Most people have a pretty idealized image of Japanese food. When they think Japan, they think of sushi, yakitori, bento and the like. But Japanese food is much more globalized than most people realize. One of the most … [Read more...]
When it comes to trains in the US, things are pretty ho-hum. There are a lot of commuter trains across the country and a few Amtrak lines, but nothing with much style. Fortunately Japan, with its love of trains, has its … [Read more...]
People, by and large, can be very good at adopting certain practices of other cultures. Japan does this so well, often adding their own unique twist, that usually whatever they've adopted becomes part of Japan itself: … [Read more...]
Who's fat and jolly and carries around a big sack full of goodies? Santa Claus? Guess again! It's Hotei, the fat man from Japan. More commonly known as the Laughing Buddha or the Fat Buddha in the Western world, Hotei is … [Read more...]
Even though Japan is the birthplace of crystal meth (which makes me wonder how the Japanese feel about Breaking Bad), it has notoriously stringent drugs laws. Get caught with some marijuana in Japan, you’ll face … [Read more...]
One of my top recommended places for those of you planning a trip to Japan, Mt. Koya (AKA Koyasan) is a must see and must go-to in my book. Whether you're looking to get away from it all, relax, or just be amazed, Mt. Koya … [Read more...]