12.24Wed 2025
Reclaiming the Sensation of Wood Touching the Body—Benefits in Japanese Lifestyle Culture and Circulation in Modern Society
Since ancient times, Japan has built its lifestyle and culture in close connection with wood, within an environment where forests cover approximately 70% of its land. Japan [...]
11.20Thu 2025
The warmth of wood that has accompanied eating: The power of food-related utensils to appeal to the senses
In the past, Japanese dining tables were surrounded by wood. Nowadays, tables are also made of glass, plastic, and other material variations [...].
10.21Tue 2025
The reason why people want to drink under a cherry tree Japanese people connect "food" with wishes and thoughts about trees
When you visit a shrine or temple, you may see a person placing his or her hands on a large tree that is said to be as long as a thousand years old. Trees are exposed to rain, dew, and water in the air [...].
9.29Mon 2025
Japanese Living with Trees: Memories of Forest Culture Engraved in Clothing, Food, and Housing
I believe that Japan is a country of "wood" and "water". However, when we look at the lifestyle of Japanese people today, it is the past tense of "it was a country [...].
8.21Thu 2025
Asunaro chopsticks are also used to bring good luck Japanese culture that connects the soul of wood
In my previous column, I wrote that Japanese chopsticks were originally "not a tool for carrying our food" and that "the material is made of wood [...].
7.9Wed 2025
Why are festive chopsticks made of willow wood?
Chopsticks? What does that have to do with forests?" You may be thinking, "What does chopsticks have to do with forests?" but Japanese chopstick culture and food culture have a deep relationship with trees. [...].