Japanese Culture

Guest Post – Listening for Rengetsu: Texture and the Poetry of the Multi-sensory

by

In Advance of her appearance, and as a continuation of our blog series on Otagaki Rengetsu,  Professor Sayumi Takahashi Harb took some time to pen a guest post just for you, our devoted readers, discussing the dynamic artistry of Otagaki Rengetsu, whose work is featured in our current exhibition, and is the focus of our upcoming symposium. Read on for a preview of some of the themes Prof. Harb will touch on in her lecture. [hr] A mountain keeps an echo deep inside itself. That is how I hold your voice. – Jalal …

Read more

Otagaki Rengetsu – Lotus Moon

by

Our current exhibition, Poetry In Clay: The Art of Otagaki Rengetsu, is a glimpse into the life and work of one of Japan’s most famous female artists, but why was Rengetsu such a sensation? What made her work so popular and sought after? Read on to find out a little more about this prolific artist, and be sure to join us at our upcoming symposium – with guest speakers Prof. Yukio Lippit and Prof. Sayumi Takahashi Harb – to learn more. [threecol_two] Otagaki Rengetsu (1791-1875)  was born in the spring of 1791, …

Read more

Kit Kat Craze at Morikami

by

KitKats were introduced to Japan in 1973. However, it wasn’t until 1996 that the first flavored KitKat, almond, appeared, followed by strawberry and orange in 1998. In 2005, regional KitKats that featured the unique flavors of various cities and prefectures in Japan became popular, and the number of flavors increased dramatically. Since then, over 100 different flavors have been produced, and the list continues to grow. Japan is famous for its regional specialties, and KitKats are no exception. Our KitKat exhibit features flavors from Hokkaido (the northernmost of Japan’s four …

Read more

NEW – VIP Tasting Room at Oshogatsu

by

This year, for the first time ever, we’re bringing you a new way to experience our traditional New Year’s celebration– the VIP Tasting Room at Oshogatsu! This exclusive experience will give guests the opportunity to taste rare, high-end sakes, beer and even a specialty sake cocktail. Read on to hear more about the offerings in this first-ever VIP Tasting Room at Oshogatsu. Sake When sake was first brewed, over 2,000 years ago, it was served as an offering to the deities, and was revered as a very special and important …

Read more

Kimono – Japan’s Iconic Wearable Art

by

It’s no secret that the kimono is one of the most iconic garments in the world. With it’s many layers, patterns, and styles the kimono has become more than just a garment – it’s been raised to the level of art. We even have a few kimono in our permanent collection. We asked our Chief Curator and Cultural Director, Tamara Joy, to give us a quick primer on the history and significance of the kimono – here’s what she had to say: The kimono is one of the most recognizable symbols …

Read more