Today, while exploring the historic slopes of Sannenzaka near Kyoto’s Kiyomizu-dera Temple, I captured this charming sight.

Japanese timber, as seen here in the signage of a local tea shop, possesses a unique allure. It radiates a sense of vitality and tranquility, inviting passersby to pause and enjoy a relaxing cup of tea.

This particular sign, crafted through DIY efforts, showcases the cost-effectiveness of using natural materials over store-bought options. Its aesthetic appeal not only catches the eye but also tempts visitors to step in for a refreshing break.

Today, the streets of Kyoto were bustling with tourists from all around the world, drawn in part by the undeniable charm of Japanese woodcraft.

The seamless blend of tradition and nature in woodworking and architecture captures the hearts of visitors globally, making Kyoto’s cultural streetscape a cherished destination.

#JapaneseTimber #KyotoTravel #TraditionalCrafts #Woodworking #CulturalHeritage #DIYProjects #SustainableDesign #TourismJapan #KiyomizuTemple #ArtisanalCharm

Currently, the Hankyu Department Store in Umeda, Osaka, is hosting an exhibition titled “Heidi, Girl of the Alpsアルプスの少女ハイジ”. Visiting this exhibition profoundly reminded me of the immense power of Japanese anime.

This particular anime was broadcast weekly in Japan in 1974, achieving a staggering 23% viewership rate. It’s common to hear about young people from abroad being drawn to study in Japan, inspired by Japanese anime.

However, what struck me about “Heidi” was how it must have introduced many Japanese girls to the lifestyle and culture of people living in the mountainous regions of Europe, particularly Switzerland and Germany.

Though based on a Swiss novel by Johanna Spyri, the anime adaptation by Japanese creators, especially the genius animator Hayao Miyazaki宮崎駿, brought Heidi to life in a way that perhaps even surpassed the original.

Through the lens of Japanese anime technology, not only is Japan showcased to the world, but European culture is also conveyed to Japan. Anime, with its ability to transcend language barriers, serves as an excellent medium to introduce various cultures to people worldwide.

#HeidiExhibition #OsakaEvents #MiyazakiHayao #SwissCulture #GermanCulture #CulturalAppreciation #AnimeAsABridge #WorldCultures #CreativeStorytelling #HankyuDepartmentStore
#AnimeImpact #CulturalExchange #Heidi #JapanAnimation #GlobalInfluence #Storytelling

I recently ventured into the deep forests of Wakayama Prefecture, capturing this image during my quest for the finest cedar and cypress wood. At Dios, we’re committed to offering unparalleled service to diplomats and expatriates residing in Osaka, by providing them with the best in furnishings and decor.

Our approach at Dios is multifaceted. While we meticulously select furniture from various interior stores, we also delve deep into nature, personally sourcing materials for our custom-made furnishings and decorative items. We place a special focus on the quality of Japanese timber. After comparing various types of wood from around the world, we are convinced that Japanese wood stands superior on the global stage.

Using natural, solid wood slabs to create stylish dining tables or transforming small wooden pieces into charming signage, we significantly enhance the value of real estate properties. Modern homes often feel impersonal due to synthetic materials; however, incorporating authentic Japanese wood dramatically transforms these spaces.

Interestingly, the same timber we select was once used in the former Italian Embassy Villa in Tochigi Prefecture(See Photos) . This suggests that Europeans with a discerning eye have long recognized the value of our Wakayama’s timber.

Japan’s land is 70% covered in forests, a testament to the generations of Japanese who have painstakingly preserved these woodlands. The Japanese philosophy of forest conservation not only honors this legacy but also contributes to a sustainable and eco-friendly future for humanity. Japanese forests are a global treasure, enriching lives and fostering a sustainable future.

#JapaneseForests #WoodworkCraftsmanship #EcoFriendlyLiving #ExpatLifeInJapan #HeritageConservation #InteriorDesign #WoodenWonder #LivingWithNature #OsakaLiving #GreenFuture #GlobalTreasures
#JapaneseTimber #SustainableDesign #FurnitureArtistry #DiosInteriors #CulturalHeritage #EnvironmentalConservation #OsakaExpats #RealEstateValue #NaturalAesthetics

Amidst the rising criticism from Japanese citizens towards the Osaka Expo’s Ring structure, I, drawing from my own experiences in interior construction, believe the construction of this ring is an extremely challenging feat.

The technical skill and effort of those involved in this construction should be more highly appreciated. It’s crucial to distinguish between the political leaders of the Osaka Expo and the skilled technicians and workers on the ground.

Working with wood, which often warps and bends due to moisture and other factors, requires significant skill to correct these deviations on-site. Creating a circular structure like the Ring involves considerable difficulty and material waste.

Likely under constant pressure from political leaders to expedite the process, the workers face immense challenges. Precisely carving joints and ensuring perfect alignment within millimeters is no small task. Moreover, ensuring level flooring, especially over a body of water, raises questions about the methods employed in this process.

With multiple contractors involved, the integration of the Ring’s segments is a point of intrigue.

Based on my carpentry experience, I view the construction of this Ring as an extraordinary achievement, showcasing remarkable craftsmanship and engineering prowess.

#ArchitecturalInnovation #ProjectManagement #SustainableConstruction #WoodworkingArtistry #Osaka2025 #ExpoConstruction #EngineeringExcellence #BuildingTheFuture
#OsakaExpo #ConstructionExcellence #EngineeringMarvels #Craftsmanship #InnovationInConstruction

(Photo) From Radio Kansai, November 2023