Day: June 15, 2023
Master of Japanese mystery novels: Edogawa Rampo
About a five-minute walk from the JR Ikebukuro Station, on the outskirts of Rikkyo Univerisity’s campus, is the location of the former residence of Edogawa Rampo. The building has been converted into a museum for students studying popular culture to collect resources for scholarly projects. The Edogawa Rampo Memorial Center for the Study of Popular […]
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A royal day in Kyoto
Day eight was a decadent experience for the team. We visited the Kyoto Imperial Palace, Nijo Castle and attended a traditional tea ceremony before attending our official farewell dinner. Impressive Kyoto Imperial Palace Our first stop was the Kyoto Imperial Palace. The wide and rocky pathways at this palace are rich with history from the […]
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Shibuya Crossing: the busiest crosswalk in the world
Shibuya Crossing, also known as Shibuya Scramble Crossing, is a famous pedestrian intersection located in Shibuya, Tokyo. It holds significant cultural and symbolic value for several reasons. For visitors who want to experience the vibrant youth culture of Japan, Shiuya Crossing is the place to be. With colorful personas of cosplay, trend-setting fashion and shops […]
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How to get lost in the wonders of Don Quijote
Amongst the city lights of Tokyo lies Don Quijote, the famous retail store that offers an array of products. Don Quijote greets customers with a vibrant interior that keeps true to its private brand, “Jonetz (Jonetsu Kakaku),” which stems from the idea of “giving shape to the thrill and excitement of our customers.” Open […]
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Tokyo’s urban oases
Along with its stunning architecture, elaborate subway systems, and beautiful historic sites, visitors to Japan are bound to experience breaks in the mold of the city. One of the most notable—and definitely the prettiest—of these changes of pace are the immense green spaces in the city. Inside one of the busiest cities in the world, […]
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A foreigner’s guide to Tokyo
When visiting Japan, it can be a journey filled with personal growth and many opportunities. Navigating through cities like Tokyo is very accessible and allows for tourists to have an adventure traveling to temples, shrines or to monumental destinations like Mount Fuji! Immersing fully into the land and culture in Japan is what being a […]
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Let’s talk about safety, Tokyo style!
The Ikebukuro Life Safety Learning Center, located in the center of Tokyo, is a tribute to Japan’s ongoing dedication to disaster preparedness and public safety. Visitors are invited to go on an educational adventure that enlightens, encourages and inspires everyone to be better prepared for unexpected events. Patrick Grainger, a Texas State alum, serves […]
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Goshuinchō: capturing spiritual journeys in Japan
In a bustling cityscape filled with technological wonders, Japan’s rich cultural heritage remains prevalent. Amidst the vibrant city streets, there are countless temples and shrines that offer a tranquil escape and connection to centuries-old traditions. Exploring these sacred sites is a popular attraction for both locals and tourists alike. An essential companion on these journeys […]
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Tokyo trains: navigating the urban labyrinth
In the bustling metropolis of Tokyo, where millions of people navigate the urban labyrinth on a daily basis, the subway and train system emerges as a lifeline that seamlessly connects the city’s diverse neighborhoods. Beyond its practical role in transportation, Tokyo trains and subways have evolved into an iconic symbol of efficiency, convenience and cultural […]
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Beyond borders: Japan’s cultural etiquette compared to America’s
When arriving in Japan, one may experience a bit of culture shock adjusting to the country’s customs and norms. Japanese culture is highly focused on being reserved, which is quite different from the United States. In America, one can expect loudness, uncleanliness, and at times, utter chaos. While Japan can be chaotic, especially considering the […]
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