Flames rising from behind, piercing eyes and an enraged expression, statues of Fudo Myo-o hold a sword and lasso, both ritual implements. Despite its formidable appearance, this deity has a wide following among devotees and common folk alike. The solid power it emits has attracted many people craving comfort during the coronavirus pandemic. Discover the faith and customs surrounding Fudo Myo-o, and the undertakings of a monk cum Buddhist sculptor who is captivated by this protective guardian.

Designers and kimono-lovers are sparking a kimono revolution in imaginative ways. They weave global tastes into orthodox fabrics, coordinate kimono with Western-style clothing, and adventurously employ materials from different fields into this time-honored Japanese attire. They are also testing new approaches so they can ride out the pandemic. Discover how the evolution of the kimono is spurred on by bold designers drawing on aspects of Kyoto sensibilities and traditional craftsmanship.