The Japanese Art of Living Seasonally

"Sharing cultural insights and practical activities, this beautifully-written compendium to kisetsukan, the Japanese art of living seasonally, is an inspiring ode to the transformative, restorative powers of nature and observation."

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The Japanese Art of Living Seasonally: An Invitation to Celebrate Every Day

Written by Japanologist Natalie Leon, this beautiful guide unlocks the secrets of Japan's seasonal culture to help you relish the seasons wherever you are.

Since the Heian period, nature has permeated every aspect of Japanese culture in myriad ways; the Japanese literally eat, sleep and wear the seasons, from kimono motifs to seasonal sweets and annual festivals dedicated to the moon's beauty or the blooming of flowers. This celebration of nature leads to a deep awareness of the seasons, called kisetsukan.

In this book, Japanologist and seasonality expert Natalie Leon explains the hidden depths of kisetsukan and shares how seasonal living can be incorporated into our own lives. Through 12 key concepts, such as shun, focusing on eating seasonally, kasane, the art of colour layering, and mottainai, zero-waste living, this treasure trove of food, flowers and folktales is an invitation to mark and appreciate each passing season.

Increase your personal harmony, creativity and happiness by savouring the seasons, no matter where you are.

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Book Love

  • “Natalie Leon has been able to deftly articulate my awe for and relationship with nature in ways that I have often struggled to put into words myself. Her curiosity is contagious and will leave you with a feeling of tenderness after reading.

    If you’ve been feeling disillusioned or are simply looking for a bit of comfort, this is the perfect book to pick up to reconnect with your local environment and enrich everyday life with natural, if not a bit ethereal, beauty.”

    Kaki Okumura, author of WA: The Art of Balance.

  • “Studying the art of tea awakens your sensitivity to the seasons.” Natalie Leon’s practice of chado “The Way of Tea” informs her writing in The Japanese Art of Living Seasonally, but it is her innate perceptiveness, her sense of wonder and curiosity, and her wide-ranging research and knowledge which make this book meaningful on so many levels. Besides providing a wealth of information about so many aspects of Japanese culture, she also provides workable advice and guidance on how to enrich our everyday lives by celebrating the wonders of every day wherever we are.”

    Bruce Hamana, student and teacher, Urasenke Tradition of the Way of Tea; author of 100 Beautiful Words in the Way of Tea.

  • "This is a fascinating and authoritative book. From Spring's hanami (flower-viewing) celebrations to Winter's oshogatsu (new year) rituals, Natalie Leon explains the timeless symbols, rites, philosophies and observances that define Japanese life throughout the nation's 72 traditional micro seasons. Delve into The Japanese Art of Living Seasonally at any time of year and find often-unexpected and illuminating insights into Japanese manners and practices."

    Naoko Abe, author of 'Cherry' Ingram: The Englishman Who Saved Japan's Blossoms.

  • "If any culture can be said to have perfected the art of observation, it is Japan. Whether in poetry, art, food, or ceremony, attention to the ever-changing phenomena of nature throughout the seasons is a Japanese hallmark. Natalie Leon offers here a guide for everyone to incorporate these delightful insights into everyday life with recipes, suggestions for carving out time and occasion, and cultural insight."

    Liza Dalby, author of East Wind Melts the Ice.

  • “I am impressed by Nathalie’s insightful details in this book. The Japanese Art of Living Seasonally will bring you an enlightened cultural journey through Japan’s colourful sensual seasons and gives a mindful flavour to your daily life. Lots of these historical and philosophical backgrounds and tips are fun to read and inspire you.”

    Rie Takeda, author of Shodo: Mindfulness through the ancient art of Japanese calligraphy.

  • “When we notice the passing seasons, we awake to the truth of impermanence, and learn to treasure every day. This gorgeous, thoughtful book is a paean to the benefits of seasonal living, inspired by the rhythms of Japanese life.”

    Beth Kempton, bestselling author of Wabi Sabi.

  • “Natalie is a master of Japanese seasons. Her guidance allows me to appreciate and taste each season even more throughout the year. Just like a delectable dish, Japan's richness reveals itself more with each chew, and Natalie serves as the perfect guide to savouring every flavour. An enlightening journey of discovery!”

    Kodo Nishimura, author of This Monk Wears Heels.