🌿 English

The Limits of Being Human

A reflective essay on the quiet limits of being human—where medical safety, family love, and a small wish at the end of life cannot all be fulfilled. A story of helplessness, tenderness, and the bonds that shape a family.

2026.01.18

Gentle Days

When Roles Choose Us: Lessons from a Japanese Coffee Shop and Beyond

A reflective essay on the hidden charm of Japanese coffee shops, the unexpected roles we’re given in life, and how “the needs of the moment” often shape our growth more than ability or intention.

2026.01.17

Gentle Days

A Little Reward for Being Forgetful

A personal story about forgotten money, a lost ATM card, and a series of surprising coincidences—told with cultural insights into everyday life in Japan.

2026.01.15

Gentle Days

The Orange Spaghetti of My Childhood

A nostalgic essay about growing up believing spaghetti was supposed to be orange, shaped by my mother’s unique cooking style and the moment I discovered what pasta really tastes like.

2026.01.14

Gentle Days

My New Year’s Osechi Journey with a Wooden Okamochi and Vermilion Jubako

A personal journey of preparing traditional Japanese New Year’s osechi using a wooden okamochi and vermilion jubako. A warm story of family, tradition, and the changing shape of holiday celebrations.

2026.01.07

Osechi Ryori (Japanese New Year’s Cuisine)

Butter vs. No Butter: A Tarte Tatin Taste Test with Earl Grey Tea Pairing

Discover the difference between buttery and no-butter Tarte Tatin in this taste test. Explore texture, flavor, and perfect tea pairings with Janat Earl Grey and Caramel blends.

2025.12.17

Gentle Days

🍎 Tarte Tatin with Fuji Apples — Preparation Stage

A cozy kitchen story of making Tarte Tatin with Fuji apples — balancing sweetness with caramel and lemon, and experimenting with butter vs. no butter for a unique twist.

2025.12.15

Recipes

Trying My Hand at Filleting Sea Bream: A Journey into Japanese Food Culture

A beginner’s experience learning to fillet sea bream, exploring traditional Japanese techniques, sashimi preparation, and three days of home cooking that highlight the depth of Japanese food culture.

2025.12.13

Japanese Food Culture

Golden Sweet Chestnut Purée (Kurikinton) — A Lucky New Year Treat Made Easy with a Food Processor

Easy Japanese Kurikinton recipe made with a food processor. A golden New Year treat symbolizing good fortune, prosperity, and family happiness. Sweet potato and chestnuts blended into a smooth, beautiful dish.

2025.12.05

Osechi Ryori (Japanese New Year’s Cuisine)

Homemade Datemaki: A Fluffy, Festive Japanese New Year Roll Inspired by Ancient Scrolls

A fluffy, sweet Japanese New Year roll inspired by ancient scrolls. Learn how to make datemaki at home with two easy recipes: a traditional white fish version and a simple hanpen version.

2025.12.04

Osechi Ryori (Japanese New Year’s Cuisine)