Category Archives: Travel

Life In Japan: “Let it snow . . . let it snow . . .”

Posted on January 24, 2022 by John Rachel

Understandably, with my thousands of friends, millions of acquaintances, uncountable fans and followers, I am overwhelmed with curiosity about the details of my life here in Japan. Here’s one question I’ve gotten . . . well, hmm . . . taking a microscope to the past thirteen or so years . . . I’d say at least three times: “What’s the weather like there?” Continue reading →

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Life In Japan: Rice Cakes

Posted on January 22, 2022 by John Rachel

Rice cakes are edible hockey pucks which very popular here in Japan. Not surprisingly they are made out of rice. Continue reading →

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COMING SPRING 2022!

Posted on November 29, 2021 by John Rachel

“Love Connection: Romance in the Land of the Rising Sun” is unlike any love story you’ve ever read. Set in Japan and East Africa, it is based on real events. It’ll be here Spring 2022. Continue reading →

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Life In Japan: A Generous Spirit

Posted on November 24, 2021 by John Rachel

We have a nickname for our friend Keiko Iwashita. My wife and I call her “Bangladesh Lady”. There’s a very inspiring story behind this. Continue reading →

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Life In Japan: Police Power IV

Posted on October 7, 2021 by John Rachel

It’s hard to exaggerate the contrast of what looks like the horror show of police brutality in the U.S. with what life is like here. But I’ve tried to capture it in a few stories. This is my latest. Continue reading →

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Life In Japan: Vending Machines

Posted on October 1, 2021 by John Rachel

I distinctly remember the first thing that caught me somewhat baffled eye here in Japan. Vending machines! They seem to be everywhere! Continue reading →

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Life In Japan: Respect for the Aged Day

Posted on September 21, 2021 by John Rachel

This past Monday was a national holiday here in Japan: 敬老の日, Keirō no Hi, Respect for the Aged Day. My neighbor brought me a very special gift from the people of Tambasasayama. Continue reading →

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Life In Japan: “Savings”

Posted on September 13, 2021 by John Rachel

This story wanders around a bit but I think it’s fun and certainly offers something inspiring about people in Japan. Continue reading →

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Life In Japan: Kamikochi . . . “Japanese Alps”

Posted on August 17, 2021 by John Rachel

My wife and I just spent three days in the “Japanese Alps” — Kamikochi — a mountainous region of Nagano Prefecture the beauty of which is simply impossible for words. So feast your eyes on the pics! Continue reading →

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Life In Japan: Kawashima Highway Oasis

Posted on August 7, 2021 by John Rachel

What can I say? Japan goes out of its way to make life a pleasant adventure for everyone. Here’s another highway service area which amazed me! Continue reading →

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