meetup drink

New Ways of Working and the Casual Job-Searching Approach of Young People in Japan

2024/4/5

The outbreak of the coronavirus has led many companies to introduce remote work. This has not only changed the way we work but also how we think about where we work. Especially among young employees in their 20s and 30s, moving to rural areas to work remotely is becoming a trend. People are choosing to leave behind the high cost of living and dense populations of urban areas to work in nature-rich regions. This trend is underpinned by the values of young people who prioritize quality of life. In rural areas, they can enjoy larger living spaces and value their time with hobbies and family more. Additionally, support measures from local governments for relocation are encouraging this trend. By creating environments suitable for telework, the governments are promoting the influx of diverse talents, including young people, aiming for regional revitalization. However, this trend comes with challenges. Not all rural areas have environments suitable for remote work, and some places lack adequate internet infrastructure. Moreover, moving to a rural area does not guarantee seamless integration into the local community, necessitating efforts in communication and relationship-building with locals. The trend of utilizing remote work for relocation to rural areas is a notable movement as the diversity of workstyles broadens. It symbolizes the attitude of young people who seek a better quality of life and a richer life, beyond just changing their workplace. Nonetheless, supporting this new way of working and living requires addressing various challenges, such as improving rural infrastructure and communication with the community. How these ...

ReadMore

australia working

Young Japanese Flock to Australian Working Holidays; Dreaming of Earning 500,000 Yen a Month in Labor Jobs

2024/3/31

Young people are increasingly passionate about gaining work experience abroad, and working holidays are becoming a popular way to achieve this. Despite age and stay limitations, the allure of earning while living in a foreign country remains unchanged. However, what has changed is the amount they can earn, often surpassing the average starting salary for new graduates in Japan. Recently, I came across an article about a young Japanese woman working in a meat processing plant in Australia, dealing with lamb. She was drawn to the job by the promise of a stable, high income. With a monthly income of about 500,000 yen, she works fewer hours and earns more than she would in Japan, significantly exceeding the average salary for new graduates. She dreams of running her own gymnastics gym. Though not initially fluent in English, she believes that working in Australia will help her realize her dream. Currently, she's focused on saving money, extending her visa, buying cars, and increasing her savings. The working holiday has become a new option for Japanese individuals. Australia, being one of the countries that accept the most Japanese for working holidays, has seen a record number of visa issuances. Applications for study abroad and working holidays have surged, making jobs in urban areas of Australia hard to come by. One of the attractions is the high minimum wage, about twice that of Tokyo's. The high minimum wage in Australia, around 2,250 yen compared to Tokyo's 1,113 yen per hour, is particularly appealing. With recent exchange rate fluctuations, ...

ReadMore

maslow change job

Self-Analysis and Job-hunting: Utilizing Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs Theory

2024/3/2

Job changes are more than just switching workplaces; they profoundly impact our lives. Job hunting can be considered a journey towards achieving our fullest potential. Previously, we discussed how self-analysis is the initial step in job hunting. This article offers advice to those contemplating a career change, guiding them through Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs Theory. Let's explore how to build the ideal career while satisfying our inner desires, inspired by insights from marketing. Why Change Job? A career change provides a chance to fulfill all of Maslow's basic human needs, from physiological needs to self-actualization. Through job changes, we seek better pay, a stable work environment, a welcoming community, enhanced self-esteem, and ultimately, self-actualization. For instance, someone might seek a job change for financial stability, while another person may desire better workplace relationships or opportunities for career advancement and skill development. These motivations reflect our inner desires and vary based on individual values. This article aims to help you understand your needs and make informed decisions based on them. By understanding Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs, you can navigate your path toward self-actualization more clearly. Understanding the Connection Between Job Changes and Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs Maslow categorized human desires into five levels: physiological needs, safety needs, belonging and love needs, esteem needs, and self-actualization needs. He suggested that satisfying one level of need increases the desire to fulfill the next level. When considering a job change, analyzing these needs can be a significant part of self-analysis. Source: ThoughtCo Physiological Needs: Some consider job changes to ...

ReadMore

20代の転職

First Job Change in Your 20's in Japan: Successful Career Advancement

2024/2/24

People in their 20s making a career change might find many things confusing since it could be their first time. The job changing in this age is particularly crucial for their future career, so it's natural to proceed cautiously. Considering the future career path, choosing where to move, and how to self-promote are common concerns. This is a path that everyone undergoing a job change must overcome. Changing jobs in your 20s is a significant step in the early stages of your career. The 20s can be considered the starting line of one's career. There are opportunities to venture into unexplored fields, and by experiencing various job types and industries, one can find a career that suits them. In this sense, job change in the 20s can be seen as a self-improvement opportunity and an investment in the future. Therefore, common reasons for changing jobs in 20s include candidates feeling that the direction of the current company makes it difficult to realize what they want to do or experiencing a sense of stagnation in growth. There's also a desire to challenge oneself in global-scale foreign companies. Many individuals in their 20s look forward to enhancing their skills in jobs that involve more dynamic aspects, envisioning their future careers in international business fields. To make a job change in your 20s successful, it's crucial to analyze your skills and experiences and conduct self-analysis thoroughly. It's important to proceed without rushing which means avoiding comparing oneself with others. Sometimes, it's good to pause for self-improvement, like reading ...

ReadMore

scammers

Online is convenient but, be careful with scammer's tactics

2024/2/12

When interactions online increase and living abroad becomes more common, you may find yourself more frequently encountering situations suspecting fraud. Additionally, while online platforms have made it easier to form romantic relationships and friendships, scammers are also exploiting these opportunities. Be cautious, they attempt to deceive you through various schemes. Fraudulent groups justify their actions and exploit people's trust to cause harm. So, whose responsibility is it? Those who initiate scams participate in their game, justifying anything they do and claiming that the deceived ones are to be blamed. Eventually exploits ignorance, placing all responsibility on the victims.Ask victims to shoulder all responsibilities. I have personal experience of being harmed by someone I met online in the past. I recognize that it was my ignorance that caused and to be blamed. I would like to share this to raise more awareness to avoid falling for scams,and hopefully, be connected with someone who has a similar experience. Unless you have built a long-term relationship of trust, you should not trust any user. Some may spend time building trust before making fraudulent requests. It's always necessary to be vigilant. Scammers will create fake profiles and photos to deceive you. They may claim to be from an English-speaking country or to have lived abroad and offer help. It's important to find any inconsistencies in their English or the content of their conversations. Common Online Dating Scam Tactics ・Introducing cryptocurrency investment platforms promising high returns, urging you to deposit money into fake websites. Initially, they make it appear as ...

ReadMore

finding job in Japan

How Foreign Residents in Japan Can Find New Jobs

2024/2/8

If you're a native English speaker, one option you might first consider when coming to Japan to find a job is becoming an English teacher. The role of the teacher is to engage in teaching students in language schools or public schools, where you'll be responsible for everything from preparing lessons to grading homework and providing feedback on their study. Additionally, if you're teaching at a language school, you might need to engage in sales activities to find clients. This could involve seeking out individuals interested in learning English through connections and community, and even for some schools, distributing flyers in front of train stations is expected. Despite the demanding tasks and high pressure from the school, sometimes foreigners may think it is insufficient salaries. Teaching English can be an accessible path for foreigners looking to start their lives in Japan and could serve as a gateway to working in Japan, however, one needs to be reminded that it can be challenging to continue in the long-term. Before searching for a job in Japan, ensure you meet the following criteria for a work visa: ・Having relevant career experience or a job history.・Holding a bachelor's degree.・Residing in Japan.・Being fluent in Japanese (having JLPT N2 certification is beneficial). Even if you don't meet these criteria above, candidates interested in applying for jobs in the IT industry can also attend programming schools to learn coding languages like Python or JavaScript in about three months. Acquiring these popular programming skills can significantly enhance your employability. Selling Yourself with Resumes ...

ReadMore

公認英文レジュメライター one high touch

CPRW: the Certified Professional Resume Writer Examination

2024/2/5

CPRW stands for Certified Professional Resume Writer, denoting a certified expert in crafting English resumes. This certification, issued by the Professional Association of Resume Writers & Career Coaches, validates the specialization and skills in resume writing. Founded in 1990, this organization provides a platform for career professionals to enhance their skills and exchange information to offer high-quality services to job seekers. This article discusses the examination process with my personal experience. Creating an English resume requires the ability to extract necessary information from clients through interviews, knowledge of effective design and structure, and the writing skills to engage the reader. Additionally, it's crucial to illustrate why a client is the best choice for a company by answering the question, "Why should this company hire this candidate?". The CPRW certification process includes studying a learning guide provided after online registration. After choosing an exam date, candidates are given fictional client information on the day of the exam and must complete and submit a resume within three days. The resume should be printed on high-quality paper chosen, accompanied by an English cover letter, and sent via international post. The learning guide also covers essential aspects of resume writing, such as grammar, punctuation, formatting, selecting key data, and the importance of layout and creativity. The use of marketing strategies to effectively introduce a candidate's qualifications and achievements is also evaluated. Notification of pass or fail is communicated via email at a later date by the association. Successful candidates can then register as members on the online portal, where ...

ReadMore

resume

Opening Doors to Foreign Companies: A Guide to Writing Effective English Resumes

2024/2/5

An English resume is a valuable marketing tool that connects you with a company. There is no specific design or format mandated for English resumes.While content is most important, it's also crucial to pay attention to the design and page layout preferred by recruiters. English resume is required for job changes to foreign companies or studying abroad. In this article, we introduce effective writing techniques from the perspective of a certified public resume writer. When considering a job change, let's discuss how to maximize the use of your resume and strategize to create materials that recruiters want to read. Let's trace the history of the English resume. In 1482, a letter written by Leonardo da Vinci to the monarch of Milan, Italy, to market himself is considered the first resume in Western countries. He wrote a letter to the monarch including 11 points seeking employment. This document is similar to the format of modern resumes and cover letters. Da Vinci used a humble tone to list his skills and capabilities (Open Culture). Early resumes were used as letters of introduction. This period in Japan was in the Muromachi era, with the Kamakura shogunate established and a government centered around the warrior class. Later, in 1549, Francis Xavier landed in Kagoshima to spread Christianity as a Christian missionary. The First Industrial Revolution began in England around 1733. At this time, the employment of skilled workers and artisans with special skills was declining. It seems there were individuals with unique skills who used resumes at that time, ...

ReadMore

道後温泉本館

Encountering Japan's Oldest Hot Spring: Dogo Onsen Honkan

2024/2/4

Dogo Onsen, located in Matsuyama City, Ehime Prefecture in Japan's Shikoku region, is one of the oldest hot springs in Japan. The hot spring water that emerges from Dogo Onsen is said to be the oldest in Japan, having a history of three thousand years. It appears in ancient documents such as the "Nihon Shoki" (Chronicles of Japan) and "The Tale of Genji," and is famous for its many legends, including one about Prince Shotoku bathing there during the Asuka period (552-645). This area, steeped in history and culture, has been beloved by many literary figures and artists since ancient times. Natsume Soseki is famous for having bathed here, and it served as the setting for his popular novel "Botchan", which is also used in the Japanese school textbook. As a result, the hot spring became widely known. Additionally, Dogo Onsen Honkan is said to have inspired the bathhouse in the Studio Ghibli film "Spirited Away." Dogo Onsen Honkan is not a ryokan (or Japanese Style Hotel), but a wooden public bathhouse built in 1894. It is designated as an Important Cultural Property of the country, and its beautiful wooden architecture and traditional Japanese hot spring culture have made it beloved by many tourists. There is a sign at the entrance of the main building indicating the congestion level, and it is recommended to visit during less crowded times as it may not be possible to bathe during busy periods. The building is a three-story wooden structure, and when I visited, only the first floor ...

ReadMore

白川郷

Experience the Spirit of Old Japan in Shirakawa-go's Gassho-style Houses

2024/2/4

Shirakawa-go is a region located in the northern part of Gifu Prefecture, in the central region of Japan. This area is popular for its beautiful traditional houses, especially known for their unique architectural style called "Gassho-zukuri." The history of Shirakawa-go can be traced back to the Heian period (794-1185). The Gassho-zukuri houses are designed to protect the homes from the harsh winter snow, named for their roofs that resemble hands joined in prayer. Below is some key points highlighting this architectural style; Roof Structure: The most notable feature of Gassho-zukuri is its thick, steeply sloped thatched roofs. These roofs are designed to withstand heavy snowfall, allowing snow to slide off easily during winter. Materials: These houses are primarily built using timber and thatch. The use of these natural materials contributes to the beautiful landscape, blending the houses into surrounding nature. Multipurpose Use: Inside the house, the space is typically used for various purposes, including living areas, farming tasks, and silk production. The attic is often used to dry agricultural products. Durability: Gassho-zukuri houses are known for their durability, based on architectural techniques that succeeded through centuries. These houses are built to withstand the harsh winter conditions. The traditional Gassho-zukuri houses in Shirakawa-go are constructed without using any nails. The structure supports the large roof by interlocking timber, with a steep slope to protect the house from heavy snow. This architectural style ensures durability and strength by using only timber and special techniques to interlock the wood without nails, thereby supporting the structure through skillful wood ...

ReadMore

Language Switcher

resume
Opening Doors to Foreign Companies: A Guide to Writing Effective English Resumes

2024/2/5  

An English resume is a valuable marketing tool that connects you with a company. There is no specific design or format mandated for English resumes.While content is most important, it's also crucial to pay attention to the design and page layout preferred by recruiters. English resume is required for job changes to foreign companies or studying abroad. In this article, we introduce effective writing techniques from the perspective of a certified public resume writer. When considering a job change, let's discuss how to maximize the use of your resume and ...

道後温泉本館
Encountering Japan's Oldest Hot Spring: Dogo Onsen Honkan

2024/2/4  

Dogo Onsen, located in Matsuyama City, Ehime Prefecture in Japan's Shikoku region, is one of the oldest hot springs in Japan. The hot spring water that emerges from Dogo Onsen is said to be the oldest in Japan, having a history of three thousand years. It appears in ancient documents such as the "Nihon Shoki" (Chronicles of Japan) and "The Tale of Genji," and is famous for its many legends, including one about Prince Shotoku bathing there during the Asuka period (552-645). This area, steeped in history and culture, has ...

expatriates_jp
Navigating Japanese Culture and Basic Manners

2024/1/29  

In response to the recent rise in the number of foreign visitors and immigrants to Japan, it is important to understand and respect each other's manners, especially when living and working together. What is common in Japan might seem rude or unusual to foreigners. We are here to cherish this aspect. Dining Manners Table manners and food consumption vary from country to country. Food is a delightful way to bring people together, as Japanese, we inherit manners from our past and remember this heritage. We take joy in our food ...

scammers

2024/2/12

Online is convenient but, be careful with scammer's tactics

When interactions online increase and living abroad becomes more common, you may find yourself more frequently encountering situations suspecting fraud. Additionally, while online platforms have made it easier to form romantic relationships and friendships, scammers are also exploiting these opportunities. Be cautious, they attempt to deceive you through various schemes. Fraudulent groups justify their actions and exploit people's trust to cause harm. So, whose responsibility is it? Those who initiate scams participate in their game, justifying anything they do and claiming that the deceived ones are to be blamed. Eventually exploits ignorance, placing all responsibility on the victims.Ask victims to shoulder all responsibilities. I have personal experience of being harmed by someone I met online in the past. I recognize that it was my ignorance that caused and to be blamed. I would like to share this to raise more awareness to avoid falling for scams,and hopefully, be connected with someone who has a similar experience. Unless you have built a long-term relationship of trust, you should not trust any user. Some may spend time building trust before making fraudulent requests. It's always necessary to be vigilant. Scammers will create fake profiles and photos to deceive you. They may claim to be from an English-speaking country or to have lived abroad and offer help. It's important to find any inconsistencies in their English or the content of their conversations. Common Online Dating Scam Tactics ・Introducing cryptocurrency investment platforms promising high returns, urging you to deposit money into fake websites. Initially, they make it appear as ...

Read More

wise-eye-catch

2024/2/2

Wise Connects Globally: 13 Million Users Worldwide Choose It for Its Speed and Affordability! Trusted International Money Transfers

When you're sending money overseas, you likely want to keep the transfer fees as low as possible. You might also be interested in checking the actual exchange rate to see what the final amount you'll receive is. If this sounds like you, this article will introduce you to Wise (formerly known as TransferWise), a service that makes international transfers truly convenient. Wise (previously known as TransferWise) is a global money transfer service that stands out for its speed and low cost, boasting 13 million users worldwide. Founded in 2011 by two ex-Skype and Deloitte consultants, Wise has its headquarters in London and offices around the world. The founders created a unique peer-to-peer (P2P) transfer model that allows for faster, cheaper, and more transparent international money transfers than traditional banks. One of the main benefits of using Wise is that it uses the real exchange rate for transfers, meaning users don't have to worry about hidden fees and can check the exchange rate at the time of transfer. This makes Wise an attractive option for those looking to save on transfer costs. It also provides a clear overview of the transfer process, including how long it will take for the money to arrive. Wise has expanded its services to offer a broader range of financial products, including multi-currency accounts for both individuals and businesses. Users can hold, exchange, and send money in over 50 currencies with a multi-currency account. Additionally, the Wise debit card allows for easy payments worldwide, including ATM withdrawals during international travels, offering ...

Read More

diversity Japan

2024/1/19

Exploring Food Diversity: Special Diets in Japan

In every shared special diet, there is a story that connects people. When it comes to uniting individuals, food serves as the most delicious common ground. Embrace a world where dietary preferences are not only respected but celebrated. It is about honoring your choices and creating exceptional dining experiences. In this article, we embark on a journey through the diverse world of special diets with a focus on Veganism, Kosher, Halal, and more. Vegan Diet A person who does not consume any food derived from animals is known as a vegan. This means they avoid any products produced by animals, such as eggs and milk (which are derived from cows). Vegans also refrain from eating fish or shellfish. It seems that the vegan population is steadily growing as more people voice concerns about meat safety and advocate for animal welfare. Number of visitors to Japan from the top 20 countries by country region ratio (2018) Country NamePercentage India28%Taiwan14%Germany10%Canada9%Singapore7%Italy7%Thailand5%Philippines5%United Kingdom5%Souce: Tourism Agency According to research conducted by the Japan Tourism Agency, the number of vegetarian and similar travelers in 2018 was approximately 1.67 million, constituting 5.4% of the total visitors to Japan, which reached 31.19 million in 2018. If you're searching for vegan restaurants in Japan, we recommend using the world's largest vegetarian and vegan restaurant research app, "Happy Cow." As of August 2021, there were a total of 2,687 registered restaurants in Japan. Notably, this number increased by 350 establishments compared to 2020. Explore the diverse culinary landscape and savor a variety of plant-based options ...

Read More

soccer

2024/1/16

Captain Tsubasa and NFT: A Global Anime and Manga Phenomenon

Captain Tsubasa is not just an ordinary anime; it's a global sensation. Being broadcasted in over 50 countries, and with manga sales exceeding 90 million, it has influenced many fans including soccer stars. The original creator of Captain Tsubasa, Youichi Takahashi, started the soccer boom in Japan. The manga was first appeared in Weekly Shonen Jump in 1980. The anime was then created and aired internationally, promoting not only Japan’s pop culture but also spreading the wishes for world peace. Unfortunately, the series will end in April 2024, but its legacy will continue as long as fans cherish the story. In this article, we discuss the manga's global impact and introduce a new NFT project related to Captain Tsubasa. Captain Tsubasa in Europe and South America ©︎Youichi Takahashi / Shueisha Europe and South America are known for advanced soccer nations and their prowess. Captain Tsubasa has been an inspiration for global soccer legends like Lionel Messi and Zinedine Zidane, Alessandro Del Piero, and Fernando Torres, among others. In the player's interview, they commented that they grew up watching anime and reading manga, which is full of unique moves and dramatic soccer actions (Iwamoto 2024). This inspired them to replicate those moves in real life. There are deep connections between Captain Tsubasa and world-famous top players. The manga portrays a deep love for soccer and additionally shows how passionate the portrayal of sports can be through the unique special moves of the character. These top soccer players are fantasists, who adore the world fans with their ...

Read More

bitcoin

2024/1/14

Unlocking Blockchain and Our New Possible Opportunities: Web 3.0 and Blockchain

Every day the world is rapidly changing and we are constantly hearing about new developments. We are on the brink of something huge, a new global shift is just around the corner. I am excited to share my insights and thoughts about technology. I am particularly fascinated by what the future holds. I've been researching about blockchain technology extensively, and its possible effects on how we might live in the future. Most of us who use the internet have probably heard about cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin. Yet, not everyone understands what they are, how they function, and their significance. I confess that I used to view them mainly as a form of investment, often to speculation or gambling, which could either be thrilling or disappointing. Moreover, due to the nature of immersion in new technology, there are many scams and thus surrounded by risks. But there's more to it than that. Hopefully. When the time comes, we should know better about blockchain technology. In this article, I would like to unlock a new opportunity and share basic knowledge about blockchain technology. What is Blockchain? Blockchain is a game-changer, revolutionary technology with wide-ranging applications across various industries. One of its most notable achievements is the creation of cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin. To get started, let's break down with a simple finance example. Blockchain enables the existence of a new currency, which is called cryptocurrency. Take Bitcoin, for instance, the most famous cryptocurrency, is born from blockchain. Like traditional currencies such as the US dollar, Bitcoin is a medium ...

Read More

maslow change job

2024/3/2

Self-Analysis and Job-hunting: Utilizing Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs Theory

Job changes are more than just switching workplaces; they profoundly impact our lives. Job hunting can be considered a journey towards achieving our fullest potential. Previously, we discussed how self-analysis is the initial step in job hunting. This article offers advice to those contemplating a career change, guiding them through Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs Theory. Let's explore how to build the ideal career while satisfying our inner desires, inspired by insights from marketing. Why Change Job? A career change provides a chance to fulfill all of Maslow's basic human needs, from physiological needs to self-actualization. Through job changes, we seek better pay, a stable work environment, a welcoming community, enhanced self-esteem, and ultimately, self-actualization. For instance, someone might seek a job change for financial stability, while another person may desire better workplace relationships or opportunities for career advancement and skill development. These motivations reflect our inner desires and vary based on individual values. This article aims to help you understand your needs and make informed decisions based on them. By understanding Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs, you can navigate your path toward self-actualization more clearly. Understanding the Connection Between Job Changes and Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs Maslow categorized human desires into five levels: physiological needs, safety needs, belonging and love needs, esteem needs, and self-actualization needs. He suggested that satisfying one level of need increases the desire to fulfill the next level. When considering a job change, analyzing these needs can be a significant part of self-analysis. Source: ThoughtCo Physiological Needs: Some consider job changes to ...

もっと見る

finding job in Japan

2024/2/8

How Foreign Residents in Japan Can Find New Jobs

If you're a native English speaker, one option you might first consider when coming to Japan to find a job is becoming an English teacher. The role of the teacher is to engage in teaching students in language schools or public schools, where you'll be responsible for everything from preparing lessons to grading homework and providing feedback on their study. Additionally, if you're teaching at a language school, you might need to engage in sales activities to find clients. This could involve seeking out individuals interested in learning English through connections and community, and even for some schools, distributing flyers in front of train stations is expected. Despite the demanding tasks and high pressure from the school, sometimes foreigners may think it is insufficient salaries. Teaching English can be an accessible path for foreigners looking to start their lives in Japan and could serve as a gateway to working in Japan, however, one needs to be reminded that it can be challenging to continue in the long-term. Before searching for a job in Japan, ensure you meet the following criteria for a work visa: ・Having relevant career experience or a job history.・Holding a bachelor's degree.・Residing in Japan.・Being fluent in Japanese (having JLPT N2 certification is beneficial). Even if you don't meet these criteria above, candidates interested in applying for jobs in the IT industry can also attend programming schools to learn coding languages like Python or JavaScript in about three months. Acquiring these popular programming skills can significantly enhance your employability. Selling Yourself with Resumes ...

もっと見る

道後温泉本館

2024/2/4

Encountering Japan's Oldest Hot Spring: Dogo Onsen Honkan

Dogo Onsen, located in Matsuyama City, Ehime Prefecture in Japan's Shikoku region, is one of the oldest hot springs in Japan. The hot spring water that emerges from Dogo Onsen is said to be the oldest in Japan, having a history of three thousand years. It appears in ancient documents such as the "Nihon Shoki" (Chronicles of Japan) and "The Tale of Genji," and is famous for its many legends, including one about Prince Shotoku bathing there during the Asuka period (552-645). This area, steeped in history and culture, has been beloved by many literary figures and artists since ancient times. Natsume Soseki is famous for having bathed here, and it served as the setting for his popular novel "Botchan", which is also used in the Japanese school textbook. As a result, the hot spring became widely known. Additionally, Dogo Onsen Honkan is said to have inspired the bathhouse in the Studio Ghibli film "Spirited Away." Dogo Onsen Honkan is not a ryokan (or Japanese Style Hotel), but a wooden public bathhouse built in 1894. It is designated as an Important Cultural Property of the country, and its beautiful wooden architecture and traditional Japanese hot spring culture have made it beloved by many tourists. There is a sign at the entrance of the main building indicating the congestion level, and it is recommended to visit during less crowded times as it may not be possible to bathe during busy periods. The building is a three-story wooden structure, and when I visited, only the first floor ...

もっと見る

白川郷

2024/2/4

Experience the Spirit of Old Japan in Shirakawa-go's Gassho-style Houses

Shirakawa-go is a region located in the northern part of Gifu Prefecture, in the central region of Japan. This area is popular for its beautiful traditional houses, especially known for their unique architectural style called "Gassho-zukuri." The history of Shirakawa-go can be traced back to the Heian period (794-1185). The Gassho-zukuri houses are designed to protect the homes from the harsh winter snow, named for their roofs that resemble hands joined in prayer. Below is some key points highlighting this architectural style; Roof Structure: The most notable feature of Gassho-zukuri is its thick, steeply sloped thatched roofs. These roofs are designed to withstand heavy snowfall, allowing snow to slide off easily during winter. Materials: These houses are primarily built using timber and thatch. The use of these natural materials contributes to the beautiful landscape, blending the houses into surrounding nature. Multipurpose Use: Inside the house, the space is typically used for various purposes, including living areas, farming tasks, and silk production. The attic is often used to dry agricultural products. Durability: Gassho-zukuri houses are known for their durability, based on architectural techniques that succeeded through centuries. These houses are built to withstand the harsh winter conditions. The traditional Gassho-zukuri houses in Shirakawa-go are constructed without using any nails. The structure supports the large roof by interlocking timber, with a steep slope to protect the house from heavy snow. This architectural style ensures durability and strength by using only timber and special techniques to interlock the wood without nails, thereby supporting the structure through skillful wood ...

もっと見る

Tottori

2024/2/3

Visit Japan's Three Major Sand Dunes, "Tottori Sand Dunes"

Does Japan have a desert in the country? Japan has only one known desert located on Izu Oshima in Tokyo. Regarding sand dunes, there are three major ones, Tottori Sand Dunes, Nakatajima Sand Dunes, and Sakyu (Fukiagehama). They are known as the "Three Great Sand Dunes of Japan." Dunes are different from deserts. Simply put, sand dunes are hills made of sand carried by the wind. Deserts are areas with annual rainfall of less than 250mm or where evaporation exceeds rainfall, consisting of sandy, gravelly, or rocky land. Therefore, even if the surface of a sand dune is dry, digging a little reveals moist sand underneath. This article is about the Tottori Sand Dunes. I first visited the Tottori Sand Dunes in the winter of 2018. Located in Tottori City, Tottori Prefecture, Japan, facing the Sea of Japan, it is one of the most famous sand dunes in the country and designated as a Place of Scenic Beauty and a Natural Monument. It stretches about 16km east to west, with the widest point being about 2km and the highest point reaching about 50 meters.  On rainy days, the dunes become difficult to navigate because the water seeps from the surface of the sand deep into the layers beneath. This creates a sensation of your feet getting caught in the sand as you step, making it very hard to walk. Additionally, there's a significant distance from the parking lot to the shoreline, which is too far to cover by running without getting out of breath. The ...

もっと見る