Author Archives: Lynda Philippsen

Yodobashi Akiba, Tokyo

Yodobashi stores offer both excellent prices and the convenience of numerous products in one location. Continue reading

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Akihabara Electronics Alleys

We’re burrowing into the elaborate warrens often called “electronics alleys” which provide specialty parts for both hobbyists and professionals bent on building their own computers, stereos and the like. Continue reading

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Okachimachi and Ameya-yokocho Market (Ameyoko)

Fishmongers almost on top of clothing stalls, restaurants alongside high-ticket importers, sushi joints and dry goods jumble together in ramshackle chaos. Continue reading

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Bicycle Valet, Tokyo

Likely retired from his previous position as a company man, he now spends his entire day fussing over the bicycles. Continue reading

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Lightening Storm over Niigata

Not many minutes out, the first crackle of lightning and a whack of thunder hit—then another and another in a tempestuous show. Continue reading

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Touch someone with your love today

“When you are dying you need to be told how loved you are,” Barbara Winters says. Why wait that long? Continue reading

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The Niigata City History Museum

Visitors discover an overview of Niigata’s history from the Jomon period and the area’s development into modern times. Continue reading

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Fourth Sake Rice Harvest in Abbotsford

There’s not a fair price that can be put on the sweat equity required to get this year’s rice into bags—never mind bottles. Continue reading

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Northern Culture Museum and Ito Estate, Niigata

The present museum is a small part of what was a vast property belonging to the Ito family which had amassed huge tracts of forest and farmlands over the centuries. Continue reading

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On My Way to Niigata

…a gradual segue across the plain into Gunma’s foothills, vistas of mountains, black tunnels punched through them and the first sight of the Niigata Plains on the other side. Continue reading

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