Sugu Althomsons

All About Sugu Althomsons: I first came to Japan in 2004, and have lived in different areas of Japan before moving to Osaka. I'm a teacher, editor, and singer here, performing almost every other month. I'm also interested in writing and photography (especially product pictures and animals), as well as stop-motion animation, cooking and video games.

What I like about Japan: I enjoy studying Japanese and learning about the culture and history here. Since I like to make things, I like doing the various handicrafts here, including painting kokeshi dolls, glass blowing, and more.

Top 5 Sakura-Viewing Sites in Osaka

From castles to riverbanks, Osaka has some amazing spots for viewing cherry blossoms with your friends and family. Check out these sites during your next visit!

Top 10 Reasons to Buy Takara Tomy Transformers

Toys Video

Transformers collectors have long known the difference between the Japanese and U.S. versions of the toys. See the differences here and start your collection right!

3 Top-of-the-Line Kokeshi Dolls

Toys Tohoku

Kokeshi are traditional Japanese dolls expertly carved from wood. You’ve probably seen them around Japan, and after reading this article, you may want to start your own collection!

Past Features

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All About Weird Japan

Japan is a weird and wonderful place! These videos from Wanderlist are just a small taste of what you can expect when you visit!

Stories to Experience National Parks of Japan

More than just a collection of some of the country's most stunning landscapes, Japan's National Parks tell the story of the diverse ways in which Japanese culture developed in harmony with nature throughout the centuries.

Spring in Tohoku

Food, history and some incredible late-blooming cherry blossoms—Tohoku in spring has it all!

All About Cherry Blossoms in Japan

Savor the 'sakura' nation.

All About Japan's Temples & Shrines

Explore Japan's enduring spiritual history.