It is often said that a deep and abiding respect for nature is a fundamental part of the Japanese psyche. Yet, Japan is also well known for its attempts to bend and control nature, for example through intense shaping of the landscape for purposes of agriculture, flood control or protection from tsunami and landslides. One … Continue reading Putting Nature Into Perspective: The Photographs of Norbert Schoerner
The delicately curved single-edged katana sword is an icon of Japan for many. Indeed, swords have been central to life in Japan for most of its history. Kusanagi-no-Tsurugi, a sword that belonged to the mother goddess, Amaterasu, has been one of three items imperial regalia since Amaterasu sent it to earth with her grandson Ninigi … Continue reading Forging a blade into Japan’s metallurgic history
On a recent visit to Aizu-Wakamatsu I enjoyed the experience of making my own herbal tea blend, which I have shared in this article in All About Japan.
One of my earliest experiences of Japan's spectacular autumn leaves was during an employer-sponsored outing to Goshiki-numa in the Urabandai area of Fukushima Prefecture nearly 40 years ago. The area still holds a special place in my heart and, although my last visit, and hence my latest photos, was a few months ago, I'm writing … Continue reading Water colors and Fall colors at Goshiki-numa
This article provides a fun and interesting five day itinerary for taking advantage of the incredible bargain of the JR East Pass while getting acquainted with the amazing diversity of the "lower" half of the Tohoku region. (Archived article; originally published in Gaijinpot)
During Japan's Edo Period (1603-1867), the movement of people and goods was strictly controlled by the shogunate. Anyone wishing to travel was expected to apply for and receive permission to do so, and then to travel only on approved routes. Generally speaking, the only acceptable reasons to travel were for trade or religious purposes or, … Continue reading Ouchi-juku: well-preserved Tohoku post town
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