Near Misawa Air Base, Shimokita Peninsula is mainland Japan’s northernmost section.

In Japan, soba or buckwheat noodles are considered lucky food, as the thin and long shape reminds us of longevity and good luck.

Yakiniku, known as Japanese BBQ, is a delightful fusion of Korean and Japanese flavors, originating from Korean BBQ.

Fallen cherry blossoms and greening mountains may be telltale signs that summer is nigh for most.

Oimachi is an important transit hub town in the south side of Tokyo’s city center on the way to Haneda, Odaiba and Ariake.

Chinpin is an Okinawan sweet often described as a pancake or crepe flavored with brown sugar.

I can’t live without soy sauce. I can’t help but sprinkle it on virtually anything. From sushi, tempura and other Japanese dishes to rib steak, cutlet, pasta and even, salads, soy sauce is a must regardless of what I’m eating.

Where to go for an authentic steep.

My first trip to Japan was during a work assignment at Stars and Stripes, which led me to the Pacific Headquarters in Tokyo.

One of the great joys of living in Japan is experiencing the wide range of traditional Japanese pickles, or tsukemono, that are served with every meal.