Category: My Gifu Days
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Asahiya in Ōgaki — The Chuka Soba and Katsudon Spot Locals Still Treasure
Introduction – A Showa-Era Eatery with Over 80 Years of History Asahiya (アサヒ屋) opened its doors in 1936 (Showa 11). What began as a modest eatery soon became beloved for offering warm, filling meals during the postwar years. Their udon gained local popularity, and over time, the menu expanded to include dishes that remain favorites…
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A Gentle Autumn Journey Through Nakatsugawa: Magome-juku to Tsumago-juku on the Nakasendō Trail
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…
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A Visit to Ochobo-san: The Little Fox Shrine of Blessings and Business
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…
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Half a Day in Gifu City — A Gentle Walk Through History and Hills
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
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Useful Japanese Phrases I Use Every Day at Work
From “ohayou gozaimasu” to “otsukaresama desu,” my day as a caregiver in Japan is filled with gentle phrases that show teamwork, care, and respect.
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What Is a “Day Service” in Japan?
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.
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How I Got My Caregiver Job in Japan
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.
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Ramen Dates in Gifu, Vol. 1 — Nageyari’s Famous Pork & Seafood Bowl
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…
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Experiencing Japanese Hospitality at Work – Tea Time and Omotenashi
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…
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Love Across Cultures: My Marriage with a Japanese Husband
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…
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