Category: My Gifu Days

  • 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.

  • 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

  • Half a Day in Gifu City — A Gentle Walk Through History and Hills

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    From a butter-toast breakfast near Gifu Station to the golden smile of the Great Buddha by afternoon — this quiet half-day in Gifu City blends history, nature, and gentle living. The perfect slow adventure between mountain and river

    Written by

    Genevieve G.

  • Useful Japanese Phrases I Use Every Day at Work

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    From “ohayou gozaimasu” to “otsukaresama desu,” my day as a caregiver in Japan is filled with gentle phrases that show teamwork, care, and respect.

    Written by

    Genevieve G.
    Smiling caregiver in green scrubs holding a paper heart, symbolizing kindness and compassion in caregiving.

  • What Is a “Day Service” in Japan?

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    Every day service in Japan is unique — each with its own rhythm and personality. Here’s what daily life looks like at the warm, café-style day service where I work in Gifu.

    Written by

    Genevieve G.
    A warm café-style interior with wooden tables and sunlight streaming through the windows, creating a cozy and welcoming atmosphere.

  • How I Got My Caregiver Job in Japan

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    From Chicago nurse to Gifu caregiver — this is how I found my first caregiving job in Japan. It wasn’t easy, but it became one of the most meaningful choices of my life.

    Written by

    Genevieve G.
    Sunrise over the Meoto Iwa sacred rocks connected by a Shinto rope in Japan, symbolizing harmony and new beginnings.

  • 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.

  • Experiencing Japanese Hospitality at Work – Tea Time and Omotenashi

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    Omotenashi, often translated as “Japanese hospitality,” is more than service—it’s a mindset of thoughtfulness, respect, and anticipating needs. My first true experience with omotenashi happened not at a restaurant or hotel, but at work, during a training session. That moment shaped the way I see Japanese culture, and even how I approach my own role…

    Written by

    Genevieve G.
    A smiling woman dressed in traditional Japanese attire, welcoming guests with a respectful gesture beside a beautifully arranged tea set, embodying the spirit of omotenashi.

  • Love Across Cultures: My Marriage with a Japanese Husband

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    I never expected that downloading a simple language exchange app would lead me to marriage. What began as casual conversations—me practicing Japanese, him practicing English—slowly grew into late-night talks, laughter, and a bond that crossed cultures. Our journey hasn’t always been easy; from learning to express affection in different ways to adjusting to daily habits…

    Written by

    Genevieve G.
    A smiling couple posing in front of the iconic Glico Running Man sign in Dotonbori, Osaka at night. The background glows with colorful neon lights and a lively crowd, capturing the energy of the city’s nightlife.

  • Pascal Kiyomi Auto Campsite: Family Camping & River Fun in Gifu

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    Last August, when Japan’s summer heat climbed close to 40°C, my family and I escaped to the cool shade of Pascal Kiyomi Auto Campsite in Gifu. Nestled in the mountains, this campsite offered fresh air, tall trees, and a crystal-clear river perfect for swimming. With kushikatsu sizzling on the grill, kids laughing by the water,…

    Written by

    Genevieve G.
    camping set up