INAKADATE, Japan Nearly two decades ago ... three times as large as its total annual budget. Villagers say the less expensive paddy art is better suited to the current leaner era.

But it was commerce, not art, that set Arimatsu's destiny as shibori mecca. Shibori had existed in Japan since at least the 8th century. In 1608, the villagers of Arimatsu hit on the idea of hand ...

Every spring, a resurrection occurs in the Echigo-Tsumari area of Japan ... time, art practice, and social interaction. Chinese volunteer Andrew Kan recalls his encounters with the villagers ...

When Japan opened up to the world in the middle of the 19th century, Western merchant ships were quick to return home with exotic art from the once reclusive nation. The private galleries and ...

Tanbo Art is made by using various types and colors ... characters that appeal to both kids and adults. Every April, the villagers meet and decide what to plant for the year.