3 Konbini, 9 Meals To Keep You Happy

The Japanese are serious foodies. And because they are foodies, you can feast in style at Japan's konbini (convenience stores). Here’s a fun fact: while France has more Michelin stars…

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Japan’s 3 Most Popular Konbini

You know someone has familiarity with Japan when they are able to compare Japan's three most popular konbini. It's a test of cultural sophistication. Forget reviewing which city has the…

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Fun Ways to Experiment with Shirasu at Enoshima

I have yet to meet a person who is ambivalent about shirasu (whitebait fish). It's a food that instantly evokes a reaction and makes for a GREAT story. What exactly…

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Easy and Fun Weekend Getaways From Yokosuka

As a Sailor, it is in my blood to want to get out and explore. When it comes to finding weekend getaways from Yokosuka, I am eager to know about…

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Kusatsu Onsen Embracing the Heat at Japan’s Famous Hot Springs

Kusatsu Onsen is not the easiest place to get to from Yokosuka. It took four and a half hours, three trains, and a bus. Was it worth it? Oh, yes.…

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In Search of the Gotokuji “Lucky” Beckoning Cat

It seems only appropriate to upload a post on Gotokuji Temple and its famous beckoning cat ahead of Japan's National Cat Day. Why is February 22 known as National Cat…

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A Lunar New Year in Yokohama’s Chinatown

I'm not a fan of crowds, however, on Jan. 21st, I boarded a local train and headed to Yokohama's Chinatown to toast the Lunar New Year. Although the vast majority…

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The Fun of Ichigo Gari – Happy Strawberry Hunting in Japan

I love strawberries. Happily, there’s a delightful spring traditional in Japan known as ichigo gari, strawberry hunting. My quest for the perfect strawberry began after a Japanese colleague asked whether…

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A New Year and a Daruma Doll Goal

A New Year Every year, people around the world set fresh goals. In Japan, a Daruma doll is a special, tangible way to remind yourself of your new year's resolution.…

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Celebrating New Year’s Day in Japan with the Dragon of Enoshima

This year, visiting family and I decided to celebrate New Year’s Day in Japan like the Japanese. A New Year + shrines + Mt. Fuji + the dragon of Enoshima?…

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