The fabulous flower season that happens when nothing in its right mind would be blooming February in Japan is not fun. Cold and gray, its only festival involves demons, dry … Continue Reading Seasonal Secret FEBRUARY 2021
This month’s destination: The Misotsuchi Icicles in Saitama prefecture Icicles of wonder ❄️ This secret Japanese pleasure isn’t a famous tourist destination—it’s really more of a pit stop along the … Continue Reading Beyond Tokyo JANUARY 2021
Setagaya Boroichi: The mother of all flea markets Let’s face it— we’ve all had a year of being stuck inside, getting rid of stuff that was oppressing us, and NOT … Continue Reading Seasonal Secret JANUARY 2021
Nothing is weirder than Xmas in Japan The first Christmas I spent in Japan, my head whipped around in a doubletake at the Santa with reindeer right next to a … Continue Reading Why, Japan, Why? DECEMBER 2020
This month’s destination: YomiuriLand Let’s go see the millions of twinkling lights at Yomiuriland! 🎢 Even if you’re past the age when roller coasters and carousels thrill you, get thee to … Continue Reading Beyond Tokyo DECEMBER 2020
The Japanese art of gift-giving Since we’re careening into that present-exchanging time of year, I thought you might enjoy a peek into the Japanese art of gift giving. Not to … Continue Reading Seasonal Secret DECEMBER 2020