What better way to capture the essence of a country than through its inhabitants? With Faces of Japan, we wanted to capture the spontaneity and discovery that characterize travel.

For several months, Jérôme Schmidt, journalist and author, and Yann Stofer, photographer and director, crisscrossed Japan and sought out individuals to learn about their daily lives, life stories, and worldviews.

By opening up to the camera, these Japanese individuals invite us into the intimacy of their everyday lives and give us a glimpse behind the scenes of a different Japan: the one seen through the eyes of its residents.

LEARN HOW TO MAKE WASHI

Washi is a traditional Japanese paper, known for its strength and beauty. The washi-making tradition dates back to the 7th century, with the paper being handcrafted from the fibres of the paper mulberry tree. This process, involving steaming, separating, boiling, and hand-beating the fibres, has been preserved for centuries, signifying the enduring cultural essence of Japan.

The workshop accommodates to all tastes, giving you the option of making plain washi or patterned washi that can be embellished with flowers or dried leaves, among others. What's the best part? You get to keep your masterpiece as a souvenir of your fascinating interaction with Japanese culture.

MONTHLY UPDATE

As of May 8th, no COVID-19 vaccination proof is required upon arrival in Japan: for those who are not triple-vaccinated, presenting a negative PCR test is no longer necessary | More info here

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The Tokyu Kabukicho Tower, Japan's largest hotel and entertainment complex, has recently opened its doors in Shinjuku's bustling nightlife district of Kabukicho on April 14.