both worlds – feel of 100 years of history but a modern take on comfortability and amenities. Western-style beds will ensure a good night’s sleep even for anyone more unacquainted with the tatami & futon sleeping. A truly luxurious yet homey setting, with the highlight of their signature semi-open-air baths – you really feel like you don’t want to leave.

Attention to Detail

Nazuna Tsubaki St. takes pride in highlighting craftsmanship and design and is currently hosting a pop-up exhibition “Find My Favorite Japan: Curated Japanese Design”, on until May 9th. Joint showcase of different Japanese artists with another clever take on mixing of traditional and modern. New ideas showcased from all around Japan, such as the Toyama hailing “Re-Bear Project” with the aim to bring back a re-design of the decor traditionally seen in many households in Japan. Beautiful Oita Usuki pottery, presenting another form of craftmanship sadly dwindling away or Mobje brand featuring Hiroshima hatters repurposing their millinery skills to create vases – and many more, all available to purchase. The second part of the exhibition will feature jewelry, hats, and other fashion accessories from brands such as Kitchibe, Fujii Seibo and Yuzen.

Dining at Nazuna Kyoto Tsubaki St.

The lobby, which also doubles as a lounge offers free drinks and snacks for guests to start the night (from 3 to 9 pm), and Wagyu Ryotei Bungo, the restaurant on the premises, invites guests to indulge in long form. The restaurant focuses on the less-known but high-quality, delicious Oita Wagyu. Showcasing the premium ingredient in different takes from beef sashimi and sushi to shabu shabu, a beef lover’s dream.

As expected from a luxury ryokan, omotenashi plays a crucial role – a favorite detail the delivery of the most luscious egg sandwich right to your door for a late-night bite. In fact, the food is so good one might just want to stay within the walls of Nazuna Kyoto Tsubaki, which of course would be a shame as Kyoto has so much to offer.

Best of Both Worlds 

Nazuna Kyoto Tsubaki St. keeps you safely away from the tourist masses, but still within a stone’s throw of all the main sights and shops. Offering the best of both worlds, this stay is not for someone looking for the old-school ryokan experience – but perfect for someone who wants the traditional Kyoto magic with a luxury touch and modern comforts.

Whether you are taking reprise in between your Kyoto exploration or opt to be cocooned on Tsubaki street your whole stay – you will find an oasis of quiet luxury and atmosphere to keep you mesmerized throughout your stay.

Web

Nazuna Kyoto Tsubaki Street

Address

838 Bomoncho, Omiya Nishiiru, Takatsuji-dori, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto city

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One of them is the Yamato Drummers, established in 1993 they have become famous beyond the borders of Japan. They have given concerts in 54 countries, performing in front of over a million people. And this February they will be giving Livestream concerts for you to see. A fantastic opportunity to see them play and perform, despite COVID-19. So make sure you tune in to their performances, as they assemble every weekend in February showing-off a different venue in Asuka, a village in the Nara prefecture where they are from.

It is free to watch them, however, donations are welcome should you enjoy the show. They will not just be distributed to the Yamato Drummers, but also to the sights that they perform at. So this is a good cause helping both the performers and also the local communities.

The List of Performances

• February 6th (Saturday) @ Asukanotanada rice terraces watch
• February 7th (Sunday) @ Gufukuji Temple watch
• February 20th (Saturday) @ Kitorakofun watch
• February 21st (Sunday) @ Asukaniimasu Shrine watch
• February 27th (Saturday) @ Okadera Temple watch
• February 28th (Sunday) @ Amakashi Hill watch

Important to Know

Each performance will start at 5 pm JST sharp and is said to be roughly 1h long. They are only live-streamed and cannot be watched afterward so make sure to set your reminder.

For more information on the live performance check out their official website. There is also plenty of other info on the locations and the history of the group. For what to expect have a look at one of their videos here:

_{*Photo Credit: http://www.yamatodrummers.com/index.html}

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And no, this is not a tea ceremony, it is a place where tea is loved and you will get a chance to drink some of Japan’s best teas and learn more about them. As the passionate owner happily explains about the tea, the history and generally likes sharing stories about life in Kyoto and Japan.

Choose from a variety of green teas but also flavored ones (my recommendation is the Marron flavor) and if you feel peckish make sure to try one of the seasonal moon cakes. The perfect match and just delicious.

And then the entertainment begins, as your tea arrives on a beautiful tablet including a clock. A fun experience, as you will stop-watch your tea soaking time with the provided timmer. With every tea having its particular time you’ll also learn not to waste any drop as you prepare your tea. 

You will get to sip around 3 perfect cups from one pot of tea, with plenty of time to enjoy this beautiful modern tea house in Kyoto. Just the perfect spot in the very heart of Kyoto to take a break and letting time be.

So make sure you stop by if you are in Gion, as this is one well-kept Kyoto secret.

Web

https://www.mandaracha.com/

Address 

Kyoto-shi Higashiyama-ku Yamashirocho 278-1

Opening hours

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With Kyoto having somewhere around 3,000 temples, they certainly come in all shapes and sizes with each having their own personality. With this one really dipping itself into all the colors of the rainbow, it is undoubtedly bolder and louder than what you expect from a spiritual place. And this is precisely why it is so loved by many…

Yasaka Koshindo Temple – 八坂庚申堂

Often just referred to as “Kongo-ji”, Daikoku-san Kongo-ji Koshin-do (大黒山金剛寺庚申堂) is a very small temple located in the Higashiyama district in the very center of traditional Kyoto.

As you walk towards the famous Yasaka Pagoda, you may almost miss it, if it was not for the clusters of people in front of its tiny gate. The temple is best-known for its monkeys. Which are dedicated to the Shomen Kongo and it is said that they have the ability to relieve people from pain and illnesses.

Kukurizaru – Let’s Make a Wish

As it is often custom to make a wish or prayer by writing it down on an “Ema”, a small plaque of wood, this temple is slightly different. And if you have not yet guessed, yes, the tiny colorful balls are what you write your wish on!

The “Kukurizaru” (くくり猿), which means “bound monkeys” are the equivalent of the above mentioned Ema. And with a lot of imagination you can see the resemblance, as the little stuffed monkeys are haging from the branches and beams.

So as you transfer your worldly wishes onto the Kukurizaru, the monkey will then do its best to help it come true. So why not add your own?

One More Picture Please

So make sure your camera is charged and you got plenty of space on your phone because this is any photographer’s dream come true!

It is almost impossible not to get a great photo. Only bring some time, as Yasaka Koshindo Temple is extremely popular, especially with Kimono wearing visitors and you can see why. As the colors just pop and the traditional fabrics blend in with the background, this is one Kyoto picture you do not want to miss. My tip is, if you do consider renting a Kimono in Kyoto, this should be on your list to visit.

So make sure to bookmarkt his for your Kyoto visit, as it is one mus-see place and with its amazing location there is really no excuse…

Some Last Facts

How to get here?

Located on the way to Kyomizu-dera it is about a 20min walk from both, Gion Shijio Station or Kyomisu Gojo Station on the Keihan Main Line. Or you can take the bus (No.206) from Kyoto station to Shimizudo and from there it is 7 min on foot.

It is open from 9 am to 7 pm and really worth visiting any time of the day.

How much time to spend?

You can just visit this on the way to Yasaka Pagoda and Kyomizu-dera. Pop in for a quick picture or stay for some time it is really up to you. If you walk through, it takes as little as 10min.

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Often categorized as a garment of the east, only being worn in Japan, the Kimono has influenced fashion all around the world. From singer Bjork’s famous album cover for “Chromogenic” in 1997, showcasing a kimono-inspired creation by Alexander McQueen. The Kimono also inspired many costume designers, including the famous Star Wars franchise, just take a closer look at Obi-Wan.

Kimono – Kyoto to Catwalk

The five short videos in this series by the V&A, the Victoria and Albert Museum, will answer all you ever wanted to know about the Kimono. From its History, how it changed over the centuries, and how it still exists in modern-day Japanese culture.

So make sure to join Anna Jackson at the V&A in this short video series for a curated tour of its exhibition: Kimono – Kyoto to Catwalk. Where she brings you on a walk through time. A chance for you to learn more about this traditional Japanese garment, that has influenced our pop culture, in a personal virtual tour through the V&A.

You will be astounded with the presenter’s detailed explanations of how the fabrics have changed over the centuries and how they have slowly made their way into mainstream fashion. I personally love her insights and thoughts on woodblock prints depicting ancient scenes of every day Japanese life. As she gives a unique perspective and amazing insights not just about the Kimono, but also into the Japanese lifestyle at the time.

So why not take a quick break, lean back and enjoy this mini series…

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A Little History

“Children’s Day” was not always all-inclusive. Because this we know for sure, it used to be called “Boy’s Day”. And I guess, the same as in many other cultures, historically boys would have been celebrated as name-keepers and put in charge to be set out for bigger things.

As for when it all started this is a little bit unclear (as so often with that kind of events). However, it is said to have been celebrated for over 700 years. And yes its origin is equally mysterious, with rumors saying that it all started as a celebration for a samurai warrior, hence the name: Boy’s Day.

But Why The Shape Of A Carp?

Well, there are two rival theories. The first is that the koi or carp became the symbol of “Boy’s Day” because of its characteristic of being the most spirited fish, full of energy, holding so much strength it could swim upstream and even conquer the strongest currents and cascades with ease, sternly focused on its goal. Because of this ability to overcome obstacles it became a synonym for courage and success. These being highly desired traits for boys in the old days, families placed the Koinobori outside their houses. In honor of their sons and in the hope these traits would manifest in their little ones.

The 2nd theory, which I do love more I must say, brings us back to mythical Japan, full of legends and stories. Taking us back to the Han Dynasty in China and to an ancient tale of a school of golden koi swimming up the Yellow River. Struggling for one hundred years and being teased by demons one of them finally reached the top of the stream and was ultimately rewarded. As a god was watching and turned it into a majestic golden dragon, an image of pure power and strength.

So no matter which of the two stories you prefer, this graceful fish has become a symbol of strength and courage and is the reason why these days on now “Children’s Day” we see them floating in the wind around homes and businesses alike.

When To Spot The Koinobori

Children’s Day marks the end of Golden week every year on the 5th of May, but this is not just a one day show. It has become a beloved tradition, with many people already hanging the carp- streamers out from mid-April. They also often stay on for a while after. With many popular places in Japan displaying beautiful exhibits of them.

You will see them literally everywhere, but one of my favorite places would be at Tokyo Tower. Where the whole square in front of it is turned into a stream of carps swimming to reach the top. It is a real highlight and with the mild weather around this time of the year, the perfect place to check out. And just on the off-chance that there are some showers when you are in Tokyo, I recommend to check out Nakano Broadway for an amazing indoor display under their covered market.

However, and this is the best part, you will also find them in many shopping malls, especially in more local areas. Which makes this the perfect reason to explore some off-the-beaten-path places. So just go for a wander and see where it takes you.

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This would be the time of the year to see these fish like windsocks everywhere in Japan! ⁣ ⁣ They are called Koinobori, which means "carp streamer" in Japanese. How beautiful are they moving in the wind?!? ⁣ ⁣ Learn more about them in our next article

A post shared by Life In Japan • Travel • Food (@obsessedwithjapan) on May 1, 2020 at 11:54pm PDT

The post Koinobori appeared first on Obsessed with Japan.

You may not have heard of the Saga Collective yet, a group of craftsmen and producers on a mission to share Saga Prefecture’s rich history, traditions, and products.

If you have not heard of them, they are definitely someone to keep an eye on. Because their artisanal approach built on traditions and combined with an innovative mindset has already gained them much following.

And what is nobler than the Saga Collectives philosophy of “Creating products that make everyday life a little more beautiful”? Isn’t it something we all dream to achieve? The good news is they have already started, and the even better news is, they are not just doing this domestically, but have a plan to also reach an overseas audience. So whether you are here in Japan or not, you will have a chance to discover this unique brand from Saga Prefecture.

Where is this “Saga Prefecture”?

A legitimate question. As most of us, when visiting Japan, tend to plan our trips around famous destinations such as Tokyo, Kyoto or Hiroshima. This often makes us miss out on some of the lesser-known places, the off-the-beaten-track, the ones full of local culture. And Saga Prefecture is exactly that.

Located in Kyushu and being its smallest prefecture Saga is still a well-kept secret. But with amazing Events and Products coming from the area, it comes at no surprise that Saga is slowly being discovered. Especially, as people are looking to find getaways when staying at nearby Fukuoka. And rightly so.

But what is Saga Prefecture Famous for?

Probably the most famous towns in Saga are Arita and Imari. Also being called the birthplaces of Japanese ceramics. Having a reputation for their beautiful and artisan porcelain.

But that’s not all, as with its diverse scenery, Saga prefecture is also home to some of the best Sake Brewers, Yuzu Products and has a long history of outstanding green tea producers. Which in fact, is the reason that this small prefecture has decided to create the Saga Collective.

The Saga Collective and its people

This group consists of artisan producers and creatives trying to preserve Sagas culture and traditions. With an aim to promote and showcase the best the Saga prefecture has to offer. And yes, it comes at no surprise after meeting some of them I have been immensely impressed with the products, but even more with the people who make them and their passion. With a few products standing out o course, especially having a personal weak spot for Ceramics, Yuzu and Japanese Sake.

Saga Collective products to watch out for!

Porcelain

I was especially surprised by the ceramic bento box made by Arita Porcelain (有田焼). With a truly contemporary design, they still manage to keep the traditional feel. And with a wide range of plates and dishes, including Sake cups, Arita Porcelain is really one of my personal highlights within this collective.

Sake

And speaking of Sake cups, they have the matching beverage too! With Tenzan Sake, an old standing brewery making Nihonshu since 1875. You will not just find delicious premium Sake, but also a Sparkling Sake variety, comparable to french champagne.

Green Tea

For those not that interested in alcoholic beverages, the collective has you covered with an array of Green tea varieties, you won’t be left thirsty. Have a look at Tokunaga Seicha or Onohara Seichadonya for more information. They are both worth a trip, but if you cannot make that the good news is there is an online shop too!

Yuzu

A very Japanese ingredient and favor, one we often do not know before visiting Japan. In the family of citrus fruits its both refreshing and dare I say good for your health? So if you do get the chance, make sure you try it. Especially if you can get your hands on any of the Yuzu Citrus Products from Mifukuan as they are amazing. With their “Yuzu Kosho” a kind of spicy chili and yuzu paste, something you will crave for a long time.

Conclusion

Saga Collective’s aim to make everyday life a little more beautiful is not just admirable but can be found in each maker’s product. With attention to detail, passion, and kindness they are carrying their vision forward and I cannot but highly recommend keeping an eye on them.

With all these amazing products I am curious to see what else this small prefecture has to offer. With their skill to manage to fuse history and functionality to bring their product into today’s everyday life, this is definitely a destination worth traveling too.

For more information also visit their official Homepage, where you can also find all People involved and more details about each product.

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It is located in the very center of Osaka, just a minute or two from the famous Dotombori. Come from Glicoman and walk through Ebisu Bashi-suji shopping street and it will be on your right-hand side.

And yes you will queue. Plan around 30 min and you should be ok. But, it goes without saying it’s worth it! 

You can take an English menu as you are waiting, so you have ample time to decide what you want. You will be asked to place your order before you enter the restaurant. So better be prepared! We think it’s great, cause you won’t waste time at the table, as your ingredients arrive swiftly, as you are sitting down.

What did we get?

We got one special Ajinoya’s Mix for 1250¥ made of Squid, Octopus, Shrimp, and Minced meat. As well as the variation of 3 Mini, where you can choose 3 Toppings, one for each, and perfect for sharing. We order one cheese, one bacon and one pork for 900¥. And let us tell you, this is great value! You will be rolling out of this place. They cooked the Okonomiyaki at our table in front of us, but you can do it yourself if you wish. We do love the show though….

Needless to say, we love Ajinoya Okonomiyaki! The flavors were amazing, the quality of the products outstanding, plenty of sauce, the service fantastic and it is cheap! What else do you want?

Come here If you never had okonomiyaki, but also if you tried before, it’s another level！

Special Tip!

To our surprise, sauces included mustard! We never seen this before and it seems to be a bit weird. But let us tell you; it is great! Do try it, as it adds another kick! If you get two Okonomiyaki or the mini set of 3, have at least one with mustard. It’s totally delicious!

Web

hthttp://www.namba-ajinoya.com/

Address

〒542-0076 Osaka, Chuo Ward, Nanba, 1 Chome−7−16 現代こいさんビル2F

Opening hours 

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These boxes are what we call Osechi, especially served for New year, they contain a variety of lucky foods. They are often served in restaurants, but also made at home. And there are certain dishes that hold very special meanings. Although recently also more modern Osechi meals have appeared, including western dishes or fusion type foods. These are often catered to a more foreign audience.

A little History about Osechi

Although these days New Year’s Eve has become the main event, in Japan, New Year’s day still holds many traditions, such as visiting a shrine for “Hatsumode” and eating Osechi. With the later bringing good fortune for the rest of the year.

There used to be a superstition in the past, that said using the kitchen and cook for the first 3 days of the new year, would be bad luck. Because “Toshigami” (a deity) would stay over. And this is how the tradition started, with many families preparing these sumptuous meals a few days in advance…

Of course, most people don’t believe this anymore, nevertheless, the practice stayed and we are grateful, as it really is such a nice tradition. And we also do love these luxury bento boxes!

How about the lucky foods?

Now let’s have at a look at these lucky foods we talked about! Some are more obvious than others, but sure all are delicious ???? 

Kinton

This paste made out of chestnuts is called “kinton”, with “kin” meaning gold in Japanese the name itself becoming the “golden dumpling”. It symbolizes valuables, of course gold, and is to wish for good finances in the coming year.

Konbu

The Japanese word for joy “yorokobu” is associated with this lucky food. Which is a type of kelp.

Kamaboko

Kamaboko fish cakes usually come in red and white, with the red in them being said to ward off evil spirits.

Ebi

Eating Ebi or in English Shrimp, is symbolic of longevity. And this seems to come from the shape it takes once it’s cooked. All curled up like an older person, it stands for living up to an old age.

Tazukuri

Tazukuri, or sardines used to be used as fertilizers in the past for rice fields. Which is why they have become a symbol of a good harvest.

Kuromame

These beans stand for diligence and strength, as one meaning for the Japanese word “mame” means diligent, as well as the more widely known “bean”.

Kazunoko

Herring roe is definitely one of the easier ones to understand. With its tiny eggs (as we imagine) representing fertility.

The end, wait…

These are just but a few of the foods to be said lucky inside a traditional Osechi. And maybe the most commonly featured in most of them. So if you get a chance to eat one, have a look at how many you can find and what else you may discover!

If you are lucky enough to be in Japan, we recommend you check out one of the many Supermarkets or department stores, we love to just look at these small boxes of wonder…

And of course, there is always delivery, where would the world be without Amazone? Make sure you have a look at the amazing Osechi Boxes they have for you!

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How to get to Hokokuji Temple?

This is probably why it is not as well known, as it is a bit far from the station and the main attractions around it. Going to visit the Big Buddha, it is totally doable on foot, but visiting Hokokuji Temple, you probably want to take the local bus. And I know, that can be a bit intimidating, but once you try you will see how easy it is, trust me!

Especially as you can get the bus right in front of Kamakura Station and it will take about 10 minutes. A one-way ticket is about 200 yen and you can take bus number 23, 24 or 36. As I said, it is walkable, but plan a good 30-40 minutes walk. I feel, if you only have one day in Kamakura, this can take a big chunk out of your day, so I highly recommend you take the bus.

How to use the Bus in Japan?

If you have a Pasmo or Suica just tab it on the way in. If you pay cash, take a little ticket (there is a machine when you get in, usually on the right side after entering from the back). And once you get off, show the driver your ticket and pay the equivalent fare. How do you know how much to pay? The driver will tell you or you can also see this on the big screen in the front while you are on the bus.

Get off at Jomyoji bus stop and don’t worry, this will be announced and written, both in English and Japanese. Great right?

Arriving at Hokokuji Temple

As you walk up from the bus stop it may not seem like much, but trust me, the moment you step through the gate, you enter a wonderful place!

The gardens are meticulously planned and yet still look natural. You will find details such as sculptures and tiny fountains all across the site. So much to discover… 

Now the temple is divided into two spaces, with the main temple and place of worship, as well as public toilets, located before the entrance gate. Once you enter, you will find a beautiful bamboo forest, with the traditional Japanese tea house at the heart of it. As well as a white pebble stone garden.

As already mentioned, in order to enter the small bamboo grove and garden behind the temple’s main hall there is an entrance fee of 300¥. And for an additional 600¥, you can also get a ticket for the Tea House that includes a traditional matcha green tea set. Do get it, I highly recommend it, as it is one of the highlights.

Traditional Tea House at Hokokuji Temple

If you paid for the matcha green tea set when you entered, find your way to the tea house. Don’t worry it’s easy to get to, as it is really only 2-3 min walk from the entrance. Once you enter you will see the line. You can wash and sanitize your hands here (nice touch) and proceed to the counter, where you hand over your ticket. 

There are are few rows of benches and the front row is for enjoying your green tea. If all seats are taken, just sit down behind and move forward once space has freed up. The lovely staff will then bring your tea and traditional sweets. And from here, just enjoy the moment…

My opinion?

I love this place!

It is one of my favorite temples in Kamakura. It is often very quiet, especially when you arrive early or during the week. It is one of the few places, where you will be able to experience a traditional matcha tea set with such a beautiful backdrop! One of these rare finds…

So make sure you add Hokokuji Temple to your itinerary when you visit Kamakura!

Address

2 Chome-7-4 Jomyoji, Kamakura, Kanagawa 248-000

Admission

300 yen + 600 yen if you like to get the Matcha green tea set at the Tea House. To be paid at the entrance only.

Opening Hours

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