The City of Kurashiki, Japan’s ‘Little Venice’
The area, with numerous canals running through it, transports visitors to a timeless atmosphere.
The Bikan district, nestled in the city of Kurashiki, not far from Okayama, traversed by the Takahashi River and its canals, is considered the ‘Venice of Japan’. Various waterways wind through this area, offering visitors an ideal setting for a boat trip or just a walk by the water. Bikan is also known for its traditional merchant houses, some of which have been turned into museums to attest to the commune’s feudal past.
Art lovers will also find something for them as the district is home to the Ohara Museum of Arts, the first permanent collection of Western art in Japan. It features works by Picasso, Van Gogh and Monet.
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A Child's Snowy Quest to Find his Father
The silent film ‘The Night I Swam’ follows the journey of Takara, a young boy alone in an adult world he is yet to understand.
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The Tattoos that Marked the Criminals of the Edo Period
Traditional tattoos were strong signifiers; murderers had head tattoos, while theft might result in an arm tattoo.
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Iñigo Gutierrez's Calligraphic Illustrations
Inspired by ‘shodo’, Japanese calligraphy, the Spanish artist who now lives in Tokyo conveys a certain nostalgia in his work.
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Celebrating Nature Through Cuisine in ‘Wild Herbs’
In this book, Michelin-starred chef Hisao Nakahigashi reflects on his childhood memories, his philosophy of cooking, and shares his recipes.
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Old Age Unveiled in the Illustrated Book ‘Otoshiyori’
In this book that's like a travel journal created in a land of seniors, illustrator Isabelle Boinot depicts the daily lives of the elderly.
