Ice, Ice Baby – Chillin’ This Summer at Nagoya’s Best Ice Cream Shops

Jun 20, 2020 By Bert Wishart

It's started. The summer is swelling, the heat is ramping up, and the humidity is already off the charts. Needless to say, that's par for the course in Aichi. Fortunately, there are a number of ways of beating the heat, but nothing quite trumps getting an ice cold ice cream...[ Click to read more ]

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Getting a Pet in Nagoya

Apr 30, 2020 By Bert Wishart

Nothing completes a family like an additional member, in the form of a pet. Whether a cat, dog, or something less orthodox, it can be really nice having a companion around the home. Pets in Japan The most popular pets in Japan are cats and dogs. Due to space restrictions in...[ Click to read more ]

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Make Your Mask Jazzy and Japanese!

By Bert Wishart

While the rush on toilet roll seems to have abated, there is one thing, in these corona-stricken times, that you can't get your hands on for love nor money, and that's masks. Although the WHO has advised that the wearing of masks will do little to protect the wearer from catching...[ Click to read more ]

Things to do in Tokyo during Rainy Season

Apr 26, 2020 By Jason Gatewood

We’ve braved yet another cold winter, sat out under the pink trees during hanami season, and seen it warm up steadily with our minds starting to look towards the barbecues, beach trips, and bon ordori festivals of summer. But we have to get through three or so weeks of dreary,...[ Click to read more ]

Tokyo Food Apps Bring the Restaurant to Your Door

Feb 27, 2020 By Jason Gatewood

At some point it will happen. Even though you're in Tokyo, one of the world's best cities to dine in, you'll eventually either run out of meal ideas, or simply want to stay home and chill. Luckily for you, life in the big city means almost anything can be delivered...[ Click to read more ]

Rain, Rain, Go Away! Places to Go in Hiroshima When it rains

Feb 20, 2020 By Admin

How’s about this rain, hey? Well, actually, no, that’s not what most of us have been asking or saying here in Hiroshima. It involves far more colorful language, and none of it is positive. Combined with fluctuating temperatures, it’s causing all sorts of problems, particularly with people who have allergies....[ Click to read more ]

Chocs Away! Where to Buy Valentine’s Chocolate in Nagoya

Jan 30, 2020 By Bert Wishart

Valentine's Day is nearly upon us, and in Japan, that means just one thing: chocolate. Now, everyone knows that here in Japan, we do things a little differently, namely that on February 14, women are the chocolate givers, whether it be a heartfelt indication of love for their chosen partner,...[ Click to read more ]

Let’s tour: Odaiba

Jan 29, 2020 By Jason Gatewood

You may not know the Odaiba district by name before coming to Japan. Still, you have undoubtedly seen its various landmarks turn up in almost every form of media that showcases modern Tokyo. From landmarks like the triangular inverted pyramid of Tokyo Big Sight to the sprawling convention center, ginormous Ferris...[ Click to read more ]

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Buying a Christmas Tree in Nagoya 2019

Nov 21, 2019 By Ray Proper

If you are in the market for a Christmas Tree to liven up your holiday season you with trim and presents, you are in luck. Stocks are very limited so, don't delay!  The trees are a bit shorter than you might get used to but they have very nice shapes and I am...[ Click to read more ]

Buying Christmas Trees in Kobe 2019

Nov 18, 2019 By Admin

You won't see a Christmas tree through the window of every home in Japan, but they are growing in popularity across the country. Several stores now sell trees and associated decorations, although the traditional pine trees are hard to come by. If you fancy getting into the festive spirit, even...[ Click to read more ]