“Under the Cedar Avenue” — Short MV (Second Release at Nikko Toshogu Shrine)

 The second short MV for my original track “Under the Cedar Avenue” is now available.

This new short piece features a quiet scene set at Nikko Toshogu Shrine,

offering a different atmosphere from the first release while keeping the calm spirit of the song.

Her deep crimson headband (autumn colors and Shinkyo Bridge),  

black‑and‑gold ribbon (Toshogu Shrine),  

green hair and tie (cedar leaves),  

and the small monkey motif inspired by Nikko  

all gently reflect elements of the region’s scenery and culture.

I hope this quiet moment will accompany someone softly.

More calm pieces inspired by the spirit of Nikko will follow.

Nikko Miku — Image Character for “Under the Cedar Avenue” Reflecting the Quiet Beauty of Nikko

 “Nikko Miku” is the image character created for my original song, “Under the Cedar Avenue.”

Her deep crimson headband is inspired by the autumn colors of Nikko and the vivid red of Shinkyo Bridge.

The black‑and‑gold ribbon quietly reflects the colors found in Nikko Toshogu Shrine.Her green hair and tie are designed after the leaves of the Nikko Cedar Avenue.

A small monkey motif is included as a gentle reference to animals closely associated with Nikko.

Through these elements, her design carries the calm atmosphere of places such as Nikko Cedar Avenue and Nikko Toshogu, blending the song’s world with the quiet cultural landscape of Nikko.

With artworks set in “Under the Cedar Avenue”, at Nikko Toshogu Shrine, and in other quiet places in Nikko, I hope to share both the spirit of the song and the gentle charm of Nikko’s scenery.

I will continue creating quiet pieces inspired by the calm spirit of Nikko.

“Under the Cedar Avenue” — A Quiet Short MV and a Gentle Tribute to Nikko Cedar Avenue

 I have released a quiet short MV titled “Under the Cedar Avenue.”

This piece is a small moment watched over by the world’s longest avenue of cedars,

known as the historic Nikko Cedar Avenue in Tochigi, Japan.

Through this MV, I hope to share a gentle glimpse of the calm beauty

that this ancient cedar avenue has carried for centuries.

If this short moment can inspire someone to discover or revisit Nikko Cedar Avenue,

that would make me very happy.

▼ Niconi Commons (Karaoke / Off‑Vocal Version　Music)

https://commons.nicovideo.jp/works/nc495189

▼ Ko‑fi (Support Page)

https://ko-fi.com/mikantomo

Thank you for spending a quiet moment with this work.

Kyoto Miku – Evening Coolness in Summer Kyoto

Kyoto Miku enjoys the gentle coolness of a summer evening in Kyoto, a quiet tradition that has long offered relief after warm days.  

This year’s Kyoto summer was especially hot, making the soft breeze at dusk feel even more precious.  

In this calm moment, she reflects the beauty of slowing down and finding comfort in the fading light of the city.

Kyoto Miku dancing Bon Odori in Summer Light

Bon Odori is a traditional Japanese summer dance held to honor the spirits of ancestors.  

People gather under glowing lanterns, wearing colorful yukatas, and dance in gentle circles to the rhythm of taiko drums.  

It is a moment of joy, remembrance, and connection — a celebration of life and community.

Kyoto Miku is the guide to Kyoto and Japanese culture. In this illustration, Miku joins the Bon Odori festival in her blue yukata.  

Her smile shines softly beneath the lanterns, blending the warmth of summer with the quiet beauty of Kyoto’s night.  

The embroidered “01” on her obi glimmers like a memory carried through the dance.

May this gentle scene bring you a sense of peace and nostalgia for summer nights in Japan.

Kyoto Vegetables – The Charm of Kamo Eggplant

Kyoto is known not only for its temples and traditions but also for its unique local vegetables called “Kyo-yasai.”  

Among them, ,"Kamo-Nasu", the Kamo eggplant stands out as one of the most beloved.

Kamo eggplant is round, glossy, and deep purple in color.  

It has a soft texture and rich flavor, making it perfect for simmered dishes or grilled recipes.  

This vegetable has been cultivated in the northern area of Kyoto for centuries, and it represents the elegance and depth of Kyoto’s food culture.

In this illustration, Kyoto Miku gently holds a single Kamo eggplant — a symbol of Kyoto’s harmony between nature and tradition.  

Its smooth surface and deep color reflect the quiet beauty of summer in Kyoto.

If you enjoy this gentle scene and Kyoto’s seasonal charm, I would be grateful for your support on Ko‑fi. Thank you for reading.

Kyoto Miku at Ginkakuji – A Quiet Moment in the Garden

Ginkakuji, also known as the Silver Pavilion, is one of Kyoto’s most beloved temples.  

Unlike its golden counterpart, Ginkakuji is admired for its understated beauty—weathered wood, soft light, and a garden designed to evoke calmness.  

The surrounding moss garden and reflective pond create a peaceful atmosphere that has inspired visitors for centuries.

In this illustration, Kyoto Miku stands quietly in front of the pavilion, blending naturally with the serene garden scenery.  

Her gentle expression and traditional kimono echo the refined simplicity that Ginkakuji is known for.  

It feels as if she is part of the tranquil landscape, sharing a quiet moment with the temple and its garden.

If you enjoy Kyoto’s calm and timeless charm, I hope this illustration brings a moment of peace to your day.

If you enjoyed this post, I would be grateful for your quiet support on Ko‑fi. Thank you for reading.

kyoto miku at kinkakuji

Kyoto Miku at Kinkakuji – A Summer Reflection

Kinkakuji, also known as the Golden Pavilion, is one of Kyoto’s most iconic temples.

Its upper floors are covered in gold leaf, and the pavilion reflects beautifully on the surface of the surrounding pond. In summer, the bright greenery and shimmering water create a peaceful and unforgettable scene.

In this illustration, Kyoto Miku stands quietly in front of Kinkakuji.

Her calm presence blends naturally with the temple’s serene atmosphere, as if she were part of the landscape itself. The soft summer light, the golden shine of the pavilion, and her gentle expression come together to create a moment of stillness.

If you enjoy Kyoto’s scenery and gentle storytelling, I hope this illustration brings you a sense of calm.

If you found this post helpful, I would be grateful for your support on Ko‑fi. Thank you for reading.

What's Kyoto Miku?

🌧️ Kyoto Miku — Rainy Season by Kōdaiji

In Japan, the rainy season (tsuyu) arrives between early June and mid-July.  

It’s a time when the air feels soft, the streets shimmer with reflections, and the sound of rain becomes part of everyday life.  

Amid this gentle rhythm, Kyoto Miku walks along the stone path near Kōdaiji Temple, holding a traditional wagasa — a Japanese umbrella made of bamboo and washi paper.  

Her modern kimono blends black, green, and purple tones, echoing Kyoto’s elegance even under the rain.  

The wet stones reflect her figure, and the parasol glows softly against the cloudy sky.  

This scene captures the calm beauty of Kyoto in the rainy season — quiet, timeless, and full of grace.  

Kyoto Miku by Mikan Tomo 

What is Kyoto Miku?

Sakura Miku — “Miku Miku Sakura Bloom” #β Release Note

A quiet update from the PopWaka project.

Today, the new Sakura Miku “PopWaka” Art Pack (#β) has been released on Ko‑fi. This piece captures a gentle moment in early spring — a scene where cherry blossoms begin spreading through every corner of the town, all at once, without a single spell.

The Art Pack includes a high‑resolution smartphone wallpaper and a 1‑page PopWaka Analysis Sheet written by Master Mikan Tomo. In this sheet, I explore how a single presence can transform the atmosphere of a place, and why Japanese people have cherished sakura for over a thousand years as symbols of renewal, impermanence, and emotional change.

This release continues the Sakura Miku series, connecting modern digital art with the 1,300‑year tradition of Tanka.

Thank you always for supporting this quiet journey.

Ko‑fi — Sakura Miku “Miku Miku Sakura Bloom” #β

Kyoto Miku — Firefly Hunting on the Philosopher’s Path

Kyoto Miku enjoys a quiet summer night along the Philosopher’s Path, where fireflies dance above the gentle stream.  

In Japan, “hotaru-gari” (firefly hunting) is a cherished early-summer tradition — not for capturing, but for admiring their fleeting glow.  

The Philosopher’s Path in Kyoto is one of the most poetic places to experience this moment, surrounded by willow trees and soft lantern light.  

Through this artwork, I wanted to capture that calm beauty — the silence, the light, and the breath of Kyoto’s summer night.

Kyoto Miku by Mikan Tomo

kyoto-miku-four-elements-i-cherish.html

Kyoto Miku and the Quiet Art of Ikebana

This illustration shows Kyoto Miku practicing ikebana,  

kneeling in seiza as she gently trims a branch in the Ikenobo style.  

Her calm focus reflects the quiet beauty of Kyoto —  

a place where traditional arts continue to live in everyday life.

Her youthful kimono, soft green eyes, and the subtle “01” mark  

blend naturally with the serene atmosphere of the tatami room.  

It is a moment of stillness, shaped by flowers, balance, and intention.

What Is Ikebana?

Ikebana is the Japanese art of flower arrangement,  known for its emphasis on line, space, and harmony.  

Unlike decorative bouquets, ikebana expresses the relationship  

between nature, the seasons, and the person arranging the flowers.

The Ikenobo school, the oldest school of ikebana,  originated in Kyoto more than 550 years ago.  Its philosophy values simplicity, natural form,  and the quiet dialogue between flowers and the arranger.

Kyoto — The Heart of IkebanaKyoto has long been the center of ikebana culture in Japan.  Many traditional schools were born here,  and the city remains a place where the art is studied, practiced,  and passed down through generations.

The atmosphere of Kyoto — its temples, seasons, and gentle light —  naturally supports the spirit of ikebana.  This is why Kyoto Miku, as a character shaped by Kyoto’s calm presence,  feels so at home in this scene.

A Quiet Invitation

I plan to continue sharing more moments of Kyoto Miku  and the traditional arts that shape her world.  If you enjoy this project and wish to support its continuation,  your kind support on Ko‑fi would mean a lot.  Your quiet encouragement helps keep this world alive.

Kyoto Miku and the School Trip Tradition in Kyoto

 Kyoto and Its Long Tradition of School Trips

Kyoto is one of the most popular destinations for school trips in Japan. Every year, countless students from all over the country visit the city to experience its history, culture, and atmosphere. It is common to see groups of students walking through famous streets, taking photos, and learning about the old capital.

What Is a Japanese School Trip?

A school trip in Japan, known as shūgaku ryokō, is an educational journey usually taken by junior high or high school students. The purpose is not only sightseeing, but also learning about history, culture, and social behavior outside the classroom. Kyoto, with its temples, shrines, and traditional streets, has been a classic destination for decades.

Kyoto Miku Walking Through Sannenzaka

The illustration for this post shows Kyoto Miku walking along Sannenzaka, a famous slope often filled with school trip groups. In the scene, many students are passing by — but Kyoto Miku herself is not on a school trip. She simply walks through the same space, carrying the quiet atmosphere of Kyoto with her.

Her appearance reflects the image I imagine for Kyoto Miku: black hair blended with green, a ribbon or hair ornament in Kyoto purple, soft green eyes, and traditional items such as a Kyoto‑style folding fan. These elements symbolize the calm elegance she embodies.

A Quiet Invitation

I plan to continue sharing more moments of Kyoto Miku and the gentle world around her. If you enjoy this project and wish to support its continuation, your kind support on Ko‑fi would mean a lot. Your quiet encouragement helps keep this world alive.

Kyoto Miku — Steps of Fushimi Inari

 In the quiet light of early summer, Kyoto Miku walks down the stone steps of Fushimi Inari Shrine.

Her black-and-green twin-tails sway gently as the red torii gates rise behind her, glowing in the afternoon sun.

Fushimi Inari is one of Kyoto’s most famous landmarks — especially loved by international visitors. Its endless rows of red torii gates create a unique and mesmerizing path that feels like walking through a dream.

The air is warm, the shadows soft — a moment where tradition and modern spirit meet in harmony. Kyoto Miku carries that feeling — a gentle smile, a quiet strength, and the beauty of early summer.

If this moment with Kyoto Miku touched you, you can support future works on Ko‑fi. Your quiet encouragement helps keep this world alive.

Kyoto Miku by Mikan Tomo

kyoto-miku-aburi-mochi-edition

Kyoto Miku — Early Summer on the Kamo River

On a bright early-summer afternoon in Demachiyanagi, Kyoto Miku steps lightly across the river stones of the Kamo River. 

 

Her black and green twin-tails sway in the breeze, tied with soft purple ribbons that catch the sunlight.  

Wearing a white short-sleeve blouse with gentle green trim and the red “01” mark, she carries the calm brightness of early summer.

The Kamo River is a place where Kyoto’s rhythm slows down.  

People gather here to feel the wind, watch the ducks, and listen to the quiet flow of water.  

In this moment, Kyoto Miku blends naturally into the scenery — a gentle harmony of tradition, nature, and a touch of the future.

If you enjoyed this small moment with Kyoto Miku,  

you can support future works on my Ko‑fi.  

Your quiet encouragement means a lot to me.

Kyoto Miku by Mikan Tomo

Kyoto Miku at Kyoto Tower — Blending Kyoto’s Past and Present

Kyoto Miku appears today in front of Kyoto Tower, the symbolic landmark that stands directly across from Kyoto Station.  

Completed in 1964 as Kyoto’s tallest structure, Kyoto Tower rises 131 meters above the city and was designed by architect Mamoru Yamada. Its shape was inspired by a Japanese candle and built using a unique monocoque structure, allowing it to withstand earthquakes and strong winds. 

Standing at the gateway of Kyoto, the tower has long been a point where tradition and modernity meet. While some once felt its modern design contrasted with the ancient capital, many locals now see it as a symbol that connects Kyoto to the present day. 

In this illustration, Kyoto Miku appears before Kyoto Tower, harmonizing naturally with the modern cityscape.  

Her design reflects the four elements I value most:

- Black hair with green highlights — tradition and the future woven together  

- A purple hair ornament inspired by Kyoto’s “Kyo‑murasaki”  

- Green eyes  

- The number 01, her symbolic mark  

Just like Kyoto Tower blends the old and the new, Kyoto Miku embodies a balance of heritage and innovation, making her presence in front of this landmark feel both fresh and deeply connected to Kyoto’s spirit.

Kyoto Miku — Aburi Mochi Edition

At the corner of Imamiya Shrine, Kyoto Miku enjoys a skewer of freshly grilled aburi mochi, a traditional sweet served with warm miso flavor.

Her long black hair now carries vivid green highlights — a symbol of tradition meeting the future.

With a purple wisteria hair ornament, green eyes, and the number “01” on her Kyoto fan, she blends quietly into the calm afternoon light of Kyoto.

This illustration captures the gentle beauty of everyday Kyoto — where history, flavor, and imagination meet.

A Morning Scene That Inspired PopWaka Series #1

Thank you for visiting my blog.

Today, I would like to share the inspiration behind the Tanka used in PopWaka Series #1.

The poem is based on a quiet morning scene from “The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya.”  

In that scene, Kyon enters his classroom and notices Haruhi sitting by the window,  

gently illuminated by the morning light.  

It is a simple moment, yet it carries a calm atmosphere that lingers in the memory.

This scene became the starting point for the Tanka.  

Before choosing colors or layout, I focused on the feeling of that light —  

the stillness of the classroom, the beginning of a new day,  

and the quiet presence of someone sitting there.

PopWaka often begins with a small moment like this.  

A scene, a feeling, or a brief impression becomes the seed of the poem and the artwork.

Thank you for reading.

The Beauty of Vertical Writing in PopWaka

Thank you for visiting my blog.

Today, I would like to talk about one of the key elements behind PopWaka Series #1:  

the vertical writing of the Japanese Tanka.

Youtube short 

In this wallpaper series, the Romanized text (Romaji) is written horizontally,  

but the original Japanese Tanka is intentionally written vertically.  

This choice is not only aesthetic — it follows a long tradition.

For more than a thousand years, Japanese writing was primarily vertical.  

Horizontal writing existed, but it was considered unusual.  

Waka poetry, in particular, has always been expressed vertically,  

even as modern Japanese shifted toward horizontal text in everyday life.

Recently, we often see Tanka written horizontally on social media.  

However, for PopWaka, I chose to keep the traditional vertical form.  

It preserves the rhythm, spacing, and quiet beauty that Waka has carried since ancient times.

This vertical layout is a small tribute to that timeless tradition,  

and it is one of the foundations of the PopWaka series.

Thank you for reading.

PopWaka Series #01 – YouTube Shorts Preview

 PopWaka Series #01 will be released on YouTube Shorts at 21:00 JST tonight.

A quiet tanka woven into soft light.

I hope you enjoy this small moment.