kanamara matsuri

The penis worshippers

This has got to be one of the strangest festivals out there. In the usually demure country of Japan, a Shinto shrine dedicates the day to penises!

daruma temple

The grumpy dolls of Takasaki

I always thought Daruma dolls looked grumpy and unhappy. But at the temple where they were created, I learn there’s much more to them than that.

tokyo cat cafe

Hello kitties

It seems odd to me, but for people in Tokyo a cat cafe is the perfect way to spend time with animals which they’re not allowed in their apartments.

rules in japan

No jumping on the banwagon

There seem to be more rules than usual in Japan. So many things are forbidden and the people just accept it. But why?

sumo wrestling in tokyo

Sumo is big in Japan

Once a year this intimate sumo tournament is held at one of Japan’s most infamous shrines. It’s a special way to experience the sport.