What Cultural Activities Can You Try at Hiroshima’s Fukuju Kaikan?
Feb 22, 2023 By Justin Hanus
One of the main tourist sites of Hiroshima prefecture is Fukuyama Castle. Construction of the original building began in 1619, but the castle suffered extensive damage during World War II and was rebuilt in 1966. Near the castle is Fukuju Kaikan — a hall added as a cultural center during...[ Click to read more ]
Tokyo’s Bustling Jazz Scene
Oct 31, 2022 By Michael Stigall
Tokyo has had a bustling music scene for a long time now. Sure, most people think of the big J-Pop groups like AKB48 and Exile, but there is a venue for nearly every genre of music you imagine. Today though, let's focus on Jazz. It's not as well known as...[ Click to read more ]
Nagoya’s Dragon – Akira Toriyama, Creator of Dragon Ball
Jul 29, 2022 By Bert Wishart
What's the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Japan? Sushi? Oh, okay, how about the second thing? Samurai and geisha? Oh, okay, the third thing? The 1853 Battle of Shizugatake? Come on; now you're just being obtuse. What I'm reaching for here is manga. Japanese comics...[ Click to read more ]
Best Cinemas in Kobe
Jul 19, 2022 By Justin Hanus
Going to the cinema is a fun pastime in Japan. The Japanese cinema experience is similar to how it is in the US. Cinema-goers can buy snacks such as popcorn and other refreshments, and many cinemas show a range of current movie releases to choose from. You can also find...[ Click to read more ]
Art Museums Around Hiroshima
Jun 28, 2022 By Justin Hanus
The city of Hiroshima has a rich history and culture reflected in its museums and galleries. If you’re looking to spend some time delving into its art archives, you can find spaces both big and small showcasing a fine range of paintings, sculptures, artifacts and more. Here are a few...[ Click to read more ]
What Is Hiroshima Kagura?
By Justin Hanus
Kagura is an ancient performing art that has been kept alive in Hiroshima for centuries thanks to the performers’ commitment. Recently, it has seen a surge in popularity. There are now more than 200 tropes active in the prefecture performing the art in five regional variations. If you want to...[ Click to read more ]
Where to See Kabuki in Tokyo
By Michael Stigall
When thinking of Japanese high arts such as ukiyo-e, haiku, and bonsai, Kabuki is probably one of the first things that come to mind. Kabuki, the classical Japanese dance theatre known for the stylization of its drama and the elaborate make-up worn by some of its performers, is an art...[ Click to read more ]
The Traditional Crafts of Japan
Apr 25, 2022 By Justin Hanus
One of the top ways to experience Japanese culture is through crafts. Many traditional crafts have persisted for centuries, and today some expert artisans are dedicated to the arts. The wide range of crafts means there’s definitely something for everyone to enjoy. Shodo Shodo is the art of calligraphy. Children...[ Click to read more ]
Japanese Public Libraries for the Non-Japanese Reader
By Michael Stigall
After a while, you’ll notice the sheer amount of bookstores and reading materials there seem to be in Japan. While print media has been declining in the West, with the occasional revival, physical books and media are still very much a thing in Japan. Part of the reason may be...[ Click to read more ]
Super Bar DJs – Nagoya’s Coolest DJ Events
Mar 31, 2022 By Bert Wishart
If, like Edwin Starr, you like the sound of funky music (and that it sho nuff turns you on) then you will want to find some awesome places to check out the best DJs spinning their stuff. Now that the covid-19 regulations have been relaxed somewhat, you may also want...[ Click to read more ]
