Have you seen the movie “Memoirs of Geisha” that starred the lovely Zhang Ziyi and martial arts expert Michelle Yeoh? If not, then most probably you are wondering about the meaning of the word “geisha”. Literally, geishas were traditional Japanese artist-entertainers in the 18th and 19th centuries. Although there are geishas that still exist today, their numbers are obviously decreasing.

Before aspiring geishas begin their training, they have to complete first their junior high school or even high school or college education. During the training, they have to be familiar with the traditional instruments like the shamisen, shakuhachi, drums, and traditional songs, tea ceremony, classical Japanese dance, literature, and poetry.

Unfortunately, geisha is now a rare sight outside Kyoto because the province is the place where the geisha tradition is strongest today. The two of the most prestigious and traditional geisha districts, Gion and Pontocho, a

It was my Japanese friend who told me how to prepare a miso soup back in college. At first, I was looking on how he prepared the soup, but later on I found out that I can actually do it. According to him, miso which is manufactured from soybeans, grain, and a fermenting agent, is another Japanese contribution in the world. This savory and nutritious soy food is very rich in protein, something which is very critical in the Eastern part of Asia. It is the best base for sauces, soups, dressings, and toppings; and serves as medium for making pickles. Also, he told me that almost every place in Japan has its own miso variety, therefore there are lots of choices. Among the main choices include the two most prevalent and readily available red and white miso. The second variety with a deep dark red to an almost ebony brown color has a rich aroma and earthy taste. On the other hand, the white variety with a yellowish brown color as well as a lite in color has a sweet taste.

According

Some of my friends were shocked when I told them that Mt. Fuji is not the most famous attraction in Japan. Well, that’s what they know since they’re not fully aware of the fact that Kinkaku-ji, the Temple of the Golden Pavillion located in Kyoto, is the most famous of all the tourists attractions in Japan. This temple was said to be built originally in 1933 and served as home for retired Shogun Yoshimitsu Ashikaga. It became a Buddhist temple when the retired leader died. The temple is famous for having pillars over the lake which was designed to emphasize its place between heaven and earth.

It was also said that this Buddhist temple was reconstructed back in 1955 after a young Zen Buddhist set fire inside it. Reports said that the man despised beautiful things like the temple that’s why he tried to destroy it. After the reconstruction, the temple became beautiful and spectacular. It’s really stunning being wholly covered with gold leaf with a phoenix

After almost six months of working very hard, I’m taking my break to the premier city of Japan — Tokyo. Since I was a kid, I really wanted to go and visit the different exciting sceneries in this part of the world. I have been to Disneyland many times but that’s in US, this time I want to see how Tokyo Disneyland fairs with that in America. Some of my friends, who have been there, already told me that there’s not much difference between the two. However, I am not satisfied with their stories; I want to see it personally before my very eyes.

Since, this Tokyo Disneyland is one of the main attractions in Japan, I am bringing my whole family with me so that the children will be able to see the difference. My wife is also excited about this trip and she’s preparing the things already. The children are also excited about our vacation because this will be their first time in an Asian country. Hopefully, after this trip in Tokyo, we can still go to Hong

My friends had a lot of wonderful things to say about the Imperial Hotel during their Japan vacation, so I also chose that hotel when I visited Tokyo last month. Not only that the hotel is very nice and comfortable, I felt so warm with the staff’s efficient service and respect to their guests.

I was completely satisfied with the hotel facilities as well as the service of every staff. Although there are times that I found them very hard to understand, I still commend their wonderful service. There were also plenty of restaurants near the hotel that offer delicious foods in a lower price. Moreover, the hotel has very comfortable rooms with different features that will make your stay memorable and awesome.

I am sure that every guest, even those with very discriminating taste, would enjoy their stay in this hotel. Although the Imperial Hotel reservation is a bit expensive compared to other hotels in the area; it does not matter at all because you will definitely be s