Japan

Walking in Osaka: Dotonbori

Walking in Osaka: Dotonbori

October 8, 2024
Japan
When people talk about Japan, the main places that come to mind are "Tokyo", "Kyoto", and maybe "Hokkaido". There's other place often comes to mind, and that's "Osaka". But what's so special about Osaka, you ask? There's a reason why many people who visit Japan cite it as their…
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Thank you, Toriyama-san

Thank you, Toriyama-san

April 14, 2024
Anime/Manga
It's amazing how someone you've never met can have such a profound impact on your life. When I was in elementary school, I went on a 5th grade camping trip. It was only for a few days, but it was the first time I spent that long away from…
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Thunder Tacos: A Taste of Mexican Food in Japan

Thunder Tacos: A Taste of Mexican Food in Japan

March 3, 2024
Japan
Having moved from Los Angeles to Japan, there are of course differences to grapple with. When people ask me about the thing I miss the most (besides family/friends), I always respond with "the food", specifically "Mexican food". For whatever reason, this cuisine hasn't found enough popularity in the country…
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From Cards to Class: Hotel Marufukuro

From Cards to Class: Hotel Marufukuro

February 12, 2024
Hotel
When I first began this website, one of the first experiences I detailed was my first trip to Kyoto. In that entry, I mentioned that my first stop in the prefecture was the old Nintendo headquarters. circa 2017 This was the place that housed the company's humble beginnings producing…
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Fossil Fun: Fukui Prefectural Dinosaur Museum

Fossil Fun: Fukui Prefectural Dinosaur Museum

November 5, 2023
Japan
The last time I remember going to any sort of fossil museum was going to the Museum of Natural History in Los Angeles when I was about 10. That was during the 90's, when dinosaurs were at the forefront of pop culture. The premiere of "Jurassic Park", "Land Before…
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A Charming Collaboration: Joetsu Aquarium & Animal Crossing

A Charming Collaboration: Joetsu Aquarium & Animal Crossing

October 1, 2023
Japan
Two of my favorite things are travelling and videogames. Though separate, there are occasions when the two are combined. We recently had such an opportunity while visiting the Joetsu Aquarium in Niigata, Japan. Most of the time, this aquarium is simply a very nice place to view aquatic creatures.…
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8-Bit Cafe: Nostalgia and Friends in Shinjuku

8-Bit Cafe: Nostalgia and Friends in Shinjuku

May 21, 2023
Japan
One of my favorite things to do is go to a nice bar or cafe with a small group of friends and simply chat. Years ago it was something done almost weekly, now it has become something of a rare occasion. When one of my good friends said he…
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Festival of Floats: Tochigi Autumn Festival

Festival of Floats: Tochigi Autumn Festival

November 13, 2022
Japan
One of the nice things about living in Japan is the chance to take in some of the culture. There are of course the scenic spots and historical sites. There are also the festivals, celebrations held anually or bianually, which bring a liveliness to the atmosphere, and enjoyment to…
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A Trip to the Ocean:Oarai Sun Beach

A Trip to the Ocean:Oarai Sun Beach

September 8, 2022
Japan
Even though I grew up in California, I was never much of a beach-goer. I'd occasionally take a trip with friends, but never felt the pull to go myself. Moving to a landlocked territory has turned my mind around on this, and a trip seemed more appealing. So a…
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Le Musée en Rose: The New Ginger Museum

Le Musée en Rose: The New Ginger Museum

August 19, 2022
Japan
After a long, busy transition to my new surroundings, I finally have a chance to sit and write! To say my life has undergone some changes would be an understatement. Work has kept me plenty busy, and it's been difficult to find the time to explore what's around me.…
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