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 →
Celebrating the New Year in Japan
Celebrating the New Year, oshogatsu (お正月), is one of the most important holidays in Japan and takes place from December 31- January 3rd. During this period, special foods are eaten, sayings of gratitude are exchanged, and auspicious decorations are displayed. Additionally, it is one of the few times during the year you can expect almost... Continue Reading →
Chawan Mushi – Cooking Japanese Egg Custard in the Itaki Shabuki Pot
Have you heard of Chawan Mushi, Japan's savory egg custard dish? Typically served piping hot in a small lidded bowl, Chawan Mushi is soft, juicy, and packed with flavor. Read to learn how to make you own Chawan Mushi!
Summer in Japan: Special Celebrations and Surviving the Soaring Temps
What is Summer Like in Japan? It’s the middle of August and boy has it gotten toasty! Every time I step outside, a blanket of warmth envelops me as if I were entering a sauna. (Sometimes this feeling takes me completely by surprise, especially if I’ve spent all day indoors) ?. Hello 90% humidity! The... Continue Reading →
How to Make Umeshu (梅酒, Plum Wine)
What is Umeshu and Where Can You Get It? Have you ever tried umeshu (梅酒)? Also known as plum wine, this is a sweet and refreshing drink often served on-the-rocks or mixed with soda water. Its fruity taste makes for easy sipping, and is one of my favorite summer beverages! You can find umeshu pretty... Continue Reading →
Bungo Beef: Oita’s Signature Wagyu
What is Bungo Beef? Today I'm going to introduce one of Japan's premium wagyu dishes, Bungo Beef! I'm sure you've heard of Kobe Beef and wagyu before.... so how does Bungo Beef fit into the mix? A slab of Kobe Beef Simply put, wagyu (和牛) means Japanese cow. (和 is pronounced 'wa' and means Japanese,... Continue Reading →
Vending Machines: Convenient or Overkill?
Special in Japan: Abundant Vending Machines Introducing a new type of blog post I'm calling: Special in Japan! Recently I've only been writing about big trips and events, but there are so many other things I experience and learn every day that I also want to share. So to post more consistently and not leave... Continue Reading →
The First Meal of the Year: Osechi Ryori (おせち料理)
Good morning 2021, it's finally a new year! To start off on the right foot, I was excited to follow Japanese tradition and eat Osechi Ryori for the first meal of the year. This fare consists of colorful dishes arranged in separate compartments of a black box called jubako. In old times, cooking was not... Continue Reading →
The Last Meal of the Year: Toshikoshi Soba and Tempura
I can't believe it's New Year's Eve! (Partly because I've lost track of time from the monotony of quarantine, and partly because it feels like half of me is still living 17 hours behind in California time.) But, regardless of my inner clock's dysfunctionality, it's the 31st of December here in Japan which means the... Continue Reading →