When I started planning my trip to Japan this year, I had no specific plans in mind of extravagant Michelin starred dining. While I was interested in experiencing another starred sushi experience in Tokyo, I couldn’t find a hotel concierge who was willing to help me make reservations, and seeing that’s how it’s usually done … Continue reading
After seeing the masses of tourists on my first day in Kyoto, I realized I would have to quickly change my plans if I was going to find the moments of zen I was looking for during my few solo days in Japan. I had planned on visiting some temples in Kyoto and going to … Continue reading
Kyoto, in my mind, is a magical city. Since I was a child, I remember visiting Kyoto and being awed by its beautiful temples and gardens and of course being wooed by its wonderful food. I visit Kyoto each time I’m in Japan, yet I feel I have only scratched the surface of it. My … Continue reading
I’m back in Japan for what I always think of, in my mind, as my roots trips. It’s funny though, because for as many times as I’ve been to Japan in my life, each trip always starts with a certain amount of anxiety amidst my anticipation for awesomeness. Perhaps it’s because of my basic understanding … Continue reading
When I made my food itinerary for Japan, it wasn’t with Michelin stars in mind. I’ve eaten a lot of great food in Japan, but on this trip, I wanted to experience the “best” sushi, tempura, yakitori and kaiseki to see if what people considered the best, tasted that much better than very good or … Continue reading
I’ve had Ippudo ramen on my radar for over 4 years. It’s been sitting on my “to try” list since I read that it’s one of the best ramen in New York City. But on my first, and then subsequent visits to NYC, I haven’t visited because it’s never been convenient and I haven’t been … Continue reading
Heading back to Kyoto to start my weekend of family festivities, which was the main purpose of my visit to Japan. As I mentioned in a previous post, my dad’s side of the family puts together a family reunion, led by my Great Uncle Arthur, every few years. In his latter years, he’s trying to … Continue reading
