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Dohtonbori - Osaka, Japan
Published on 2012-08-11 09:42:00
After visiting Osaka a few times, I can now say that I love this vibrant, lively city.
Department Store Food Floors - Japan
Published on 2012-08-11 09:02:00
At Japanese department stores, if you are looking for food, go to the basement.
Hamazushi - Nissin City, Aichi - Japan
Published on 2012-08-11 08:49:00
In Japan, it seems so hi-tech at times ...The first time I ate at Hamazushi, a chain sushi restaurant near my apartment, I was confused about how to order my food. When you first enter the restaurant, you have to punch in how many people are in your party and if you'd like to sit at a table or a counter.
Watermelon for 9,480 Yen? Outrageous Fruit Prices - Japan
Published on 2012-08-11 08:17:00
Fruit in Japan can be ridiculously expensive.
A Spring Festival - Inuyama, Japan
Published on 2012-08-11 08:08:00
In the spring, I went to a festival in Inuyama with a friend.
Miso Katsu at Maison - Nissin City, Nagoya, Japan
Published on 2012-08-11 07:29:00
Although a lot of people like Yabaton and say it's the best place to eat tonkatsu, I actually love miso katsu at Maison.There's a small restaurant near my apartment that has amazing tonkatsu and it's extremely filling, especially if you order a "set."
Kiyomizu Temple - Kyoto, Japan
Published on 2012-08-11 07:10:00
Kiyomizu Temple, one of my favorite places to visit in Kyoto, is a World Heritage Site located in Eastern Kyoto near the Gion area.Before reaching Kiyomizu, there's a beautiful village surrounding the temple.
Takoyaki Museum - Osaka, Japan
Published on 2012-06-11 07:11:00
At Universal City Walk, I saw a sign for a "Takoyaki museum" which sounded interesting.
Soup Curry - Japan
Published on 2012-06-11 06:51:00
In Japan, I discovered "soup curry."
Shibuya - Tokyo, Japan
Published on 2012-06-11 06:41:00
In Shibuya, there are a lot of great places to eat and shop.
A Maid Cafe in Akihabara - Tokyo, Japan
Published on 2012-05-03 21:48:00
My most recent adventure was in Tokyo where I went to a maid cafe, as a curious female who wanted to observe a different side of Japanese culture.
Osaka Universal Studios - Japan
Published on 2012-05-03 09:54:00
During the week, I decided to check out Osaka Universal Studios Japan!
Harajuku - Tokyo, Japan
Published on 2012-05-02 22:08:00
What image do you have of Harajuku?Many of you may be familiar with Harajuku, a place known for shopping and eccentric fashion.
The Hachiko Statue in Shibuya, Tokyo - Japan
Published on 2012-05-02 08:55:00
How many of you have heard of the film "Hachi," co-starring Richard Gere?
Tokyo Tower - Japan
Published on 2012-05-02 08:09:00
During the weekend, I visited Tokyo Tower to take some photos.
Miso Katsu - Nagoya, Japan
Published on 2012-04-01 06:01:00
After not leaving my room for a week to finish my paper, I realized I needed a break.
First Kitchen - Osaka, Japan
Published on 2012-03-30 03:59:00
In Osaka, J and I were starving, so we stopped into First Kitchen outside of the train station.
Takoyaki - Osaka, Japan
Published on 2012-03-29 00:54:00
Osaka is known for their Takoyaki, so J and I knew we had to find some before leaving the area.While walking, we discovered this place ...The guy was nice enough to let me take a photo.
Osu Kannon - Nagoya, Japan
Published on 2012-03-28 04:03:00
On Saturday, I had a fun-filled day of shopping with friends.
Hotel Kinki - Osaka, Japan
Published on 2012-03-28 03:51:00
Well, what can I say?
Hep Five Ferris Wheel - Osaka, Japan
Published on 2012-03-27 08:45:00
For anyone who knows me, i'm terrified of heights.
Oasis 21 - Sakae (Nagoya), Japan
Published on 2012-03-26 03:26:00
Oasis 21 in Sakae (Nagoya), Japan is a place you'll want to check out if you are in the area.
Japanese Dept. Store Supermarket
Published on 2012-03-26 03:07:00
Japanese department stores have some of the best supermarkets!
Cute Japan
Published on 2012-03-25 06:10:00
Everything in Japan is CUTE!
Traveling to Osaka by Train
Published on 2012-03-23 07:12:00
I had an unforgettable trip to Osaka.
Daily Grocery Store Visits
Published on 2012-03-20 06:35:00
Today, I stayed in all day, trying to finish one of my papers.
Week Two in Japan
Published on 2012-03-19 09:02:00
I can't believe I'm going into week two in Japan!Now, reality is starting to hit me.It's such a challenge when everything is culturally and linguistically different.The Japanese people are REALLY nice, polite, and quiet.
Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park - Big Island, Hawaii
Published on 2012-03-12 04:48:00
I never get tired of visiting Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park. I'm constantly amused and always fascinated by the things that I am able to see at the park. On Friday, I stopped by Jaggar Musuem to see Kilauea Crater.Kilauea Crater is active, which you may notice because of the rising steam. Around sunset, the view is said to be more spectacular because of the red glow from inside the crater.We drove by and saw the red glow from afar, but it would have been 100% better if we could have stopped [..]
The Old Lady Next Door
Published on 2012-03-06 15:42:00
I wasn't sure how I would say good bye to the old lady next door. I wanted to avoid it, but knew I could no longer.In the morning, I waited for her light to come on and door to open. I handed her some beautiful flowers my mom picked out. I told her the news that I'm leaving for Japan because of school and that I won't be returning home to Hawaii ... Today, while I was sleeping, I heard a knock on my door and a loud "Mary!" in my window. She handed me some TV dinners and told me that "you are [..]
Young's Kalbee
Published on 2012-03-01 02:52:00
Young's Kal Bee in Aiea offers large portions of Korean food for a very reasonable price. I found this restaurant on accident, while driving to eat sushi.The Lunch Special and the Kalbee Special are winners. I like how they give you heaping amounts of kimchi. I'm so glad to have found this restaurant!It is small inside and not a fancy looking place, but the food is good. It's very laid-back.Kal Bee SpecialLunch SpecialKimchi
Monarchs Seafood - Kalihi, Hawaii
Published on 2012-03-01 02:35:00
Since i'll be leaving Hawaii in less than two weeks, I've been loading up on all of my "must-eat items" before heading abroad.At Monarchs Seafood in Kalihi, the Crabbed Stuffed Ahi is absolutely amazing. I dip it into the creamy garlic dressing, which is addicting.I took my friend from Korea here today and she said it was one of the best local foods she has had since living in Hawaii these past two years. It's hard to find parking, there's no seating inside, and no friendly smiles, but the foo [..]
The 2012 Great Aloha Run
Published on 2012-02-22 16:56:00
On Monday, it was another fun-filled day at the Great Aloha Run. I always love running in the GAR. I love the energy of the crowds and determination of the people. It's a struggle to weave through them. There are so many! But at the same time, it's very motivational to see all of the runners come out to support charities throughout Hawaii (or to exercise!).Thank you to all of the volunteers who passed out water, played music, and cheered us on! This year, I got lucky. My friend secured a fr [..]
Happy New Year 2012!
Published on 2012-01-02 02:56:00
Happy New Year!Last night, I had such a memorable New Year's eve! D, J, and I hung out at a friend's house and watched "Horrible Bosses," while pigging out on junk food. I love simple pleasures.Afterward, we went to the Yard House in Waikiki. We got such awesome seating and some fun New Year's props. Right before midnight, we headed to Waikiki beach to watch fireworks. People were cheering and enjoying the moment. I loved the energy.We headed home, driving through roads filled with smoke f [..]
U.S.S. Missouri BB-63 - Pearl Harbor, Hawaii
Published on 2011-12-29 19:29:00
The USS Missouri BB-63 is a symbol of American freedom. Now docked at Pearl Harbor (well, technically at Ford Island) tourists can tour the battleship for a small fee. For those unfamiliar with the USS Missouri, it was where the Japanese surrendered during WWII. There are some famous photos of the surrender on the deck of the battleship that have become important iconic images imprinted in the minds of many ... I went to a commissioning ceremony where I had a chance to take some up close phot [..]
Japan, Here I Come!
Published on 2011-12-28 23:41:00
One of my toughest semesters of grad school is finally over! I made it out alive. It was only a couple of weeks ago, when I was staying up till 4:00 a.m. trying to finish term papers, while I got through the day eating snacks. I lost 5 pounds! While I finished one of my toughest semesters, it's not quite over yet. I have one more semester to go before graduation. However, I won't be finishing my degree in Hawaii. My final semester of grad school will be in Japan! I was welcomed to teach E [..]
My First Acupuncture Treatment
Published on 2011-11-20 04:34:00
Today, I fulfilled another one of my 101 in 1001 goals. I experienced my first acupuncture treatment! I always wanted to try acupuncture and I'm glad I did because it was a unique experience.For my first treatment, I let the acupuncturist know about my headaches and any other concerns. He checked my pulse and looked at my tongue, which determines one's general health. According to the acupuncturist, I was tired and dehydrated based on his observations. He was right because the night before, [..]
My First Football Game
Published on 2011-10-30 16:28:00
I finally went to my first football game. I never liked watching sports, but I had such a good time at the game between the University of Hawaii and New Mexico that I wanted to return. I never imagined I would actually enjoy a football game. It was so exciting and fun. I cheered like crazy and stuffed myself silly with junk food. Who can resist kettle corn and nachos?I have been to the Aloha Stadium while other football games have played, but I was one of the beer servers, trying to raise m [..]
Soul - Honolulu, Hawaii
Published on 2011-09-14 14:36:00
In 2011, Soul received a Hale Aina award for being one of the best restaurants in Hawaii. After eating there a couple of days ago on a whim, I walked away knowing I would return again. Chicken and waffles in Hawaii? Believe me. It exists. I was shocked, but more than happy to indulge in chicken and the most amazing waffles, smothered in a buttery maple syrup. I would come back to eat the waffles and to try some of the other dishes, but I will be honest. The chicken was greasy! You might [..]
Coffee or Tea? Honolulu, Hawaii
Published on 2011-07-31 01:58:00
Since starting graduate school, I have been obsessed with milk tea, a great late night drink that keeps me energized as I tackle my studies. One place I enjoy drinking milk tea is at Coffee or Tea? Coffee or Tea? is a Taiwanese owned cafe that offers a variety of coffee and tea selections. One of my favorite drinks is the Jasmine Green Tea Milk Tea, which I was obsessed with for a while. I especially love to drink milk tea with tapioca pearls (bubbles) or with tea jelly. There's nothing like [..]
Teddy Bear World - Waikiki, Hawaii
Published on 2011-07-27 15:35:00
Teddy Bear World in Waikiki is a kid's dream. There are teddy bears everywhere from the moment one walks into the shop below and even more upstairs at the museum. I wasn't sure what to expect when entering Teddy Bear World, but I thought it would be a lot of fun to explore. Of course, Teddy Bear World isn't free. It's in Waikiki! However, the cost to enter isn't that outrageous. But if you think it is, you can always take pictures with the free teddy bears in the gift shop.What do you get t [..]
Iolani Palace - Honolulu, Hawaii
Published on 2011-07-27 15:09:00
The last time I visited Iolani Palace, I was an undergraduate student, taking a required course on Hawaii. I learned so much from the visit and always planned to return.During the week, I had an opportunity to visit again for free since I was leading a "tour group." It was an excting adventure. After walking to Iolani Palace, everyone watched a movie on the history of Hawaii's monarchy. It isn't easy quickly gathering everyone to get their tickets, store their bags, and to meet scheduled tim [..]
Ali'i Kai Catamaran - Honolulu, Hawaii
Published on 2011-06-26 19:43:00
I can now cross off another "to do" on my 101 in 1001 list since I've now watched a sunrise and sunset in two interesting ways.In Indonesia, I had a chance to watch the sunrise at Mount Bromo. (Of course, I didn't see much since the clouds cove
Nagoya Chicken Sukiyaki (Nagoya Tori Suki)
Published on 2011-06-26 19:01:00
From Japanese Hot Pots, a book written by Tadashi Ono & Harris Salat (2009), there is a recipe titled "Nagoya Chicken Sukiyaki," which I recently tried for lunch today.Although I liked the dish, it is not for everyone. However, if you like
Koko Head - Revisited
Published on 2011-06-22 02:32:00
On Thursday, I went for an early morning hike at Koko Head. I woke up early to hike at 7 a.m. and it was completely worth it! The first time I went to Koko Head, I nearly died. It was hot outside with the glaring sun in my face. I c
Wahiawa Pineapple Run 2011
Published on 2011-05-22 02:40:00
Today I accomplished another goal on my 101 in 1001 list. I completed the Wahiawa Pineapple Run 2011! Now, I can cross this event off.I had such a crazy, yet amazing day. In the morning, my best friend and I were running late t
Morimoto Waikiki - Hawaii
Published on 2011-05-21 00:34:00
In Honolulu, there are several well-known restaurants owned by top chefs such as Chef Mavro and Alan Wong. Now, there is a new restaurant in town, which opened nearly 8 months ago, in the Waikiki Edition Hotel. Morimoto Wai
A Hamburger Break
Published on 2011-05-06 04:27:00
Since midterms in March, it has been ridiculously busy. I've been working hard to finish all of my projects. By next week, it will be finals. I have 2 exams, a final-take home exam, a pamphlet project, 2 essays, and more ... And once fina
Kohnotorhi Restaurant - Honolulu, Hawaii
Published on 2011-04-08 02:11:00
Kohnotori, a Japanese yakitori restaurant, is located at Puck's Alley near the University of Hawaii at Manoa Campus. It is usually open late in the evening from 5 p.m. to midnight, except for on Friday and Saturday when it is open until 2 a.m.A
Gomatei Restaurant at Ward Center - Honolulu, Hawaii
Published on 2011-04-07 03:09:00
During the week, I went to study with several of my classmates. After studying intensely, some of us were starving and ready to eat an early lunch. I know I was hungry! I was also jittery from drinking coffee, so I knew I neede
English Insanity!
Published on 2011-03-18 04:05:00
Now that I'm studying English, I'm constantly questioning my own language skills. I am learning so much about syntax and phonology that it is messing with my mind!All I think about is English these days because five days a week, I am studying i
The Cheesecake Factory - Waikiki, Hawaii
Published on 2011-03-18 03:35:00
Last weekend, it was a birthday celebration! My two friends and I went to the Cheesecake Factory in Waikiki to have a good time.When we got to the cheesecake factory, it was almost 8:30 p.m. and we discovered upon checking in that the wait time
Another Beautiful Sunday
Published on 2011-03-14 22:42:00
After hiking Manoa Falls, a friend and I took a drive towards the East side of the island. It is one of my favorite places.I think that if more people went outside and enjoyed all that Hawaii has to offer, they would be much more grat
Manoa Falls - Manoa, Hawaii
Published on 2011-03-14 22:21:00
I'm attempting to hike at least 10 new trails and I've finally completed my fourth at Manoa Falls! For those of you unfamiliar with Manoa Falls, it is considered an easy 1 1/2 mile hike located at the end of Manoa Road, next to Lyon Arboretum.&n
March 11, 2011
Published on 2011-03-11 16:50:00
I slept through the tsunami warning and woke up to good news. It never hit us! Now, we are waiting for an "all clear." I can't wait to go outside though and enjoy the outdoors.I actually almost went to school until my friend tex
Tsunami Approaching Hawaii?
Published on 2011-03-11 03:52:00
Tonight, I learned of the 8.8 magnitude earthquake in Japan. I can only imagine the destruction and force of such a powerful earthquake. I truly hope the people of Japan are safe.Now, there's a warning about a possible tsunami heading tow
Ala Moana Beach Park
Published on 2011-03-09 15:52:00
I had such a productive day. Instead of sitting in traffic to get home, I decided to go to the mall after class to have some milk tea and study. Traffic can last quite long, so afterward I went running at Ala Moana Beach Park. From
A Busy Week
Published on 2011-03-07 01:13:00
It has been a ridiculously busy week full of work. I'm exhausted. I feel like I can barely walk today after standing and moving around for hours without sitting. Now, I have to catch up on all of the homework I missed during th
Boston's Pizza - Hawaii
Published on 2011-03-01 00:31:00
The first time I ate at Boston's Pizza, I did not like it. I remember my pizza being cold. But today, I ate at Boston's Pizza for a second time and absolutely loved it.What's the secret? You definitely have to order it hot and fresh.
Lanikai Juice - Kahala, Hawaii
Published on 2011-03-01 00:14:00
Every Sunday, I will try to explore the outdoors or some type of sport to recharge myself for the upcoming week. I want to take care of my health too, so I have been exercising and eating well. Yesterday, I came back from a peaceful hike
Angelo Pietro Restaurant - Honolulu, Hawaii
Published on 2011-02-23 02:13:00
When I was a child, I remember eating at Angelo Pietro's. I remember how delicious their pizza was and the raw potato salad too. However, the second time I ate there, I ordered the most disgusting dish ever. I wasn't sure if I wante
The Great Aloha Run 2011
Published on 2011-02-23 01:44:00
Although I am usually on the volunteering end, passing water to runners or working to contain the crowds, I finally decided to run in the Great Aloha Run for the first time. Now I can cross out one of the items on my 101 in 1001 list.The Great&
I Love China Town Festival - Honolulu, Hawaii
Published on 2011-01-30 23:04:00
On Saturday, I spent time with some friends at the I Love China Town Festival. The event is held in China Town in celebration of Chinese New Year. The festival began on Friday and ended Saturday night. There was entertainment,
Sophie by Mem Fox
Published on 2011-01-29 01:22:00
In need of a good children's book?Recently, my teacher shared a book called Sophie by Mem Fox with us. It inspired me to want to collect children's books, so that I can use them in the future since i'm studying to be an ESL/EFL teacher.The book
Graduate School - Semester 2
Published on 2011-01-24 23:03:00
I cannot believe that I am already in my second semester of graduate school! Today, classes officially began, which means 4 more months of intensive studying! It also means that I will have less personal time. I attended my first cl
A Bee Drink
Published on 2011-01-23 21:09:00
When I was a child, I remember being curious about bees. I had never been stung by one yet, so I did not realize how painful it would be to be attacked by one. While I was walking home one day, I noticed a bee hive near my friend's h
Whale Watching at Makapu'u
Published on 2011-01-17 18:07:00
Although my goal is to hike 10 unique trails in Hawaii for my 101 in 1001 list, I somehow always end up returning to Makapu'u. Yes, I know, I know. I said I would hike other trails, but Makapu'u somehow calls my name and I end up returnin
Vegetable Mochi Soup
Published on 2011-01-17 17:21:00
Want a simple, yet healthy meal? Yesterday, I put together some fresh vegetables and added pieces of plain mochi to make an incredibly healthy, yet quick and easy soup.Vegetable Mochi Soup4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)1 bunch br
Microwave Coconut Mochi
Published on 2011-01-17 01:51:00
Mochi, a traditional Japanese dessert, is a sweet rice treat I have enjoyed since childhood. The traditional method of making mochi can be tedious, but nowadays there are other options such as baked, steamed, or microwaveable mochi.Tonight
An Indonesian Batik Musuem - Solo City
Published on 2011-01-14 19:07:00
From a distance, I could see a luxurious building from inside the bus. I had wondered what was inside, as we slowly started to approach the musuem. When I stepped inside, I was blown away. The musuem looked like a royal p
Pyramids Restaurant - Honolulu, Hawaii
Published on 2010-12-29 20:44:00
For my 101 in 1001 list, I accomplished half of my goal, which is to try at least two Middle Eastern restaurants. I have one more restaurant to go before I can cross this item off my list. Of course, I would like to eat at
101 in 1001 List - Updated
Published on 2010-12-29 06:47:00
As the new year approaches, I am still trying to tackle my 101 goals, which will end February 14, 2013. I have accomplished quite a bit, although I have tons more to go since beginning this challenge not too long ago. Of course, I wish to