"もったいない" What a Waste!
The idea of "mottainai" is deeply ingrained in Japanese culture, and reflects the belief that resources should be valued and waste avoided. At Shotengai, we strive to uphold this ethos by promoting sustainable products and minimizing waste wherever possible.
Healthy & Safe
Finding allergy-friendly options can be challenging. Fortunately, our Shotengai box provides tasty alternatives that you can safely enjoy!
Tokyo vs. Osaka: Which City Suits You Better?
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Osaka and Tokyo are the two cities that most people think of when they think of Japan. Tokyo is a giant megapolis, while Osaka has earned an impressive 10th place on the EIU's Global Liveability Index. This article will compare the two cities to help you decide which one is a better fit for your travels!
Yoshinoyama: The Cherry Blossom Paradise
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Yoshinoyama is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Japanese culture, history, and natural beauty. Whether you visit during cherry blossom season or any other time of year, you're sure to be captivated by this magical mountain and all it has to offer.
Japanese Scenery (III): Senso-ji Temple
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Located in a city of temples, Senso-ji Temple is the oldest one, with a history of over 1300 years. With over 30 million annual visitors, it is the most popular Buddhist temple in Tokyo. The temple complex is extensive, including the main temple, two grand gates, a five-story pagoda, and a shopping street.
Japanese Scenery (II): Nara Park
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The biggest attraction of Nara Park is the deer. 1,200 semi-wild deer roam the park and nearby mountains. In Nara Park, you can play with the deer and feed them shika senbei (deer crackers). There are also beautiful temples and shrines in Nara Park!
Japanese Scenery (I): Fujisan
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Fujisan (Mount Fuji) is the sacred mountain of Japan. For thousands of years, numerous artworks depicted its breathtaking beauty. Many shrines and temples were built around and on it to enshrine it. As Japan's most famous place of interest, there are many ways to enjoy Fujisan.
Maneki Neko: The Japanese Lucky Cat
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If you've ever been to any Chinese/Japanese restaurants and stores, you must be no stranger to the small cat statue with a beckoning paw. The cat statue is called Maneki Neko. It's a Japanese talisman believed to bring good luck and wealth to its owner.
Japanese Religion (II): Buddhism and Temple
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Buddhism and Shinto, temple and shrine, Romon and Torii…What's the difference between them? For travelers, it's hard to distinguish which is a shrine and which is a temple. This article is here to help! Moreover, do you know there's a reason why the temples and shrines in Japan share so many similarities? Read to find answers!
