Author Archives: Shinji

About Shinji

Hey guys. I lived in Japan for 25 years then came to the US 5 years ago for grad school (Chemistry). But honestly, I would say I was always more interested in studying English and explore foreign cultures. I have been a huge fan of American music probably because of the influence from my parents. I spent a lot of my time just listening to it (and also playing it a bit haha). And then I got into seriously studying English. So I think I can give you some advice on how to study foreign languages. Also, I can answer some of your questions about Japanese and Japanese culture. Let me know if you are looking for a conversation partner – Shinji Check out my... YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/user/skane0001 Blog: http://skane0001.blog101.fc2.com/ Twitter: @Skane0001

FUJI ROCK FESTIVAL
By Shinji

Fuji Rock Festival is the biggest outdoor music festival in Japan. Despite its name, the festival is held at Naeba Ski Resort in Niigata prefecture. The festival was named so because the first event was held at the base of Mt. Fuji.

It’s easily one of the best parties you can go in Japan. Check out some of my pics.

-Shinji

Echigo Yuzawa Station. Free shuttles to the venue.

The gate.

Green stage, the main stage.

Oasis, the food court.

Field of heaven.

White stage.

Red Marquee, the dance tent.

The party goes on till monday morning.

Lots of non-musical performances as well.

Left in the morning.

Gamuso fest.
By Shinji

We party on the street. Holla.

お中元
By Shinji

I sent some gifts as お中元 (Ochugen, summer gift) to my parents, grandma, and the research lab I used to belong.

Now I make some money for being a salaryman, I guess it’s time to pay some back.
Hooray for karma.

-Shinji

Mitama Matsuri at Yasukuni Shrine
By Shinji

I went to check out Mitama Matsuri at Yasukuni Shrine last night.
Natsu-matsuri (summer festival) is a popular activity for summer nights. Usually people gather, eat, drink, mingle, nanpa, or whatever. Aaand lot of people come in Yukata
Mitama means soul or spirit, so I was wondering how this festival would be like.. But it turned out to be… just like any other matsuri, packed with young people lol.

I refrained from throwing osaisen at the shrine.

Asakusa (浅草)
By Shinji

Hey,

I went to check out Tokyo Sky Tree in Asakusa with my friends yesterday. Tokyo Sky Tree (aka New Tokyo Tower) is a newly built, the tallest structure in Japan.
Asakusa is famous for having many Buddhist temples and shrines, as well as modern constructures. With so many religious establishments, there are frequent Maturi (festival) in Asakusa. Indeed, there was one yesterday. There were modern-looking version of Mikoshis. Mikoshis are like portable shrines typically look like miniature builiding, but the ones we saw looked like dragons and such.

Asakusa has a great atmosphere with eclectic mix of the new and the old. Definitely a place you should consider visiting!

-Shinji

About Shinji

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