Author: Editor
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History of Kamogawa Nouryou Yuka Verandas
One of the famous features of Kyoto is the summertime “Nouryou Yuka” verandas at restaurants and bars along the Kamo River. There is nothing particularly ornate about most of the wooden platforms, and it IS still hot out there despite the breeze, but there is something civilized and genteel, a sense of refinement, about dining…
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Why is Kyoto’s Left Ward on the right, and Right Ward on the left?
Kyoto is divided into districts called “ku”, usually translated as “ward”. So, in addition to having a city hall, there are ward offices, which is where we go to handle national health insurance and various other clerical matters. Experience Kyoto’s office is in “Sakyo-ku”, with the “Sa” part of the name meaning “left”, as in…
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Mamoru Ichimura -Traditional Wood Block Printer
Just outside the southern gate of Kyoto’s oldest Zen temple, Kenninji, you may have come upon a small “museum” selling replicas of classic, old woodblock prints by the masters. However, it is not the traditional old houses that first grabs your attention but the sign with bold, black lettering in English advertising his business hours.…
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A True Samurai Experience
The sword wielding samurai as seen in the many Akira Kurosawa movies is a one of the most prominent images of Japan. Although the days of these great warriors have long gone, the sprint of the sword has not and the practice of “Iaido” (the art of drawing, cutting and sheathing of the sword) is…
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Some notes on Japanese Etiquette
When traveling, people sometimes leave their common sense at their hometown airport to be picked up when they return home. You may be on holiday but this does not excuse rude behavior Japan is a G8 country and prices are comparable to those of the other countries. The Golden Rule Always ask yourself, “Would I…
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Tempura Endo Yasaka
This restaurant, which has become a chain of restaurants stretching to Beverly Hills, is among the most famous Kyoto establishments, and and exquisite experience. Endo’s take on tempura is tied to kaiseki ryōri (traditional multicourse cuisine): the meal moves through a series of carefully considered courses, with a focus on seasonal ingredients. It’s exquisite, expensive and extensive…