Hidetoshi Nagasawa: The Master Who Sculpted the Silence Between East and West
Some artists don’t just create objects; they transform the space around them. Hidetoshi Nagasawa was one of these: a tireless traveler who, after cycling from Japan to Europe, found his second home in Italy, becoming one of the most profound figures in contemporary sculpture.
If you love art that whispers rather than shouts, Nagasawa’s story will enchant you.
An Epic Journey: From Manchuria to Milan
Nagasawa’s life reads like a novel. Born in Manchuria in 1940, after studying art in Tokyo, he embarked on an incredible journey in 1966: he cycled across Asia and Europe, passing through Turkey and Greece before finally arriving in Milan.
In Italy, he found fertile ground, forming bonds with giants like Castellani and Fabro, while always keeping his Japanese spiritual roots intact.
The Philosophy of "Void" and the Invisible
Nagasawa’s sculpture is never heavy, even when using materials like gold, marble, or iron. His core concept is the invisible.
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Suspension: Many of his works seem to defy gravity, floating in space.
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Anti-matter: For Nagasawa, the empty space inside or around a sculpture is as important as the material itself. This is the concept of Ma (the interval), central to Japanese culture.
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Architecture and Nature: His installations often dialogue with the landscape, creating meditative spaces where the work feels as though it has always belonged.
A Legacy Between Two Worlds
Nagasawa taught for years at the NABA Academy in Milan, influencing generations of artists. His ability to blend European conceptual rigor with the poetic sensitivity of the Rising Sun made his works ethereal and timeless.
"Art is not made to be seen, but to be lived as a spiritual experience."
Why rediscover him today?
In an era of visual excess, Nagasawa’s work invites us to find stillness. Viewing his sculptures means taking a moment to reflect on the weight of matter and the lightness of the spirit. If you ever visit Fiumara d'Arte in Sicily, look for his "Stanza di Barca d'Oro" (Golden Boat Room)—it is an experience you won’t forget.
Tsukimi: The Japanese Art of Moon Gazing
Tsukimi: The Japanese Art of Moon Gazing
While in the West a full moon is often linked to legends of werewolves or nightly mysteries, in Japan, it is the star of one of the most poetic and contemplative traditions of the year: Tsukimi.
Literally meaning "moon viewing," this festival isn't about grand parades or fireworks. Instead, it’s about pausing, breathing in the crisp autumn air, and offering gratitude to nature for its bounty.
A Silver Tradition
The origins of Tsukimi date back to the Heian Period (794-1185), when aristocrats would gather on decorated boats to compose poetry and admire the moon's reflection on the water. Over time, this custom spread to farmers, evolving into a ritual of thanksgiving for the autumn harvest.
It is celebrated on the 15th day of the eighth month of the lunar calendar (usually falling in September or October), the night when the moon is said to be at its absolute peak of beauty.
The Symbols of the Festival
To create the perfect Tsukimi atmosphere, three fundamental elements are essential:
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Tsukimi Dango: Small, round white rice dumplings stacked in a pyramid. It is said that eating them brings health and happiness.
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Susuki (Pampas Grass): These silvery stalks resemble heads of rice and are used to decorate homes, serving as a charm to ward off evil spirits.
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Seasonal Offerings: Chestnuts, sweet potatoes, and kabocha squash are displayed to honor the abundance of the earth.
There’s a Rabbit on the Moon!
If you look closely at the lunar surface during Tsukimi, the Japanese will tell you that you won't see a "man in the moon," but rather a rabbit pounding rice in a mortar to make mochi.
This Buddhist legend, as ancient as it is beloved, turns the moon into a magical, hardworking place, and explains why rabbit motifs are everywhere during this season.
The Spirit of Tsukimi Today
In a Japan that moves at lightning speed, Tsukimi remains an oasis of slowness. Many temples in Kyoto and Tokyo host poetry readings and koto (Japanese harp) concerts under the silver light.
It is the perfect invitation for us as well: to turn off our smartphones, sit by a window, and rediscover the simple wonder of a glowing sky. Because, as they say in Japan, tonight’s moon will never be exactly the same as tomorrow’s.
More Than Just Stickers: The Creative World of B-SIDE LABEL
If you've ever wandered through Tokyo’s trendiest neighborhoods like Harajuku or Shimokitazawa, you’ve definitely seen that iconic black-and-white circular logo. We’re talking about B-Side Label, the Japanese company that turned the humble sticker into a collectible art form.
A Story Born on the "B-Side"
Founded in 2003 by a small group of artists in Osaka, the name "B-Side" perfectly captures the brand’s philosophy. Like the B-side of an old vinyl record, the company wanted to give a voice to the unconventional, the non-mainstream, and the raw creativity of emerging artists. What started as a local market stall has evolved into a creative empire with thousands of unique designs.
What Makes Them Special?
It’s not just about the art; it’s about the extreme quality:
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Indestructible: They are made of high-quality waterproof vinyl.
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UV Resistant: A special coating prevents the colors from fading, even when stuck on bikes or cars.
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Life-long Durability: They are famously tough—designed to survive the elements while looking brand new.
Fun Fact: Epic Collaborations
B-Side Label isn’t just about original characters. They are famous for their amazing collaborations with pop culture giants like Capcom (Monster Hunter), Pokémon, One Piece, and many more. Collectors often hunt for the Store-Exclusive designs—special stickers that can only be purchased in a specific city, like the unique Kyoto or Shibuya limited editions.
Why Collect Them?
Because every B-Side Label sticker tells a story. Whether it’s a punk-rock cat, a satirical take on a traditional geisha, or your favorite anime hero, they allow you to express your personality on your laptop, water bottle, or suitcase with a touch of authentic Japanese "kawaii-cool."
Suica, Pasmo, ICOCA, and JR Pass: Your Guide to Japan’s Transport Cards
Traveling in Japan is an amazing experience, but getting around efficiently requires a little insider trick: transport cards. They make hopping on trains, subways, and buses simple, fast, and stress-free. The most popular options are Suica, Pasmo, ICOCA, and for long-distance travelers, the JR Pass.
Suica and Pasmo: Tokyo’s Transit Essentials
If you’re staying in Tokyo or the surrounding areas, Suica and Pasmo quickly become your best friends. Both are rechargeable contactless cards that let you board trains, subways, and buses without buying a ticket each time. But that’s not all: they also work for small purchases like a coffee from a vending machine or a snack at a convenience store. The difference? Just the issuing company: Suica is issued by JR East, while Pasmo comes from private lines. In practice, both work flawlessly—pick whichever is most convenient for you.
ICOCA: The Kansai Equivalent
Traveling to Osaka, Kyoto, or Kobe? Enter ICOCA, the Kansai counterpart to Suica and Pasmo. Same convenience: just tap and you’re on the train or subway. It’s also rechargeable and works for small purchases. The best part? These cards are interoperable: a Suica works in Osaka, and an ICOCA works in Tokyo. Seamless convenience everywhere!
JR Pass: For Long-Distance Explorers
If your trip spans multiple cities or long distances, the JR Pass is a must. It covers all JR trains, including the famous Shinkansen, allowing unlimited travel for 7, 14, or 21 days. Perfect for hopping from Tokyo to Kyoto or Osaka without worrying about individual tickets and enjoying the journey stress-free. One detail: it doesn’t cover local subways or private buses, so pairing it with a transport IC card for short trips is smart.
Which Card Should You Choose?
Staying mainly in one city or region? Suica, Pasmo, or ICOCA are ideal. They free you from single tickets and let you move around and make small purchases with a simple tap. Traveling between distant cities? JR Pass: convenience and savings on fast, comfortable trains. Often the best solution is a combination: an IC card for everyday use and a JR Pass for long-distance travel.
In short, with these cards Japan becomes truly within reach: just one tap, and you’re off exploring cities, landscapes, and hidden corners without the hassle of ticket lines or complicated transfers. Simple technology that makes your journey lighter… and infinitely more enjoyable.
Japan and the Challenge of Overtourism: Between Charm and Sustainability
In recent years, Japan has experienced a real tourism boom, attracting millions of visitors fascinated by the perfect balance between tradition and modernity. From the historic temples of Kyoto to the bright neon lights of Shinjuku, the Land of the Rising Sun exerts an irresistible appeal. However, this popularity has also brought with it challenges: overtourism is putting a strain on some of the most iconic destinations, with repercussions on the daily lives of residents and the environment.
The Dark Side of Success
Imagine walking through the historic district of Gion, in Kyoto, hoping to savor the magic of a timeless place. But instead of a tranquil atmosphere, you find yourself immersed in an incessant crowd of tourists, cameras pointed at every corner, and even bans on taking photos to protect the privacy of geisha and maiko. This is not an isolated experience: places like Fushimi Inari, Tsukiji Market and Nara Deer Park have become destinations for hordes of visitors, often without awareness of local rules. Even nature is feeling the effects of this influx: Mount Fuji, the symbol of Japan, is suffering the impact of mass tourism with crowded trails, abandoned waste and increasing pressure on local ecosystems.
Countermeasures: A More Sustainable Japan
The Japanese government is working to find a balance between hospitality and sustainability. Some of the initiatives adopted include:
- Mandatory reservations and access restrictions: places like the famous Arashiyama Bamboo Grove trail or the Golden Pavilion are experimenting with daily visitor limits to preserve the site and improve the experience.
- Promoting alternative destinations: Instead of focusing only on the most famous destinations, Japan is encouraging tourism in lesser-known regions, such as the beautiful Tottori prefecture or the pristine Ogasawara Islands.
- Stricter rules for visitors: In Kyoto, the streets of Gion have become restricted traffic zones for tourists, while in Nara, warnings have been introduced to prevent deer from being irresponsibly overfed.
More Responsible Tourism: The Role of Each of You
The solution to overtourism does not only depend on the institutions, but also on you, the traveler. Here are some tips for enjoying Japan in a respectful way:
- Discover places less traveled: Japan is full of hidden gems! Try visiting less crowded cities such as Kanazawa, Takayama or Kurashiki.
- Follow local rules: learn about the rules of conduct, such as not photographing geisha without permission or respecting orderly lines on public transport.
- Travel in less crowded periods: Spring and autumn are spectacular, but consider exploring Japan in winter or late summer for a more authentic experience.
An Unforgettable and Mindful Journey
Japan deserves to be experienced with respect and curiosity. Each of you, with small conscious choices, can contribute to preserving the beauty and authenticity of this extraordinary country. The future of Japanese tourism does not only depend on government policies, but also on the sensitivity of those who visit it. If you want to immerse yourself in Japanese culture without damaging it, start with a simple promise: travel with respect and leave behind only wonder, not cumbersome footprints. Every visit to the land of the Rising Sun is an opportunity to be enchanted by its timeless beauty. Why not join us on a journey to discover not only its spirituality, but also its extraordinary duality between modernity and tradition?
With the Premium Tour of Your Japan Tour, you will live an exclusive experience along the Golden Route, exploring over 8 iconic cities including Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Yokohama, Nara, Himeji and Nagoya. You will discover breathtaking landscapes, centuries-old temples and futuristic neighborhoods, immersing yourself in local customs and the most authentic gems of Japan. With our All Inclusive package, you won’t have to worry about anything: transportation, accommodations and over 20 cultural experiences are included, with the assistance of our experts for a stress-free and exciting trip.
Available summer dates: September 2, 2025 ~ September 16, 2025
Choose the perfect date for you and get ready to set off on an unforgettable adventure! Discover all the details here: Your Japan Tour
Building a brand on Instagram? It takes courage, creativity and strategy
If you want to build a brand on Instagram that really stands out, it's time to abandon traditional strategies and focus on innovation. In a digital world saturated with content, standing out requires courage, creativity and a well-defined strategy. Here's how to make your presence on Instagram unique and engaging.
1. Define the essence of your brand
First of all, it is essential to understand who you are and what you represent. What are the values of your brand? What is your mission? Who is your ideal audience? Answering these questions will help you build an authentic and coherent communication strategy. Each content must reflect the identity of your brand, making it recognizable and memorable.
2. Build a strong visual identity
On Instagram, the visual aspect is essential. Define a color palette, a photographic style and a typography that represent you. Consistency and originality will help your brand stand out in users' feeds and be immediately recognizable.
3. Experiment with content
Don't limit yourself to classic static posts. Use all Instagram features, such as Reels, Stories, Carousel and live, to offer dynamic and varied content. Mini-series, tutorials, behind the scenes or engaging storytelling can make your profile more interesting and captivating.
4. Collaborate with the right people
Influencer marketing can expand your reach, but choose carefully. Collaborate with influencers and creators who align with your values and who can represent the brand authentically. Genuine partnerships generate greater trust and engagement.
5. Engage the community
Your audience is not just a group of followers, but a community to cultivate. Stimulate interaction with surveys, questions and answers, contests and user-generated content. The more people feel an active part of your brand, the more likely they will be to support and share it.
6. Harness the power of word of mouth
Create anticipation, generate curiosity, launch surprising initiatives. Buzz marketing strategies can get your brand talked about and increase its awareness in a natural and spontaneous way.
7. Monitor and adapt your strategy
The digital world is constantly changing. Analyze the performance of your content and adapt your strategy based on the results. Being flexible and ready to experiment will allow you to always remain competitive.
Building a successful brand on Instagram requires commitment, creativity and consistency. Dare, differentiate yourself and always put your community at the center: your audience will repay you with trust and loyalty.
Are you a company or a small business and don't know how to move? We are here! Since 2016 we have been managing the Communication and Marketing of various companies through a thoughtful, 360° strategy with an attractive design and effective development, until creative intuitions and innovative ideas become reality!
Japan Italy Bridge will always be by your side, come and visit us HERE
Lucky Red Announces the Opening of the Online Store Dedicated to Studio Ghibli
The day that all anime and Japanese culture fans have been waiting for has arrived: we are thrilled to announce the opening of the Lucky Shop, the online store where you can find products inspired by the most beloved films distributed by Lucky Red! And as the cherry on the cake, an entire section of the store will be dedicated to the magical world of Studio Ghibli!
The Magic of Studio Ghibli
Studio Ghibli is one of the most popular and globally celebrated film production companies, founded in 1985 by masters Hayao Miyazaki and Isao Takahata. Since their first feature film, 'Laputa: Castle in the Sky' (1986), they have captured the hearts of young and old alike with their enchanting stories and breathtaking animation.
What makes Studio Ghibli so special? Firstly, the attention to detail and impeccable craftsmanship that characterizes every single frame of their films. Films such as "My Neighbour Totoro", "Spirited Away" and "Princess Mononoke" are not just captivating tales, but true visual masterpieces that wonderfully combine fantasy, nature and humanity.
Their ability to create imaginary worlds inhabited by complex and fascinating characters has made Studio Ghibli a worldwide cultural phenomenon. Who has never dreamed of flying with Totoro, exploring enchanted worlds with Chihiro, or fighting for nature alongside Ashitaka?
The Arrival of the New Lucky Shop Online
And now, the news you've all been waiting for: finally, Studio Ghibli has opened its official online store thanks to Lucky Red! Yes, that's right, you can now bring a piece of the magical Ghibli world directly into your homes.
On Saturday 15 June, Lucky Red announced via its social accounts the opening of the Lucky Shop. From 15 to 22 June, a special promotion will be running: by entering the code LUCKY10 in the appropriate field during purchase, you will receive a 10% discount on all products. The promotion is nominal and each person will only be able to use it once, and will not include shipping costs.
Credits: luckyred.it
An Universe of Magical Products
In the new online store, you will find a wide range of products celebrating the legacy and creativity of Studio Ghibli. One section will be entirely dedicated to official Studio Ghibli products, allowing you to always carry with you the magic of the stories created by Hayao Miyazaki and Isao Takahata imported directly from Japan!
There will be collectable figures of your favourite characters, soft Totoro plush toys, accessories, stationery, and collectables. For true fans, the wonderful Steelbooks have unique illustrations and fine details that turn each piece into a work of art.
The store will also offer special editions of DVDs and Blu-rays, art books and soundtracks that will allow you to immerse yourself even further into the Ghibli universe. And for those who like to dress in style, there will be a selection of exclusive clothing and accessories that will make you feel part of the enchanted world every day.
Credits: luckyred.it
A Unique Shopping Experience
Browsing the new Lucky Shop will be an experience in itself. The site design reflects the beauty and simplicity typical of Studio Ghibli, with sections dedicated to each film and themed collections that will make it easy and fun to find the perfect gift for yourself or another fan of the Ghibli world.
In addition, the store promises to offer international shipping, so that no one is left behind, no matter where you are in the world. Imagine receiving a package that carries some of the magic and wonder of Studio Ghibli, ready to enrich your everyday life!
Credits: luckyred.it
The opening of the Lucky Shop will surely bring a huge “Totoro-like” smile to all fans: your next piece of magic is waiting for you!
Happy shopping!
Your Japan: come to Japan with us
Your Japan is a project born from the minds of Japan Italy Bridge in collaboration with GiraMondo Viaggi Grezzana and Bandai Namco, unique and exclusive trips to Japan. Together with our experts, you will have the opportunity to live a unique experience in city of a thousand colours: Tokyo.
Japan, a land waiting to be discovered
Japan is currently one of the most desired destinations for all Italians (and not just them). Japan Italy Bridge has been working with the Land of the Rising Sun for years and, little by little, we have built this tailor-made project for all enthusiasts and lovers of the Japanese Nation.
Your Japan - come to Japan with us
Your Japan is a project born from the minds of Japan Italy Bridge in collaboration with Giramondo Viaggi Grezzana and Bandai Namco. Together with our experts, you will have the opportunity to live a unique experience in the city of a thousand colours: Tokyo.
One of the largest megacities in the world where modernity coexists with traditional Japan. An almost perfect fusion that allows us to move from the zen atmospheres of the gardens of the Imperial Palace, up to the lively neighborhoods of Shinjuku and Akihabara. And it is precisely in this last area that the horizons open up to all manga and anime lovers. No matter how old you are, here is the right place to find "old" historical video games, or the newest releases on the market. From classic names such as Pac-man to Dragon Ball, passing through famous titles such as Kenshiro, City Hunter, Saint Seiya up to more recent titles such as Tekken.
Our partners
The GiraMondo Viaggi brand was born in the historic center of Verona in 1979 with a single travel agency. Over the years, the brand grew, becoming a group, with many travel agencies, present on the national and international territory.
There are currently around one hundred agencies, with the GiraMondo brand, each with its own shop and unique location in Italy and abroad.
A leader in the global entertainment industry, BANDAI NAMCO Entertainment Europe publishes and distributes video games and entertainment products in Europe, the Middle East, Africa and Asia-Pacific. The company philosophy is "More Fun For Everyone".
The group's mission is to bring "more fun for all" around the world, with the aim of becoming the leaders of innovation in global entertainment.
From their European headquarters in Lyon they work on titles such as Pac-Man, Soulcalibur, Tekken and Dark Souls… as well as new projects such as Little Nightmares, Twin Mirror and The Dark Pictures.
The tour leaders of "Your Japan"
Our package is designed to give you all the attention necessary for you to experience a unique and unforgettable experience. In fact, our Italian staff will assist you for the entire duration of the trip. Our tour leaders will depart from Malpensa with you and will accompany you for the entire duration of your stay, until your return to Italy.
In these 8 days, our staff will take you to discover the Japanese capital, with exclusive experiences and trips out of town to also admire the Momiji, the period of the year in which the change of foliage takes place.
Among Ginko trees, temples and skyscrapers, you will have the opportunity to live an unforgettable and above all all-inclusive experience. Our package was created to give travelers the opportunity to not have to think about anything other than enjoying the beauty of this fantastic land. You will therefore not have to worry about flights, hotels or guided tours because everything is included in the price. Furthermore, for those who book by June 30th, they will also have an additional €100 discount per room.
So, what are you waiting for? It's time to pack your suitcase and travel with us!
