If it Bleeds, We Can Kill it (Although I hope it stays alive so we can suck it dry some more)

I’ve renounced my candidacy for leading Japan. It’s become apparent to me that whoever ends up in the tops spot justs get shit on. As such, I’ve decided to refocus my campaign on the micro-level. I’m running for mayor of Takamatsu. When you’re at the top of this multi-headed hydra, you have to manage a [...]

Even Buddha Gets a Cute Beanie When it’s Cold

I find it fascinating that Japan took  Buddhism, Shintoism, hints of Confusism and Christianity, threw them all into a blender and came out with a giant silly mishmash. It’s a place where they take their shrine and temple festivals extremely seriously, yet often have little idea of why they’re doing it or who they’re praying [...]

Things I Love in Japan (Part 1: Oden)

Ode to Oden When we first met, I was scared of you, not having the slightest understanding of what you were. My parents once described your appearance as trash floating around in dirty bathtub water. But I’ve learned better, and I now know you’re the best food in Japan. I don’t know if the Master [...]

Things I Hate in Japan (Part 1: Crocs Won’t Die)

Why on God’s earth won’t it die? I fled from the shores of America to escape its foul stench. I suppose it started before we ever noticed, like most plagues do, in hidden places, kitchens and gardens throughout the world. It  soon spread to children, running around in their colorful little plastic wacky dutch-boy shoes. [...]

Maintaining Your Sanity in Japan

For the last 6 weeks, I’ve been covering the various ups and downs of getting a job in Japan, taking people through the resume, interview process and beyond, until finally covering some of the basics of maintaining your job for the long haul. Beyond the job, Japan can be a taxing place for the mind. [...]