Uniquely Japanese- Sakoku 鎖国

Featured image credit The final shogun family in Japan was the Tokugawa Shogunate, also called the Bakafu. Under the rule of the Tokugawa, Japan entered into a period of isolation, called the Sakoku Jidai, translating to time of national isolation or exclusion of foreigners. The policy was enacted between 1633-39 by Tokugawa Iemitsu, and relations … Continue reading Uniquely Japanese- Sakoku 鎖国

Sengoku Samurai Heaven… Osaka

The first time I came to Japan, I stayed in Osaka for three or four days. I was not a huge fan. I found the trains much more difficult to navigate than those in Tokyo and just the general, overall vibe of the place a little less charming than many other places I have been … Continue reading Sengoku Samurai Heaven… Osaka

Me, Japan and Suicide

Suicide is a hard subject to talk about. Especially when your Western culture has very little idea on how to talk about it, or anything else related to death. The English stiff upper lip has lead to many subjects being deemed as taboo. However, when you find yourself in a situation where you have to … Continue reading Me, Japan and Suicide

A little history on Japan’s subversive sub-culture….

A samurai ukiyo-e

Image attributed to http://www.iromegane.com One of the things that has always drawn my attention to Japan is the sub-culture. I have watched many documentaries over the years that I found so fascinating. Bondage and other forms of sexual deviation, the music scene and the amazing Japanese fashion scene. So, after visiting Japan, I was able … Continue reading A little history on Japan’s subversive sub-culture….