The Book
Shosa – Japan's Craft and Traditions. The Art of Mindfulness is dedicated to an attitude deeply rooted in Japanese everyday life and craftsmanship: the conscious, respectful, and focused execution of an action.
The term Shosa describes the beauty found in repetitive movements, attention, and dedication. On their journey through Japan, author Ringo Gomez and photographer Rob Walbers encounter twelve masters and mistresses of traditional disciplines – including bamboo basket weaving, tatami making, tea ceremony, Iaido, and other forms of Japanese craft and movement culture.
In twelve personal portraits, the book combines impressive photographs with stories of skill, concentration, respect, and the quiet beauty of everyday actions. With 170 color illustrations, "Shosa" is both a photo book, a cultural journey, and an invitation to look more closely.
For us at Shinkoko, this book is very special: The last chapter is dedicated to our befriended Zen master Yuko Yamada. Therefore, we appreciate "Shosa" not only as an exceptionally beautiful photo book about Japan but also on a very personal level.
The Author and the Photographer
Ringo Gomez is a Belgian design journalist from Antwerp and has been focusing on Japan, its traditions, and its craftsmanship for many years.
Rob Walbers is a Belgian photographer who has lived in Tokyo for over a decade. His work ranges from fashion photography to documentary projects. Together, Gomez and Walbers tell stories in "Shosa" about people whose work is characterized by precision, experience, and great attention to detail.
The Book
Shosa – Japan's Craft and Traditions. The Art of Mindfulness is dedicated to an attitude deeply rooted in Japanese everyday life and craftsmanship: the conscious, respectful, and focused execution of an action.
The term Shosa describes the beauty found in repetitive movements, attention, and dedication. On their journey through Japan, author Ringo Gomez and photographer Rob Walbers encounter twelve masters and mistresses of traditional disciplines – including bamboo basket weaving, tatami making, tea ceremony, Iaido, and other forms of Japanese craft and movement culture.
In twelve personal portraits, the book combines impressive photographs with stories of skill, concentration, respect, and the quiet beauty of everyday actions. With 170 color illustrations, "Shosa" is both a photo book, a cultural journey, and an invitation to look more closely.
For us at Shinkoko, this book is very special: The last chapter is dedicated to our befriended Zen master Yuko Yamada. Therefore, we appreciate "Shosa" not only as an exceptionally beautiful photo book about Japan but also on a very personal level.
The Author and the Photographer
Ringo Gomez is a Belgian design journalist from Antwerp and has been focusing on Japan, its traditions, and its craftsmanship for many years.
Rob Walbers is a Belgian photographer who has lived in Tokyo for over a decade. His work ranges from fashion photography to documentary projects. Together, Gomez and Walbers tell stories in "Shosa" about people whose work is characterized by precision, experience, and great attention to detail.
The high-quality teas and the first-class advice make Shinkoko the best address for green tea enjoyment for me.– Daniela K.
Friendly and competent advice, quick processing and, above all, a great matcha that will enrich my life from now on.– Christian K.