East Asia Archives

May 16, 2020September 14, 2022Japan by Len Kagami

Ryokan and the Japanese Hospitality

To put it simply, a ryokan is a Japanese-style inn. It’s an embodiment of Japanese lifestyle which was treasured and passed down over generations.

May 9, 2020January 25, 2023Japan by Len Kagami

Nara: The Ancient Capital of Japan

To many, Nara is a day-trip destination. However, as Japan’s first permanent capital, Nara boasts many important scenic and historical sites.

Each page of the goshuinchō is a different painting

May 2, 2020September 14, 2022Japan by Len Kagami

Goshuinchō: A Unique Souvenir from Japan

A goshuinchō is literally a book of seals. It’s used to collect stamps from shrines and temples throughout Japan. While its religious meaning still exists, many view it as a unique way to document their journey.

April 25, 2020February 24, 2023Japan by Len Kagami

Kurashiki: The Town of Old Storehouses

With white-walled storehouse lined along a delightful canal, the historic quarter of Kurashiki is a rare piece of old Japan that still exists.

April 15, 2020February 24, 2023Japan by Len Kagami

Hiroshima: The Hope of A Nuclear-Free World

To most people, Hiroshima recalls an ill-fated city. But if you visit the city today, you will surprise to see how it has transformed into a symbol of hope.

April 8, 2020February 24, 2023Japan by Len Kagami

Miyajima: On the Island of the Sea Goddesses

Home of the sea goddesses, Miyajima has long been treated as a sacred site. The island is known for its grand shrine that seems floating over the waves.

April 1, 2020September 26, 2022Japan by Len Kagami

Admire The Transient Beauty of Sakura

Pure and elegant, sakura has long been an important part of Japanese culture. Yet this beauty is short-lived, reminding us of the ephemeral nature of life.

March 25, 2020March 23, 2023Japan by Len Kagami

Kōyasan: A Trip to the Sacred Mountain

Green and soothingly beautiful, Kōyasan has long been known as one of Japan’s holiest sites. It’s here that Shingon Buddhism was established 1200 years ago.

March 18, 2020March 18, 2023Japan by Len Kagami

Himeji Castle: The Beautiful White Heron

Elegant and lustrous white, Himeji Castle is one of Japan’s most beautiful castles. It appears like a heron flying in the sky of Himeji.

Tsutenkaku Tower - A symbol of Osaka's new world

March 11, 2020September 26, 2022Japan by Len Kagami

Osaka: The Bold and the Colorful

Osaka is a brazen city that isn’t afraid to express itself. It packs more colour than most, with eye-catching signs and vivid shopfronts at every corner.

Amei Teahouse - One of the most popular teahouses in Jiufen

February 17, 2020March 17, 2023Taiwan by Len Kagami

Jiufen: Seeking the Charm of Yesteryear

With red lanterns lining steep alleyways and atmospheric teahouses serving tea in the traditional way, the charm of yesteryear is vividly alive in Jiufen.

January 6, 2020March 17, 2023Taiwan by Len Kagami

Houtong: Welcome to Taiwan’s Cat Village

For cat lovers, Houtong Cat Village seems like a must-see destination in Taiwan. Tucked in the forested mountains of Ruifang District, this extraordinary village is home to more than 200 stray cats.

Takoyaki (fried octopus) - Osaka's favourite snack

July 27, 2018January 15, 2022Japan by Len Kagami

Japanese Cuisine: Typical Comfort Food

Ramen, tonkatsu, katsukare and takoyaki (octopus balls) are typical dishes that often appear on the dining table of many Japanese.