Unveiling Kyoto’s Golden Marvel: Kinkaku-ji

One of the most famous spots to visit in Kyoto, Japan is located just down the street from my mansion. Kinkaku-ji 「金閣寺」, also known as the [Temple of the] Golden Pavilion, is truly an amazingly breathtaking sight to see at least once in every season.

While I do not make a habit of making the 5-minute walk up to the temple often, seeing as how it is swarming with crowded tourists and there is an admissions fee, I do try to visit the place once every new season to take photographs for personal and business uses. Continue reading

How to Survive the Sizzling Summers in Japan: Thrifty Tips that Won’t Break the Bank

Stifling heat and excessive humidity — Japan’s summer can be relentless, pushing the mercury well beyond 40°C. Each day, the wailing sirens of paramedics can be heard frequently, racing to attend to heat collapse cases. So, how do you keep cool without breaking the bank during a Japanese summer? Here are some handy, affordable tips!

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Experiencing Racism in Japan: An Insider’s Perspective on Discrimination

Racism in Japan is a complex conversation that many enthusiasts of Japanese culture often overlook or outright deny. While explicit racial slurs and overt displays of hostility are not as common as in some other countries, subtle forms of discrimination and prejudice manifest sporadically, their intensity contingent on your location and personal attributes. Continue reading