I was a serious child. Being responsible, getting good grades and most of all being well behaved was instilled in me. Frugality was a huge value that was rooted in my brain since a very early age. I would get the toys I wanted for Christmas and birthdays for the most part, and had to … Continue reading Hello little me, kawaii – Japan healed my inner child
When I found out Jidai Matsuri was happening on the 22nd of October, precisely when I was planning on being in Kyoto, I was jubilant. And I had good reason. Every year on the 22nd of October, Kyoto celebrates its history with a long parade with over 2,000 volunteers dressed in authentic, detailed costumes representing … Continue reading A Gallery on Jidai Matsuri – I was in Kyoto when it was its birthday
I don’t know what it is that I adore more about Shinto. The undeniable connection with nature. The Kamis, their presence, their spirits. Or the elevation of animals to sacredness. We’ve spoken about the deer in Nara, from woodland munchers to sacred messengers. We’ve also talked about the looking back rabbit of Uji, the carp … Continue reading Fushimi Inari – a place of pilgrimage, not photoshoots
My third day in Kyoto started with a slow morning, had busy middle and a wonderful non-crowded ending. I was going back to Gion for something very special I had booked months before - a Tea Ceremony with a Kimono experience at MAIKOYA Gion. Wearing a Kimono and a Tea Ceremony I have always found … Continue reading Golden Silk and Pitch Black: a Day of Rebirth in Kyoto
Japan has a way of making minimalism cosy. I’m not big on minimalism - unless it’s Japanese or perhaps even European Nordic. The soft and warm wooden tones, the faint scent of tatami. Rocking me to sleep. There is something quite comforting about sleeping so much closer to the ground. Our natural cradle, perhaps. So, … Continue reading When I Change, the World Changes – A Day in Kyoto
The Winged Bone 