Must Go Places in Kawagoe!
1. What’s Koedo(小江戸）? It means “small Edo（江戸).” In the Edo period (1603-1867), Kawagoe was called Koedo because it flourished as a castle town of Kawagoe Domain. At the time, General …
How to enjoy Japanese Sake in Japan! Vol.1
Which kind of Japanese sake do you usually have in your country? Do you know about some special sake which is very hard to get outside of Japan? When you …
Soul Food for the People of Ise
Have you ever been to Ise, or have you ever heard of it? Ise is a coastal city in the middle of Mie Prefecture. I’ve never lived there, but I’ve …
Various Colors of Soba Noodles
Soba, buckwheat noodles, is one of the essential Japanese dishes like sushi, tempura, or udon. And there are so many ways of eating this dish cold or hot with various …
The Allure of Kiyomizu-dera Temple
“Take a chance as if you were jumping off the stage of Kiyomizu!” This is a famous saying, meaning “Put yourself out there, even if you are taking a risk.” …
Basic Onsen Etiquette
Visiting an onsen is one of the important activities in Japan one must try to understand Japanese culture. You can not only relax but also have a chance to communicate …
Phrases popping out of Japanese people’s mouths
This time, I’d like to Introduce 3 phrases that Japanese people use frequently. 1. “Sumimasen” I guess that many foreigners know this phrase because it’s famous. Sumimasen is really useful. …
Corrugated Cardboard Opens a Whole New World
Introduction When you hear the word corrugated cardboard, usually the words brown, package, or mundane come to mind. Anything else? No? Then, I’ll introduce to you some wonderful products made …
Dried Vegetables
Vegetables have their seasons. It’s a happy thing eating in-season vegetables which are nutritious and rich, isn’t it? I was born and raised in a farmer’s house. I could eat …
“I can see Mt. Fuji!”
“I can see Mt. Fuji from my balcony.” Imagine your Japanese friend told you this. How would you reply? “So…what?” I’m afraid that isn’t the right answer to let the …