Nori: The History of Japanese Seaweed (From Imperial Currency to Near-Extinction)
Discover the fascinating history of nori, the Japanese seaweed that went from Imperial currency to near-extinction, and the British scientist who saved it.
初日の出 (Hatsuhinode): The First Sunrise of the Year
Discover the meaning of Hatsuhinode, the Japanese tradition of watching the first sunrise. Learn why starting the year with light brings good fortune.
The Sacred Bridge: Why Chopsticks Mean More Than You Think
Did you know that “hashi” means both chopsticks and bridge? Discover the sacred meaning behind this daily ritual, the true depth of “itadakimasu,” and why eating is an act of connection and gratitude at Izakaya Midori.
BOUNENKAI: Japan’s Year-End Celebration 🌿
Discover Bounenkai, the traditional Japanese “forget the year” party. Learn about its origins, how it compares to Aussie Christmas functions, and how to embrace the spirit of gratitude and connection to end your year on a high note.
The Sake Etiquette You Might Not Know: What Is ‘Te‑jaku’?
The Sake Etiquette You Might Not Know: What Is ‘Te‑jaku’? In Japanese drinking culture, there’s a quiet rule that carries a lot of meaning: never pour sake for yourself. This…
Quirky Japanese Food Facts That Might Surprise You
Quirky Japanese Food Facts That Might Surprise You Japan’s food culture is playful, surprising and full of little stories that make it way more fun than just sushi or ramen….
Did you know you shouldn’t boil miso?
Did you know you shouldn’t boil miso? Miso soup might seem like a simple dish, but there’s one small detail that makes a big difference: you’re not meant to boil…
Try This: Make Your Own Dango at Home 🍡
Try This: Make Your Own Dango at Home 🍡 August in Japan means one thing: summer festivals are everywhere!! 🎇 From colourful yukata and paper lanterns to the smell of…
Why Japanese Gohan Hits Different
Why Japanese Gohan Hits Different Have you ever wondered why the rice in Japanese dishes feels so… perfect?Soft, slightly sticky, full of subtle flavour… almost comforting in a way that’s…
Umi no Hi – Marine Day: Japan’s Quiet Celebration of the Sea
Umi no Hi – Marine Day: Japan’s Quiet Celebration of the Sea Did you know Japan has a national holiday dedicated entirely to the ocean?Every July, the country celebrates Umi…
Japanese Essentials We Use Everyday
Japanese Essentials We Use Everyday What makes Japanese food taste so comforting, balanced and packed with flavour? At Izakaya Midori, it’s all about the essentials. We use a handful of…
ODEN 🍲 Japan’s cosiest winter comfort food
ODEN 🍲 Japan’s cosiest winter comfort food If winter had a flavour in Japan, it would definitely be Oden. But wait, what exactly is it?Think of a big simmering pot…
IT ALL STARTS WITH THE PERFECT BASE
IT ALL STARTS WITH THE PERFECT BASE At our kitchen, everything begins with the perfect foundation. The very first step can set the tone for the entire dish. Whether it’s…
Eating Out in Japan – Essential Phrases for Restaurants
Eating Out in Japan – Essential Phrases for Restaurants Japan’s food culture is rich, diverse, and an essential part of the country’s unique charm. Whether you’re visiting a traditional izakaya,…
A Taste of Home: The Flavours That Remind Us of Mum
A Taste of Home: The Flavours That Remind Us of Mum There’s something magical about a mum’s cooking. It’s not just about the ingredients or the recipe — it’s about…
A Quiet Celebration: Mother’s Day Traditions in Japan
A Quiet Celebration: Mother’s Day Traditions in Japan There are many ways to say “thank you” to a mother.Sometimes it’s a hug.Other times, a warm meal.Or even a simple moment…
Tsukemono – A Fresh Twist on Preserving for Everyday Life
Tsukemono – A Fresh Twist on Preserving for Everyday Life Tsukemono is an easy, delicious, and healthy way to preserve a variety of vegetables, fruits, and herbs. It adds a…
Valentine’s Day in Japan – The Sweetest Traditions
Valentine’s Day in Japan – The Sweetest Traditions While many of us in the West associate Valentine’s Day with roses, romantic dinners, and gifts, Japan has its own unique way…
5 Japanese Habits to Kickstart Your Year with Positive Energy
5 Japanese Habits to Kickstart Your Year with Positive Energy As we step into 2025, it’s the perfect time to adopt some habits from Japan that can help you live…
How Do You Say ‘Happy New Year’ in Japan? Find Out!
How Do You Say ‘Happy New Year’ in Japan? Find Out! The New Year in Japan is a time for reflection, renewal, and honoring deep-rooted traditions.Ever wondered how the Japanese…
Ichigo Ichie. One Moment, One Chance
Ichigo IchieOne Moment, One Chance. The Japanese Secret to Enjoying Every Moment Ever feel like life’s rushing by, and you’re just ticking things off your to-do list without really soaking…
Japan’s New Year Traditions You Need to Know!
Japan’s New Year Traditions You Need to Know! New Year in Japan is packed with traditions, good vibes, and incredible food. If you’re thinking of making 2025 something special, why…
Omotenashi: The Japanese Art of Welcoming with Heart (and Some Fascinating Facts You’ll Love)
Omotenashi: The Japanese Art of Welcoming with Heart (and Some Fascinating Facts You’ll Love) In Japan, hospitality is about making people feel genuinely cared for and at ease. You’ve probably…
KINTSUGI – Breaking It to Make It
KINTSUGI Breaking It to Make It Have you ever heard of kintsugi? It’s the ancient Japanese art of repairing broken pottery with golden lacquer – and trust us, it’s way…
Taste the Tales – Japan’s Edible Flora You Never Knew Had Stories!
Taste the Tales Japan’s Edible Flora You Never Knew Had Stories! Japan is famous for its beautiful scenery, delicious food, and…edible plants with stories to tell? Yep, some of the…
Celebrate Spring in the Japanese Way
Celebrate Spring in the Japanese Way Fresh Food and Fun Traditions! With spring in the air, it’s the perfect time to dive into one of Japan’s most beautiful and flavourful…