Issue 05

‘In the spring a frog’s fancy lightly turns to thoughts of love?’ Well, perhaps Tennyson never mentioned frogs, but never mind...

This month I talked to The Avalanches, the chart-toppers from Down Under, just after returning from a trip to Australia where I m...

Ingredients KimuchiPackaged Rice MisoSoy Sauce Among the favorite foods of people in Japan are certain kinds of Japanes...

It’s probably still cold as you read this, but spring is just around the corner. Here’s a suggestion for good beer in an expansive...

How do you define “trip memories?” For me, it’s the scenery and the food, strong winds in your face and the long hike up sun-scor...

Owner, Powder House Lodge & Hakuba Real Estate Michael Baker arrived in Japan from his native Australia 12 years ago t...

I’ve done some climbing. I’ve been cold, hungry and scared, but my first climb in The People’s Republic was all that, with some r...

The practice of hanami is centuries old, starting during the Nara Period (710-784) and is said to have been influenced by the Chi...

Essential gear Large (blue) Tarp: It’s primal. You must mark your space. Bonus: Masking tape, X marks the spot. (Real) Beer: Only...

"I wish to die under a cherry blossom tree, In full bloom under a full moon in spring." ~ Saigyo Before you can truly experienc...

“Clack, clack, clack.” The echoes of our footsteps bounce back from the walls. The atmosphere of this place strangely brings to m...