Wabi sabi is integral to the Japanese way of life and refers to the transience of beauty, which is particularly apt for a country blessed with four lively seasons. It also refers to beauty that is imperfect or even changes with age and decay. Seems like a concept difficult to understand, so here are a few ways in which you can immerse yourself in wabi sabi!

Already a magnificent sight in summer, Tottori Sand Dunes in Tottori Prefecture turns its attractiveness up a notch come winter. Admire in awe at the rare sight of brown sand and white snow adorning the land for as far as your eyes can see.

Be impressed at the creativity of Japanese artists as they give dilapidated houses a refreshing second lease of life by transforming them into wacky art installations. Interested? Make your way down to the Art House Project in Naoshima, an island that’s a mere ferry ride away from Kagawa Prefecture.

Next time you have the opportunity to partake in a traditional tea ceremony, look carefully at the jugs, cups, and bowls. You will notice that these utensils have an uneven shape or even comprise broken pieces that are secured together through lacquer. This really shows how wabi sabi is enhanced by imperfection!

Indeed, wabi sabi is found all around us. How about paying more attention to the imperfect, impermanent, and incomplete and cultivating your spirit for your next visit to Japan?