If you have ever been lucky enough to behold a Japanese Garden then you’ll surely know what it is to truly want something. Everyone who has ever seen one of these gardens wanted one in their home simply because they are that beautiful. Well good news, it’s not that hard so don’t wait any longer, now you can actually have it!
A Japanese garden can be quite versatile although the overall landscape is fundamentally Oriental. But it can include anything from a fish pond with Koi fish to a rock waterfall and even a stream depending on how much space you have and how much of a true Japanese garden you want.
The first task is to dig a ditch for the pond for the Japanese garden since no garden is complete without this. After weeding the desired area and making a sizable ditch, it is wise to go down to your local home and garden store to see what kind of materials, pond molds and other things that you’ll need for the garden to keep it well maintained and healthy even after you complete the project. Pond molds are black containers that are used to protect fish and other livestock from being contaminated but cement and soil that are used in the garden project.
A nice addition to a Japanese garden is not just a fish pond but also to furnish the pond with oriental style plants. Plants like reeds and short filler plants work extraordinarily well with the Japanese garden since these are very easy to maintain and don’t grow very fast.
These plants can be tied into the garden using small pots or flat stones. Pond stones can be purchased or if you live close to a stream you can find a great selection there also. Placing these flat rocks around the rim of the pond will took care of not just the oriental plants but also it will help keep the pond mold in the ditch more firmly in place.
Next up is the task of decorating the Japanese garden. With an actual Japanese garden, less is more. Because plans and rocks are very eye catching, too many of them will overcrowd the balance and take away from the garden as a whole so it’s best to limit the amount of plants and other ornaments like statues and statuettes. Another nice addition is a small Dojo house and an oriental statue, something that perhaps symbolizes peace or tranquility.
Absolutely everything you need for your Japanese garden can be found online but because of the popularity of these gardens in recent times many local home and garden stores carry a wide range of plants, ornaments, statues and other Oriental things that will complete your garden. Just remember that less truly is more and do leave a lot of space in between your decorative ornaments so that you don’t hide the beauty of your garden.
A Japanese garden is simple to make and it is relatively inexpensive. In fact with the right amount of looking around and creative thinking you can put together your very own low cost Japanese garden that looks like you imported it directly from Japan!
One Final Piece Of Advice: Get as many ideas as you can before starting any project so do visit home improvement ideas a site offering resources on issues like landscaping with rocks, laying ceramic tiles and even about low voltage landscape lighting fixtures.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sarah_H
Sunday, August 10, 2008
If you have ever been lucky enough to behold a Japanese Garden then you’ll surely know what it is to truly want something. Everyone who has ever seen one of these gardens wanted one in their home simply because they are that beautiful. Well good news, it’s not that hard so don’t wait any longer, now you can actually have it!
A Japanese garden can be quite versatile although the overall landscape is fundamentally Oriental. But it can include anything from a fish pond with Koi fish to a rock waterfall and even a stream depending on how much space you have and how much of a true Japanese garden you want.
The first task is to dig a ditch for the pond for the Japanese garden since no garden is complete without this. After weeding the desired area and making a sizable ditch, it is wise to go down to your local home and garden store to see what kind of materials, pond molds and other things that you’ll need for the garden to keep it well maintained and healthy even after you complete the project. Pond molds are black containers that are used to protect fish and other livestock from being contaminated but cement and soil that are used in the garden project.
A nice addition to a Japanese garden is not just a fish pond but also to furnish the pond with oriental style plants. Plants like reeds and short filler plants work extraordinarily well with the Japanese garden since these are very easy to maintain and don’t grow very fast.
These plants can be tied into the garden using small pots or flat stones. Pond stones can be purchased or if you live close to a stream you can find a great selection there also. Placing these flat rocks around the rim of the pond will took care of not just the oriental plants but also it will help keep the pond mold in the ditch more firmly in place.
Next up is the task of decorating the Japanese garden. With an actual Japanese garden, less is more. Because plans and rocks are very eye catching, too many of them will overcrowd the balance and take away from the garden as a whole so it’s best to limit the amount of plants and other ornaments like statues and statuettes. Another nice addition is a small Dojo house and an oriental statue, something that perhaps symbolizes peace or tranquility.
Absolutely everything you need for your Japanese garden can be found online but because of the popularity of these gardens in recent times many local home and garden stores carry a wide range of plants, ornaments, statues and other Oriental things that will complete your garden. Just remember that less truly is more and do leave a lot of space in between your decorative ornaments so that you don’t hide the beauty of your garden.
A Japanese garden is simple to make and it is relatively inexpensive. In fact with the right amount of looking around and creative thinking you can put together your very own low cost Japanese garden that looks like you imported it directly from Japan!
One Final Piece Of Advice: Get as many ideas as you can before starting any project so do visit home improvement ideas a site offering resources on issues like landscaping with rocks, laying ceramic tiles and even about low voltage landscape lighting fixtures.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sarah_H
A Japanese garden can be quite versatile although the overall landscape is fundamentally Oriental. But it can include anything from a fish pond with Koi fish to a rock waterfall and even a stream depending on how much space you have and how much of a true Japanese garden you want.
The first task is to dig a ditch for the pond for the Japanese garden since no garden is complete without this. After weeding the desired area and making a sizable ditch, it is wise to go down to your local home and garden store to see what kind of materials, pond molds and other things that you’ll need for the garden to keep it well maintained and healthy even after you complete the project. Pond molds are black containers that are used to protect fish and other livestock from being contaminated but cement and soil that are used in the garden project.
A nice addition to a Japanese garden is not just a fish pond but also to furnish the pond with oriental style plants. Plants like reeds and short filler plants work extraordinarily well with the Japanese garden since these are very easy to maintain and don’t grow very fast.
These plants can be tied into the garden using small pots or flat stones. Pond stones can be purchased or if you live close to a stream you can find a great selection there also. Placing these flat rocks around the rim of the pond will took care of not just the oriental plants but also it will help keep the pond mold in the ditch more firmly in place.
Next up is the task of decorating the Japanese garden. With an actual Japanese garden, less is more. Because plans and rocks are very eye catching, too many of them will overcrowd the balance and take away from the garden as a whole so it’s best to limit the amount of plants and other ornaments like statues and statuettes. Another nice addition is a small Dojo house and an oriental statue, something that perhaps symbolizes peace or tranquility.
Absolutely everything you need for your Japanese garden can be found online but because of the popularity of these gardens in recent times many local home and garden stores carry a wide range of plants, ornaments, statues and other Oriental things that will complete your garden. Just remember that less truly is more and do leave a lot of space in between your decorative ornaments so that you don’t hide the beauty of your garden.
A Japanese garden is simple to make and it is relatively inexpensive. In fact with the right amount of looking around and creative thinking you can put together your very own low cost Japanese garden that looks like you imported it directly from Japan!
One Final Piece Of Advice: Get as many ideas as you can before starting any project so do visit home improvement ideas a site offering resources on issues like landscaping with rocks, laying ceramic tiles and even about low voltage landscape lighting fixtures.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sarah_H
A Guide to Japanese Onsen
Japan is a country which sees a great deal of volcanic activity. This being the case, there are also a lot of hot springs that have cropped up around the countryside, giving to rise to the concept of Onsen. Onsen, singular and plural, are bathing places that are based on hot springs.
Onsen bathing is a variant of the sento baths; however, the distinction is very clear: Sento baths are communal bathing places that use heated water, while the water in onsen bathing places must be of volcanic origin, even if the water has to be reheated for the bath.
Onsen baths, like sento baths, were used to equalize the people in Japan, where traditionally the society had an extremely rigid, defined hierarchy. In addition to this, the onsen baths were considered to cure ailments because of the different minerals that are present in the water. In fact, waters that have different mineral contents are separated into different bathing places.
Initially, onsen attracted mainly domestic traffic, but of late it has started receiving international fame due to the relaxing nature and the healing properties that are associated with the waters. Although recently there has been a controversial ban in some onsen areas based on race and only Japanese have been allowed to enter.
There are a few famous onsen in Japan, with most of them in Hokkaido, since the area has a high concentration of volcanoes. Some of these resorts are Toya, Noboribetsu and Yunokawa.
Additionally, Aomori is considered to be heaven for the true onsen lovers, with its high volcanic activity. Aomori is situated in the mountains and has every imaginable sort of onsen available.
The Hakodate Yunokawa hot springs is one of the oldest onsen in Hokkaido, dating back to more than 300 years. It is easily accessible by air through the Chitose airport. The facilities provided are comfortable and luxurious, ensuring pleasurable experience all around.
As with all Japanese traditional activities, etiquette plays an instrumental role; the original onsen baths did not allow garments of any kind inside the bathing area. However nowadays, a concession to modesty has been permitted and a swimsuit is allowed inside the waters. It is considered completely unacceptable to enter the waters when unclean or even soapy after a shower.
Advanced booking at any of the more famous onsen is a sensible course of action to follow, although the smaller ones will accommodate walk-in visitors.
Paul Symonds writes about Japenese onsen & Sauna and Teaching in South Korea.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Paul_Symonds
Onsen bathing is a variant of the sento baths; however, the distinction is very clear: Sento baths are communal bathing places that use heated water, while the water in onsen bathing places must be of volcanic origin, even if the water has to be reheated for the bath.
Onsen baths, like sento baths, were used to equalize the people in Japan, where traditionally the society had an extremely rigid, defined hierarchy. In addition to this, the onsen baths were considered to cure ailments because of the different minerals that are present in the water. In fact, waters that have different mineral contents are separated into different bathing places.
Initially, onsen attracted mainly domestic traffic, but of late it has started receiving international fame due to the relaxing nature and the healing properties that are associated with the waters. Although recently there has been a controversial ban in some onsen areas based on race and only Japanese have been allowed to enter.
There are a few famous onsen in Japan, with most of them in Hokkaido, since the area has a high concentration of volcanoes. Some of these resorts are Toya, Noboribetsu and Yunokawa.
Additionally, Aomori is considered to be heaven for the true onsen lovers, with its high volcanic activity. Aomori is situated in the mountains and has every imaginable sort of onsen available.
The Hakodate Yunokawa hot springs is one of the oldest onsen in Hokkaido, dating back to more than 300 years. It is easily accessible by air through the Chitose airport. The facilities provided are comfortable and luxurious, ensuring pleasurable experience all around.
As with all Japanese traditional activities, etiquette plays an instrumental role; the original onsen baths did not allow garments of any kind inside the bathing area. However nowadays, a concession to modesty has been permitted and a swimsuit is allowed inside the waters. It is considered completely unacceptable to enter the waters when unclean or even soapy after a shower.
Advanced booking at any of the more famous onsen is a sensible course of action to follow, although the smaller ones will accommodate walk-in visitors.
Paul Symonds writes about Japenese onsen & Sauna and Teaching in South Korea.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Paul_Symonds
Saturday, August 9, 2008
Japanese Food - Five Dishes for Newcomers
Japanese food, once little more than a niche occupant in the greater scope of American cuisine, has become increasingly popular in recent years. The harmony of flavors and lightness emphasized in the typical Japanese dish appeals to the palettes of many in the United States, where heavy and often deep fried foods have long dominated the market. Many people remain reluctant about exploring this aspect of ethnic cuisine, however, for fear that they'll find something on their plate which appears as though it came from the Iron Chef. This is far from the truth! The intent of this article is to introduce readers to a variety of different Japanese dishes, that they might go out and try something new without fear of what they'll be eating.
Domburi: This dish is quite simply a bowl of rice adorned with some sort of topping. A variety of toppings are popular in Japan, many of which have successfully migrated across the Pacific and into American restaurants. One example of this dish is oyakodon, which uses both chicken and egg for its topping. Another sort of domburi, gyudon, is beefy in flavor and more popular in Japan as fast food. Those of you who are especially outgoing tasters might like to sample unadon, a type of domburi wherein strips of grilled eel coated in a thick soya sauce are used to top the rice bowl.
Ramen: This soup dish has been a staple of the American college student's diet for years. Wildly popular around the world, ramen is to the Japanese what a burger and fries are to your average United States native. Ramen comes in a variety of bases and is best recognized for its long, slender noodles. Complimenting these noodles are such ingredients as dumplings, pork, miso (fermented soybeans) and soya sauce. It's interesting to note that ramen originated in China, rather than Japan, but the dish is almost always associated with the latter source nowadays.
Sashimi: This dish is often mistaken for sushi by those still new to the realm of Japanese cuisine. Although it is often presented artistically, the fact remains that sashimi is raw fish, a truth which turns the stomach of many a squeamish American. Several types of sashimi are served, the most popular of which is probably tuna. Diners should be lend particular attention to the scent when partaking of this dish. The fish used to prepare sashimi must be exceptionally fresh and as such, it should be devoid of any fishy scent.
Sushi: Perhaps the most well-recognized of all Japanese dishes, sushi has become particularly popular in trendy regions of the United States. It is served in too many variations to list completely in the space of this article. To be considered sushi, however, the dish must contain rice that has been prepared with sushi vinegar. The most recognized form of sushi is probably norimaki, or sushi rolls. These rolls contain sushi rice and various sorts of seafood rolled in sheets of dried seaweed. Norimaki often includes vegetables, as well.
Tempura: This dish has also become quite popular within Japan and across the globe. Tempura is something of a finger food, consisting of differing types of seafood and/or vegetables fried in a special batter. The end result is a delightful treat which is crisp without being heavy, as is often the case with deep fried cuisine in America. The ingredients featured in tempura are too numerous to possibly list and often vary wildly from one restaurant to the next.
The five dishes listed above should provide the novice gourmand with a particularly tasty introduction to the world of Japanese cuisine. Enjoy!
Michael Russell Your Independent guide to Japan
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Michael_Russell
Domburi: This dish is quite simply a bowl of rice adorned with some sort of topping. A variety of toppings are popular in Japan, many of which have successfully migrated across the Pacific and into American restaurants. One example of this dish is oyakodon, which uses both chicken and egg for its topping. Another sort of domburi, gyudon, is beefy in flavor and more popular in Japan as fast food. Those of you who are especially outgoing tasters might like to sample unadon, a type of domburi wherein strips of grilled eel coated in a thick soya sauce are used to top the rice bowl.
Ramen: This soup dish has been a staple of the American college student's diet for years. Wildly popular around the world, ramen is to the Japanese what a burger and fries are to your average United States native. Ramen comes in a variety of bases and is best recognized for its long, slender noodles. Complimenting these noodles are such ingredients as dumplings, pork, miso (fermented soybeans) and soya sauce. It's interesting to note that ramen originated in China, rather than Japan, but the dish is almost always associated with the latter source nowadays.
Sashimi: This dish is often mistaken for sushi by those still new to the realm of Japanese cuisine. Although it is often presented artistically, the fact remains that sashimi is raw fish, a truth which turns the stomach of many a squeamish American. Several types of sashimi are served, the most popular of which is probably tuna. Diners should be lend particular attention to the scent when partaking of this dish. The fish used to prepare sashimi must be exceptionally fresh and as such, it should be devoid of any fishy scent.
Sushi: Perhaps the most well-recognized of all Japanese dishes, sushi has become particularly popular in trendy regions of the United States. It is served in too many variations to list completely in the space of this article. To be considered sushi, however, the dish must contain rice that has been prepared with sushi vinegar. The most recognized form of sushi is probably norimaki, or sushi rolls. These rolls contain sushi rice and various sorts of seafood rolled in sheets of dried seaweed. Norimaki often includes vegetables, as well.
Tempura: This dish has also become quite popular within Japan and across the globe. Tempura is something of a finger food, consisting of differing types of seafood and/or vegetables fried in a special batter. The end result is a delightful treat which is crisp without being heavy, as is often the case with deep fried cuisine in America. The ingredients featured in tempura are too numerous to possibly list and often vary wildly from one restaurant to the next.
The five dishes listed above should provide the novice gourmand with a particularly tasty introduction to the world of Japanese cuisine. Enjoy!
Michael Russell Your Independent guide to Japan
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Michael_Russell
Visit Tokyo and Enjoy the Sumo Wrestling
It is always as well to know at least something of the country you want to visit and the things you want to do. Obvious, you may say but it amazing how many people simply do not do some basic research beyond checking flight and hotel bookings.
Most people know that the official name of The Land of The Rising Sun is Nippon or Hihon with Tokyo as its capital city. You probably know that the yen is the currency and that the Tea Ceremony plays an important cultural role in Japanese society. This ancient tradition encourages appreciation of matters physical, aesthetic, intellectual and spiritual.
With a few words, a visitor will enjoy their stay so much more as Japanese is spoken throughout the country with little regional variation. Picking up a few words or expressions will help you anywhere among the 127 or so million people that call Japan home. Your efforts will be appreciated and doors will open to you.
For conversation, it may be useful to know, for example, how many islands make up the country of Japan. Do you know how many seas and lakes surround these islands? For instance the Sea of Japan, the Pacific Ocean and the Sea of Okhotsk all have different characteristics that in turn affect the Japanese regional culture. Did you know that the ownership of the Chishima Islands (or Kuriru Islands) in the Northern Territories is disputed by Russia, the mainland rival of Japan? Room for debate there and a chance to improve your language skills no doubt.
Nearly three quarters of Japan is mountainous. Mount Fuji is its highest and most famous summit and is also volcanic. Sushi, of course, is famous the world over but did you know that soup is eaten with chop sticks? It might be fun to find out how! If sushi and soup are not your thing then you could explore the ramen or yakinki type restaurants that serve foods more commonly associated with China.
High on the list of many visitors is the Japan national sport: Sumo Wrestling. Steeped in ancient ritual dating back centuries, Japanese sumo wrestling can be enjoyed in Tokyo at the main tournaments during January, May and September. So many visitors want to watch sumo wrestling and it is no wonder that they do.
The traditions during these 15 day sumo tournaments are strictly observed. The wrestlers with their distinctive oicho hair knot and wearing the thick, colourful silk mawashi (belly band) are truly professional in all that the do. They live in stables where their every need is catered for including the large quantities of food they consume. In order to retain and gain the bulk they require, they retire to sleep directly after eating.
The Grand Champion, the yokozuna, is at the pinnacle of his profession, the banzuke. Once a wrestler reaches the rank of yokozuna, the title cannot be taken away from him although he is expected to retire once his powers start wane.
When visiting and enjoying the Tournaments it is a good to have some idea of the etiquette and the vocabulary; it adds to the enjoyment.
- Banzuke The official listing of rank in ozumo.
- Danpatsu-shiki A rikishi's retirement ceremony where his top knot is removed.
- Dohyo The sumo ring.
- Dohyo-iri The formal ring entering ceremony.
- Gino-sho The Technique Prize.
- Gyoji The referees.
- Jonidan The second division from the bottom on the banzuke.
- Jonokuchi The lowest division on the banzuke.
- Juryo The second highest division on the banzuke
- Kanto-sho The Fighting Spirit Prize.
- Kesho-mawashi The ceremonial apron worn by rikishi in the top two divisions during their dohyo-iri or ring entering ceremony.
- Komusubi The fourth highest position on the banzuke.
- Maegashira Indicates a rikishi in the top, Makunouchi division..
- Mage The top knot worn by rikishi.
- Makushita The fourth division from the bottom on the banzuke
- Makunouchi The top division on the banzuke or offical listing of rank.
- Mawashi The loincloth like garment worn by rikishi when they train or compete.
- O-icho The more formal hair style worn by rikishi in the top two divisions.
- Ozeki The second highest rank in ozumo.
- Rikishi Literally, "a gentleman of strength". A competitor registered with The Nihon Sumo Kyokai.
- Sandanme The third division from the bottom on the banzuke.
- Sekiwake The third highest position on the banzuke or official listing of rank.
Shikiri The toeing-the-mark ritual that precedes the start of every bout in sumo.
Shukun-sho The Outstanding Performance Award. .
Tachimochi The yokozuna's sword bearer during his dohyo-iri or ring entering ceremony.
Tate-gyoji The highest ranked gyoji or referees in ozumo. .
Toshiyori A term used to refer to the retired rikishi who remain in ozumo often as trainers of rikishi.
Tsuyuharai Serves as the "usher" of the yokozuna during his dohyo-iri
Yokozuna The highest position on the banzuke.
Yumitori-shiki The bow twirling ceremony performed at the end of every tournament day.
The Grand Tournaments of Tokyo are held in the east of the city at Ryogoku. The grandest of the grand, the one to win, the best of the best is the New Year Tournament. Visit in January, May or September but whatever you do, if you have not booked your tickets in advance, arrive early if you want a ticket to this 15 day spectacular Early is 7am.With plenty of sushi and green tea for nourishment you are bound to enjoy the excitement of the competitors, the crowd and the cultural events surrounding Sumo Wrestling.
When visiting Japan be brave and curteous. Brave in trying to speak a few words, tasting the wonderful foods and be curteous because your hosts will be more than that. Tokyo has much offer and for the afficianados of Sumo Wrestling there is nowhere else to be.
Edward Kirwan resides in Southern Spain and with Danish writer, Dorte Holm Jensen, is co-founder of Finca Fantastica Travel.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Edward_Kirwan
Things To Do and Food to Eat in Fukuoka, Japan
Fukuoka isn't that small of a place. Actual numbers bring the population to about the 5 million mark, with the city having roughly 1.3 million people. With that amount of people around, you know there has got to be something to do. On any day of the week if you look you will be able to find something that interests you. There are often festivals in one area or another in Fukuoka city. With a little help from a friend or the domestic foreigner magizines and information centers you will be able to find out where the festivals are being held.
The center of Fukuoka city will have to be Tenjin (though others may argue it to be Hakata). It is the shoppers haven of the prefecture. Feel you need to do a little shopping for some nice named brands from Italy or France? head on over to Tenjin. Want to blow off some steam and hit a bar (including foreigner bars)? Tenjin is the place to be. want to meet some new friends? Rainbow Plaza in... you guessed it, Tenjin, is the place to do just that.
Right next door to Tenjin is Nakasu. Nakasu hosts nightlife entertainment but tends to cater to the more affluent individual. However, Nakasu also has a huge shopping complex named Canal City which has so many shops that you wouldn't be able to count them all. The complex holds many restaurants, two hotels, a large cinema and in the center of Canal City is an area called Sun Plaza where it is common to find street performers doing their acts.
Of course Tenjin and Nakasu aren't the only place you can have fun. I live about 10 minutes away from Tenjin by subway in a town called Nishijin and I can do nearly as many things here as I can in Tenjin. Bowling, swimming, soccer, billards, game centers, and even a movie theater are just a few of the things Nishijin and the nearby area has to offer.
Yahoo Dome (formerly Fukuoka Dome) is located in Momochi which boarders the sea. Yahoo Dome is home to the Fukuoka Softbank Hawks. The Hawks are a strong baseball team, beloved by the city and its residents. In fact, there are only two teams in Japan's professional baseball league who attract more than one million fans to their home games per year, and the Hawks are one of them. When the Hawks don't have a home game you can sometimes find other activities occuring in the Dome. Yahoo Dome hosts various flea markets and concerts throughout the year.
Food, food, food!
As far as I'm concerned, Fukuoka has the best food to offer in all of Japan (though I hear food in Sapporo is quite good). Fukuoka has its own well known dishes and of course the chefs here are well capable of recreating dishes found throughout the world.
Yatai When night begins to fall on Fukuoka city you may suddenly notice many little street vendors (usually operating out of their vans) popping up all over the sidewalks. These vendors serve a variety of foods ranging from ramen to yakiniku to tempura. Yatais themselves are really a site to see.
Hard Rock Cafe Fukuoka On the occasions when I miss American and Mexican food, I always have the option to head on over to Hard Rock Cafe right next door to Fukuoka dome in Momochi. Momochi is adjacent to Nishijin so indeed I am in luck. Hard Rock Cafe Fukuoka boasts the largest restaurant of its kind in Japan. The food is fantastic and of course the atmosphere is like all other Hard Rock Cafes out there. The staff is very friendly and since I frequent their establishment often I am treated extremely well with occasional benefits.
Izakaya Though not only found in Fukuoka, Izakaya restaurants deserve a notable mention. Izakayas offer a wide variety of food and more importantly drinks at a low price. University students as well as business men can often be found in these restaurants chatting with colleagues and drinking up a storm. All Izakayas offer a different ambiance, and with some searching you will be able to find one that suits you.
Famous Fukuoka food
Fukuoka ramen Have you ever had that cup O ramen or that freeze dried packaged ramen? bah! throw that out and try some "Tonkatsu ramen" (pork ramen) famous in Fukuoka and well know throughout all of Japan. First time I tried it I was instantly hooked and to this day try and eat it once every week or so.
Mentaiko Another famous food which Fukuoka is renound for is mentaiko (very tiny fish eggs). To some people mentaiko may not seem very appatizing but please don't knock it till you try it. Mentaiko spagetti, as an example, is a delicious treat around these parts. And there are of course many other recipes which have use for mentaiko.
Transportation
Unlike the nickname given to New York, Fukuoka does tend to get a little tired at night but usually not until quite late especially on weekends. One of the reasons for this in my humble opinion is the transportation shutdown at around midnight. Thats right, the subway, train, and bus system all but stops once you hit the AM. Which leaves the weary and, more often than not, drunk to either take a taxi home, walk, or I have even heard the "I will just stay up until the subway starts again at 6:00 before I go home" line used by those who just aren't finished partying when its time for the transportation system's last call. This isn't just a Fukuoka special, for the shutdown happens throughout the whole of Japan.
Though the transportation system does shutdown at perhaps inconvenient times, it is a wonderful system. Perfectly clean trains, buses and subways (which are amazingly quiet) are the consequence of the shutdown for they are all cleaned during the wee hours of the morning.
Location
Fukuoka is found on the southernmost island of the four main islands in Japan. The name of the island is Kyushu. Fukuoka happens to be closer to Seoul, South Korea than it is to Tokyo. Fukuoka prefecture is located on the northern tip of Kyushu.
http://www.translators.jp/
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Scott_Brady
The center of Fukuoka city will have to be Tenjin (though others may argue it to be Hakata). It is the shoppers haven of the prefecture. Feel you need to do a little shopping for some nice named brands from Italy or France? head on over to Tenjin. Want to blow off some steam and hit a bar (including foreigner bars)? Tenjin is the place to be. want to meet some new friends? Rainbow Plaza in... you guessed it, Tenjin, is the place to do just that.
Right next door to Tenjin is Nakasu. Nakasu hosts nightlife entertainment but tends to cater to the more affluent individual. However, Nakasu also has a huge shopping complex named Canal City which has so many shops that you wouldn't be able to count them all. The complex holds many restaurants, two hotels, a large cinema and in the center of Canal City is an area called Sun Plaza where it is common to find street performers doing their acts.
Of course Tenjin and Nakasu aren't the only place you can have fun. I live about 10 minutes away from Tenjin by subway in a town called Nishijin and I can do nearly as many things here as I can in Tenjin. Bowling, swimming, soccer, billards, game centers, and even a movie theater are just a few of the things Nishijin and the nearby area has to offer.
Yahoo Dome (formerly Fukuoka Dome) is located in Momochi which boarders the sea. Yahoo Dome is home to the Fukuoka Softbank Hawks. The Hawks are a strong baseball team, beloved by the city and its residents. In fact, there are only two teams in Japan's professional baseball league who attract more than one million fans to their home games per year, and the Hawks are one of them. When the Hawks don't have a home game you can sometimes find other activities occuring in the Dome. Yahoo Dome hosts various flea markets and concerts throughout the year.
Food, food, food!
As far as I'm concerned, Fukuoka has the best food to offer in all of Japan (though I hear food in Sapporo is quite good). Fukuoka has its own well known dishes and of course the chefs here are well capable of recreating dishes found throughout the world.
Yatai When night begins to fall on Fukuoka city you may suddenly notice many little street vendors (usually operating out of their vans) popping up all over the sidewalks. These vendors serve a variety of foods ranging from ramen to yakiniku to tempura. Yatais themselves are really a site to see.
Hard Rock Cafe Fukuoka On the occasions when I miss American and Mexican food, I always have the option to head on over to Hard Rock Cafe right next door to Fukuoka dome in Momochi. Momochi is adjacent to Nishijin so indeed I am in luck. Hard Rock Cafe Fukuoka boasts the largest restaurant of its kind in Japan. The food is fantastic and of course the atmosphere is like all other Hard Rock Cafes out there. The staff is very friendly and since I frequent their establishment often I am treated extremely well with occasional benefits.
Izakaya Though not only found in Fukuoka, Izakaya restaurants deserve a notable mention. Izakayas offer a wide variety of food and more importantly drinks at a low price. University students as well as business men can often be found in these restaurants chatting with colleagues and drinking up a storm. All Izakayas offer a different ambiance, and with some searching you will be able to find one that suits you.
Famous Fukuoka food
Fukuoka ramen Have you ever had that cup O ramen or that freeze dried packaged ramen? bah! throw that out and try some "Tonkatsu ramen" (pork ramen) famous in Fukuoka and well know throughout all of Japan. First time I tried it I was instantly hooked and to this day try and eat it once every week or so.
Mentaiko Another famous food which Fukuoka is renound for is mentaiko (very tiny fish eggs). To some people mentaiko may not seem very appatizing but please don't knock it till you try it. Mentaiko spagetti, as an example, is a delicious treat around these parts. And there are of course many other recipes which have use for mentaiko.
Transportation
Unlike the nickname given to New York, Fukuoka does tend to get a little tired at night but usually not until quite late especially on weekends. One of the reasons for this in my humble opinion is the transportation shutdown at around midnight. Thats right, the subway, train, and bus system all but stops once you hit the AM. Which leaves the weary and, more often than not, drunk to either take a taxi home, walk, or I have even heard the "I will just stay up until the subway starts again at 6:00 before I go home" line used by those who just aren't finished partying when its time for the transportation system's last call. This isn't just a Fukuoka special, for the shutdown happens throughout the whole of Japan.
Though the transportation system does shutdown at perhaps inconvenient times, it is a wonderful system. Perfectly clean trains, buses and subways (which are amazingly quiet) are the consequence of the shutdown for they are all cleaned during the wee hours of the morning.
Location
Fukuoka is found on the southernmost island of the four main islands in Japan. The name of the island is Kyushu. Fukuoka happens to be closer to Seoul, South Korea than it is to Tokyo. Fukuoka prefecture is located on the northern tip of Kyushu.
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Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Scott_Brady
Japanese Travel Guide
Getaways are meant to take a person away from all the hurly and burly of life to perfect peace and tranquility. An ideal getaway vacation can thus be at a place where you embrace the beauty of nature in complete serenity. The paradigm example of this is Japan where visitors themselves have discovered countless beautiful getaways. So lets take a look at some of the popular and ideal getaways in the land of rising sun.
Some frequently visited getaways in the Japan are as follows:
· Hagi- it is a nice historic archaic Samurai and castle town in the rural Japan. It is located near the western tip of the Honshu Island. Hagi has some of the wonderful museums and beaches.
The Joka- Machi old samurai quarter is worth visitng in Hagi. Besides this the Kumaya Art Mueseum, the Kasuga Shrine near Joka Machi and the Sho-in Shrine are the must visit sites in Hagi.
· Idzumo is one amongst the four most important Shinto shrines of Japan. It is also called the home of gods. The shrine has tremendous historical significance.
· Sekigane is also an amazing Japanese getaway. It is a small village that has hot water springs and coastal mountains. At the end of this small but calm and amazing village is a walk up through bamboo groves to Kamei Park.
· The Kyoto Fu peninsula is a small peninsula that makes a great getaway. In order to reach this peninsula you need to drive from Kumihama to Mineyama, Omiya and Miyazu. On the south of Omiya there is a small shrine that too is religiously and historically quite significant.
· The Wakasa Wan (Bay) is another brilliant getaway. The Wakasa Wan National Park is quite popular here.
· The Obama Bay that stretches to the Oshima Peninsula is also a brilliant getaway. Similarly the Tsunegami Hanto Peninsula that has Rocky Mountains is also worth visiting.
· You can also go to see the Tojimbo Cliffs. These are located on a point of the Echi-zen Kaigan (coast) National Park. It is a popular tourist attraction because of its exotic beauty. If you visit here don’t forget to go to the small fishing village, Anto nearby.
· The Central Mountains of Honshu Island are a big lure to visitors. This island has a collection of various mountains known as Central Alps. It is a great delight and lifetime opportunity to see these world famous ice-capped mountains. · The Shiwaku Shoto Islands are a group of islands near Oakayama that has many small collections of islands in the Inland Sea. Hon-Jima and Mukkuchi-Jima islands make desirous getaways.
· Apart from these the place of Hokkaido in Japan is recognized as a top romantic getaway. Similarly there are other passionate getaways such as Ikspiari, Vinus Fort, Lover’s Cape and Kobe Portpia.
But this is just the tip of an iceberg for there are many other known and waiting to be discovered getaways in Japan.
Mansi aggarwal writes about japanese travel. Learn more at http://www.japanesegetaways.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mansi_Aggarwal
Some frequently visited getaways in the Japan are as follows:
· Hagi- it is a nice historic archaic Samurai and castle town in the rural Japan. It is located near the western tip of the Honshu Island. Hagi has some of the wonderful museums and beaches.
The Joka- Machi old samurai quarter is worth visitng in Hagi. Besides this the Kumaya Art Mueseum, the Kasuga Shrine near Joka Machi and the Sho-in Shrine are the must visit sites in Hagi.
· Idzumo is one amongst the four most important Shinto shrines of Japan. It is also called the home of gods. The shrine has tremendous historical significance.
· Sekigane is also an amazing Japanese getaway. It is a small village that has hot water springs and coastal mountains. At the end of this small but calm and amazing village is a walk up through bamboo groves to Kamei Park.
· The Kyoto Fu peninsula is a small peninsula that makes a great getaway. In order to reach this peninsula you need to drive from Kumihama to Mineyama, Omiya and Miyazu. On the south of Omiya there is a small shrine that too is religiously and historically quite significant.
· The Wakasa Wan (Bay) is another brilliant getaway. The Wakasa Wan National Park is quite popular here.
· The Obama Bay that stretches to the Oshima Peninsula is also a brilliant getaway. Similarly the Tsunegami Hanto Peninsula that has Rocky Mountains is also worth visiting.
· You can also go to see the Tojimbo Cliffs. These are located on a point of the Echi-zen Kaigan (coast) National Park. It is a popular tourist attraction because of its exotic beauty. If you visit here don’t forget to go to the small fishing village, Anto nearby.
· The Central Mountains of Honshu Island are a big lure to visitors. This island has a collection of various mountains known as Central Alps. It is a great delight and lifetime opportunity to see these world famous ice-capped mountains. · The Shiwaku Shoto Islands are a group of islands near Oakayama that has many small collections of islands in the Inland Sea. Hon-Jima and Mukkuchi-Jima islands make desirous getaways.
· Apart from these the place of Hokkaido in Japan is recognized as a top romantic getaway. Similarly there are other passionate getaways such as Ikspiari, Vinus Fort, Lover’s Cape and Kobe Portpia.
But this is just the tip of an iceberg for there are many other known and waiting to be discovered getaways in Japan.
Mansi aggarwal writes about japanese travel. Learn more at http://www.japanesegetaways.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mansi_Aggarwal
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