We always look forward to our retreats in Japan, the ‘land of the rising sun.’ We have been able to visit in both the spring for cherry blossom season as well as the current autumn retreat we are on as we speak! Over the years we have quite a collection of souvenirs that we cherish. For those of you that have been on retreat or look forward to going with us one day we would love to hear your comments on what we should look out for. Here are the top 5 things we keep an eye out for to bring home with us…

1. POTTERY - there are several different types and styles to choose from… Seto ware is the most produced Japanese pottery in Japan. Sometimes, the term Seto-yaki (or Seto-mono) stands for all Japanese pottery. We love to bring home tea sets as we get to experience a beautiful tea ceremony on retreat.

2. VINTAGE KIMONOS - Traditionally worn for occasions including wedding ceremonies, funerals, and graduation ceremonies. They are also worn for tea ceremonies and other special events, such as summer festivals. The the designs and gorgeous colors and fabrics are truly something to admire and perfect for hanging as a piece of artwork as reminder of our time together.

3. HANDMADE PAPER - Washi is traditional Japanese paper processed by hand using fibers from the inner bark of the gampi tree, the mitsumata shrub (Edgeworthia chrysantha), or the paper mulberry (kōzo) bush. This paper is great for adding to the travel journals we create with EASEL & LENS.

4. TEMPLE CHARMS - Omamori are Japanese amulets commonly sold at Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples, dedicated to particular Shinto kami as well as Buddhist figures and are said to provide various forms of luck and protection.

5. MATCHA - or green tea, is one of the unique flavors of Japan. It is made by grinding shade-cultivated tea leaves into a fine powder and has many health benefits like helping protect the liver, promote heart health, and even aid in weight loss.