In Pursuit of Japan

Friday, March 11, 2011

8.9 Magnitude Earthquake Hits Japan Today

It's so depressing. Japan was hit by an 8.9 magnitude earthquake a few hours ago, and tsunamis have been flooding some cities in Japan as a result. I watched some live video coverage on YouTube and could tell that a lot of people were doing the same since a lot of comments would pop up simultaneously every second or two. But I was saddened by the unexpected barrage of "hate" comments people were leaving on the videos so I stopped watching.

I sincerely offer my heartfelt well-wishes to the people of Japan. Stay strong. This too shall pass.

Wednesday, October 27, 2010

Secrets of Zen - Japanese Chill Out Vol. 1

Secrets of Zen

Japanese Chill Out Vol. 1

Track List:

Miyagi - Kyoto Garden
Yoshi-San - Saru
Dakini Mandarava - The Flow
Shamindra - Stilling Of The Waters
Gifuto-Chekku - Yasui
Miyagi - Jange Sekiang Morning
Sato - Koritsu
Mandrave & Miyagi - Asian Lights
Tiger Tanaka - Aki
Dakini Mandarava - Ching (Sexual Energy)
Shamindra - Breath Of Life
Miyagi - Mantra Rhythm
Ringo Orenji - Mikan
Booby Tamari - Tokyo Silence

Listen to some samples:

Thursday, August 19, 2010

Moon: Living Abroad in Japan

Today I bought myself a copy of the book Moon: Living Abroad in Japan by Ruthy Kanagy. I had first seen this book at Fully Booked last week and was about to buy it at Php958, but then I decided to check out other bookstores first. I am so glad that I did, because I found it at National Bookstore priced at Php785... and with a 50% discount because they're on sale! So I spent only Php392.50 instead of Php958. I'm so happy! I can't wait to get started on reading it.

"Engaging, honest, and packed with information... the Moon Living Abroad series provides well-rounded insight into the country and its culture, and then gives you the real scoop on how to make the best move." - Transitions Abroad

Monday, August 9, 2010

Local Cuisine of Hokkaido, Japan

Seafood

Hokkaido has a rich variety of fresh fish and seafood such as crab, scallops, sea urchins, salmon roe, salmon, herring, flounder, cod, arabesque greenlings, squid, octopus, shrimp, abalone, surf clams and kelp which are harvested from the northern seas of Japan and are rated among the best of their type for their exquisite taste and flavor. The crab in particular is exceptional.

Ishikari-nabe

Ishikari-nabe is a typical dish of Hokkaido made from chunks of salmon which are stewed with vegetables, tofu and konnyaku (devil's tongue) in kelp stock flavored with miso. Locally produced potatoes and cabbage are also added to the delicious flavor of this hearty dish which utilizes fresh salmon from head to tail.

Genghis Khan nabe

The Genghis Khan nabe, a dish in which thinly sliced mutton and vegetables (bean sprouts, cabbage and pumpkin) are basted and roasted, is renowned for its hearty taste and unique rustic flavor. Many restaurants around Hokkaido specialize in Genghis Khan nabe. The dish is also very popular in large beer parlors.

Photos courtesy of Japan National Tourism Organization.