, Author at ANA Experience Class

Are You Listening to the Scents of Japan?

To fully appreciate a trip to Japan, you have to take a deep breath. Or a few deep breaths. The Japan’s history is in the air, all you have to do is listen. Yes, listen. In Japan, to appreciate the complex tapestry of scents perfuming the air, incense masters advise...

The Latest in Japan’s Cat Culture

by | | Modern Culture & Dining

In Japan, neko (cats) are becoming a must-pet tourist attraction. Roaming cities and towns, taking over coffee shops, the animals have stolen the hearts of residents and visitors alike. Today, there are more than 150 cat cafés dotting Japan. Though other animals, like...

The Evolution of the Japanese Toilet

by | | Destination

Long — ahem — the butt of jokes in the Western world, the superior experience and cleanliness of using a high-tech toilet in Japan is no laughing matter. Sure, one of the most immediate, formative experiences for first-time visitors to Japan is a confusing and awkward...

5 Tips for Perfect Chopsticks Etiquette

by | | Modern Culture & Dining

5 Tips for Perfect Chopsticks Etiquette Ordered a sushi delivery lately? If so, odds are that from the moment you snapped apart the chopsticks and rubbed their splintery edges together to your last chomp of chirashi, you probably committed a half dozen faux pas that...

The Noodles that Changed the World

by | | Modern Culture & Dining

The compact disc. The digital camera. The instant ramen noodle? Believe it or not, the third one is considered one of the most significant and impactful Japanese inventions of any kind. You probably equate the instant noodle with hazy college dorm rooms or the...