Sometimes you just want a drink. Tokyo can accommodate that. And sometimes, you want a drink with a view. Luckily, you’ve come to the right city. Tokyo at night turns into a magical metropolis, compelling you to sit and stare for hours at its futuristic landscape … and more than a few bars have capitalized … Continue reading »
I admit, this post would have been better timed a week ago, when the blossoms were out. But no one expected such an early blooming season and I was to busy enjoying myself in Kyoto itself to write up any related posts! What I did get was a preview of where the crowds were going to be … Continue reading »
In case you missed it, one of this month’s posts was a Crash Course on ryokan. The first year I lived in Japan, my husband and I loved to head out from Tokyo and explore the countryside. Not wanting to just have the same humdrum experience time and again of staying in a hotel, we … Continue reading »
It’s spring! It’s spring! Alright, I’m exaggerating a tad. Even here in the southern reaches of mainland Japan, the cold weather is still lingering. But the other day, as I was running errands, I caught the first few cream and red buds on our city’s plum trees.
Many people make a New Year’s resolution to either start cooking more or start cooking healthier. I already do both of those, for the most part, so my resolution this year was a tad different. I am attempting to start cooking more “Japanese”. I’m lucky enough to live in Japan in a prefecture that’s known … Continue reading »
We’re already a few days into Hanukkah and Christmas is right around the corner. Still need a gift for the Japanophile in your life? Aside from a ticket on the first flight out to Tokyo, here are some great gifts easily found outside of Japan for that special someone who adores the Land of the … Continue reading »
Tomorrow is American Thanksgiving and I find myself in a bit of a dilemma. Living abroad for the past four years, far from home and family, has made me crave somewhat of a traditional holiday. I know I won’t be enjoying turkey (no oven in most Japanese homes) or the happy sounds of 20+ family … Continue reading »
A friend of mine in Okinawa asked me the other day “Where do you find all of the places you eat at in Tokyo? They’re not in my guidebook!” Ahh, friends. Let me clue you in on a little secret. I. Love. Food.
Everybody’s got a story about Tokyo. And many travelers follow a well-beaten path to the temples and shrines of Kyoto. Even smaller towns like Takayama and Hakone attract more than their fair share of attention. But if you want a travel story that’s a little bit different, check out these not-so-celebrated locales. They’re definitely worth giving … Continue reading »
A few months ago, I suggested a number of children’s books that are perfect for engaging young minds ahead of a trip to Japan. But what about those pickier tweens and teens? Here’s a round-up of some engaging adventures about Japan for young adults … some adults might find these choices pretty entertaining, too!
