Nisekoi 216

And now we are back! So in another twist, we learn that Raku’s mother was the person who wrote the picture book everyone has read. It is interesting that we are finally beginning to learn more about the book, and Raku’s mother. It seems that Hana-san, Raku’s mom, Kosaki’s mom, and Marika’s mom were all friends too! Um, ok. Chitoge is surprised at this news, … Continue reading Nisekoi 216

Sanja Matsuri

As some of you know, we mentioned Sanja Matsuri during our Monday Morning Trip to Asakusa—which you can see again here: https://japansauce.net/2016/05/09/asakusa/ Sanja Matsuri (三社祭, literally “Three Shrine Festival”), is one of the three great Shinto festivals in Tokyo. It is considered one of the wildest and largest. The festival is held in honor of Hinokuma Hamanari, Hinokuma Takenari and Hajino Nakatomo, the three men who established and … Continue reading Sanja Matsuri

Tsukiji Market

PLEASE NOTE–This article is related to the OLD Tsukiji Market, which no longer exists. It has been replaced by TOYOSU Market. The Tsukiji Market (築地市場 Tsukiji shijō), is the world-famous fish market that is on everyone’s list of “must-dos” in Tokyo, Japan. Tsukiji Market is the world’s biggest wholesale fish and seafood market, and also has a large wholesale area for fruits and vegetables too. We have visited … Continue reading Tsukiji Market

Bleach 673

Today’s chapter starts with Renji and Rukia arriving to see a giant Valkyrie, as the fight between Captains Zaraki, Byakuya, Hitsugaya, and Valkyrie wages on. Renji and Rukia are very surprised to finally meet Captain Hitsugaya’s older brother!? This is a very funny moment, as we all know that Captain Hitsugaya looks older because of his bankai. Suddenly, everyone stops, as they sense Ichigo’s power. … Continue reading Bleach 673

Tokyo Yamathon 2016!

If you are familiar with Japan, then you have probably heard, and used, the Yamanote Line—it’s that super-convenient JR train that takes you all around the main districts in Japan. Well, did you know that there is a marathon associated with this train? It’s called the Yamathon! The Yamathon is a marathon in which teams of 3-4 people walk or run through Tokyo, visiting all … Continue reading Tokyo Yamathon 2016!

Asakusa

This week’s Monday Morning Trip is to Asakusa and Senso-ji! Asakusa (浅草) is an area in Tokyo, Japan, where much of the old-Tokyo can still be seen. Asakusa can be found in every guide book about Japan, as it is the home to Senso-ji, the oldest temple in Tokyo. The Asakusa area was heavily damaged during World War II, but was rebuilt after the war. Long ago, … Continue reading Asakusa

Bleach 672

And we’re back after a short Golden Week break, and things are getting interesting. When we last saw Captain Zaraki, Captain Hitsugaya, and Captain Kuchiki, they had combined their forces to bring down Sternritter Valkyrie. Captain Hitsugaya was left drained, as his new ultimate bankai form has taken its toll. Before he collapses, Captain Kuchiki manages to catch him by the arm. However, before they … Continue reading Bleach 672

Kodomo no Hi (Children’s Day)

Another Golden Week has come to an end, as yesterday was “Kodomo no Hi” or Children’s Day—the last holiday in the Golden Week party. Children’s Day is celebrated on May 5th, and was designated as a national holiday in 1948. History It was originally known as “Tango no Sekku” or Boy’s Day, and as the name suggests, was a festival for boys. Japan also set aside … Continue reading Kodomo no Hi (Children’s Day)

Janken–Japanese Game of Warriors!

At this year’s Niconico Chokaigi 2016, one of the activities for the attendees was a game of Janken with a robot. There was a very long line for the game, and it reminded us of just how immensely popular this game is in Japan. Janken (じゃん拳 janken) is the Japanese version of Rock-Paper-Scissors, but it is much more than a simple game in Japan. Janken is used to … Continue reading Janken–Japanese Game of Warriors!