Year in Review: 2015

Wow, it’s been years since I properly wrote a post here…

Time to sum up what’s happened in the past 3-4 years.


2015

I had stopped posting after getting into a serious accident back in June. I had got hit by a car in Tokyo and the whole incident was pretty severe.  I was basically out of commission for half a year.  I lost a lot of motivation to do any extra-curriculars, including writing here. I did a few small posts after the incident but couldn’t find the motivation to continue after a while.  The accident happened at the end of my third year in Uni, which in Japan is a pretty important time for you.

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Embrace the Japanese Tradition of Hanami: A Journey into Springtime Flower Viewing

With spring on its retreat and summer marching forth, reminiscing about the ethereal beauty of cherry and plum blossoms is a bittersweet indulgence. This nostalgia perfectly mirrors the essence of Hanami — a time-honored tradition in Japan that prompts people worldwide to partake in the celebration.

hanami 1

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Discover Kyoto On A Budget: Free Attractions to Explore

Travel does come with costs, but it doesn’t mean you can’t find experiences that don’t burn a hole in your pocket. Japan, brimming with incredible free things to do throughout the country, is no exception. Particularly in Kyoto, the city abounds with hidden gems and local favorites, that might be a challenge to locate without guidance. So, let’s delve into the plethora of exciting free activities you can partake in the charming city of Kyoto.

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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

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