Snow, freely fallen
Sugidama in winter
nihonshu colours
Haiku 008
Oubaitori Life: Saitama
Oubaitori Life is a series that celebrates the richness of Japanese philosophy. It follows the lives of different characters and how they would apply Japanese concepts to their daily routines. One-Punch Man’s Saitama has many reasons for forming a specific routine that works for him. Determined to fight an opponent that matches his strength, Saitama suffers from severe depression.
But through adhering to certain principles, Saitama can find ways to manage his depression and improve his mental health. Continue reading “Oubaitori Life: Saitama”
Could Mental Health First Aid Catch On In Japan?
Mental health is perceived in different ways all over the world. In Japan, mental health has long held the association of being taboo. Yet people working themselves to death is commonplace, while younger generations are feeling more pressure to enter a lifetime of work.
However, in recent years, attitudes towards mental health in Japan have started to improve. More people are going to counselling services and openly recognising disorders like depression and PTSD as illnesses. As acceptance around mental health grows in Japan, a discipline that could be very beneficial in the future is mental health first aid (MHFA). Continue reading “Could Mental Health First Aid Catch On In Japan?”
An Open Call For Guest Writers In Yamato Magazine
Since starting Yamato Magazine, one of the most rewarding aspects has been interacting with like-minded people. Blogging is an amazing way of connecting with others from all over the world. The interest in Japanese culture only seems to be growing. That’s why Yamato Magazine is open to collaborating with other writers who are passionate about Japan. Want to build your writing portfolio or have a niche Japanese topic to talk about? You’ve come to the right place! Continue reading “An Open Call For Guest Writers In Yamato Magazine”
Would You Try A Pizza Topped With Ramen? (I Have And It’s Awesome)
There are few foods in the world that are as universally accepted as pizza. From the humble Margarita to the tried and tested Hawaiian, the annals of pizza history are as hallowed as the toppings. Some prefer classic variations, while others like their food to be more creative. But how would you feel about biting into a pizza that was topped with ramen noodles? Crazy? Epic? Or just downright delicious? Such a pizza does exist. Enter the Japanese inspired Send Noodz. Continue reading “Would You Try A Pizza Topped With Ramen? (I Have And It’s Awesome)”
The Kokoro Files: Erin Niimi Longhurst
An author, blogger and cook, Erin has built up a reputation for her Japan-centric content. I had the pleasure of chatting to her about the inspiration behind her lifestyle book, Japonisme. Read on to learn about how Erin’s relationship with her grandfather helped her create the book and why Japanese philosophy can be good for mental health. Continue reading “The Kokoro Files: Erin Niimi Longhurst”
Shiranami Kuro Shochu Review: Mild, Sweet And Memorable
Japanese culture has a unique identity, and that goes for Japanese sake as well. Ever since discovering shochu, I’ve been making my way through different blends. No shochu is ever the same as the last one. That comes down to the level of craftmanship from the people in the sake breweries who pour their heart and soul into the work.
The most recent shochu I’ve tried is Shiranami kuro (black). From the first sip I knew it had a distinctive flavour that set it apart from other kinds of sake. Continue reading “Shiranami Kuro Shochu Review: Mild, Sweet And Memorable”
Haiku 007
To be a ronin
is to walk a winding road
of personal truth
Celebrating World Sake Day 2019
There are certain days throughout the year that bring excitement. Birthdays, Christmas and holidays come to mind. And then there are more obscure events like World Sake Day. Held every year on the 1st October, World Sake day celebrates Japanese alcohol. Having developed a taste for sake in 2019, this is the first time I’m celebrating it. Continue reading “Celebrating World Sake Day 2019”
Top Collection Bronze Samurai Figurine Review
Samurai have earned a reputation for being honourable and stoic warriors. They have come to represent the spirit of Japan. Portrayed across countless mediums, the image of the samurai has fascinated scholars, writers and fans of popular culture.
I count myself among the people who are interested in the history of the samurai. And everything they represent has been captured beautifully by figurine manufacturer Top Collection. The company’s bronze samurai figurine is highly detailed and evocative. Continue reading “Top Collection Bronze Samurai Figurine Review”
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