Temporarily Lost

Kyoto: simply mentioning the name evokes endearing images of kimono-clad, white-faced geisha using their colorful parasols to protect both their complexions from the sun and their modesty from the stares of those on the street, of leisurely strolls through an endless parade of vivid-orange torii gates gently winding their way up a sloping hillside, of the austere and contemplative nature […]

Almost due West from the mountainous escapes of the Japanese Alps, and flanked by the Sea of Japan, lies the historic and cultural gem that is Kanazawa, within the Ishikawa Prefecture.  The name “Kanazawa” itself translates to “Marsh of Gold,” which it a very fitting name for the city which, due to centuries of bountiful rice harvests, became an exceedingly […]

In the center of Honshu — the largest island in the Japanese archipelago — West of Tokyo and the Kanto region and North of Kyoto and the Kansai region, lies the mountainous area known as the Japanese Alps: arguably one of the nation’s most beautiful stretches, with crystal clear rivers crisscrossing through cedar and pine forests, paths and mountain trails […]

It would be difficult to describe the culture and atmosphere in Tokyo without experiencing the culinary delights that are available, a particular highlights for any traveler visiting the Japan, as the city ranks amongst the top food destinations on the planet.  From greasy noodle shops to high-end kaiseki meals, from smoke-stained yakitori joints to the temples of fish […]

After having explored the people-watching districts of Shibuya and the Takeshita-dori, having flashed your plastic around in the shopping havens of Ginza and Harajuku, having paid your respects and taken in the culture at the shrines and museums in Asakusa, Ueno, and Marunouchi, and having raised your glass to a hearty “Kampai!” with some new […]

Over a year ago now, before this whole adventurous journey began (thirty some countries and counting), if you had told me that I had to choose only one country to which I could visit, without batting an eye, I would have strongly stated my choice to be that of Japan.  It’s difficult to put my finger on what aspects attracted my fascination with the Japanese […]