Osaka is the Tenka no Daidokoro (the Nation’s Kitchen) – Not What You Think
May 19, 2016 By Justin Hanus
Before the world bought into the abstract concept of money - whereby a piece of metal or paper can stand in for something of real value - trade was conducted in commodities that had actual value. In the Mediterranean, one of those commodities was salt, and we still have remnants...[ Click to read more ]
Get Lost in a Garden of Over 2.5 Million Lilies Blooming on Osaka Bay
Apr 23, 2016 By Justin Hanus
The sakura blossoms might have run their course, but for anyone around Osaka, a new flower season is just beginning that shouldn’t be missed. Before the summer heat really settles in along Osaka Bay, you can enjoy the sights and smells of 2.5 million lilies in full and colorful bloom....[ Click to read more ]
Osaka’s Tsuruhashi: Japan’s Largest Korea Town
Mar 22, 2016 By Justin Hanus
Culture breaks down political barriers Putting aside various political differences, the Japanese people of late have been besotted by Korean pop culture. This includes Korean television drama programs that draw large Japanese audiences and the infectious popularity of young Korean music stars, K-pop. This ultimately infused vitality into Japan’s two...[ Click to read more ]
The First Month of the Year, Kansai Style!
Dec 24, 2015 By Justin Hanus
With the holidays over and the winter cold setting in, it can be difficult to find reasons to leave your house in the first month of the new year. Fortunately for people living in the Kansai region, there are too many exciting traditional events and festivals in January to risk...[ Click to read more ]
The Climate in Japan
Jul 08, 2015 By
The Japanese people are very fond of saying that Japan has four distinct seasons, and while this does not always strike foreign people as particularly special, it is certainly true. As a fairly large island country comprised of over 3,000 islands, the temperature and weather can vary significantly from place...[ Click to read more ]
Securing your Home in Nagoya Against Burglary
Jul 28, 2014 By Ray Proper
Although a very safe country to live in generally, not even Japan is completely free of crime. It is easy to let one’s guard down living in a safe and comfortable city like Nagoya, but continued awareness and vigilance will ensure the safety of your home and family. The goal...[ Click to read more ]
Kawadoko: Riverside Terrace Dining in Kyoto
Jun 14, 2013 By Ray Proper
It’s summer — time for trips! If you’ll be visiting Kyoto this summer, one highly-recommended activity is kawadoko, or river dining. In Japan, eating outside in the summer is popular because finding ways to cool off becomes of paramount importance as the humidity increases. What is Kawadoko? The official name...[ Click to read more ]
Renting an Apartment in Japan
Sep 05, 2011 By Ray Proper
Many people come to Japan through a company. An English Teacher, for example, will usually get off the plane and be met by a representative of their new company, who will take them to their new apartment, which has been rented and furnished for the new employee’s use. Depending on...[ Click to read more ]
