From the Garden Manager: Morikami’s Great Horned Owls

Over the past few weeks a little family has made its home in Morikami Park. Heather, our Resource Development Supervisor (who heads up the garden team) took some time to tell us a little about this amazing animal – the great horned owl. Read up on these stunning creatures below, but if you come to visit be sure to give them their space. They are wild animals after all, and they need the peace and quiet of this place just as much as you do. Morikami’s Great Horned Owls By Heather Grzybek, Resource Development …

Read more

NEW – VIP Tasting Room at Oshogatsu

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

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

Add Some Artistry to Your Holidays – Japanese Gift Wrap

Japan is famous for its culture of craftsmanship, and one of its most important crafts is paper. So it’s no surprise that the intersection of Japan’s rich culture of gift giving and its love and reverence for paper would be intricate and beautiful gift wrapping. The art of gift wrap, or tsutsumu, is an important part of any exchange of gifts. The paper you choose, the contrast of colors and textures, the ribbon, string or bows you add, and the folds, pleats and designs you create with the wrapping let the …

Read more

Holiday Shopping at the Morikami Museum Store

With Black Friday upon us, Small Business Saturday right behind it, and Cyber Monday bringing up the rear, the holiday shopping season has officially begun. We may be biased, but we think the Morikami Museum Store (in-person or online) simply can’t be beat when it comes to unique gifts with a decidedly Japanese flair. That’s why we’ve gathered some of our favorite items, best sellers, and great gift ideas into our Holiday Gift Guide here and on Pinterest. Explore the products below to get ideas for everyone on your list, and …

Read more