Japanese Calligraphy & Typography @nipponstrokes - Tumblr Blog

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絆 (Kizuna) — One of my favorite words in Japanese Kanji.

Not just because of how it looks in calligraphy, but because of what it represents.

The connections we build,

the people we meet,

and the moments that stay with us.

As I get older, I even feel the greatness of Kizuna!

#japanese #kizuna #calligraphy #Shuji

Things Japanese People Never Explain-Ichigo Ichie （一期一会）

Ichigo Ichie – Treasuring the Moment

I came across the Japanese phrase “一期一会 (ichigo ichie)” in US, which literally means “one time, one meeting.”　Being a Japanese, I never thought that this word becomes popular globally.

I don’t think Japanese people usually don’t explain important word like this. But I wanted to take a moment to explain the deeper meaning which is really beautiful.

every encounter is unique, and you should treasure it because it will never happen the same way again.

By the way, the movie Forrest Gump which is one my favorite movie’s Japanese title was Ichigo Ichie.

Everyday Moments

It’s not all about big moments. Even small things in daily life can be ichigo ichie. That smile from a stranger on the bus, a quick bow from a coworker, or a short chat with someone at a Starbucks– these are all moments you won’t get back exactly the same way. Thinking about it like this makes me notice the little things more when I lived in Japan. Felt like people’s connection was little drier in the public situations than the US. But those are very important.

Travel and Experiences

When traveling, ichigo ichie feels even stronger. Meeting a shop owner in a tiny café in Kyoto, spotting a family laughing by the river in Portland, or seeing a sunset that will never happen in exactly the same way – these are moments to remember and cherish. Even the worst pizza I had during the trip is great memory. Often times, the bad food memory is something you never forget.

Relationships

Even with friends, family, or coworkers, every interaction is unique. You might see someone every day, but both of you are different today than yesterday. That makes each conversation, each shared moment, something special. In Japan, there has been even the “work life balance” phrase in Japan. They start to value the importance of family over work, which is a good thing in Japan!

How to Practice Ichigo Ichie

Really listen when someone is talking and caring. One small meeting can go far sometime.

Notice and appreciate small things. Sometimes writing a diary is great. Or even writing the plan on your calendar.

Be present and enjoy the moment. Make sure to reflect and appreciate the day.

As for myself, I take a bath every night, thinking about what happened today!! I also try to do what I want to do right away!!

By keeping these little habits, everyday life starts to feel more meaningful and special.

#Japanese phrase #Japanese Language #ichigoichie #forrestgump #Japanese wisdom word #Japanese philosophy

Valentine Day Pochi Bukuro. Great way to put small gifts into this DIY envelope. https://nipponstrokes.etsy.com/listing/4446779218

#valentine #valentineday #popupcard

Koyanagi (小柳) | Asakusa

Map

Eel restaurant in Asakusa

Nearest station : Asakusa Station (Subway Hibiya/Ginza line)

My favorite: Unaju (eel bento) and Kimosui (eel liver soup)

One of the Asakusa traditional is Unagi, the freshwater eel. What they usually do is to barbecue grill with special teriyaki sauce then put it over the rice. This Koyanagi is my favorite place as it is located close to Asakusa temple and it's just delicious. You walk around the temple and feel the history and get into the mood. You stop by and start from beer with some appetizers of your choice. You may order some fresh sashimi and vegetable to be your beer pal or already on to some sake. Then, You order Unaju, teriyaki eel over rice with Eel gut soup called kimosui to finish. Walk around the Asakusa temple area after the meal or see the sky tree light up at night. It’s a complete set!

Stop by at the cozy traditional Asakusa Eel bowl restaurant

"I grew up eating at Koyanagi eel and love their classic style that never changes. " -- Moto, the founder of Motokyo

While you are in Asakusa

#Tokyo #tokyo restaurant #Tokyo Travel Guide #Best Things to Do in Tokyo #Top Tourist Attractions in Tokyo #Tokyo Neighborhoods #Day Trips from Tokyo #ueno #asakusa #eel #restaurant #tokyo restaurants #Eel Bowl

made some Pop up 3D card for the valentine day! https://nipponstrokes.etsy.com/listing/4446063256

#valentine #valentineday #popupcard

Japan lover stickers

#japanlover #stickers #japanmap

Grill Victoria (ビクトリア） | Uguisudani

Map

Japanese Yoshoku (western) restaurant

Nearest station : JR Uguisudani (5 min walk, use north exit)

My favorite: Hamburg steak, Ginger Pork (shougayaki)

This is my local cozy restaurant located about 5 min from Uguisudani station, in the alley of super local street. Family owned restaurant has been super popular for local people. Once you go in the street and into the store, you will immediately feel the history since 1965 and how much the restaurant has been loved by locals. Also, you will feel the love and passion of the family dedicated to the restaurant for life.

No need to talk about the tastes because anything you eat is good!! They serve the Japanese western food called Yoshoku. It’s fusion of Japanese and western food originated in late 19th century such as croquette, curry rice, omu-rice, hamburger steak. And they are known for their fillet ginger pork. But I also love the hamburg steak from them, too.

Well, if you want to feel the hyper local vibe and enjoy the Yoshoku good food, visit here!!

"Regardless of you knowing Gundam or not, please see the big Gundam statue and take some photo, amazed how big the statue is! " -- Moto, the founder of Motokyo

While you are in Odaiba

#Tokyo #restaurant #tokyo restaurant #Tokyo Travel Guide #Tokyo Neighborhoods #Yoshoku #Uguisudani