Since the Edo Period (1603-1868), kumade have been purchased at Tori No Ichi Festivals throughout Japan each November. Kumade are very colorful, highly decorated bamboo rakes, that are believed to “rake in good fortune” and bring happiness to those who purchase and display them.

The Chrysanthemum is a flower of the highest order in Japan – the Emperor’s mon, or seal, is a graphic representation of the bloom and The Supreme Order of the Chrysanthemum (pictured in the right) is the most prestigious award that can be bestowed by the Japanese Government.

From the Karakuri doll to an eco-friendly robot that improves the efficiency of today’s assembly lines and factories and from the Makyoh or "Magic Mirror" that protected Christians from persecution to a machine that ensures the quality of today’s silicon chips.  These are just two examples of modern technology based on ancient art forms perfected […]