Bodhidharma (known as Daruma-Daishi in Japan) was a sage monk who lived sometime in the 5th to 6th centuries. He was quite the Renaissance Man; credited for introducing Zen Buddhism to China, Shaolin Kungfu, a type of meditation called Zazen…
All You Need to Know About Visiting Japanese Buddhist Temples Read More »
An endless row of vermilion shrine gates extends across the sacred Mount Inari like a paper fan being slowly unfolded. The gates gracefully glissade up the thickly wooded mountainside as enthralled tourists traverse beneath …
All You Need to Know About Visiting Japanese Shinto Shrines Read More »
The restaurant you are currently dining at is of the trendy, hole-in-the-wall variety; its retro atmosphere and avocado-filled menu make you think of words that your teenage sister might use ‒ “on fleek,” or “lit,” or something else Millennial-sounding like …
These Essential Japanese Table Manners Will Make You Feel Smart Read More »
Japan offers an abundance of gastronomical delights. Of course some dishes are more famous- take for example– Sushi, Tempura or Sukiyaki. Japanese food is so accessible! Simply jump in at any level (street stall, mobile food stand, noodle bar or …
Cook in Japan at Cook JPN! Read More »
Beer is great. That’s what the thrust of this post is all about. To extol the virtues of beer and revel in the choice of libations available in Japan- not only in the bars and local taverns but also on …
About Japanese Beer- What You Need to Know Read More »
You slowly fight your way past a tour group of middle-aged Chinese couples, each brandishing their own selfie-stick like a sword. You stand up on pointe, feeling like a desperate ballerina, stretching this way and that in order to …
The Four Top Attractions You Can’t Miss While Visiting Japan Read More »
When the frosty weather tosses off its wintry coat like a wet dog shaking off water, when the perfect mildness of spring kisses the tall buildings of Tokyo, that’s when pink snowflakes fall from the sky. This ethereal phenomenon is …
Seasons and Climate in Japan Read More »
I’ve worked for Mobal for 18 years, but never had the chance to visit our charity in Blantyre, Malawi up until now. I’ve just been there for a week; it was pretty amazing!
There’s a lot going on, but one …
On a trip to Japan everyone wants to see Mt. Fuji- Japan’s most sacred mountain. Not everyone however wants to lug the walking gear (or the kids!) to make it to the 3,776 metres summit. That’s where the 600-metre Mount …
Top Tokyo Tips: Mount Takao Read More »
Back when I graduated from high school, I was given three copies of Dr. Suess’ book, Oh the Places You’ll Go! When I read the first copy I received, I was reminded in rhyme that I have “brains in my …
What the Guide Books Don’t Tell You: How to Use Local Transportation in Japan Read More »