I'm fortunate that in my travels I often get to meet local people who are doing interesting and creative things. I was able to write a profile of a couple of groups of women in Kyushu and Shikoku who have become successful small business entrepreneurs, producing condiments featuring local produce and local flavors. (Archived article … Continue reading Entrepreneurs on the Rise: Second Career Women in Regional Japan
While relaxing in the library of Yusuhara, a fascinating little town nestled in the mountains of Kochi Prefecture, I just happened to notice a poster advertising "Tap Marche", a campaign featuring six craft beers being served at seven local establishments. What a perfect way to further explore this adorable little town, I think to myself. … Continue reading On a Quest for Craft Beer in Kochi
This article describes how the renowned architect Kengo Kuma's designs were influenced by this Shikoku town, and how the town has been shaped by the architect. (Archived article originally published by Japan Today.)
Japan was once known for its $10 cups of coffee and other seeming extravagances. While those days have gone--decent coffee can now be had for less than a dollar and a half--, with it has gone the slow life that the owner-operated coffee shop represented. Well, not entirely. Here and there one can still find … Continue reading Coffee Flag: a coffee oasis
In these days of environmental concerns, it's not unusual to hear talk of green living and energy independence. In the Shikoku mountain town of Yusuhara, it's more than just talk. This town of less than 4,000 people has adopted various practices to generate its own power and reduce its carbon footprint while caring for the … Continue reading Yusuhara: the eco-friendly traditional mountain town
Jigsaw Japan 