Where in the World is Adam Shane?

It is hard to say any final thoughts about Japan because I know it will always be with me in my heart.  Over the three months spent there I have developed a special love for the country and look forward to returning someday soon.  It is without a doubt an expensive country to travel in, but the friendships, rewards and lessons learned were more than worth any money spent to obtain them.  I can definitely see myself living there someday, but there are a great many obstacles to overcome first.    [read on]

At the same time Japan thrives in its future fantasy land, there is also an abundance of history, tradition and culture balancing the modernization.   There are the blatant differences from western culture, such as the abundance of shrines, squat toilets, onsen, etc. After a while these differences begin to seem more normal, but leave more time to become bewildered by the society and people themselves.    [read on]

Sometimes walking through the streets of Japan feels like tomorrowland at Disneyworld.  Aside from the ultramodern appearances there is an abundance of convenience technologies (e.g. motion sensor bathroom fixtures, automatic doors, etc.).   [read on]

The public transportation system in Japan is probably the best in the world.  Everything is efficient, timely, clean enough and comfortable (except during rush hours).  Unfortunately, the whole system is extremely expensive.  It is no problem getting to and from any place to place, but you can expect to spend dearly.   [read on]

 

While there are an abundance of business hotels and the occasional hostel, there are more unique and exciting places to sleep in Japan.    [read on]

Aside from my beloved matcha (thick green tea, rich in vitamin C) there were a lot of amazing drinks in Japan.  There aren’t too many differences between the ones you’d find in America.  But a notable mention is Pocari Sweat, a pez-flavored Gatorade like drink.    [read on]

I’m sure that food will prove to be one of the most exciting experiences throughout my world travels.  I’m imagine that Japan’s culinary tastes are much tamer than some of the exotic dishes that I will consume in later countries, but it did present a great many differences than the diet I was previously accustomed to.    [read on]

As the date of my visa rapidly approached, I started the journey west towards the port city of Fukuoka.  I had the last ferry before my expiration date booked.  This left me a few days to hang out with Megumi, a friend I met in Tokyo.  She just moved back here a week ago and promised to show me around the city before I left Japan.    [read on]