Diary - Page 2 of 2 - Rambling Merchant

The Woes of Driving in Japan

February 12, 2021

Writing this from the perspective of an American, I will gloss over the fact that in Japan they drive on the left side of the road. Sure it's unique to fellow Americans, but other English speaking countries also drive on the left so it's not that big of a deal as there are certain aspects to driving in Japan you…read more

Diary, Travel Diary

Tears in Nagoya by Luke Baker-Smith

January 26, 2021

This week we share an excerpt of a post by Luke Baker-Smith whose travel blog can be found at Load of B-S. Luke has been living in Japan since March of last year. While primarily a teacher at the moment, he is an avid traveler and writer who shares his experiences of day to day life in a small town…read more

Culture, Diary

What Counts as being ‘Made in Japan’?

January 14, 2021

There is a big difference between a product being designed in a country, made in a country, and being from that country. Where do the different pieces come to make a whole greater than the sum of its parts? What counts as being 'Made in Japan'? Many modern products, especially complex ones - think electronics, are like a typical American…read more

Culture, Diary

Is your neighbor’s kitchen also a coffee shop?

January 5, 2021

Bizu Coffee is really just a renovated room in the owner's house

In smaller cities in Japan, looking for a coffee shop or restaurant can entail driving through a quiet residential area away from the main streets and plazas. A coffee shop in your neighbor's kitchen is just a little out of place in the US. If you live in the US,there's one of two scenarios you are likely accustomed to. You…read more

Culture, Diary

Why are Japanese craft goods and Whiskeys so exclusive?

December 24, 2020

Japan is world renowned for its traditional craftsmanship along with its history of technological innovation. Featured in books, documentaries, and TV shows, the Japanese craftsman quality is shown, but a method of attainment is not generally given. While the technology invented and optimized in Japan is found in the latest gadgets and start of the art projects around the world,…read more