“We create a culture here based on traditions while coexisting with nature,” explains Kyoko, the marketing representative for HOSHINOYA Resorts, which includes the property we’re currently touring, HOSHINOYA Okinawa. “The design of the property is based on the traditions and heritage of Taketomi island.” Of the hundreds of islands in [...]
It is still very hot on this November day. Some of my friends living in Saitama, the large prefecture north of Tokyo, have invited me to come and visit them in their city of Kawaguchi for a matsuri, a Japanese traditional festival. The event is rooted in religion linked to [...]
A cuisine created by HOSHINOYA Okinawa on Taketomi Island in Japan, Ryukyu Nouvelle is an innovative style of Okinawan food based on French cuisine. The recipes are based on local ingredients prepared using French cooking techniques, putting a never-before-seen twist on the Okinawan diet that is said to be one [...]
While Japan’s Okinawa Prefecture is composed of hundreds of islands, Taketomi Island is said to have the most well-preserved heritage. The island is home to 323 inhabitants, all of whom are extremely proud of their culture and where they come from. In fact, to be a part of the community [...]
When ordering dessert in Japan, don’t expect fudge brownie sundaes or Snicker marshmallow cheesecake. Instead, you’ll more likely be indulging in some simple but delicious wagashi, or typical Japanese sweets. Often served with tea, these confectioneries are made with mochi, azuki bean paste and fruit and often have a soft, [...]
For many, traveling to a big city makes it hard to find the cultural immersion they’re looking for. On a recent trip to Japan I visited Tokyo and Takemtomi Island. While the tiny island with its heritage-listed village and preserved customs showcased culture in every corner, Tokyo was very metropolitan. [...]
For travelers looking for a culturally immersive escape, Japan is full of experiences. And in 2013, the country will offer even more. Easier Access A new airport is opening in Okinawa, Japan’s southernmost prefecture composed of hundreds of Ryuku islands. Ishigaki Island, the second-largest island in the Yaeyama group, is [...]
“It’s about welcoming the guest and showing them the beauty of making the tea.” I’m in Tokyo at a traditional Japanese tea ceremony at Happo-En, meaning “Garden of Eight Views,” with Shinji Nohara, a local Tokyo guide. He’s translating for me as Minako, the Teishu, or woman leading the ceremony, [...]
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