Culture, Art, & Education
Japanese to English and Vice Versa: The Tribulations of Translation
Here we discuss the challenges that arise when translating Japanese words into English.
Culture, Art, & Education
Wabi Sabi and Tea: Exploring the Relationship Between Two of the Most Revered Aspects of Japanese Culture
Previously we explored the history and meaning of “wabi sabi,” a term that has grown in popularity but is deeply nuanced. To learn more, click here. In this article we explore the relationship between tea and wabi sabi, a connection that can’t be overlooked when seeking understanding of this fascinating aspect of Japanese culture.
Culture, Art, & Education
Tranquil Simplicity: Exploring the Meaning of Wabi Sabi in Portland Japanese Garden
Learn more about the Japanese aesthetic of wabi sabi.
Japan Institute Garden Path
Indigenous Knowledge Expert and Granddaughter of Archbishop Desmond Tutu, Lungi Morrison, on Her Relationship with Portland Japanese Garden and Japan Institute
Lungi Morrison, a granddaughter of Nobel Peace Prize Winner Archbishop Desmond Tutu and Indigenous knowledge scholar, sat down to discuss her work and partnership with Portland Japanese Garden and Japan Institute.
Garden History
Steve Bloom: Cultivating a Legacy at Portland Japanese Garden
Learn more about Steve Bloom, who led Portland Japanese Garden as its CEO from 2005 to 2025.
Garden Path Art Exhibitions
Exhibiting Artist Profile: Naoko Fukumaru
On September 28, Portland Japanese Garden debuted its final art exhibition of 2024, Kintsugi: The Restorative Art of Naoko Fukumaru. In both the Pavilion and Calvin and Mayho Tanabe Galleries, the show will feature the artwork of kintsugi artist and master conservator Naoko Fukumaru. “Kintsugi is a five-hundred-year-old Japanese method of restoring damaged ceramics with natural urushi lacquer dusted with powdered gold, seen as enhancing beauty by celebrating imperfection and impermanence,” shares Fukumaru.
Culture, Art, & Education
This Often-Overlooked Space at Portland Japanese Garden Evokes Feelings of Famed Japanese Landmark
Learn more about the Jubitz Oregon Terrace, an often-overlooked spot of beauty and repose at Portland Japanese Garden.
Garden Path Culture, Art, & Education
Joto Sake, Portland Japanese Garden’s Official Sake Partner, Seeks to Educate People on Japan’s Signature Beverage
Portland Japanese Garden sat down to chat about Joto and sake with Ryan Mellinger. Mellinger is a sake expert who has been with Joto for ten years. She currently serves as General Manager for Joto Sake within the Kobrand Corporation.
Japan Institute Culture, Art, & Education
LionTree Chief Impact Officer & Former President and CEO of UNICEF USA on Leaving the World Better Than How We Found It
Ahead of her remarks at Portland Japanese Garden’s 2024 Annual Golden Crane Society Reception, Caryl Stern sat down with us to chat about her work and blossoming friendship with Portland Japanese Garden and Japan Institute.