the writings, musings, and photography of a dream smith
is for ryokou, or the Japanese word for a travel-related Journey. One of the nicest things about being in Japan is its close proximity to other countries. NJ and I have been lucky enough to be able to visit a couple of them during school breaks (our yearly bonuses from work), though it isn't uncommon to hear students…
is for Ichijoji, or the place known as my neighborhood. Ichijoji has been my home for about four years now. It is a charming, slightly grungy area of Sakyo-ku (East Ward) that is also known as Ramen Ally. To be honest, I haven't actually eaten that much ramen around here, but that's because I'm a creature…
is for haru, or the Japanese word for Spring. Sometimes, the winters in Japan feel unbearably long. In February, all of the traditional holidays surrounding the coming of spring happen, but the season doesn't actually start feeling present until about April. Then, all of sudden, as quickly as the cherry blossoms burst (spring's most famous feature),…
is for niwa, or the Japanese word for Garden. The only place more ubiquitous to Japan than shrines and temples are gardens, and its not uncommon to see one or two of them inside the former two. In fact, one of the major draws to the lesser-known temples, shrines, estates and palaces in Japan is…
Ariel Hudnall 