Feb 15, 2024Could Yamaguchi City Become the New Kyoto?In 2023, writer Craig Mod created quite a stir in the sleepy town of Morioka in Iwate Prefecture by naming it as his pick for places to visit in 2023 for a New York Times article. A media frenzy ensued (especially here in Japan, where Craig’s pick completely bewildered the…Travel6 min readTravel6 min read
Aug 24, 2019Finding Gohime: Heroes of the Faith in Japanese HistoryOn a recent writing assignment for Voyapon, I toured Okamoto Castle, “the Shining Crow”, known for its black exterior complemented by a set of gold leafed koi ornaments along the roof, which catch the rays of the setting sun. A display by artist Kimiya Masago depicting the life of the…Christianity6 min readChristianity6 min read
Aug 19, 2019Japan’s Fighting Spirit, In One Festival(This article was originally published at Voyapon, an English website for off-the-beaten-path experiences in Japan). As the huge float swung our way with a dozen men carried in its momentum, my guide, Mr. Takahashi, tugged on my sleeve and pulled me to safety. This was the Iizaka Kenka Matsuri, one…Travel7 min readTravel7 min read
Aug 18, 2019A Dance of Grace and FoolsIt is said that Awa Odori began as a 16th century dance party with large quantities of adult beverages. To anyone who has witnessed the modern celebration of this rambunctious dance festival, this fact is completely unsurprising. …Dance5 min readDance5 min read