A Day Tour of Ōkōchi Sansō, the Film Star's Mountain Estate in Kyoto
While taking a trip to the former mountain villa (sansō) of Japanese period film star Ōkōchi Denjirō, in Arashiyama (western Kyoto), do not expect to visit a house. The property is closed to the public to maintain its integrity. However the magnificent gardens, nature’s private living spaces and the tea room are open to the public. Imagine a metaphorical mansion that you can explore with expansive rooms and surprising corners.
Learning the Art of Furoshiki in Tokyo
A wine bag, a book holder, a laptop carrier: one cloth, many creative possibilities. Furoshiki is simple and ingenious. You grab one side of the cloth and fold it with the other side. Wrap, carry, transform a gift…
Bad Bunny’s Zara Moment at the Super Bowl
Bad Bunny just gave a memorable performance at Super Bowl LX, the most-watched halftime show to date. I didn’t watch it live, but I promptly caught up later on Sunday night. What struck me was the quality of the production, the joy that radiated from it, and the walking grass. What didn’t? His outfit. To be frank, I was not watching for the outfit. I was just there to root for the man.
Inside Belgium's Vanishing Lace Tradition
I recently spent four days in Belgium on a side trip from France, where I’m from. Bruxelles! Home to the great chocolatiers, vintage shops, frites (french fries), comic books, the famous Manneken Pis, delicious gaufres (waffles), and… dentelle (lace).

