Sam WoodfinJapanese Mascots- Why is the country so obsessed with costumed characters?They can be found everywhere you go. They represent companies, cities, brands, and even will pop up temporarily for certain events before…Jul 18, 2019Jul 18, 2019
Sam WoodfinDining Differences- Going out to eat in JapanThere are many contrasts between Japan and my home country of America. One that sticks out is how going out to eat is perceived culturally…Jul 5, 2019Jul 5, 2019
Sam WoodfinTokyo Nightlife- Why Tourists Can’t Find Activities After DarkThe one recurring story in Japanese tourism media is about how foreigners aren’t happy with the limited night life options in Tokyo. If you…Jun 28, 2019Jun 28, 2019
Sam WoodfinSocietal Preferences in Japan- What can Japan’s energy use tell us about their culture?In Tokyo, one thing you will find everywhere you go are vending machines. Not confined to convenient stores and restaurants, 自販機 (jihanki)…Jun 24, 2019Jun 24, 2019
Sam WoodfinWhen Experiences Don’t Match “Common Knowledge”Before arriving in Japan, I did quite a bit of cultural research to get an idea of what to expect. Given that you are here reading a…Jun 18, 2019Jun 18, 2019
Sam WoodfinRush Hour in Tokyo- surviving a mass group hug in Japan’s largest cityMany people have heard that the rail lines in Tokyo are often packed and busy. Experiencing the true extent of it is something else though…Jun 12, 2019Jun 12, 2019