Hiroshima Cinemas
Nov 30, 2023 By Matt Mangham
We’re fast approaching the peak cinema season as the weather chills, the nights draw in and this year’s big winter blockbusters hit our screens. Japan has a rich culture of film-making and its citizens love going to the movies as much as anyone else. The cinema experience in Japan is...[ Click to read more ]
Best Places for Breakfast in Kumamoto
By Justin Hanus
Breakfast in Japan may be quite different than what you’re used to, as it consists of things like grilled fish, steamed rice, and pickles. However, you can also find restaurants serving breakfasts that are more similar to what you find in the West. Whatever kind of breakfast you’re looking for,...[ Click to read more ]
Best Parks in Hiroshima
By Justin Hanus
Located in the southwest of Japan’s largest island – Honshu – and with a rich and varied history, Hiroshima prefecture is a draw for many tourists to the country and has also become the home to many expat settlers. Among its attractions are several parks that provide not just great...[ Click to read more ]
Getting a Kick out of Karate – What’s it all about and where to do it in Nagoya
By Bert Wishart
When I was six years old, my parents signed me up at a local karate class. I’m not sure why; perhaps because, as the smallest kid in my class, they thought I’d need to toughen up to survive primary school, or maybe they just wanted me out of their hair...[ Click to read more ]
Holiday Dining Options in Hiroshima 2023
By Bert Wishart
Hiroshima has great local cuisine, and there are numerous wonderful options available to you at any time of year. During the holidays, however, you may need some hints on where to go to get your fill of holiday tastes and treats. There is no cause for alarm, however, as we...[ Click to read more ]
Tokyo’s Christmas Markets 2023
By Michael Stigall
Some years ago, I had the opportunity to visit Europe right before the holiday season was underway. One upside to this trip was experiencing the Christmas Markets that pop up in both major cities and small villages. These markets sell festive food and drink and all sorts of Christmas decorations....[ Click to read more ]
Winter Illuminations in Tokyo 2023
By Michael Stigall
Christmas Day in Japan is just another working day for the most part. The most interesting facet of the Christmas and holiday season in Japan is that all traces of it will be gone by morning on December 26th. Without fail, every bell, light, and garlands; every decoration will come...[ Click to read more ]
Omiyage – More Than Just a Souvenir, it’s a Way of Life!
Nov 28, 2023 By Bert Wishart
There are myriad aspects of Japanese culture that can baffle the outsider, but on the face of it, omiyage seems pretty straightforward. Omiyage is usually translated as ‘souvenir’, and we all know what that is right? Coming from French for ‘remember’, a souvenir is usually something that we bring back...[ Click to read more ]
The Wild Dolphins of Amakusa
By Justin Hanus
The Amakusa Islands in Kumamoto are known for their unique culture, interesting geological formations, beautiful green hills — and, most importantly, the wild dolphins that live just off the shore. Estimates put the number of Minami bottlenose dolphins (also called Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins) in the area at 200 to 300....[ Click to read more ]
Great Things to Do in Western Kumamoto
By Justin Hanus
Western Kumamoto is dominated by Mount Kinbo, a now-extinct volcano, but there is still plenty on offer. Whether you enjoy spending time in nature, are interested in ancient Japanese culture, or are looking ways to keep fit throughout the year, you’ll find numerous things to do and see in this...[ Click to read more ]
