Blog – Hermann Candahashi – Human, Traveller & Author

Mysterious places in Japan – The Tottori Sand Dunes

The Tottori Sand Dunes (Tottori Sakyu) are one of the most fascinating natural phenomena in Japan and one of the most well-known tourist destinations in Tottori Prefecture. These expansive sand […]

Historic cities in Japan: Kanazawa – And the Samurai District Nagamachi

Kanazawa, the capital of Ishikawa Prefecture, is one of Japan’s cities that has preserved its historical atmosphere and cultural significance over the centuries. At the heart of this city lies […]

Historic cities in Japan: Kawagoe and Its Edo-Era Streetscape

Kawagoe, also known as “Little Edo,” is a charming city in Saitama Prefecture, located just a short train ride from Tokyo. It is famous for its well-preserved Edo-era streetscape, which […]

Historic cities in Japan: Nikko & his cultural and spiritual significance

The history of Nikko is rich in cultural and spiritual significance, spanning many centuries. This small city in Tochigi Prefecture, about 140 kilometers north of Tokyo, has evolved over time […]

Historic cities in Japan: Takayama – A Gem in Japan’s Alps

Nestled in the picturesque mountain landscape of Japan’s Gifu Prefecture lies the enchanting city of Takayama. Known for its exceptionally well-preserved historic districts, traditional farmhouses, and masterful craftsmanship, Takayama takes […]

Historic Cities in Japan: Kamakura – Temples, Shrines, and the Great Buddha

Kamakura is a picturesque coastal city in Kanagawa, Japan, located just about an hour’s train ride from Tokyo. Despite its relatively small size, Kamakura holds immense historical significance and is […]

Historic Cities in Japan: Nara – The First Capital of Japan

Nara, one of Japan’s oldest and most historically significant cities, offers a fascinating journey into the country’s past. Located in the Kansai region, Nara was the first permanent capital of […]

historical festivals in japan: The Hakata Gion Yamakasa in Fukuoka

The Hakata Gion Yamakasa is one of the most famous and traditional festivals in Japan, held annually in July in the city of Fukuoka on the southern island of Kyushu. […]

historical festivals in japan: Jidai Matsuri in Kyoto

The Jidai Matsuri, which translates to the “Festival of the Ages,” is one of the most famous festivals in Kyoto, Japan. It takes place annually on October 22nd and celebrates […]

Historical Festivals in Japan: Nebuta Matsuri in Aomori

The Nebuta Matsuri is one of the most spectacular and fascinating festivals in Japan. It takes place annually in Aomori, the capital of Aomori Prefecture in the northern part of […]

historical festivals in japan: Aoi matsuri kyoto

The Aoi Matsuri, one of Japan’s oldest and most traditional festivals, takes place every year in May in Kyoto. This vibrant festival, also known as the “Kamo Festival,” attracts thousands […]

Historical Festivals in Japan: Gion Matsuri Kyoto

Kyoto, the former imperial capital of Japan, is renowned for its rich history and cultural traditions. One of the most fascinating and widely celebrated events in Kyoto is the Gion […]

Historical Places in Japan: Izumo Taisha Shrine

Izumo Taisha, also known as Izumo Grand Shrine, is one of the oldest and most significant Shinto shrines in Japan. Located in the city of Izumo in Shimane Prefecture, it […]

Historical Places in Japan: Okinoshima Island

Okinoshima Island, the island of men, is a small yet significant island in Japan, located in the Sea of Japan. This remote and mysterious island belongs to the city of […]

Historical Places in Japan: Ise Jingu

Ise Jingu, also known as the Ise Shrine, is one of Japan’s most significant and sacred Shinto shrines. Located in the city of Ise in Mie Prefecture, it comprises two […]

Historical Places in Japan: Yoshinogari

Yoshinogari is a significant archaeological site in Japan that offers a fascinating glimpse into the Yayoi period, a time spanning approximately from 300 BCE to 300 CE. This era marks […]

Historical Places in Japan: Akanko Ainu Kotan

Akanko Ainu Kotan: Culture and History of the Ainu Akanko Ainu Kotan is a cultural gem on Hokkaido, Japan, offering a fascinating insight into the life and traditions of the […]

The legendary ninja Master Hattori Hanzo

Ninja Hattori Hanzo is a fascinating figure in Japanese history, renowned for both his legendary ninja skills and significant contributions to samurai culture. Born in 1541 in the province of […]

The famous Samurai Miyamoto Musashi

Miyamoto Musashi, an icon of Japanese swordsmanship and philosophy, remains a fascinating figure centuries after his death. His life and work are surrounded by legends and myths, and his teachings […]

The famous swordsmith Muramasa – his life and work

The swordsmith Muramasa was a legend of his time, whose life and work continue to evoke admiration and fascination to this day. His story spans across 16th century Japan, a […]

The famous Swordsmith Masamune – His Life and Work

The swordsmith Masamune undoubtedly belongs among the most outstanding personalities in the history of Japanese swordsmanship. His life and work are characterized by a fascinating combination of craftsmanship, cultural influence, […]

The japanese writer Haruki Murakami

The Japanese writer Haruki Murakami, born on January 12, 1949, in Kyoto, Japan, is an internationally renowned author known for his unique novels and short stories. His work is characterized […]

The japanese writer Banana Yoshimoto

Banana Yoshimoto, one of the most significant contemporary Japanese writers, has profoundly influenced the literary scene with her empathetic works. Born on July 24, 1964, in Tokyo as Mahoko Yoshimoto, […]

The Principle of Wabi-Sabi in Japanese Literature

In Japanese literature, the principle of Wabi-Sabi plays a significant role. This concept, extending far beyond literature, is deeply rooted in Japanese culture and shapes the understanding of aesthetics, philosophy, […]

the japanese writer Shusaku Endo

Shusaku Endo, born on March 27, 1923, in Tokyo, Japan, was a significant Japanese writer of the 20th century. His life and work bear witness to a profound engagement with […]

The minimalistic interieur design style: Japandi

Japandi – Return to Minimalism In the current abundance of stimuli such as advertising, images, and products, many people yearn for peace, balance, and a sense of belonging. This longing […]

traditional japanese craftmanship: Ceramic Craftsmanship

Traditional Japanese ceramic craftsmanship is a fascinating expression of Japanese culture and history. Over centuries, this craft has evolved into an art form appreciated for both its beauty and functionality. […]

traditional japanese craftmanship: Garden Design

In Japanese garden design, there is a unique tradition that not only captures the outer beauty of nature but also conveys a deep spiritual meaning. Japanese garden design, influenced by […]

Traditional japanese Craftmanship: Textile Art

Deeply rooted in Japan’s rich cultural history, Japanese textile art is a fascinating tapestry of tradition and innovation. This art form not only reflects craftsmanship but also the profound connection […]

Traditional japanese Craftmanship: Woodcraft

The Essence of Zen in japanese Woodcraft Japanese woodcraft is closely intertwined with the essence of Zen. Zen, a Buddhist tradition, emphasizes the attainment of enlightenment through meditation and intuitive […]

The Life and Work of Yasunari Kawabata

Yasunari Kawabata was born on June 14, 1899, in Osaka, Japan. His childhood was overshadowed by personal tragedies, as his parents passed away early in his life. This painful experience […]

Kanazawa, the Pearl of Ishikawa Prefecture

The city of Kanazawa in Ishikawa Prefecture unfolds its fascinating beauty in a symbiosis of traditional Japanese elegance and modern sophistication. Often referred to as the “Cultural Heritage of the […]