Miyoko and I

So Many Reasons To Celebrate

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December 18th 2006
A picture of December in Canada... snow, bustling shopping malls, a mild overdose of Christmas music, Christmas celebrations, friends, family, an overabundance of food, New Year's plans, general merriment. At this time of year, I innately look forward to these things. For my first Christmas far from home, I've concentrated on enjoying what I can of the festive season and learning about the Japan ... read more

Asia » Japan

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In 1603, a Tokugawa shogunate (military dictatorship) ushered in a long period of isolation from foreign influence in order to secure its power. For 250 years this policy enabled Japan to enjoy stability and a flowering of its indigenous culture. Fol... ... read more