Super Sake Boy proved his driving prowess yesterday, by driving us around Kyoto in Maki-san's car. Now driving in another country is usually not too intimidating, even on the other side of the road... however, in Kyoto and surrounds, the roads were created as a complete afterthought. Most of the buildings were built hundreds of … Continue reading Messages from Lady Murasaki
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
So, after wasting a half a day in bed and elsewhere..... I bounced back and we squeezed so much into our day yesterday, my feet are still hurting. Around 25,000 steps of exploration and fun. We started our day at Starbucks in Gion. A tradition for both SSB (Super Sake Boy), the kids and me.... … Continue reading Urban Exploration, Kyoto
Kusuri means medicine in Japanese. It's funny, because the two radicals (kanji roots) are grass and fun.... I guess it refers to all drugs. I have enough Japanese to be able to convey what I need in a chemist. But it is somewhat overwhelming when you are faced with rows and rows of products and … Continue reading 薬 too much kusuri
Kiyomizu-dera temple is one of the most famous temples in Kyoto. Lancy had planned an afternoon with her friend, Shuko's father, who is a professional potter, and we decided to spend the morning temple strolling and around the old areas of Higashiayama, on our way to her house. It was a perfect day for such … Continue reading Clear Water Temple 清水寺
A not too early traditional Japanese breakfast (yum.... rice, miso, pickles, nori and fish) and we were off exploring again. After a quick Starbucks stop, and the biggest coffee I have ever had, we jumped on the rapid train to Nara. Nara was the original capital of Japan from 710-794, before it was moved to … Continue reading Deer, oh deer
So, a little more than two years later and I am back in Japan. This time with a partner in crime, Super Sake Boy (what could possibly go wrong).... and four teenagers in tow, Ewan, Abby, Mya and Harper. We arrrived on Wednesday, a little dishevelled and tired, having had a 4 and 1/2 hour … Continue reading Serious Sakura
Photo credit here Valentine's Day in Japan is celebrated differently than anywhere else in the world. It is a day that women give gifts to men. It is usually chocolate. There are several different types of chocolate given, for a multitude of reasons. There is, of course, etiquette involved, and as with all gift giving … Continue reading Valentine’s Day… Japanese Style
Inemuri translates roughly to "snooze" or "doze". There is no dirrect translation, however "sleeping while being present" or having some awareness about you while you sleep is potentially more accurate. It very common, in fact, an every day experience, to see Japanese people sleeping in public places. Most regularly, on trains. It is quite alarming … Continue reading Uniquely Japanese- Inemuri 居眠り
After a bit of a break from blogging, and a bit of a break from travel (I have been very distracted.... thanks, Super Sake Boy ☺️😛) I am happy to report, I am returning to both. Yay. Firstly, my return to blogging. I am very excited to sink my teeth back into writing my blog. … Continue reading Return to Japan and Return to Blogging
