Aomori, on the northern part of the Japan's main island of Honshu, is not the most likely locale for one of Japan's top 50 traditional gardens. The Tohoku region is more known for its exuberant festivals and its wild ruggedness than any carefully cultivated beauty. Perhaps that makes a visit to the Fujita Teien in... Continue Reading →
Family Fun: Neputa Mura (Hirosaki)
When we were up north earlier this month, we were lucky enough to catch the Neputa Festival in Hirosaki, which I highly recommend to anyone of any age. But if you're in Hirosaki outside of the festival dates (August 1st-7th), make sure to swing by the Neputa Mura, the "village" that houses some former Neputa... Continue Reading →
Festival Focus: Neputa Matsuri (Hirosaki)
Whew, I've been neglecting the blog quite a bit as of late. The move to Tokyo went as well as could be expected but with the lack of furniture following quickly after, we high-tailed it to Tohoku late last week to escape some of the heat and see some of the summer festivals. I'm still... Continue Reading →