Japan
Japanese Drinks 101: Sake, Awamori, Shochu & Beyond
Discover Japan’s most iconic drinks: sake, awamori, shochu, whisky, and gin. Learn the history, differences, tasting notes, and how to drink like a local with our complete Japanese drinks guide
A Quick History of Sake
Discover the rich history and unique types of sake, Japan’s iconic rice wine. From Kyoto’s brewing traditions to modern styles like Nigori and sparkling sake, learn how it’s made, how to drink it, and what food to…
Nagasaki: Walking Through Peace, Memory & Hope
Walking through Nagasaki’s Peace Park and Atomic Bomb Museum is not just a visit; it’s a pilgrimage of memory and hope. From powerful statues and fountains gifted by nations around the world to the solemn museum displays,…
Cranes of Peace: Folding Hope in Nagasaki
In Nagasaki’s Peace Park, thousands of paper cranes flutter in the wind, each one a folded prayer for peace. Rooted in a legend and carried forward by a child’s hope, these delicate birds remind us that even…
Ōshima Island: Kayaks, Mud Dyeing, and the Magic of Tide & Tradition
Some places shine in sunshine, others in rain. Ōshima Island offered both — a day of kayaking on glassy waters, hands stained with volcanic mud, and warmth shared over mochi and matcha. Guided by Seiya of Link…
Mud, Memory & Mastery: The Soul of Dorozome Mud Dyeing
On Amami Ōshima, color is born from the earth itself. Dorozome, the ancient craft of mud dyeing, transforms fabric into living art through layers of tree tannins, volcanic mud, and human
One Perfect Day in Okinawa: Streets, Shrines & Seagrapes
How to spend one incredible day in Naha, Okinawa, stroll Kokusai Dori, explore sacred Sefa Utaki, shop Tsuboya Pottery Street, feast at Makishi Market, sip Orion beer with seagrapes, and end with tea in a rainy garden.
Guardians at the Gate: Discovering Shisa Lions in Okinawa
Discover the story of Okinawa’s Shisa lions, half lion, half dog, and beloved guardians of home and spirit. From their Chinese origins to their role in local legends, these fierce yet charming statues protect against evil and…
Kyoto in a Day: Castles, Sake, and Sunset Shrines
From Kobe to Kyoto in 30 minutes by bullet train, here’s how we spent one magical day: exploring Nijo Castle’s nightingale floors, tasting our way through Nishiki Market, sipping sake in Fushimi, hiking the torii gates of…
From Castles to Charms: A Perfect Port Day in Nagoya
Our day in Nagoya was short on time but rich in wonder. Stood beneath the gold-tiled roof of Nagoya Castle Got hands-on with history at the Toyota Innovation Museum Mastered the art of hitsumabushi (Nagoya-style grilled eel)…
