Contributor

Laura Payne

Laura Payne is a world-traveling teacher, writer, photographer and tea enthusiast. No matter where she goes, she always looks for skills to learn and stories to hear.

Articles

Learn

Izumo no Okuni: The Woman Who Created Kabuki

Modern-day kabuki actors are mostly men, but a woman from rural Japan founded this iconic traditional art.

By 4 min read

Culture

Shinryoku Season: A Time of New Life and New Green

Learning to appreciate the little-known season that follows the cherry blossoms.

By 4 min read

Explore

5 Flower Parks in Shimane and Tottori

Hoping to experience some off-the-beaten-path flower viewing spots? Consider visiting these destinations in Japan’s two most rural prefectures.

By 4 min read

Culture

5 Books to Learn about Japanese Mythology

Fan of legends, literature or traditional culture? Check out these five classic and contemporary books to enhance your knowledge of Japanese folktales and legends.

By 3 min read 1