Photo by deviantart.com The modern Japanese aesthetic design is based on a minimalistic approach stemming from the fact that space is a premium. If you have lived in a small space, you understand that with just a few items scattered around the room, it looks messy. This is because with a limited area, the focus …
Modern Hardware that Matches a Japanese Aesthetic Read More »
Bite sized tofu stuffed with lightly seasoned prawns showcases both seafood and the deep fried tofu. In many Asian cuisines, deep fried tofu is a dinner staple and often used as a good source of protein, especially for vegetarians. However, not all deep fried tofu are exactly the same. Japanese atsu-age, is quite dense and …
This is a guest post by Ilchi Lee I spend a lot more time in front of a screen these days—using my computer, my smartphone, my iPad. Although I am enjoying all the things I can do with this technology it can sometimes make my head feel heavy, and I am reminded that many people …
In a previous post I introduced Chrysanthemums leaves, shyungiku, an edible leaf that is commonly used in Asian cuisine. With a very high iron content, it’s a great vegetable to add to your diet. My qi gong teacher, Dr. Wang, explained how iron is good for many things, one of which is our eye-sight. Tofu …
In the design world, I have heard many Westerners talk about the Japanese wabi-sabi (侘 寂) aesthetic. It’s difficult to describe many traditional Asian terms in English because not only is there no direct equivalent word, the Asian definition itself is very vague. Many times, Westerners are confused as to why Asians can’t explain something …
Little wonton dumplings are simple to make, very versatile, and fun to eat! They can be boiled, steamed, or fried and are most commonly enjoyed in a hot bowl of soup! My Chinese girlfriend taught me her easy homemade quick version wonton using ground pork and an unusual green Chinese vegetable called Shepherd’s Purse. She …
In Feng Shui teachings, my master, Dr. Shan-tung Hsu, teaches us that our living environment affects our qi energy. Therefore, it can also be said that people in our close physical proximity affect our qi energy. Humans are constantly exchanging qi energy with one another, as energy is never static. Our living environment, 24 hours …
Through my years of studying Asian philosophy and culture, I realize that even though I have read or have been taught a concept, it often takes years before I have any idea of what it really means. Compared to Western thinking which is more black and white, Asians tend to be very gray. I find …
Understanding Ki, Qi or Chi Energy – My First Step Read More »
This is a guest post by Sam Fowey, who resides in Japan. photo from Sushi Bytes I recently learned of an interesting connection between katsudon (pork cutlet rice bowl) and Japanese police procedures. Apparently – and I realise that this may be an urban myth — katsudon is served in police stations to people under …
In ancient Japan, salt was considered an important commodity, because of the laborious and time-consuming process it took to make. The Japanese integrated the use of salt in their rituals, traditions and customs which are still practiced today. Often used as an offering to the gods, it is a symbol of holiness, purification, and to …
Last month we had a Japanese celebration for the Hyakudo Kai Club in Seattle. On display were some Ryuseiha Ikebana that I just wanted to share with you. Aren’t they beautiful?
Do you love sushi? Have you tried to make it at home? Why not make the sushi ginger, gari, at home! With the increased popularity of sushi, many are stepping up to the challenge to make sushi at home. It’s easy to make the pickled ginger that accompanies sushi, called gari, as well. Gari is …
photo: Michaelbuddy 3/3 or March 3rd is Hinamtsuri or Girl’s Day in Japan. It’s also referred to as Momo no Sekku or Peach Festivities. Sekku, was an occasion borrowed from China to signify the change of seasons. Girls’ Day celebrates and prays for a young girl’s growth and happiness. Coming from a family of five …
The 2012 Pantone color of the year is Tangerine Tango. This vibrant and exciting reddish orange that is sure to shake up your emotions! I don’t know who comes up with naming these colors but I think this one works well. The imagery of a woman in a tango dress will always come to mind. …
image from iloveindia.com I once met a realtor, who, as soon as she heard I was a feng shui consultant said, “I had someone come and feng shui my house!” She then went on enthusiastically, “she put red in my career corner and it’s really done wonders for me!” Now I need to find something …
Mu Shu Pork is a Chinese vegetables and pork stir-fry that is wrapped in a Mandarin crepe with hoisin sauce. It’s what I would call a Chinese burrito. This “home-style” version was taught to me by my Chinese girlfriend, who is a fabulous mother, professional and cook! She simplified this tedious traditional recipe rather drastically, …
