Living abroad in Japan: Travel Guides and Restaurant Reviews!
Golden Week in Japan Have you heard of Japan's Golden Week? This is a unique period of time from April 29th to early May that contains four closely spaced holidays. The four holidays are Shōwa Day (April 29), Constitution Day (May 3), Greenery Day (May 4), and Children's Day (May 5). As this is one... Continue Reading →
Plum Blossoms | 梅の花 Mid February Spring is in the air and pink, yellow, and white flowers are popping up all around the city. No, these are not cherry blossoms, but rather plum blossoms (梅の花)! Plum blossoms are much less famous than Japan's sakura (cherry blossoms), but these flowers carry their own special beauty and,... Continue Reading →
Itsukushima, also known as Miyajima, is probably most known for its beautiful floating torii gate, nature spots (Momijidani Park in the fall is absolutely gorgeous), and aggressive deer. Okay, maybe people don’t know about the deer, but take my word for it, they are crazy for food! Miyajima's famous deer Speaking of food, don't miss... Continue Reading →
When the weather starts to get chilly, that means one thing… it’s oyster season! Oyster huts or (kakigoya) are mainly found on the Itoshima coast of Fukuoka and are a winter treat you won’t want to miss. While all of Japan is renowned for good seafood, oyster huts aren't found in many places beyond Kyushu.... Continue Reading →
Nakasendo Trail History The Nakasendo Trail (中山道)is an old walking route that connected Edo (modern-day Tokyo) with Kyoto during the Edo period. The trail is 540 km (340 mi) long, and back in the day, 69 post towns were dotted along the way for travelers to rest and recover. Tsumago post town along the Nakasendo... Continue Reading →
Kawachi Wisteria Garden: A Purple Paradise The first time I Googled Fukuoka, I saw the most incredible images of long purple flowers forming a majestic tunnel. What was this beautiful plant? Where could I see it for myself? Soon I was researching all the best places to view wisteria near Fukuoka, Kyushu... April is wisteria... Continue Reading →
Sumo Wrestling: Japan’s National Sport Japan's National sport is.... sumo wrestling! Yes, the sport of large men wearing minimal clothing fighting to push each other outside of a small circle. While simple in theory, there is actually so much more to the sport than first meets the eye. I had the opportunity to attend the... Continue Reading →
A recent visit to the Chikugo region of Kurume brought me to the steps of a workshop specializing in the production of indigo textiles. The most highly regarded products are called Kurume Kasuri which feature intricate, handcrafted, dual tone patterns. Kurume Kasuri Textiles To be considered true Kurume Kasuri (an official national handicraft of Japan),... Continue Reading →
I didn’t realize I was such a flower lover until I came to Japan! If there is one thing I’ve learned about spring time here, it's that there are always beautiful flowers in bloom. Bright pink plum flowers As one variety starts to wither and fade, another is just beginning to show its beauty. Maybe... Continue Reading →
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