Top English-Friendly Home Architects in Japan: Bilingual & Foreigner-Friendly Design Firms
Looking for a home architect in Japan? Japan’s architectural scene blends centuries-old traditions with cutting-edge design innovation, producing spaces that are both functional and lovely. But for English-speaking clients, navigating Japan’s architecture and design industry can be challenging without the right language and cultural bridges in place. Fortunately, there are top-tier architecture offices across the […]
Stunning Akiya-Turned-Vacation Home Transformed by Hokkaido-Based Architect
I took a spontaneous trip to Hokkaido this month to mix things up. Summer was getting to be a bit warm, and Hokkaido seems to be an easy escape. My little tour started in Sapporo, then continued up to Ashibetsu, which is a small, depopulated town near Furano (famous for lavender fields and skiing). There, […]
From City Living to Sustainable Building: An Interview on Life, Community, and Eco-Friendly Living in Japan
Building a home from scratch and living an eco-friendly lifestyle may sound like the stuff of fantasy. Well, we met someone who actually did it. Once office workers in Tokyo, Byron Nagy and his wife left the bustle and convenience of the big city to build their own home from the ground up and launch […]
The BIG List of CSA Boxes & Food Delivery in Japan
Vegetable, Produce, Grocery and Food Delivery Boxes Across Japan CSA boxes (when available) are a God-send for inaka newbies for a few reasons: Ordering produce from small, natural farmers makes all the difference. Your patronage means natural farming can exist in Japan. CSA Boxes Offer Some Additional Perks Heirloom varieties, the freshest in-season choices, convenient […]
Japanese Abandoned House Lux Renovation, Flips, and Investment Rentals
NHK just published a new episode of Japanology Plus with a fresh look at what is happening with some of Japan’s vacant houses. The program tours a few cases where vacant houses are reimagined for investment, flip, and local revitalization potential. Some real estate investors take advantage of the low price for akiyas, renovating and […]
The Natural Warmth of Old Japanese Home Design
My favorite thing about old Japanese home design is it’s impermanence. And yes, many people around the world have a gutteral reaction seeing houses, including beautiful traditional architecture of kominka design, crumble in here in the Japanese Countryside. But in a world where landfills overflow, recycling systems are broken and people sit in offices of […]
Industrial Minimalism Interior Design Style
Modern Industrial Minimalism Interior Design Gallery Industrial minimalism is a renovation and aesthetic trend in Japan taking over homes, coffee shops, hotels and workshop spaces. It’s cool, minimal and durable and here’s why we love it: Industrial minimalism is direct and honest. It’s durable and no-fuss. Nothing superfluous. Concrete or dirt floors make a great […]
The Remarkable History of Japanese Garden Design
Jump Ahead The Global Renown of Japanese Gardens The history of Japanese garden design can be traced as early as the Heian Era (794 to 1185), which led to a cultural breakthrough. To this day, they garner international admiration. This is due to their authentic tranquility and unwavering attention to detail. Every element of Japanese […]
Where to Buy High-Quality Houseplants & Greenery in Japan
Online resources for Japan on where to turn to green up your space.
Where to Find Housekeeping Services in Japan
Homestead Harmony: Mastering Clean Homes and a Simple Life In the bustling life of modern Japan, balancing work, family, and personal time can be quite a challenge. Many families are discovering the convenience and peace of mind that come with professional housekeeping, cooking, and nanny services. Whether you’re a busy professional, a parent juggling multiple […]