Embrace the Tranquil Lifestyle of Seasons with Masayo Saegusa's New Book

Discover the Beauty of Seasonal Living with 'Chaku: Elegantly'

On July 4, 2026, Seibu Bunka Publishing will unveil 'Chaku: Elegantly', a lifestyle book by esteemed culinary artist Masayo Saegusa. This book conveys her unique aesthetic and approach to living in harmony with the seasons. Here, readers will find inspiration to infuse daily life with refined seasonal elements.

A Table that Celebrates Seasonal Bounty

One of the core philosophies of Masayo Saegusa is appreciating the bounty that each season brings to the table. In spring, for instance, we delight in the crisp bitterness of freshly foraged wild vegetables. Summer calls for refreshing almond jelly sprinkled with sudachi citrus, embodying the essence of the season. The book features captivating photographs of a summer dining scene at the Saegusa home, where sunlight filters through the trees, highlighting the brilliance of glassware as an integral part of the feast.

Versatile Tableware Usage

The Masayo Saegusa style is characterized by playful and versatile use of tableware. She breaks free from traditional constraints, showcasing items from the Finnish ceramic brand Iittala that have been in production since the 1930s. These pieces are not only beautiful vases but can also be used as water dispensers for tea parties or even as a chic holder for office supplies. In a whimsical twist, she suggests serving fried chicken in a vase filled with sand. This playful approach encourages readers to embrace their creativity and adapt their table settings in unexpected ways.

Cherishing Seasonal Events with Loved Ones

Masayo emphasizes the importance of celebrating seasonal events like the Five Seasonal Festivals and Christmas with care and thoughtfulness in both food and decor. Such occasions present an opportunity to express gratitude and share joy with family and friends, reaffirming traditions year after year. One notable photograph in the book showcases a Christmas celebration at a villa in Nasu-Shiobara, featuring a Nordic tree adorned with white and silver decorations, made from reclaimed wood, exuding a sense of sustainability and heritage.

About the Author: Masayo Saegusa

Born in 1941 in Tokyo, Masayo Saegusa spent her childhood in Atami, Shizuoka Prefecture. A graduate of the Tokyo University of the Arts, she has been conducting a private cooking school in Aoyama, Tokyo, for over 50 years. Her teachings center around the importance of seasonal cuisine and meticulous preparation.