Unbelievable English in Japan
Even though Japan has come a long way from the days when foreigners were seldom seen and English was a language that most Japanese could only read and write, Japanese people still have a hard time using English, as is apparent in this recent sale sign created by a company located in the Shinsaibashi area of Osaka. Can you believe there is a sign like this being displayed in a store in Osaka, the second largest city in Japan where millions of people live? Believe it! It’s...
Read MoreCostco Ringing in People’s Ears in Kyoto
Costco has projected the new Kyoto store located in Yawatashi would open around the end of July beginning of August. From the outside, the building looks ready to open for business. But the doors aren’t open yet. Residents living just across the street from the unfinished store have been complaining to other residents about hearing loud construction noises, banging and clanging, late at night. My guess is probably because Costco headquarters is flexing their corporate muscles to make the...
Read MoreBuying Omiyage from Japan
Ever have a problem deciding what souvenir to buy from Japan? The hardest thing about buying souvenirs in Japan is not deciding what, but which. Japan has an abundance of souvenirs to choose from. Some of the more popular items people choose are: green teas dried seafood items Japanese candies chocolates cookies clothes fashion accessories kimonos and yukatas fans chopsticks combs tea cups and/or sets Japanese cloth Japanese shoes, slippers or sandals postcards Most of these items can be found...
Read MoreMad Rush to Temples and Shrines
Christmas is only two days away! It is celebrated all over the world by Christians and non-Christians alike, especially in Japan where only about 1% of the population are Christian. However, in recent years, Christmas has gained in popularity even among non-Christians as the gift-giving part of the holiday catches on more with children and adults. Who doesn’t want to give or receive a gift, right, especially in a country where giving and receiving are an intricate part of the...
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Canceling My Costco Membership
Since Costco came into Japan, many stores have popped up offering almost as low prices for items of similar size and quality. Some stores even offer items made in America at low prices, but not many. Although they are not made by the same manufacturers, most items I frequently buy at Costco like sausages, meat, cereals, toiletries, wine, cheese, and frozen items, most not made in China, can be found at discount supermarkets throughout the Kansai area closer to home, which means I don’t...
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