I was lucky enough to grow up Portland, a city with its own, authentic Japanese garden. Japan has always been known for its incredible gardens, so it's been great to be so close Portland Japanese Gardens with its rock … [Read more...]
Over the last couple of months, I've developed a minor obsession with North Korea. I've devoured documentaries (like the excellent Vice documentary) and books (like the amazing Nothing to Envy) and I'm just astounded by … [Read more...]
Some places just make you feel uneasy. These places have a peculiar, strange feel about them and you just want to leave as soon as you get there. They provoke the supernatural sensation that something is just not quite … [Read more...]
Otaku have long been an economic force to be reckoned with. Their immense spending power has long made them the target of merchants of all types (action figures, DVDs, body pillows), and they even have their own … [Read more...]
One of the most difficult things about traveling to Japan is deciding where to stay. Should you stay at a hostel? Hotel? Homestay? Capsule hotel!? There are plenty of options. However, if you have a bit of extra change and … [Read more...]
Located at the base of Mt. Fuji, Aokigahara is perhaps the most infamous forest in all of Japan. Also known as the Sea of Trees, Suicide Forest, and Japan's Demon Forest, Aokigahara has been home to over 500 confirmed … [Read more...]