TOKONOMA

A tokonoma is a recessed alcove in a traditional Japanese room, serving as the room's focal point for displaying art and seasonal items like hanging scrolls (kakemono), flower arrangements (ikebana), or bonsai, creating a serene, contemplative space that embodies Japanese aesthetics and hospitality, with its origins linked to Zen Buddhist altars and shoin-style architecture. Items are carefully chosen to reflect the season or occasion, and it's considered impolite to walk into or sit in the tokonoma.