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  • September 9, 2018

    ‘Shodo’ (Calligraphy) Experience in Nagano City

    Japanese calligraphy or ‘shodo’ is an ancient practice which retains its importance as one of the most popular fine arts in the country. Literally meaning ‘way of writing’, shodo embodies the virtues...
  • May 27, 2018

    ‘Shakyo’ (Brush) Meditation

    The teachings of the Buddha have been passed down to us in the form of written ‘sutras’ or religious scripture. By tracing the sutras in a form of calligraphy called ‘shakyo’, Japanese believe the wo...
  • September 9, 2018

    ‘Origami’ Experience in Nagano City

    Known throughout the world, the seemingly simple craft of ‘origami’ (paper-folding) is a great activity for visitors of all ages. From the first simple folds of paper, this ageless craft transcends t...
  • September 9, 2018

    ‘Mizuhiki’ (Paper Cord) Making Experience in Nagano City

    Gift-giving plays an essential role in Japanese culture as a sign of appreciation and respect. The presentation of gifts can be considered tantamount in importance to the gift itself, a cultural prop...
  • September 9, 2018

    Traditional Tea Ceremony In Nagano City

    Tea ceremonies or ‘cha-do’ in Japanese, offer a respite from the pace of modern life and provide time to relax and relish the sanctity of each moment and movement in life. Originally introduced from ...
  • September 9, 2018

    ‘Washi’ (Japanese Paper) Making Experience in Nagano City

    Though a commonplace material today, paper was long considered a cherished item in Japan. Known as ‘kami’ in Japanese, the word is phonetically the same as the term for ‘god’, underscoring the revere...
  • June 29, 2015

    Make Oyaki

    Oyaki are buns filled with vegetables and a local Nagano delicacy. When coming to the Nagano area, oyaki is definitely one thing you should try. But why buy it from a store when you can make your own ...
  • September 9, 2018

    Fine-Dining ‘Tempura’ Course at Shunka

    The lightly-battered and fried flavors of ‘tempura’ are a favorite with many visitors to Japan, and there is no better place to experience just how good it can be than at Shunka. Master chef Nakamura...
  • September 9, 2018

    Fine-Dining ‘Kaiseki’ Course at Shunka

    More than any other style of dining, ‘kaiseki’ embodies the art and delicate precision of traditional Japanese culture and with a menu designed to highlight the best seasonal ingredients available. C...