Asayu Blog

A girl walking barefoot in a tatami room, Japanese style room in summer in Japan,
Sleeping in Summer: Cool Ideas from Japan
Hot nights, restless sleep, and the hum of fans that never quite help? In Japan, where summers are long and humid, many people turn to tatami mats, woven from natural... Read more...
The persimmon fruits closeup in autumn
Body Odor? Discover the Japanese Persimmon Remedy.
Body odor changes with time, and it’s not just about hygiene. Around the age of 40, a new type of scent can appear: subtle, persistent, and hard to wash away.... Read more...
Best Father’s Day Gifts for the Japan-Loving Dad
Best Father’s Day Gifts for the Japan-Loving Dad
If your dad is passionate about Japanese culture, surprise him with a handcrafted gift that reflects his interests. Read more...
5 Simple Ways to Create a Japanese-Inspired Home
5 Simple Ways to Create a Japanese-Inspired Home
You don’t need a traditional tatami room or a minimalist Kyoto apartment to live Japanese style. Sometimes, it’s the scent of incense, the texture of igusa underfoot, or a quiet... Read more...
Iwagami shrine in Awaji.
What Is Natural Incense?
Natural incense is having a moment, but with all the labels out there, it’s hard to know what really makes an incense “natural.” This article breaks it down in simple... Read more...
Green Tea Fields with Mount Fuji in the Background, Japan
What is Japanese Tea ?
Japanese tea is more than a drink—it’s a daily ritual rooted in calm, clarity, and connection. From vibrant sencha to toasty hojicha, discover the unique character of each tea in... Read more...
Are Sandalwood and Agarwood the same ?
Are Sandalwood and Agarwood the same ?
Agarwood and sandalwood incense are two iconic scents in Japanese tradition, each offering a unique journey for the senses. Let's explore their differences, from agarwood’s deep, mysterious warmth to sandalwood’s... Read more...
Hydrangeas and Japanese Monks
A Short History of Japanese Incense Holders
Often overlooked, Japanese incense holders carry centuries of quiet refinement. From the solemn rituals of samurai households to today’s minimalist interiors, these small objects embody a philosophy where beauty and... Read more...
ぽっくり Pokkuri, traditional sandals worn by geisha or children
Geta vs. Zori, A guide
Step into the world of Japanese footwear with our guide to geta and zori, two timeless styles that offer both tradition and comfort. Whether you're curious about the unique design... Read more...
What is traditional tea in Japan ?
What is traditional tea in Japan ?
From the meditative rituals of the tea ceremony to the crisp chill of bottled sencha in Tokyo’s summer heat, Japanese tea is a journey through time. Dive into the vibrant... Read more...
Japanese man meditating in his garden
The Meaning of Incense
Curious about incense meaning? Discover what different incense smells symbolize, from calming sandalwood to uplifting plum blossom, and how to use them in your daily rituals. Read more...
Monk entering a temple Japan
The Gentle Art of Incense
Why Japanese Incense Speaks Softly, and Leaves a Lasting Impression “Where Western fragrance often seeks to announce, Japanese incense invites you to listen.” In the West, fragrance tends to be... Read more...