Cultural Kaiseki: A Journey Through Offbeat Japan

Cultural Kaiseki is a unique look at the sides of Japan not often seen by foreigners. Author Phil Lee goes beyond the usual tourist spots to seek out the hidden gems—places that offer glimpses into Japanese culture. He watched a bullfight in small-town Japan, paraglided off the sand dunes on the Japan Sea, went dog sledding in snowy Hokkaido, and visited the heart of the Fukushima nuclear zone. Not your usual guidebook, Cultural Kaiseki is a collection of stories and experiences presented in small segments, like a Japanese Kaiseki meal where several small, bite-sized courses are served. Experience this journey through bite-sized stories of discovery and adventure that add up to a larger understanding of Japanese culture. Whether you are a newcomer or a seasoned expat living in Japan, there is always something new just around the corner. *************** Do you love Japan and want to learn more than just the usual things and places to visit? Discover Japan through this easy to read guide tailored for the adventurous traveler. Cultural Kaiseki is the ultimate guide for a traveler who wants to see something different. Get out of the cities and experience Japanese culture first hand. Eat the best foods and see something completely unique. The book highlights the beautiful Japanese countryside, the traditions, and the cuisine. It introduces readers to the history, culture, and places hundreds of years old. The stunning photos throughout the book will make you want to get off the beaten path and go on an adventure of your own. This book includes the following sections: • The Way of Art: See Japanese artisans at work creating real samurai swords, and try your hand at creating an intricate woodcarving. • Tradition: Experience traditions that go back hundreds of years. See lesser known festivals and visit a tea farm. • The Old and the New: Visit places that feature something old, while remaining in the modern world. • Discovering Yourself in Nature: A nature lover’s paradise, Japan is blessed with wondrous landscapes from the icy Hokkaido, to desert sands, to the glorious Mt. Fuji. • When Nature Strikes: See two completely unique places: a huge underground man-made cavern in Saitama and the nuclear disaster zone in Fukushima. • Nourishment for the Body and Soul: Eat amazing foods. Visit: - a Michelin-starred ramen restaurant, - a hot pot restaurant that won a national competition as the best nabe in Japan, - Sanda / Kobe beef restaurant, - a 200-year-old unagi place, - a chef that mixes traditional Kyoto cuisine with western flavors, - and one of the best and most accessible sushi restaurants in Japan. Read more