I'm in a Japan travel forum group and I see people asking this questions all the time. Should I stay in Osaka or Kyoto or both. This is quite an easy decision once you've been there, which is not helpful when you'e planning. I made the mistake on my first trip of staying in both … Continue reading Osaka or Kyoto?
what is a tanuki? The first time I ever heard about tanuki was when Mario found a tanooki suit power-up in Super Mario Bros 3 in 2014. At the time, I had no idea that tanuki were real animals. I saw tanuki statues all over Japan while travelling. While deeply amused by their giant testicles, … Continue reading Tanuki in Kyoto
Have you heard of stamp rally in Japan? It's one of my favourite things, and the bane of Super Sake Boy's life. If you're planning a trip to Japan, make sure you have a suitable notebook, a plain and sturdy one, and be ready to look out for stamps everywhere you go. Where did Stamp … Continue reading Stamp Rally
When traveling in Japan, prioritise seats are reserved for certain groups. Understanding and respecting local etiquette, such as quiet public transport and consideration for others, enhances the travel experience. Observing these customs contributes to Japan's cohesive society.
Travelling to Japan has changed my understanding of many things, but it has really changed my thoughts on suicide.
On the first anniversary of his untimely death, I share my experience of watching Ryucihi Sakamoto | Opus, a final performance.
After visiting the infamous snow monkeys in Nagano, Japan, I shared a video. It went viral. The response was not what I expected.
Part One: The overwhelming allure of geisha Gion Over tourism in Kyoto has been a growing problem for some years now. And it seems the allure of geisha is too strong for mere mortals to resist. Earlier this week in Kyoto, I heard several expat friends talking about changes around Gion. Gion is the largest … Continue reading Kyoto: Over Tourism
Super Sake Boy and I were introduced to Kodama Jozo, in Akita prefecture through our dear friend and mentor, Simone. Simone, the Sake Mistress, hosted weekly online sessions during Covid with various sake breweries throughout Japan. The session with the Kodamas was especially enjoyable and we have wanted to meet with them ever since. Eiko-san … Continue reading Akita and Kodama Jozo
Kakunodate is heaven for a samurai history lover. We arrived in Kakunodate, Akita Prefecture, at lunchtime on Thursday. We left our luggage at the extremely convenient check in next to the station and set out to explore in the softly falling snow. Kakunodate is a mountain town about 45 minutes by shinkansen from Akita City, … Continue reading Kakunodate Samurai Heaven
