japanese culture

Big Shodo Calligraphy Osaka Review (2025): A Giant Brush Experience

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Big Shodo Calligraphy Osaka Review (2025): A Giant Brush Experience You know, most trips to Osaka involve a familiar checklist. There’s, like, Osaka Castle, definitely Dotonbori with its glowing Glico sign, and, of course, a serious amount of takoyaki. On my latest trip, however, I really wanted to find something a little different, you know, an activity that felt a bit more personal and hands-on. So, I stumbled upon this “Big Shodo” experience, which is actually a Japanese calligraphy class but, you know, with massive brushes. It was pretty close to Osaka Castle, which was super convenient. To be honest, …

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Make Wagashi in Yokohama: A 2025 Private Class Review

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Make Wagashi in Yokohama: A 2025 Private Class Review A Sweet Escape from the City’s Rush So, you just step off the train and the whole vibe, you know, kind of shifts. Leaving the constant energy of central Tokyo for a quieter, more residential spot in Yokohama is honestly a great move. We found this private home experience for making wagashi, and it felt, well, a little more personal than a big group thing. Actually, the feeling you get is one of peaceful waiting for something special. It’s almost like visiting a family friend you haven’t seen in a very …

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Hanko Making in Kamakura: A 2025 Review

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Hanko Making in Kamakura: A 2025 Review You know, when you think about souvenirs from a trip to Japan, a lot of things probably pop into your head. Still, what if you could make something yourself, something that is, like, deeply personal and tied to the local traditions? So, that’s where the idea of making your own hanko, or personal name seal, comes in, especially in a historic place like Kamakura. Basically, this activity is a little bit different from your usual sightseeing. Honestly, it’s about creating a keepsake that tells a story, your story, right in a place full …

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Kyoto Cooking Class Review: Authentic Lesson in Otsu (2025)

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Kyoto Cooking Class Review: Authentic Lesson in Otsu (2025) So, you’re planning a trip to Kyoto, right? That’s fantastic. It’s a city that just pulls you in. But honestly, after a few days, the crowds around the famous shrines can feel a little overwhelming, you know? I was sort of craving something real, an experience that wasn’t just about seeing things but about, like, connecting with the place. I found exactly that, quite by accident, just a very quick train ride away. Basically, it was a 2025 Japanese home cooking lesson with local hosts in a quiet Kyoto suburb named …

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