TeamLab’s Digitized Hiroshima Castle

Feb 23, 2019 By Matt Mangham

teamLab (and yes, that’s the way it’s capitalized) is an artist’s collective based in Tokyo that bills itself as taking an “ultra-technological” approach to its work. The group was founded in 2001 by Toshiyuki Inoko, a University of Tokyo engineering student. Today the group has grown to over 400 members,...[ Click to read more ]

Top Japanese Pastimes to Explore for Yourself

Feb 15, 2019 By Justin Hanus

A great thing about Japan is there’s always something going on or something to do. By learning about the most popular pastimes, you’ll be able to properly experience the culture. Whatever your interests, you’re sure to find at least a few authentic Japanese hobbies or activities you’ll enjoy. Manga and...[ Click to read more ]

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Mexican Food in Hiroshima

Jan 28, 2019 By Matt Mangham

The rest of the world’s foodies may cast a longing eye toward Japan, but let’s face it, if you live here sometimes you just want a  decent taco. Once upon a time, this was surprisingly difficult, but no longer. Hiroshima has at least two good Mexican options now, while an...[ Click to read more ]

Dance Classes in Kobe

Jan 22, 2019 By Justin Hanus

Whether you fancy a bit of a tango, some contemporary street dance or just want to keep in shape with a bit of structured movement, you can find an assortment of dance classes in and around Kobe to suit all ability levels. Here is a guide to some of what...[ Click to read more ]

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What Are Stamp Rallies and How Can You Participate?

Jan 18, 2019 By Justin Hanus

A popular activity in Japan — for visitors and residents alike — is the collecting of ink prints made by rubber stamps. Each stamp is part of a different collection, called a stamp rally. At any given time, there are different stamp rallies taking place around the country. Some stamp...[ Click to read more ]

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Mobile Suica Makes Getting Around Japan Easier

Dec 26, 2018 By Jason Gatewood

Back in the day, a journey on any of Japan’s rail lines meant you might need a degree in Japanese cartography and computer science to figure out how to use the ticketing machines found in every station at that time. The old routine went like this: Walk into the station...[ Click to read more ]

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Fun Things to Do in Kansai 2019

Dec 22, 2018 By Justin Hanus

The New Year is upon us and attention turns for many on resolutions for the year ahead. For those of you who have pledged to get out and try new things in 2019, here is a selection of fun things on offer in Kansai that will create a few memories...[ Click to read more ]

Firefighting Display in Kobe’s Meriken Park 2019

Dec 21, 2018 By Justin Hanus

There is a lot that needs to be protected from burning in Japan. The forests are sacred and wood is a traditional building material that goes back centuries. Smoke was so common in Edo, as Tokyo was once known, that the capital was known as the "city of fires." It...[ Click to read more ]

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What’s the Deal with Sampuru?

Dec 20, 2018 By Justin Hanus

If you’ve spent any time in Japan, you will have seen the tantalizing array of food in the restaurant windows. This is sampuru, which means a sample, and it’s replica food. Sampuru has existed for almost a century, over which time it has evolved to become an art form. The...[ Click to read more ]

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Onsen In and Around Hiroshima

Nov 27, 2018 By Matt Mangham

Hot springs, or ‘onsen,’ are a great idea any time of year, but there’s something about being outside and up to your chin in hot water that just really appeals in the depths of winter. Fortunately, you don’t need to book a room at one of the famous Kyushu hot...[ Click to read more ]