Travel Guide: The One about the Differences between Temples and Shrines

When going to Japan, it’s easy to confuse temples and shrines. But they are quite different. Temples are Buddhist sites, while shrines are Shinto sites.  It’s even more confusing by the fact that there are some areas that meld the two religions together.  And that Read More …

The One about the Shibusawa Eiichi Memorial Museum in Kita

When it comes to American industrialists, we are familiar with Andrew Carnegie, Henry Ford, Howard Hughes to name a few. In Japan, one name that is quite well-known is Shibusawa Eiichi (Shibusawa is his family name).  Known as the father of Japanese capitalism, he spearheaded Read More …

The One about the Japanese Baseball Hall of Fame Part 1

Located at Tokyo Dome City, next to Tokyo Dome, is the Japanese Baseball Hall of Fame. Opened back in 1959, 20-years later after the establishment of the National Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, New York, the Japanese Baseball Hall of Fame is no doubt Read More …

Travel Guide: The One about Tax-Free Shops in Japan

In Japan, especially in Tokyo, in major foreigner-friendly shopping areas such as Akihabara, there are logos showcasing “Japan Tax-Free Shop”. It’s important to for people traveling Japan to know that shops will NOT give you tax-free if you don’t ask for it.  Afterall, how would Read More …

The One about SKY CIRCUS Sunshine60 Observatory in Ikebukuro (for Photography or Video)

In Tokyo, there are numerous observatories that really give people or photographers and videographers a great look of the city skyline. While the World Trade Center tops my list for best observatory for photographers and videographers, primarily because it gives you a look of all Read More …

The One about Pompompurin Cafe in Harajuku

Naturally, as one would expect from Japan, there is a lot of love for Sanrio. From Hello Kitty to Gudetama,  a plethora of characters that have plenty of merchandise that many fans clamor for and deeply love. A character that may not be as known Read More …

The One about the Upcoming Harajuku Omotesando Hello Halloween Pumpkin Parade 2017

For those who will be in Tokyo during Halloween, the Harajuku Omotesando Hello Halloween Pumpkin Parade 2017 has been announced. The parade will be held in Omotesando on Sunday, October 29th (Parade is usually at 1:00 – 2:30 p.m – But please visit the site Read More …

The One about Itsukushima Shrine in Nerima

For those traveling to Nerima will definitely want to head to Shakuji Park to check out Itsukushima Shrine, Sanbuji Temple and Pond. Created during the Edo Era, the shrine’s date of when it was founded is unknown but it is considered a water shrine. What Read More …

A Security Message from the U.S. Embassy Tokyo – Tropical Cyclone Talim (No. 18) – For those traveling to the Okinawa Prefecture

Security Message for U.S. Citizens:  Tropical Cyclone Talim (No. 18) September 12, 2017 The U.S. Embassy in Tokyo cautions U.S. citizens that Typhoon Talim (Typhoon Number 18) is expected to make landfall in Okinawa Prefecture near the Sakishima islands, which include Miyako, Ishigaki, Iriomote and Read More …

The One about the Chihiro Art Museum in Nerima

One of Japan’s famous artist and illustrators, Chihiro Iwasaki is best known for her water-color artwork which promote peace and happiness for children. Before I get into the museum, let me first introduce you to some of Iwasaki’s artwork: As you can see, Chihiro Iwasaki Read More …