• Nature,  Travel

    Nikko’s Sacred Bridge (Shinkyo Bridge)

    There’s a red bridge in Nikko that’s sacred. It’s so sacred that not everyone was allowed to cross it back in the old days. I initially thought it was reserved for nobility but online research revealed to me that only messengers from the Imperial Palace were allowed to cross it. Interesting. So, is this bridge worth a visit?

  • Travel

    Famous and Loved in Okinawa

    A long time ago, I wrote about how I must have a doppelganger in Fukuoka. But then I went to Okinawa and learned that I must have a doppelganger in Okinawa, too. Conclusion: It is confirmed that I have a doppelganger or two in Kyushu.

  • Travel

    My Airbnb Experience in Japan

    When airbnb first came to play in Japan, it wasn’t yet legit. I say this because while airbnbs existed, most weren’t legal. And if they somehow met the standards to be legal, most were looked down upon by Japanese natives.

  • Nature,  Travel

    Iwatayama Monkey Park

    There is an attraction in Kyoto, not far from the famed bridge that people flock to. It’s somewhat touristy but not all that touristy, either. I say this because you have to actually walk quite a distance before you can get to Arashiyama’s Iwatayama Monkey Park. And once here, you’ll see that there are less tourists around compared to the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove or any other popular Kyoto destination.

  • Travel

    Nagasaki’s Chinatown

    If you’ve been to a decent Chinatown, whether that be somewhere in Asia or California, you’re not going to be all that thrilled with the Chinatown in Nagasaki. People seem to rave about it, yet it was just another Chinatown to me. Perhaps, I didn’t care for the “upscale” authentic Chinese food and modern buildings infused with Chinese architecture and decor. That or the fact there was no special event going on which made the Chinatown area look rather bland, save for its neon entrance sign.