All posts by Stephen Lebovits

  • Gift Giving Tradition In Japan

      When my mom and sister came from Canada to visit my wife and I here in Tokyo a couple of years ago, it was fun, albeit a bit stressful. But in the end we all survived...

    • Posted December 15, 2020
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  • Food Theme Parks in Japan

    Food theme parks are a fashionable concept in Japan.  The land of the rising sun is famous for its regional traditions and food.  However, in being able to indulge in the full range of delicacies, you would...

    • Posted January 1, 2014
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  • Are urushi and shikki the world’s first glue?

    It has been used to coat Japanese furniture and chests, sliding doors, walls, interior trim and other architectural fittings in temples, shrines, shops and homes.  It has been used to seal weapons such as bows and sword...

    • Posted February 3, 2013
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  • Sento: the art of Japanese bathing

    Photo © Elena Derevtsova   Long before you could pop into a day spa for a little bit of respite from the daily grind, and way before Tokyo Gas was able to heat the water for your...

    • Posted October 24, 2010
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  • The Mount Fuji hike

    At the tail end of last year, my wife and I made personal lists – not of resolutions but of ten things that we wanted to accomplish this year. Without hesitation, the first item I jotted down...

    • Posted December 29, 2009
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  • Happ-Ines

    Having just returned to Tokyo from her recent family vacation on Boracay Island in the Philippines, Inés Ligron is back in action – full throttle. Around her meetings are taking place, interviews are being conducted and photos...

    • Posted February 28, 2009
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  • Budget browsing

    So what can one coin buy in these days of global economic meltdown? Plenty! Does a Japanese buck still have any bang left in it? Yes! If you have the time and the eye, you can usually...

    • Posted February 1, 2009
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  • Out and about in the city of angels

    So, you’ve landed at LAX after your pleasantly relaxing AA flight. Then what? Well, let TF help out by suggesting just a few new, interesting and fun things to do for the whole family, such as:Visit the...

    • Posted December 25, 2008
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