Nagasaki's Premier English Language Magazine
by Patrick Wong With average daily temperatures ranging from 7-11°C (45-52°F) the winters in Nagasaki can be a little chilly. What better way to combat the cold than to take part in one of Japan’s oldest traditions of onsen? You might be thinking, “What exactly are onsen?” Onsen are naturally occurring hot spring baths in… Continue reading
by Deanna Timmons The long history of sumo dates back over 2,000 years ago, and is the national sport with religious ties to Shintoism. You can see these Shinto ties in the opening ceremony with salt tossing to purify the ring, with the stage itself sitting under a makeshift Shinto shrine roof. The attire of… Continue reading
By Ashley Noelck While many readers are likely familiar with famous Japanese beverage brands, such as Sapporo and Asahi, other Japanese spirits rarely have the same recognition. However, since 2008, Japanese Whisky sales have doubled due to a rapid increase in international demand. Today there are 13 whisky distilleries in Japan, six of which have… Continue reading
by Steven Jankowski What does it mean to “volunteer”? One dictionary defines it as “to offer (one’s time or labor) freely or for no pay,” or “to express or offer without being asked or obligated.” Whether you’re donating your time at a local community center, lending a hand along a beach picking up garbage, or… Continue reading
by Kate “You are so brave.” That was one of the first things we were told at our pre-departure orientation some four months ago. More than a few eyebrows were raised and looks were shared among our small, fledgling group. It was the first opportunity for the Assistant Language Teachers on the JET Programme leaving… Continue reading
By Tshegofatso Motsuenyane On March 3rd, Japan will celebrate Hinamatsuri, also known as ‘Girls Day’ or ‘Dolls Day.’ It is an annual religious festival where families pray for the health and happiness of their young daughters. Families usually celebrate by displaying hina dolls and eating traditional sweets such as Hishi-mochi (a tiered rice cake) and hina-arare (colored… Continue reading