hokkaido– tag –

A train track is more than just infrastructure; it’s a concrete promise. Join me as I explore the unique psychology of Japan’s rail enthusiasts, the "ghost stations" of the Hokkaido wilderness, and why you should experience the world’s most punctual rail system before the silent beauty of the ruins takes over.

I used to work in the "living hell" of the Ministry of Finance, where one mistake could end a career. Join me as I contrast the cutthroat world of Tokyo's elite bureaucrats with the miracle of Higashikawa—a tiny Hokkaido town that banned the word "no"—and why architect Kengo Kuma chose this rebellious community for his new satellite office.

Why is Soba, a grain historically associated with poverty, considered Japan's most elegant noodle—the ultimate first date material? I explore the Paradox of Elegance and the Pavlovian ritual of Shin-Soba (New Soba) season. I conclude with local pride, recommending OKADA, an exquisite Soba restaurant in our buckwheat heartland of Asahikawa—a Tangible Cultural Property where the historic garden view will enhance your appreciation of the elegant grain.

In a Japanese home, the mother is an absolute dictator, and the law is: "You shall eat curry for three days straight." Discover the hilarious reality of Japanese soul food, the "level 10" bravery of Indian spice elites, and why the best soup curry in Asahikawa is served in a showroom full of designer chairs.

Branding is the difference between an ingredient and a legend. Join me as I explore the "tragedy" of Hokkaido's cod roe, the architectural beauty of Rokkatei in Furano, and my own embarrassing (but delicious) habit of driving across the prefecture for factory-second snacks.

Genghis Khan barbecue is a Hokkaido specialty, though it was once just a boring home-cooked meal for me. Tourists love to eat it near sheep ranches, but here's the reveal: more than 90% of the lamb and mutton consumed here is imported from Australia/New Zealand—it's the ultimate imported emperor. If you visit, you can trust any local restaurant, as they've survived the strict taste of Hokkaido people. Crucially, bring a large plastic bag to protect your coat from the intense grill smell. And if you visit MATSUO's newest Tokyo location, you can enjoy this local delicacy while sitting in our chairs.

Japan’s giant killer hornet is a fisherman’s nightmare, but it might be the only thing keeping the forest ecosystem—and our wooden furniture—safe. I explore the unsettling paradox of the giant hornet as both arch-enemy and keystone species, analyze the genius of the native bee’s "bee ball" strategy, and contrast this ecosystem with my home in Hokkaido.

Japan abolished its aristocracy, but a hidden noble class persists. A naive Hokkaido boy explores this secret society, mistaking a TOYOTA heiress for a struggling salesperson. I reveal how their true mark is not conspicuous wealth but profound modesty and normality. This leads to the ultimate marketing challenge: how to sell luxury furniture to people who wear their wealth with invisible tags.

In Manhattan, it’s a dinner date. In Asahikawa, it used to be a place where talking was forbidden and hair had to be tied back. Explore the intense, monastic world of Hokkaido Ramen and learn why even a local "survivor" sometimes prefers the quiet comfort of a designer chair to the battlefield of the noodle shop.

Why do the colorful feathers of male peacocks attract female peacocks? Some people may accept the simple explanation: "Because they are beautiful," but I never did. In all through my school days from primary to university, I was an enthu...