Tag Archives: Sasayama

Life In Japan: Awe-Inspiring Extreme Honesty

Posted on September 13, 2020 by johnrachel

Here are a few anecdotes which will give you phenomenal insights into the remarkably high ethical standards and general character of the Japanese people. Continue reading →

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Life In Japan: Sophie, Cinderella Orphan

Posted on July 22, 2020 by johnrachel

It’s quite a story how Sophie came into our lives. When Masumi first saw her, the poor thing was undernourished, had runny eyes, in general looked sick and sickly. She begged Masumi to take her home. And she did! Continue reading →

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Life In Japan: Jennifer the Cat, Media Darling!

Posted on November 16, 2019 by johnrachel

As an attention-starved author and overgrown baby, I of course am always trying to attract publicity. Again, one of my kitties has humbled yours truly by being featured in our local newspaper. Maybe I’m approaching this wrong. Do I need to learn how to purr to get noticed around here? Continue reading →

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Life In Japan: The Naked American

Posted on July 6, 2019 by johnrachel

My nickname back in 2008 in the town I live in here in Japan was “the naked American”. I’ve never been either fond or adverse to nudism. But now I hear that women can go topless now in six states in the U.S., meaning I apparently was just ahead of my time, leading the charge for freeing nipples from oppressive censorship. Even so, I am forced to concede that my desire to be a tanned demigod was not very respectful of the local folks here. Continue reading →

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Life In Japan: Monkeys

Posted on December 4, 2018 by johnrachel

There are an estimated 950 macaque monkeys in Hyogo Prefecture, and 180 alone in Sasayama, my hometown here in Japan. How many of you can say you have seen monkeys in the unwild surrounds of your home and community?

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Life In Japan: Japanese Maples

Posted on November 27, 2018 by johnrachel

We make a point of going every year to Kumanoshingu Shrine for its spectacular Japanese Maple trees, which in November turn fire red, yellow, orange, brown, and every shade in between. Continue reading →

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Life In Japan: Persimmons

Posted on October 27, 2018 by johnrachel

Ever had a persimmon? You should try one! I’m glad I did. Continue reading →

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Life In Japan: Festivals

Posted on August 25, 2018 by johnrachel

While Japan is called The Land of the Rising Sun, my personal preference would be The Land of the Festivals. The entire calendar is littered with fascinating, extremely entertaining, family-oriented festivals. Continue reading →

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Life In Japan: Rice and Bean Fields

Posted on July 12, 2018 by johnrachel

Living in the rural area of Japan I now live in, I have to say, I’ve learned to appreciate the “cycle of life” as never before. Continue reading →

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Life In Japan: Sports Festivals

Posted on May 22, 2018 by johnrachel

The sports festival is a much-anticipated event which takes place at every school and every community in Japan around the middle of September. A great time is had by all! Continue reading →

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