This article introduces the dramatically-located Udo Shrine, on the south coast of Miyazaki, together with the story of the shrine's origins and another related Japanese folktale. (Archived article – Originally published by Japan Today.)
Month: April 2021
Shimabara’s Town of Swimming Carp
The city of Shimabara sits on the Ariake Sea in the shadow of Mount Unzen, the volcano responsible for creation of the Shimabara Peninsula (albeit several tens of thousands of years ago). The city has a long and diverse history, making it well worth taking a bit of time to explore. Yet many travelers quickly … Continue reading Shimabara’s Town of Swimming Carp
Flowers, the fount of knowledge at Kameido Tenjin Shrine
Early April sees the start of the Japanese academic year and for me as an academic, this seems the perfect time to seek out a Tenjin shrine and pay my respects. Tenjin is the deification of Sugawara no Michizane, a 9th century poet/scholar who, in his later life, served the emperor as a diplomat and … Continue reading Flowers, the fount of knowledge at Kameido Tenjin Shrine
Mukai Craft Brewery: Making Beer While Revitalizing Rural Japan
This article tells how Ken Mukai went from teaching high school science in his native California to brewing craft beer in the mountains of Kochi Prefecture. His taproom is a great place to visit when in Kochi. (Archived article – Originally published by Tokyo Weekender.)
Kion: Exquisite sake/cuisine pairings in Ginza
To enjoy fine food accented by good drink is the height of epicureanism. Kion, a small restaurant opening today in Ginza is dedicated to such pleasure. The name “Kion“ means “seasonal garden“ and the restaurant has taken as its mission serving set menu meals made with seasonal ingredients, each course set off by a carefully … Continue reading Kion: Exquisite sake/cuisine pairings in Ginza
Jigsaw Japan 