This article describes five boat rides in the Tohoku region of Japan. Fun ways to see rivers, lakes and coastal formations--a different side of the area. (Archived article – Originally published by Gaijinpot.)
Month: July 2021
Minamisanriku: A Tohoku town triumphing over tragedy
This article looks at the Miyagi coastal town of Minami Sanriku, badly damaged by the 2011 tsunami, but surviving and thriving with lots of interesting things for tourists to see and do. (Archived article – Originally published by Japan Today.)
Celebrating the architectural wonders of Kuma Kengo
All eyes will be on the Japan National Stadium later today for the Olympics opening ceremony. The 68,000 capacity stadium, built especially for these Olympics, was opened in December 2019. It is the creation of favorite son architect Kuma Kengo. Kuma, who also teaches architecture, is especially known for the way in which his designs … Continue reading Celebrating the architectural wonders of Kuma Kengo
Stepping back in time: the Meiji Village Museum of Miyagi
The Meiji Period (1868-1912) is perhaps my favorite period of Japanese history. It is the time when Japan, which had stagnated from being closed to the outside world since early in the 17th century, leapt forward, grafting new governmental structures to its traditional emperor system and adopting various new technologies to allow it to fend … Continue reading Stepping back in time: the Meiji Village Museum of Miyagi
Yosakoi: Japan’s happy dance
Japan has a long history of group dancing, especially during festivals. The dances might be performed during parades or as performances. Often everyone is dressed in the same yukata or kimono. In 1954, the Shikoku city of Kochi, concerned to boost local morale on the heels of the long struggle of post-war recovery, hit on … Continue reading Yosakoi: Japan’s happy dance
Jigsaw Japan 