First-Time Japan Travel Mistakes You’ll Never Repeat (pt. 3)
In the third and final chapter, we'll explore and learn about culture shock through some real first-time Japan travel mistakes.
Posts by Santiago Campodonico
The Art of Japanese Puppetry in Our Cosmic Dust
Traditional Japanese puppetry and LED display technology find common ground in Our Cosmic Dust. The way they do is nothing short of genius.
Exploring Grief Through a Child’s Eyes in Japanese Theatre
From Noh to Butoh, Japanese theatre excels at exploring Grief through innocence, and Ozawa’s Our Cosmic Dust follows that rich tradition.
First-Time Japan Travel Mistakes You’ll Never Repeat (pt. 2)
Think you know Japan? In this article we'll tell you some real first-time Japan travel mistakes, which reveal the nuances of the country.
First-Time Japan Travel Mistakes You’ll Never Repeat (pt. 1)
Japan is awaiting you, but the first day can hold surprises. Today, we tell you some real first-time Japan travel mistakes for you to avoid.
The Meiji Era as a Stage: Why Medea’s Setting Matters
Avant-garde theatre legend Satoshi Miyagi conceives a Meiji Era Medea, a play where the setting is crucial to the story he wants to tell.
Ridley Scott’s Japan: A Path Forward
Ridley Scott's Japan is an endless source of inspiration for both films and life. Today, we take a deep dive into his work and discover why.
How Kyoto Avoided The Nuclear Bombs
Kyoto was a high priority nuclear bomb target, even higher than Hiroshima or Nagasaki. What happened? Why was there no Kyoto Bombing?
Big Echo Karaoke: Japan’s Biggest Karaoke Chain
Discover Big Echo Karaoke, one of the most important players in the vibrant and lively nightlife scene that is Japanese Karaoke.
How to Roast in Japanese: A Guide to Japanese Comedy
Want to roast someone in Japanese? This Japanese comedy guide will help you navigate the nuances of the culture, making playful banter possible.
10 Authentic Japanese Villages Worth Visiting
Explore the hidden cultures of Japanese villages with our list of hidden gems. Travel beyond the tourist trail and discover Japan's authentic soul.
Metaphor: ReFantazio Video Game Review (I get it now)
Metaphor: ReFantazio is a fascinating and innovative JRPG, able to turn even the most sceptical gamers into fans. In this case, me.
Kumano Kodo: Japan’s Ancient Pilgrimage Trail
Embark on the Kumano Kodo Trail, a 1000-year-old adventure through Japan's sacred Kii peninsula. Beautiful scenery and spiritual truths await!
Hakone in a Day: Scenic Views & Serene Hot Springs
Naturally gorgeous and culturally rich, a Hakone day trip is Japan's ideal scape plan. Today, we teach you how to make the best of it.
Things to Do in Yokohama: Japan’s Port City Guide
Discover Yokohama, Japan's second largest city and a shining pearl of the Meiji Era. Explore landmarks, restaurants, temples and more.
A Taste of Life in 1980s Japan
Explore the colorful world of 1980s Japan, where economic prosperity, technological advancements, and vibrant trends shaped a dynamic era.
Merry Christmas, Mr. Lawrence: War, Identity & Spirit
Few films have attempted to capture the magic of Christmas...
David Bowie’s Japan: Partner and Muse
In honor of David Bowie's legacy, we explore his relationship with Japan. A fascinating tale expanding music, fashion, film and more.
Okinawa: Japan’s Newest Tourism Center
Explore the rise of tourism in Okinawa, a remarkable travel spot with a remarkable history and culture to share to excited tourists.
The Death of Juzo Itami: Suicide or Yakuza Hit?
Juzo Itami was a director known for pursuing his freedom of expression. However, some believed this may have ultimately been his demise.
Akira Kurosawa’s Stray Dog: The First & Best Buddy Cop Film
Akira Kurosawa's Stray Dog is often considered the precursor to the Buddy Cop movie genre, but it's more than that, it is its culmination.
Tokyo Godfathers – An Animated Delight
With the holiday season quickly approaching, we revisit one of the best movies to ever embrace the festive spirit: Tokyo Godfathers!
Anthony Bourdain’s relationship with Japan, from strangers to lovers
With more than a decade dedicated across multiple TV shows, Anthony Bourdain's Japan was a thing of beauty. Today, we dive into that history.
Anthony Bourdain’s Travel Guide to Japan: Full Itinerary
In honor of his legacy, today we explore Anthony Bourdain's Japan, a culinary destination capable of captivating even the pickiest of eater.
A Cinephile’s Guide to Japan
Honoring Japan's historical charm over creative minds, we've created the best guide for movie lovers eager to traverse the country.
Look Back: Movie Review
The long anticipated adaption of Look Back has finally reached theaters, join us as we dive into this complex and fascinating story.
The Japan of Lost in Translation
Twenty years after the release of Lost In translation, we examine one of Sofia Coppola's most important decisions: the Japanese setting.
Japanese Jazz Fusion with Takuya Kuroda
Experience the best of Japanese jazz fusion with trumpeters Takuya Kuroda. Catch his performance at Village Underground, London.
10 Signs You’re Watching a Takeshi Kitano Film
Critically acclaimed internationally, he created his own recognisable style. We look at 10 signs that you are watching a Takeshi Kitano film.
Midnight Diner: Food, Love and Melancholy
In the heart of Shinjuku lies Midnight Diner, a small izakaya that runs from midnight to 7 am. Here, guests seek answers to life’s problems
Tokyo Story: Classic Post-War Japan Film Review
In collaboration with BFI, celebrating the best films in Japanese cinema, we set our eyes on Yasujirō Ozu real work of art Tokyo Story
Mr O’s Book of the Dead: Movement As Language
With JAEFF themes of bodies, Mr O’s Book of the Dead fits perfectly as it is an insane display of raw emotions through dancing.
The Portrait of Mr O: The Groundwork Of An Art Form
The Portrait of Mr O is one of the main courses in the 2021 JAEFF screening. A movie that has aged surprisingly well for unexpected reasons.
The Boxer: A Fresh and Nuanced Take on Boxing Films
Terayama Shūji's The Boxer is featured as part of JAEFF screening, a fantastic dive into what makes sports movies unique and engaging.
The Wind Rises: Miyazaki at Plane Sight
Miyazaki's The Wind Rises is a subtle and beautiful meditation of his triumphs and shortcomings through the life of someone else.
Satoshi Kon: An Introduction To His Timeless Films
It has been over 10 years since the unfortunate passing of Satoshi Kon, in that span of time his movies have gotten only more timeless.