Category: Japanese Culture

  • A Gentle Autumn Journey Through Nakatsugawa: Magome-juku to Tsumago-juku on the Nakasendō Trail

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    Walking the Magome‑juku → Tsumago‑juku section of the historic Nakasendō Trail is one of the most peaceful ways to experience the charm of the Nakatsugawa region in Gifu Prefecture. My husband and I recently enjoyed this walk during autumn, and the journey turned into a beautiful blend of crisp colour, traditional streets, local food, and…

    Written by

    Genevieve G.
    A scenic downhill street in Magome-juku with traditional wooden houses, autumn foliage, and visitors walking under clear mountain skies.

  • Japanese Curry Rice: The Heartwarming Dish Everyone in Japan Grows Up With

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    Discover why Japanese curry rice is considered Japan’s ultimate comfort food. Explore its history, unique flavors, cultural importance, and why it continues to win hearts across all generations.

    Written by

    Genevieve G.
    image of japanese curry with katsu on top

  • Pocky Day in Japan – Sweet Moments on November 11

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    Celebrate Japan’s Pocky Day on November 11! Learn the story behind this fun snack holiday and my favorite Almond Crush flavor from Glico.

    Written by

    Genevieve G.
    Box of Almond Crush Pocky chocolate sticks on a wooden table – Pocky Day in Japan

  • A Gentle Escape to Fukui: Camping by the Sea, Local Flavors, and the Beauty of Mikata Lakes

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    There’s something about the sea that instantly softens your mind.It might be the sound of waves, the cool air brushing against your face, or the slow rhythm that reminds you to pause.Our short trip to Fukui Prefecture had all of that — quiet mornings, coastal views, warm food, and a little bit of adventure. It…

    Written by

    Genevieve G.
    Rainbow arching over the Sea of Japan, seen from the Rainbow Line Summit Park — panoramic view of Mikata Goko lakes and coastline.

  • A Visit to Ochobo-san: The Little Fox Shrine of Blessings and Business

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    Tucked away in the quiet countryside of Kaizu, Chiyoho Inari Shrine, lovingly called Ochobo-san, is a place where faith and daily life meet. For over a thousand years, people have come here to thank the gods for prosperity, family safety, and the simple joys of each month. Visitors light candles and offer fried tofu to…

    Written by

    Genevieve G.
    Image of OChobosan

  • A Gentle Autumn Day Trip to Nagoya: Our Relaxed Journey from Gifu

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    A personal yet practical guide to an ideal autumn day trip from Gifu to Nagoya — exploring Sakae, Nagoya Castle, Osu Kannon Temple, and café moments along the way. Includes itinerary, local tips, and must-try Nagoya dishes.

    Written by

    Genevieve G.
    image of nagoya Castle

  • Kurikinton in Gifu – Japan’s Pure Chestnut Sweet That Marks the Start of Autumn

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    Discover Gifu’s kurikinton (栗きんとん) — a simple chestnut + sugar wagashi that signals Japan’s autumn. Learn the difference between osechi 栗金団 and Gifu’s fall version, explore Nakatsugawa & Ena shops, and taste the spirit of the season.

    Written by

    Genevieve G.
    Three pieces of kurikinton, traditional Japanese chestnut sweets, placed on a glossy black lacquer plate with soft autumn lighting, surrounded by blurred red and orange maple leaves on a warm washi paper background.

  • The Art of Chopstick Etiquette in Japan — A Guide to Eating Mindfully

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    When I first came to Japan, I thought chopsticks were just simple sticks. But over time, I learned they carry centuries of culture and care. In this post, I share how chopsticks began, the “don’ts” of Japanese etiquette, and the small phrases that show respect during meals.

    Written by

    Genevieve G.
    Red chopsticks and fortune cookies on a dark background — symbolizing Asian dining culture and tradition.

  • Visiting a Japanese Home: Modern Etiquette, Phrases, and Acts of Respect You Should Know

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    Visiting a Japanese home is more than just a social visit — it’s a gentle exchange of trust and kindness. From saying ojamashimasu at the door to offering a small gift and accepting tea politely, every action carries quiet meaning. In this post, I share what I’ve learned — the modern manners, useful Japanese phrases,…

    Written by

    Genevieve G.
    Historic Japanese tea house with wooden exterior and hanging greenery, representing traditional hospitality culture.

  • Ramen Dates in Gifu, Vol. 1 — Nageyari’s Famous Pork & Seafood Bowl

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    One of our favorite weekend traditions is what I like to call our “ramen date.”No fancy plans — just me and my husband going out to slurp noodles somewhere new. This time, we finally tried Nageyari (なげやり) — a well-known ramen shop in Gifu City that’s often featured on YouTube and Japanese TV shows. It’s…

    Written by

    Genevieve G.
    A steaming bowl of ramen from Nageyari in Gifu, topped with thick slices of char siu pork, seasoned egg, spinach, bamboo shoots, and seaweed in a rich pork-and-seafood broth.