Marvelous Mosaic: 7+ Great Ways to Enjoy Japanese Culture in NYC

Brooklyn Botanical Gardens, Cherry Walk (photo: Antonio M. Rosario)

By Jacquelin Carnegie – (New York, NY)

In this “gorgeous mosaic," as former Mayor Dinkins christened it, you can find entertainment and culinary delights from just about every nation. Here are some delightful ways to experience Japanese culture in New York:

Stroll in a Japanese Garden

Japanese Hill-and-Pond Garden - Brooklyn Botanical Gardens

900 Washington Ave., Brooklyn, NY; Tel: 718/623-7200; www.bbg.org

Imagine you’re in Japan as you stroll through this lovely garden with winding paths, a pond and waterfall, picturesque bridges, and a traditional Shinto shrine. The garden is especially delightful during cherry blossom season (April-May).

Delve into Japanese Culture

Japan Society  (photo: Peter Aaron/Esto)

Japan Society

333 East 47^th St.; Tel: 212/832-1155; www.japansociety.org

The Japan Society is on a tree-lined plaza right by the United Nations. Step inside this tranquil space, designed by architect Junzo Yoshimura, and be immersed in Japanese culture. Come here for interesting art exhibitions and a roster of cultural programs: films, concerts, dance, and lectures, even Japanese language classes.

Noguchi Museum & Garden

9-01 33rd Rd., Long Island City, NY; Tel: 718/204-7088; www.noguchi.org

The Noguchi Museum (photo: Elizabeth Felicella)

The museum showcases the work of famed Japanese-American designer Isamu Noguchi. There’s a lovely garden, with around 25 of his sculptures on display. (Free admission First Friday of every month.) 

Visit Japanese Galleries Galore

Asia Week New York www.asiaweekny.com

March annually; (Download a map & guide.)

Kamoda Shoji, Joan B. Mirviss

Every March, Asia Week highlights work by Japanese, Chinese, Korean, Indian, Himalayan, and Southeast Asian artists in 43+ galleries, museums, and Asian cultural institutions throughout the city. Even after the week of special exhibitions is over, you can visit the galleries to see some truly-spectacular Japanese art, from ancient through contemporary. Start with these three: Joan B. Mirviss Ltd - Japanese ceramics; Carole Davenport – Japanese photography; Kaikodo – Japanese & Chinese antiquities.

Enjoy Japanese Refreshments

In New York, Japanese restaurants abound, from pricey to reasonable. Everyone has a favorite spot; for top-notch sushi try: Yama (yamanyc.com).

Urasenke Tea Ceremony Society

153 East 69th St.; Tel: 212/988-6161; www.urasenkeny.org

Demonstration of the Way of Tea: Partake in and learn about the history of the traditional Japanese tea ceremony.

Shop for Japanese Goodies

Kinokuniya Bookstore

1073 Sixth Ave., at 41st St.; Tel: 212/869-1700

This amazing store is filled with three floors of everything Japanese from books to music CDs, movie DVDs, anime, and souvenirs. There’s also a nice selection of English-language tomes and an array of fun gift items. On the top floor, overlooking Bryant Park, Café Zaiya serves Japanese dessert specialties and sushi.

Experience Japanese Hospitality

Deco Japan, Japan Society 

The Kitano Hotel New York

66 Park Ave., at 38th St.; Tel: 212/885-7000; www.kitano.com

Although only a few of the rooms have actual tatami mats, the hotel prides itself on Japanese hospitality. There’s a Japanese restaurant and a terrific gift shop with nifty items from Japan, Asia, and Europe.