December.10.2008 Nature takes precedence over architecture

In Japan it is common to find trees that are hundreds of years old and that have been shaped by generations of caretakers. This gives these 'natural sculptures' a significance that trumps the building of a house. It is one of the joys of living in a city when one comes across an instance such as this.

December.7.2008 Japanese House in Osaka That is Still Standing Despite Encroaching Large Buildings

November.14.2008 Yayoi Kusama, Tadao Ando & Art on Naoshima Island

(Click on the highlighted words for links to more information)

Shown above is an artwork by Yayoi Kusama on Naoshima Island. For art lovers this island is a must. Located in Southern Japan, it became an art destination through the desires of a weathly industrialist who needed an museum for his extensive art collection. So you do what anyone else would do and call up the famous architect, Tadao Ando to build a museum for you.



You can stay in the hotel, which has been built into the musuem or you can stay in Mongolian inspired 'yurts'. You can imagine which one is more expensive. In the end, you can see art all over the island and it is really quite relaxing and worth the journey.

November.12.2008 Himeji Castle, Okayama, Japan

March.8.2008

This image is from my first night in Tokyo. I believe it is Shinjuku. 

March.6.2008

A Japanese bathtub.  It's an unique experience.

Customization is a pretty thing

Denim jeans are an essential of each persons wardrobe and this article is an interesting take on the need to be individual in a globalized world. It is another example of the attention to detail that the Japanes possess.

http://www.nytimes.com/2007/06/14/fashion/14tokyo.html?ex=1339560000&en=b223953a46de0e5c&ei=5124&partner=permalink&exprod=permalink