Tag: japanese culture

Sketch of a Boss coffee vending machine in Japan

Japanese vending machines – a closer look at Japan’s love of convenience

March 9, 2019

Anyone who’s been to Japan has surely noticed the incredible number of vending machines on offer. They’re found everywhere, from neon-lit city intersections to shady forest walks, and even on trains. Vending machine culture is everywhere! Japan is the perfect home for so many vending machines. Vandalism and crime is low, and the demand for … More Japanese vending machines – a closer look at Japan’s love of convenience

Drawing of a japanese bathing house in an old traditional building

Beppu – an Illustrated Visit to Japan’s Onsen Spa City

August 29, 2018

Beppu is the perfect destination in Japan for bathing. This city on Kyushu, Japan’s southernmost island, is famous for its geothermal activity and range of hot spring bathing options. Clouds of steam rise from dozens of vents in the earth, creating a very unusual cityscape. There are large public bathing houses built of wood, private … More Beppu – an Illustrated Visit to Japan’s Onsen Spa City

Sketch of an ancient Japanese torii gate standing in the bay

Miyajima – A Day Trip Exploring One Of Japan’s Most Scenic Islands

August 20, 2018

Itsukushima (aka Miyajima, which translates to ‘the shrine island’), is a small, romantic island in Hiroshima Bay. It is known for its magnificent torii gate, an 800-year old monument standing in the middle of the bay, appearing to float on the waves. Miyajima has a lovely small town which is perfect for exploring, a World … More Miyajima – A Day Trip Exploring One Of Japan’s Most Scenic Islands

Sketch of a girl preparing okonomiyaki

Which Is The Best Okonomiyaki? Tokyo Monjayaki vs. Hiroshimayaki

May 7, 2018

Okonomiyaki is the ultimate winter comfort food in Japan. A heavy savoury dish, it might be described as a fried cabbage pancake with additional meats, vegetables, or noodles. When translated, it means ‘cooked/fried how you like it’, giving away okonomiyaki’s status as the classic meal of many variations. Okonomiyaki is one of my favourite things … More Which Is The Best Okonomiyaki? Tokyo Monjayaki vs. Hiroshimayaki