Curated | Refined Japan: Curated by Yuka

Kyoto Design Guide: Aesthetic Travel Through Art, Architecture & Hidden Gems

Kyoto, Japan’s ancient capital. Most people picture shrines and temples, right? I absolutely love exploring Kyoto’s historic temples and wandering streets lined with traditional machiya townhouses. But here’s the thing—there’s so much more to Kyoto than just traditional Japan. Kyoto…
Tokyo Fashion Travel Guide: Where to Shop, What to Buy, and Useful Shopping Tips

Living in New Zealand, where most people wear comfy clothes like sweatpants and leggings on a daily basis, I’m always struck by how stylish everyone looks whenever I go back to Japan.Whether it’s students or working professionals, it’s totally normal…
What is Japanese Aesthetics? An Ultimate Guide to Wabi-Sabi, Minimalism, and Design Principles

Your home feels cluttered. Your mind feels noisy. And yet somehow, every time you scroll past photos of Japanese interiors—you know, those serene tatami rooms with nothing but a single flower in a vase—you think, “Why can’t my life feel…
10 Must-Read Aesthetic Japanese Magazines for Art & Culture Lovers

Ever wished you could hold Japan’s aesthetics in your hands? While the world rushes toward digital, Japan still embraces the beauty of print—especially when it comes to magazines that feel more like art books.From avant-garde fashion to serene interiors, Japanese…
Kyoto for Design Lovers: Contemporary Cafes and Curated Shops

When you think of Kyoto, traditional tea houses and centuries-old temples probably come to mind first. And yes—those are absolutely worth visiting. But there’s another side to Kyoto that’s quietly thriving: a scene of contemporary cafes, design-forward shops, and spaces…
Kyoto for Art Lovers: Contemporary Galleries and Timeless Museums

When you think of Kyoto, traditional streetscapes, shrines, and temples probably come to mind first. It’s one of my favourite places—somewhere you can truly feel Japan’s wa (harmony) and ancient culture, and it never gets old no matter how many…
Japan’s Everyday Surprises — Little Culture Shocks You’ll Remember

“Japan doesn’t shout its differences — but you’ll feel them everywhere.” I was born and raised in Japan, but after living abroad for more than ten years, I’ve started noticing things that surprise me every time I go back. They’re…
15 Simple Japanese Objects That Will Transform Your Space: A Complete Japandi Guide

Does your home feel cluttered and restless? Do you want to create a stylish space without adding more stuff? If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone.Imagine a home where less truly feels like more—where imperfection becomes beautiful, and living alongside…
Overseas Living: What I’ve Learned from 10 Years in New Zealand

A Japanese Perspective on Cultural Adjustment and Cross-Cultural Communication To you who are considering overseas living—your anxieties and confusion might just overlap with my own experiences. If you’re reading this, you’re probably someone who’s thinking “I’d love to experience overseas…
The Art of Japanese Tea: A Gentle Ritual for Body and Mind

Here’s a confession: I used to be that person who couldn’t function before downing at least two cups of strong coffee. You know the drill—stumble to the kitchen, press the magic button, and pray for consciousness to arrive.But after years…