Tag Archives: Emily Cannell

“We Interrupt our Usual Broadcasting to Bring You This Important Message..”

The Japan Sumo Association confirmed the cancellation of the Spring Grand Sumo Tournament due to match fixing. The last time a Grand Sumo Tournament was cancelled occurred in 1946 due to damage of the Ryogoku Kokugikan sumo stadium from WWII. … Continue reading

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Posted in Moving to Japan | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 14 Comments

“You…you…you…. Oni!” The Setsubun Festival

According to a high-ranking Japanese authority on cultural issues to whom I have close ties, hurling an insult might include calling someone an “Oni” in Japan- or demon. Spouse might claim that I’ve been inhabited by an Oni the past … Continue reading

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Posted in Culture Lessons, Moving to Japan | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , | 10 Comments

An American Experience in Tokyo- Costco

I love to see American products packaged for the Japanese. Costco is becoming one of the most recognizable American discount warehouse stores. Whenever the toilet paper runs low, it’s time for a Costco run. The last time, as I took … Continue reading

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Posted in Food, Moving to Japan | Tagged , , , , , , , , | 12 Comments

A Food Peep Show

On Sunday I was wandering around Shibuya replacing all of the various computer chords and headphones Demolition Derby boy had destroyed during his ill-fated school ski trip when I happened upon a snaking line of Japanese. It appeared to lead … Continue reading

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Posted in Food, Moving to Japan | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , | 21 Comments

Asking “No” Questions- How Could it be so Hard? Culture Lesson #10

It is easier to draw blood from a turnip or shake millions from the money tree than to gain a negative answer to a question from a Japanese person. When faced with unusual, off-putting and uncomfortable Ouiser questions, many of … Continue reading

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Posted in Culture Lessons, Moving to Japan | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , | 17 Comments