Styles of Japanese Martial Arts and How They Differ
Jan 18, 2021 By Justin Hanus
Across the world, there are more than 180 styles of martial arts. Most of them originate from Asia, and many of them from Japan. Of the Japanese martial arts, four stand out as the most famous: karate, aikido, judo, and sumo. Although martial arts are one of Japan is best...[ Click to read more ]
Holistic Hobbies in Japan: Railfanning
Dec 28, 2020 By Jason Gatewood
This another in a series of wellness articles we’re producing in order to both introduce some new ways to enjoy Japan while keeping social distance during these times as well as help keep mental well-being. No doubt you’ve noticed the many articles in this publication explaining how to use Japan’s...[ Click to read more ]
Winter Walks in Kobe
Dec 25, 2020 By Justin Hanus
What better way to shake off any winter lethargy or periods of over-eating than heading out for a refreshing walk for a few hours? With an abundance of glorious natural scenery and eye-catching tourist attractions, Kobe is a great city for a winter stroll. The winters are reasonably mild, and...[ Click to read more ]
How Do Japanese Children Spend Their Time?
By Justin Hanus
Moving to Japan is not just a culture shock for adults — it can be quite a transition for children, too. The good news is that there are many activities for kids to enjoy in Japan, whatever their interests. Playing Baseball Baseball is one of the most popular sports in...[ Click to read more ]
Ditching the Big 3 – Alternatives (that is, cheaper) Cell Phone Providers
By Mark Guthrie
Do you remember when cell phones were a thing of ridicule? When you were in a coffee shop, in a meeting or at a bar, and there was that one guy (and it was always a guy) who whipped out an industrial brick of a phone and smugly slapped it...[ Click to read more ]
Let’s Tour: Togoshi-Ginza in Tokyo
Dec 24, 2020 By Jason Gatewood
Tokyo’s Ginza shopping district is known far and wide for its opulent array of shops and boutiques catering to those with more than a little bitcoins in their pockets. The most exquisite of luxury brands choose this part of town to put what is sometimes their most unique shop with...[ Click to read more ]
Finding Flexibility and Fluidity through Online Yoga
Dec 22, 2020 By Jason Gatewood
With 2020 having become "The Year Of Apart, Together", I’ve started a series on finding ways to keep your mental and physical well-being in check, even if you have to do it socially-distanced and online, preferably with local practitioners and groups around Greater Tokyo and the rest of Japan. Tom...[ Click to read more ]
Coronavirus / COVID-19 in Japan
Dec 21, 2020 By Admin
While there is no reason to panic, there is cause to be concerned about the spread of the Covid-19 / Coronavirus in Japan. The general recommendations are that everyone takes the following precautions: Avoid close contact with sick people. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth. Wash with soap and...[ Click to read more ]
A to Z of Japanese Musical Instruments
Nov 24, 2020 By Justin Hanus
Traditional Japanese music sounds quite different from Western music for a few reasons. For one thing, there’s less emphasis on melody and harmony. Music also has less rigid timing and tends to use a five or seven-tone scale. However, a major difference is the instruments. There are many Japanese musical...[ Click to read more ]
Winter Illumination in Hiroshima 2020
Nov 19, 2020 By Matt Mangham
Seasonal illuminations are a big deal in Japan. From the famous Kobe Luminarie, donated by the Italian government following the Great Hanshin Earthquake, to light festivals in Osaka, Sendai, Nagoya, and elsewhere, a chilly stroll through enchanting colored lights has become a prominent feature of winter in Japan. Hiroshima is...[ Click to read more ]
