News

The “soil” range of products are made from a clay like material called diatomaceous earth, formed from plankton millions of years ago. It has natural absorption and moisture retention qualities making it an ideal material for use in plastering. In Japan diatomaceous earth has been used in traditional plastering in castles, temples and tea-houses for more than a thousand years. The “soil” products are hand crafted by Japan’s leading specialist in traditional plastering, Isurugi. SOIL products are both elegant in their simplicity and environmentally friendly. 

The Shitennoji temple was founded in 593 by Prince Shotoku, making it one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Japan. In an industrial city it is an oasis of tranquility. Every month on the 21st there is a flea market that attracts all manner of vendors selling bric a brac, antiques, crafts, food and more. If you happen to be in Osaka when the market is on it is a great place to visit. 

Designed to allow food to retain its flavor, the VIV range of silicone steamers/cases enables you to healthily cook meat, fish and vegetables in the microwave or oven. The lid fits neatly inside to ensure there is less steam when heated, and the steam tray helps to absorb excess oil.

Deep in the south of Osaka city remains the last of its tram lines. The tram departs from Ebisucho and will take you all the way to Sakai city, on the way is Sumiyoshi Taisha, one of the main shinto shrines in Japan.  Ebisucho is next to "Shin Sekai", literally meaning new world, a district where time stood still. It captures both the mood of early post world war two and the working class roots of industrial Osaka. The area has many cheap bars and restaurants that fed the workers of the city. These days it still has lots of...

Hotaru ika, spring seasonal delicacy.