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 →
Winter Oyster Huts in Itoshima – A Kyushu Specialty
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 →
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 →
Kawachi Wisteria Garden: The Most Beautiful Place to See Wisteria in Kyushu?
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 →
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 →
Aizome Traditional Indigo Dyeing in Kurume
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 →
Spring and Summer Flower Guide: Fukuoka, Japan
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 →
Umeshu 梅酒 (Plum Wine) Cafe
I love going to different cafes to hang out, study, and write the occasional blog post. This has been a wonderful way to explore more of Fukuoka, try local foods, and discover cool new places! One of the cafes I visited boasted a HUGE umeshu (plum wine) menu. For those who also enjoy this sweet... Continue Reading →
Nanohana Fields in Fukuoka, 菜の花
In the spring, large fields of nanohana can be found blooming all over Japan. Eager to frolic amongst the beautiful colors, I planned a trip to see this special plant for myself.