I’ve seen a lot of calendars in different countries and weekends and holidays are in red marks. Only in Japan (OIJ) that holidays are called “aka karenda” (red calendar). When my students discuss dates, I often hear them say, “It’s a red calendar for …
As we are celebrating International Women’s Day today, I’d like to express my deep respect and admiration to my host country’s women. I’m really fascinated by their strength and elegance and the way they carry themselves when they wear their traditional costume, kimono …
When I taught at Fujiya Company through the introduction of the YMCA, I was so impressed by how the employees were preparing for its 100th year anniversary. Actually, I was so surprised at how the company can stay that long. …
As I eat my late dinner tonight, I thought of the many OIJs that I have to write this month. To digest well what I’m eating, I munch and write and chew and type down the OIJs and they exceeded 31! So I …
Today marks the 8th year anniversary of the Great East Japan Earthquake and Tsunami. At 2:46 PM, the Japanese people stand up wherever they are and offer silent prayers for the victims of the natural disaster. It’s the time the …
What a joy and privilege to teach a 7-dan female karate instructor, who co-owns with her 8-dan master karate instructor-husband around 20 “dojo” (schools) in West Tokyo! I actually learned a lot about this OIJ (Original in Japan) sport in our classes for more …
In the early 1990s, I lived in the Ward area of Tokyo where “sumo” wrestlers were a common site for me. On the train platform, even I closed my eyes, I knew the sumo wrestlers were coming because of the sound of …
Have you ever been to a Japanese garden? Its beauty is in its simplicity and serenity. Blessed to live near the Showa Memorial Park where at least 2 areas are focused on the Japanese Garden and Bonsai Garden. The arrangements …
https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2019/03/23/national/planning-new-visas-faces-delays/#.XJZa1KtaW9A.link