Traditions, Featured

Omamori: Japanese Talismans

If you’ve ever been to Japan, you’ll find certain places that sell omamori, often near religious or traditional sites. Booths around these shrines or Japanese buildings sell these magical-looking talismans, often in the form of keychains, necklaces, or other types of trinkets, with the common one being held by a string. Buying a random omamori ...

Mike West

Various omamori.

Exploring the Mysterious Shima Enaga Bird: Is It Real or Just a Story?

In a world where extraordinary creatures share space with ordinary ones, distinguishing between what’s real and what’s not can pose a challenge. Japan’s national parks, known for their breathtaking beauty, are so enchanting that it’s easy to lose oneself. It’s within such a world that the Shima Enaga bird finds its habitat. But have you ...

Viena Abdon

The captivating Shima Enaga.

South Korea’s Hawaii: 11 Most Popular Things to Do at Jeju Island

Located south of mainland Korea, Jeju Island is the most popular destination among Korean and foreign visitors. The island is just an hour’s flight from Seoul — with hundreds of flights from Seoul to Jeju every day.  In 2011, Jeju Island was named among the New 7 Wonders of Nature because of its dramatic volcanic ...

Nathan Machoka

Jeju Island, South Korea.

The Legend of the Female Samurai: How Much of It Is True?

The legend of the female samurai challenges many longstanding beliefs about feudal Japan. Contrary to the notion that only men were permitted to wield samurai swords, female warriors played a crucial role in the tumultuous era. These women didn’t just stand out; they left an indelible mark on history with their prowess and bravery. The ...

Mike West

Woodblock print of the Battle of Aizu showing female warriors fighting alongside men.

Wisdom Wrapped in Humor: Inspiring Tales From Icons of History

Throughout history, humor has been an indomitable tool in the arsenal of leaders, thinkers, and innovators. It serves not just as a source of amusement, but as a bridge between contrasting ideas, a salve for wounds both personal and societal, and a testament to the enduring human spirit. The anecdotes that follow demonstrate the diverse ...

Mikel Davis

Frozen rose on clear ice.

Essential Uses that Round Bronze Mirrors Played in Ancient China

Bronze mirrors were used as one of the daily essentials for the ancient Chinese people. They were used to check one’s appearance and for young ladies to apply make-up and style their hair. They were also esteemed as a kind of handicraft.   Additionally, they were also used as funerary objects. Ancient people believed that placing ...

Emma Lu

A Chinese bronze mirror.

Safe and Sound: Navigating Concerts and Festivals with Confidence

You bought the tickets months in advance, your outfit has been carefully curated, and the anticipation has been building for weeks. Concert day is finally here, but in your excitement, don’t forget that large crowds and loud music can pose serious safety risks if unprepared.  The show will go on, but make sure you do ...

Viena Abdon

A large concert crowd.

People Who Don’t Get Seriously Ill Have 5 Things in Common

Everyone wants to have a healthy body. Those who don’t get seriously ill often have five things in common, and we have also found that the first rule is the hardest to follow. So how many can you do? Let’s take a look. 5 ways to avoid illness 1. They don’t get angry Many diseases ...

Emma Lu

A hospital ward.