I'll Have a Laxative-Asahi Bomb

Major Malfunctions

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April 21st 2007
As we sat Buddha style on the floor of the temple for Morning Prayer service, we couldn’t help but wonder how much practice was required before the diaphragm was strong enough to allow a monk to chant for minutes on end without taking a breath. As the monks chanted in sync for nearly an hour straight, we watched as other Buddhist followers inched their way over to the burning embers, sprinkled ... read more

Asia » Japan » Osaka » Osaka » Shinsaibashi

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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