coffee
Using the CAFEC Flower Dripper DEEP 27
My experience with the CAFEC Flower Dripper Deep 27 coffee brewer. A little foray into what you think about when you brew coffee.
Joash Wong
What do you do when your Rakuten account gets blocked?
Overcoming the odds. Surviving the trials and tribulations of being falsely accused. Losing and finding one's Rakuten account again. Inspired by true events
Living in Japan
What's it like to do a surgery in Japan?
A loose guidebook to navigating a surgery in Japan.
Living in Japan
What is kafunsho to a person living in Japan?
A perspective on a springtime phenomenon and what seems to be an essential part of Japanese identity.
Getting started in Japan
My preferred credit card in Japan, and why
A follow up on my experience applying for a credit card in Japan. At the risk of being reductionist, to my mind there's really only 1 credit card worth getting...
Getting started in Japan
How do you get a credit card in Japan?
One year in the making. I've finally gotten the credit card i wanted in Japan. Here's what i've pieced together about the process, and how i view improving your odds for getting one.
What are Imabari towels and why do they matter to you?
Well, they don't. They matter to me. Which is why i'm writing about it. Maybe a little hyperbolic, but using one was a moment of exposure to little luxuries. These towels don't matter to you now, but they could by the end of this post.
Getting started in Japan
What is furusato nouzei and how do i use it?
Furusato nouzei is a great way to get something back for paying your taxes - this post covers what it is, how it works, and what to watch out for.
Travel
Travel: Urabandai - Yamagata - Aizuwakamatsu
As someone living in Japan i strive to explore as much as my wallet (and my energy) allows me to. This aims to be a log of places we've been and what we've seen there. It does not aim to be a travel guide, but i've noted the places so you can look it up if you're so inclined.
Getting started in Japan
What should you think about when renting an apartment in Japan?
Renting an apartment in Tokyo was the most painful renting experience i’ve had in my life. Now that i have your attention, i should also disclose that i’ve never rented before this, ever.
Let's talk about money (or, are you sure you want to move to Japan?)
Fact: Singaporeans love Japan (apparently 6% of Singaporeans travelled to Japan in 2023. Conclusive statistics on outbound tourism seem really hard to come by, but i’m inclined to think that’s a lot). Anecdotally, it feels like maybe 3 out of 10 people i talk to in Singapore want
Getting started in Japan
What happens when you first move to Japan?
Things you may want to know about moving to Japan. Disclaimer: this is not gospel, it's my personal experience. Do with it what you will.