Japan the beautiful and myself
In December 1968 Japan’s first Nobel Laureate, novelist Yasunari Kawabata, began his Nobel lecture entitled “Japan the Beautiful and Myself” with these words: “In the spring, cherry blossoms, in the summer the cuckoo.In autumn the moon, and in...
Texture and Colour – Heian Shrine Kyoto
Gravel, Bark on Pine tree, red lacquered wood, brass, bamboo, rope, folded paper, ceramic tiles... All combined in a uniquely Japanese composition. Photo taken at Heian Shrine, Kyoto January 2012.
Geek Heaven
In Tokyo, the place to go and take your fill of electronics, gadgets, hobbies, games and cosplay is a district called Akihabara (often abbreviated as Akiba). Located around a major multi-storey local rail crossroads station, it is easy to access...
Public bath – bathing suits may not be worn.
Public bath experience Try this arty public bath house 銭湯 (sento) is located on the tiny island of Naoshima, about 2.5 hrs by train and ferry from Osaka. Jims Japan regularly takes travelers to this art-themed island. Bathing is segregated by...
Firefly wall
This unique patterned wall was found at the preserved home of 17th century Haiku poet Kyorai Mukai. Located in a quiet area of Arashiyama, Kyoto, with rice paddies nearby, the home and its garden is well worth a visit for an introduction to...