Special Events

Happening at Hatsume: Costume & Fashion Show Contests

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Hatsume Fair’s annual Costume and Fashion Show contests are the highlights of the weekend, but if you’re a first-time contestant, maybe you’re wondering which one is right for you. Don’t fret, we’re here to help you out! Read on to find out a little more about the differences between the two. For those of you not competing, stick around for a few pointers on how to best enjoy these two fierce competitions. Don’t forget to check out parts one, two and three of our Happening at Hatsume series for more! …

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Happening at Hatsume: Top Ten Reasons to Get a 2015 Weekend Pass

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Hatsume Fair 2015 is just around the corner, and we are so excited to celebrate spring with you all! That’s why we’re putting together a new series of Happening at Hatsume blogs, so you’ll be the first to get the inside scoop on what we’re planning. This is part 1, but part 2 and part 3 are available as well! Maybe some of you are on the fence about whether a weekend pass is right for you – so here are a few reasons you should absolutely get yours today! 10) …

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

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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 …

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Valentine’s Day 2015 at Morikami

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Love is in the air this Valentine’s Day at Morikami. From a lovely garden stroll to a bite of mochi for two, we’re sure you’ll have a Valentine’s Day to remember with us. Read on for more on how we’re celebrating![threecol_two] At the Museum Store The Morikami Museum Store always strives to find treasures that will delight all of our guests, and this Valentine’s Day weekend is no different. Stop by the store’s Valentine’s Day display to find the perfect gift at any price point. Once you’ve found just the thing for that …

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What is Obon? Exploring One of Japan’s Most Important Holidays

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During the summer observance of Obon, families in Japan reunite to give homage and thanks to their ancestors, who have returned for a brief visit to the living. Many families set up special altars in their homes decorated with food offerings for these visiting spirits, which may include vegetables, dango (rice dumplings), noodles, and fruits. Candles, special paper lanterns called bon chochin, and incense may also be placed on the Bon Altar. Vegetable animals – a horse made from a cucumber or an ox made out of eggplant – serve …

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