LET’S HYGGE JULY 2024

[definition of hygge]

a quality of cosiness and comfortable living that engenders a feeling of contentment and well-being (regarded as a defining characteristic of Danish culture).

Let's Hygge Lindbjerg Graphic Journal Blog

Add a little hygge to each month

I hope this greeting finds you well. This month, I will share my recommendations for Tokyo, Japan with you. I was fortunate to visit the city for the first time, and it truly amazed me and filled me with inspiration. The people, the food, and the level of design and detail in everything they do, left a lasting impression on me. From the respectful handover of receipts with both hands and eye contact in every transaction, I’ll carry these moments with me. I’ve been practicing presence and living in the moment.

I’ll share with you five highlights of Tokyo, a delightful paper craft project, and the recipe for a delicious sushi bowl! I hope your July is filled with great projects, good food, and lots of hygge!

MY 5 HIGHLIGHTS OF TOKYO

1. M eiji Jingu Garden A serene escape from the city, perfect for lunch or quiet contemplation. I visited multiple times to admire its nature, plants, and tranquil ambiance.

2. M ori Art Museum is located on the 52nd floor of Mori Tower, it offers modern exhibitions and a breathtaking view of Tokyo.

3. Great Gyoza spot Authentic Japanese eatery with delicious food, excellent service, and a bustling local atmosphere.

4. The Old Asakura House (Kyu Asakura Kejutaku): A century-old wooden Japanese house in a picturesque area of Tokyo. I especially loved the cherry blossom artwork in the formal rooms.

5. ITOYA Stationery Store Spanning 12 floors, it offers pens, paints, craft materials, paper goods, travel gear, two cafes, and even a greenhouse.

Photos from my favorite garden in Tokyo – M eiji Jingu Garden A wonderful escape from the city!

Photos from M ori Art Museum situated at the 52nd floor of the Mori tower

Photos from one of Tokyo’s many great, authentic Japanese eatery

Photos from The Old Asakura House with the beautiful artwork in the formal room

Photos from The Old Asakura House with the simple architecture and garden!

Photos from ITOYA Stationery Store in 12 floors offering anything from pens, paints, craft materials, canvases, paper, cards, travel gear, two cafes and even a greenhouse.

PAPER SWALLOWS FOR DECORATION

If you’ve been following my journal for a while, you’ll know about my deep admiration for birds. I draw birds, sculpt them in clay, and sew linen birds filled with lavender. These decorative paper birds are a joy to make. They can brighten up any corner of your home when taped lightly to the wall with double-sided tape. I prefer taping them in just 2-3 spots to give them a graceful curl to their wings, making them appear as if they’re in flight. I have used paper by William Morris, whose work and use of colours I adore, but you can use any paper you like or decorate you own paper!

ALL YOUR NEED

Download the template
Scissors
Pencil for marking
Double-sided tape

SUSHI BOWL WITH TUNA AND SALMON

ALL YOU NEED

For 2 persons
150g brown rice
2 tbsp rice vinegar
1 tsp mirin
1 tbsp soy sauce
1/2 tbsp white sesame seeds, plus extra for serving
1/2 tbsp black sesame seeds, plus extra for serving
150 g sashimi salmon and tuna
1/2 avocado, thinly sliced
1/2 carrot, thinly sliced
1/2 cucumber, thinly sliced
150g frozen edamame pods, blanched
2 tsp pickled ginger
1/2 lime, cut in wedges for serving
1/2 bunch coriander, finely chopped leaves for serving

Cook the rice according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.

In a bowl, combine rice vinegar, mirin, and soy sauce. Add the rice and toss to coat, then sprinkle with sesame seeds. Keep some for serving!

Divide the rice into two bowls, topping with sashimi tuna and salmon, avocado, cucumber, carrot , edamame and picked ginger.

Sprinkle with extra sesame seeds and coriander. Serve with lime wedges !