Take a look at my personal reasons why I love Japan, a once-secluded jewel of the far east which has become a subject of my fascination since I was 18 and cared for me for almost 2 years of my graduate studies, and who knows we might share the same appreciation. Continue reading »
Aside from bringing the best travel buddies and the best Nihongo level you could muster, here are my tips on celebrating New Year’s Eve in one of the best cities in Japan. Continue reading »
In 2008, I received a 2-year scholarship to study in Japan from Matsushita/Panasonic International Foundation (MIF) along with 7 others. Because MIF brought us to several sponsored travels in Tokyo and Kansai region, I have to say that these group of people are dear to me. I especially became very close to Mei and Prabhat. … Continue reading »
The ambiance is less stiff compared to Tokyo. People are more easy-going. This is the usual comparison between Osaka and Tokyo. But I don’t have the authority to conclude anything since I stayed there for only a few days and spent mostly on sightseeing. Continue reading »
Then the magic happened. The light was blinding and when I adjusted my sight to the sudden brightness, I thought for a moment that I was magically moved to a place where snow found its abode and a time when moments slowed down to dance with the falling snowflakes. Continue reading »
The inevitable isolation that comes with winter paves the way for a familiarity of those closest to me, and most importantly, of me. Therefore, I am thankful to the “Snow Country” for teaching me that even though the season seemingly disowns me, I own myself the best possible way. Continue reading »
Only to return
From a long deep slumber
The proud sakura. Continue reading »
Everyone was in their formal winter kimono. Bandai-san looked radiant in her green ensemble. I greeted her and told in her in my broken Japanese that I love her kimono and my favorite color is green. She shyly thanked me and showed me the space where I can sit. She sat beside me and we were both facing a lady in a flattering pink kimono, stiff in her sitting position but with hands gentle as the water as she pours the first drop of hot tea in a ceramic cup. Continue reading »
For every fold of each beautifully patterned papers, the conversations, the sharing of secrets, the hearty laugh, the growing trust, even the tea and biscuits we shared — all of these folded into a non-visual but deeper form of human art — that of friendship. Continue reading »
My first roll was messy — the cucumber, the rice, even the nori itself crumbled at every slice. But despite the unpalatable presentation, my first sushi roll tasted good — thanks to the UMEX members and my classmates who made this experience “unforgettably delicious.” Continue reading »
If the Japanese government hides the true effects of hydrogen blasts in Fukushima, it risks more lives. And I am sure that all governments, except autocratic ones, cannot afford to be unreasonable as such. Why would any “responsible” government choose to allow deaths thru ignorance? Having lived in Japan for almost two (2) years and actually studied Japanese Politics, I believe that the current government is not guilty of these unreasonable decisions. Continue reading »
Original Post date: March 29, 2009 (Multiply) I have to admit that I miss the closed and dark room I stayed for 10 years at my father’s house located along the busy avenue of Kalayaan—with the feeling of security, being alone; it has been my own world during the years I searched for answers for … Continue reading »
My Kyoto trip (December 2008) was sponsored by the Matsushita International Foundation (MIF), the same scholarship foundation which sponsored my graduate studies, and it kicked off my next 18 month-adventure in Japan. But most importantly, I dug tons of gold and made me richer than Mark Zuckerberg. :) Continue reading »
January 2, 2010 at the Peace Memorial Museum, I was looking back at this part of Hiroshima’s history. And then I realized why I didn’t like history. Continue reading »
I didn’t realize that I have a platonic love for ice cream until someone told me “Yeah, that’s the only thing you love” when I uttered unconsciously “I want to eat ice cream.” Continue reading »
The children at Hirokami Higashi Elementary School blew the change. And they have been transforming me one school visit at a time. Continue reading »
31 December 2009 We’ve waited for the New Year’s countdown at Hiroshima Gokoku Shrine. Despite its southern and coastal location, Hiroshima is extremely cold during the winter season. The shrine was crowded with people lining up to make their wishes at the shrine. Food stalls are everywhere; most of them selling Hiroshima’s famous oystersand … Continue reading »
