Japanese decoration

Daruma doll represents strength to stand up in the face of difficulties. Daruma, a good-luck charm that “falls seven times and rises eight”, can be given as a gift with the hope that the couple will be able to overcome the trials they go through together. Purpose of the Daruma doll is not to bring general well-being, but rather...

Japanese pronunciation of word “panda” is similar to pronunciation of word “panpan ni naru”, which means to fill one's wallet, a lucky charm to increase one's fortune. In Japan, pandas are widely regarded as a symbol of diplomacy. During the Tang dynasty, Empress Wu Zetian sent a pair of pandas to the Japanese emperor, and this...

Turtles have long been known for their longevity and ability to lay many eggs. They are also said to “give birth to money”. As turtles are long-lived, they are considered a symbol of longevity and good luck. Turtle's common name is Zeni turtle, which comes from the fact that shape of its shell resembles a koban (an ancient...

Cherry blossoms are very popular because they bring good luck! May cherry blossoms bloom and your life flourish. In ancient times, cherry blossoms were used to predict the year's harvest. Cherry blossom motif is therefore a symbol of “good fortune”, “prosperity and abundance”. Here, the amulet contains a fragment of gold leaf to...

Koinobori is a carp-shaped windsock traditionally used in Japan to celebrate Children's Day, which takes place every May 5. If you're in Japan at the end of April, you'll be able to see these beautiful scaly streamers in the Japanese landscape! In traditional Japanese art, the carp - or koi in Japanese - represents strength and...

In Japan, incense is used for various purposes, including Buddhist ceremonies, spirituality, and meditation. Incense is also used for aesthetic purposes and aromatherapy. It can also be used as a simple air freshener or insect repellent. Incense is made from aromatic plant materials, often combined with essential oils. Incense is burned in Asian folk religion to establish...

This little character is an important figure for Japanese people, who ask her for help or implore her as they would a mother. Of all the deities, he's certainly the one to whom the Japanese feel closest. This little Jizo can help you chase away bad luck and make your wishes come true. His image is omnipresent in temples, towns...

The craftsmen of the Kumamoto Prefecture, in southern Japan, manufacture shibu-uchiwa (broken fans) for 400 years. The fans are made from handmade Japanese paper, covered with khaki tannin (khaki-shibu) and attached to a bamboo handle. The tann layer makes the paper rigid and durable. With a...

In Japan, incense is used for various purposes, including Buddhist ceremonies, for spirituality and meditation. Incense is also used for aesthetic purposes, for aromatherapy. It can also be used as a simple deodorizer or insect repellent. Incense consists of aromatic vegetable materials, often associated with essential oils....