2 Culinary Icons of Yokosuka: Kaigun Curry and Navy Burgers

Journey to Yokosuka for a sublime taste of iconic Navy Sailor food. Kaigun curry and the Navy burger are two delicious classics with a fascinating backstory. Iconic Navy Sailor Food…

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Island Getaway to the Dragon of Enoshima

One hot Sunday in July I left for an island getaway on a day trip from Yokosuka. It was time to see the dragon of Enoshima. Enoshima, a five kilometer…

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It’s Not Just About The Sakura

Don't get me wrong - I love cherry blossoms! How can I not? My last name means "cherry tree" in Spanish. I think the shade of pink is one of…

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From Sea Level To The Top of Mt. Fuji

A friend and I felt an intense, burning motivation to climb Mount Fuji. ALL OF IT: from sea level to the top. The lure of the Fuji City 3776 meter…

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The Curious Wonder That Is The Cup Of Noodles

All hail the curious creation that is the Cup of Noodles. How many have not had a cup at some point? Japan is known for many things: Karaoke, emojiis, Shinkansen,…

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A Sacred, Snowy Journey To Mount Togakushi’s 5 Shrines

The day after Christmas in Nagano, I embarked on a pilgrimage up a snowy Mount Togakushi, a mountain said to have been created during the Age of the Gods.  Togakushi’s…

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Christmas Day – Nagano and the Jigokudani Snow Monkeys

The snow was coming down fast and heavy. As I watched the Jigokudani snow monkeys enter and exit their private outdoor onsen, I felt like a kid on Christmas morning.…

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Participating in a Summer Purification Ritual in Takayama

I had not planned on participating in a summer purification ritual. I had been trying to find my way out of Shiroyama Park forest, alarmed by the multiple bear warning…

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A Summer Weekend in the Japanese Alps

Stunning alpine views, tiny white butterflies fluttering above colorful wildflowers, crystal-clear streams, I was in the alps all right - the Japanese alps. Getting There - Takayama Day 1, July…

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