Even though Japan has a reputation as a peaceful country, don't be fooled: it's a nation full of sharpshooters. If you're not careful, you could find yourself hit square in the face by a rubber band. Even though … [Read more...]
Kawaii (かわいい), most commonly translated as “cute,” is practically everywhere in Japan – and I do mean everywhere. To paraphrase author Mary Roach, the Japanese save money with cute, pray with cute, and even … [Read more...]
Before I moved to Japan, I imagined carbonated lakes, rivers running thick with bubbling sugar, a snack-food nation governed by Willy Wonka-san. Japan really is a refreshment paradise, and I’m excited to taste whatever … [Read more...]
It was August 6 when the first atomic bomb fell on Hiroshima. Only three days later, August 9th, the second one fell in Nagasaki. This week marks the 67th anniversary of the blasts that ended WWII and caused hundreds of … [Read more...]
A lot of people misunderstand Japan and think that it's this place where everybody acts the same, does the same things, and all speak the language. While Japan is no India (which has over 20 recognized languages), … [Read more...]
Ah, dogs. (Wo)man’s best friend! My profile picture is of Fionna hugging Cake the Cat, and I volunteer at a cat shelter on the weekend, but here’s the thing: I’m actually a dog person. So, why not write a … [Read more...]