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The Origins of Zen – A Flower and a Smile

May 30, 2026

When you think of the word Zen, what images spring to mind? Perhaps you might imagine a dry garden of raked sand and rocks, a graceful black circle penned in ink on white paper, a black-robed monk seated in the lotus position with eyes half-shut, or the ripples created when a drop of water falls…

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Biwako Grand Hotel – Our Return to Ogoto Onsen

Michael Lambe

April 30, 2026

Not too long ago, having an errand to run in Shiga Prefecture, Mewby and I decided to make the most of our trip and stay overnight at a hot spring hotel. We ended up staying at the Biwako Grand Hotel, which we had actually stayed at before – way back in 2009! Time certainly flies,…

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Spotlight

Japan Kanji Museum

Michael Lambe

February 13, 2026

The Japan Kanji Museum is a place I’ve been wanting to go to for a super-long time and in December I finally managed it. I enjoyed my visit,…

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National Foundation Day in Kyoto

Michael Lambe

February 2, 2026

On February 11th Japan takes a day off to celebrate the nation’s mythic beginnings, and in Kyoto, Shinto priests celebrate with an ancient game of football. February 11th…

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