Exploring Japanese Gardens: A Visual Tour
From the contemplative rock gardens of Kyoto to the vast landscape of Kenroku-en, Japanese gardens are a world unto themselves — peaceful, intentional, and deeply beautiful.
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April 2023
February 2021
Top 10 Non-Fiction Books On Japan
My personal reading list for anyone who wants to understand Japan more deeply, from its ancient history to its vibrant contemporary culture.
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January 2021
Top 5 Japanese Winter Destinations
Skiing in Hokkaido, ice sculptures in Sapporo, UNESCO snow villages, hot springs in Beppu — Japan in winter is absolutely magical.
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January 2021
Japan Tea Shop Inspiration
A look at the beautiful Japanese tea shops that inspired Mei's own Oshabe-cha in The Daydreamer Detective Opens a Tea Shop.
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December 2020
Nabé: Japan's Winter Hot Pot
When the weather gets cold, it's time for nabé — Japan's beloved communal hot pot dish that brings family and friends together around the table.
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December 2020
Christmas In Japan
Fried chicken, strawberry cake, and glittering city lights — Christmas in Japan is nothing like what you'd expect, and that's what makes it wonderful.
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November 2020
The 10,000 Yen Note
Why is the 10,000 yen note the most commonly used bill in Japan? A look at Japan's currency, cash culture, and what it means to live in a largely cash society.
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November 2020
The Japanese Mindset in the Miso Cozy Mysteries Series
How the communal nature of Japanese society shapes Mei's story — and why both she and Yasahiro have always struggled to fit into the mold.
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November 2020
Writing About Japan, Research, and Stereotypes
How does a non-Japanese author write convincingly about Japan? Research, respect, and a willingness to dig deeper than the surface.
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October 2020
Japanese Izakaya Food
The izakaya — Japan's answer to the pub — is one of life's great pleasures. What is it, what do you eat, and why is it so special?
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October 2020
Top Ten Bento Box Ideas
Bento boxes are the ultimate packed lunch — and they're anything but boring. Ten ideas to get you started on your bento journey.
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September 2020
Saké and Where To Start
Saké is not just something you order hot at a sushi restaurant. A guide to understanding, choosing, and enjoying this remarkable Japanese drink.
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July 2020
The Japanese Kotatsu
A low, heated table covered in a quilt — the kotatsu is one of Japan's most beloved winter traditions. Learn everything about it here.
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July 2020
Why Did You Switch To A Different Genre?
A reader asked me why I switched genres to write the Miso Cozy Mysteries. Here's the honest answer about following your passion as an indie author.
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July 2020
Top 5 Traditional Japanese Dishes
From miso soup to tempura and soba noodles — my five favorite traditional Japanese dishes that make my mouth water every time.
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June 2020
Top 5 Japanese Mysteries
A reading list for mystery lovers and Japan enthusiasts alike — five gripping mysteries either set in Japan or written by Japanese authors.
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June 2020
How Sweet Potatoes Saved Japan
The humble sweet potato helped save Japan from starvation in the 18th century. The fascinating story behind Mei's least-hated vegetable.
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