Impressions of daily life in Japan
Two years ago, on March 11 2011, a massive earthquake and ensuing tsunami destroyed the Tōhoku region in northern Japan. Although two years have passed, the tragedy is still very much alive in Japan. Rebuilding the region, and more importantly, people's lives, will take many more years. In memory of that fateful day, I would... Continue Reading →
I recently came across a Japanese song which is too cute for words. The song imitates a cat talking to its owner. Not only is the song extremely catchy, a noble stranger has taken it upon him- or herself to illustrate the song with beautiful photos on YouTube. Check out the result: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hHy7u4N_BAk The repeated... Continue Reading →
It was quite exciting to spend New Year in Japan. I was very curious about Japanese New Year rituals and we tried participating in as many as possible. Our Japanese New Year experience began on New Year's Eve with a popular TV show called 'Kōhaku Uta Gassen' (on the channel NHK). It features spectacular performances... Continue Reading →
Every last Saturday of July, Toyota City has its annual festival called Oiden. It is followed by the Toyota City Fireworks Display on Sunday. They close off one of the main streets of Toyota City and set up a stage and some food stands. Thousands of people flock to the Toyota City Center to see... Continue Reading →
Near the Toyota City station, there is a covered walkway. It has some greenery and benches and overall it's a nice area. In the evening all the commuters walk along this walkway on their way home. Sometimes amateur singers use this location to showcase their talents. In most cases this is for the enjoyment of... Continue Reading →
The Japans 