Articles by Toshiko Sakurai
Retrograde: Another Look at Dazai’s Existential Angst
Toshiko Sakurai reviews a new book of stories, Retrograde, from one of Japan’s literary giants, Osamu Dazai.
A Day Exploring Matsushima
A view worth traveling for. A view worth remembering. The honor of standing on the podium of the country’s greatest sights. How high should I place my expectations? Praised for centuries, Matsushima 松島 has been lauded as one of the great Nihon Sankei 日本三景, or the Three Views of Japan, alongside Amanohashidate in Kyoto and Miyajima’s Itsukushima Shrine Torii. The phrase first appeared in the 17th century, following a longstanding Japanese tradition of naming landscapes, and giving them a greater permanence in doing so.
Exploring Sendai: Tohoku’s Gateway City
Most travelers don’t come to Sendai by accident. It’s not wedged between headline destinations, nor does it sell itself with grand gestures. But give it a full day, and the capital city of Miyagi Prefecture makes a solid case for attention.
Retracing Kawabata’s Steps: A Literary Journey Through Izu
Sleeping on a Futon: Why do Japanese Sleep on the Floor?
One Day in Kyoto: Essential Sights in Japan’s Former Imperial Capital
Fushimi Inari Taisha: The Most Fascinating Shrine in Kyoto
Ryuichi Sakamoto Albums I Want To Share With You
Sapporo’s Snow Festival: Sculptures, Ice Art, and Winter Magic
My Japan: My Life as a Travel Journalist
Traveling Through Japan’s Medieval Heartland in Kamakura
Von Jour Caux: The Architect of Otherworldly Dreams
Tokyo Daibutsu: The Hidden Giant Born from War and Earthquakes
Atami Shopping: Another Way to Experience this Famed Onsen Town
Uncover a treasure trove of local specialties and one-of-a-kind souvenirs in this charming onsen town’s shopping district.
Kanban Kenchiku: A Time Capsule of Early 20th Century Japanese Architecture
Who are the New Faces on Japanese Banknotes?
Understanding Butoh: Dance Born Out of Darkness
Butoh is an avant-garde dance that emerged in Post-war Japan that has captivated audiences worldwide. Here is all you need to know about it.
How Does the Japanese Education System Work?
Enjoying the Beauty of the Fall in Isehara
Sustainable Tourism Destinations Near Tokyo for 2024 – Saitama, Chiba, Tokyo and Kanagawa
A Journey of Discovery to Unveil the Charms of Shizuoka
Yamanashi’s Water of Life: The Source of its Unparalleled Wild Game, Wines, Whiskies, and Sake
Into the Heart of Traditional Japanese Arts and Crafts of Yamanashi Prefecture
Koshu Inden, the Traditional Japanese Lacquer-Painted Leather Craft by Yamanashi Artisans
The Best Examples of Sustainable Tourism in Saitama, Chiba, Tokyo, & Kanagawa
Discovering the Beauty of Nagasaki’s Fukue Island
Fukue Island is the largest on Nagasaki’s Goto Archipelago. Discover with us its beautiful landscapes and fascinating history!