Hello! My name is Emi, and I was born in Kyoto and raised in Shiga before moving to Tokyo. Now based in Shizuoka, I’m passionate about sharing authentic cultural experiences and insights into Japan’s traditions, food, and everyday life.
“What I love about Japan is the harmony between tradition and innovation. Whether it’s centuries-old customs or cutting-edge creativity, there’s always something new to discover and appreciate.”
Japan
Emi’s stories
- Meishi Manners: A Guide to Japanese Business Card Etiquette
- Cool down this Japanese summer with kakigori shaved ice
- For a Japanese bento on the go, think Hotto Motto
- Otoshidama: The Japanese New Year tradition every child anticipates
- Delicious, affordable, and fun: Welcome to kaitenzushi—Japan’s conveyor belt sushi
- Get your sweet fix for 20 yen with TIROL chocolate
- How many national holidays does Japan celebrate?
- Thrift shopping at a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Kyoto? Yes, please!
- Omiyage unwrapped: Discover the art of Japanese souvenirs
- Rise above the clouds at Unkai Terrace in Hokkaido
- Stroll through the lavender blooms at Farm Tomita
- Discover Odawara Castle: A historic gem just an hour from Tokyo
- A personal journey to Kinkaku-ji: Kyoto’s golden treasure
- NOUSAKU: Transforming tradition with flexible tin masterpieces
- Aritsugu: The legendary Japanese knife brand with over a century of history
- Taneya: Over 150 years of wagashi excellence in Shiga Prefecture
- Dining in Japan: Two chopstick taboos you must avoid
- Shinagawa Shuku Guest House: Your affordable, English-friendly stay in Tokyo
- Setsubun: Drive away evil spirits with…beans!
- Ehomaki: The symbolic sushi roll and how to eat it right to usher in good luck
- Hakone: Home to Picasso’s unbound genius and timeless art
- Hakone Open Air Museum: Sculptures that endure the test of time and natural elements
- Seeking Japanese comfort food on a budget? Ootoya’s got you!
- From clay to masterpiece: The bold beauty of Shigaraki pottery
- A spring afternoon of sakura and sweets in Jiyugaoka
- Emergency preparedness: This rice could save your life
- Shinagawa Shukuba Festival: A chance to witness life in Japan 400 years ago
- From Kyoto to Tokyo: My journey navigating the different regional dialects
- All aboard Hakone’s pirate ships? Yep!
- Yatsuhashi: One of Kyoto’s favorite confections (deservedly so!)
- Hina dolls: The fascinating story of what they represent and how to position them
- Kaneko Hannosuke: The legendary spot for Tokyo’s best tempura bowl
- Goma Tamago: Tokyo’s egg-stra special confectionery
- Step into purity and “climb” Mt. Fuji in Tokyo
- Bakery & Table: Healing foot baths and heavenly treats in Hakone
- From izakaya to your kitchen: How to prepare edamame like a pro!
- From sweet liqueur to salty pickles: Japanese ume plums are so versatile!
- Nishiki Market: “Kyoto’s Kitchen” for 400 years and counting!
- From miniature cities to epic quests: LEGOLAND Tokyo is a dream for kids and a win for parents
- All about mikoshi, Japan’s portable shrines–the spirit of god is on the move!
- Making green tea? Don’t use boiling water!
- Pontocho Alley: Where Kyoto’s culinary delights and geisha culture meet
- Sanjusangendo: The ancient temple of 1001 statues in Kyoto
- Kamo River: Kyoto’s beloved gathering place for every season
- Kyoto Station: A futuristic architectural masterpiece
- Looking for love? Visit Kyoto’s Jishu Shrine, the Cupid of Japan
- Doraemon: Japan’s most adored robot cat
- Need help with ticket machines at stations? A hidden train staff could be one button press away!
- Oktoberfest in Japan: Bavarian fun with a local twist
- Exploring Japan’s premium fruits and traditions
- Matsutake mushrooms: A Japanese autumn delicacy since ancient times
- Dining at Haneda Airport: There is something for everyone
- Kyaraben is the epitome of “too cute to eat”
- Visit Enoshima Island to experience one of Japan’s top winter illuminations
