Contributor

Alex Sturmey

Alex came to Japan in 2015, after getting too annoyed at the constant rain in the UK, but quickly realised the summers here were even worse. He currently works as a teacher in Tokyo, after spending a year in rural Ibaraki. Alex mainly writes about teaching and surviving the countryside in Japan, but in his spare time, enjoys writing about politics. He also once lit a candle, in his school assembly, with the women who played Hyacinth Bucket in "Keeping up Appearances".

Articles

Culture

Birds of Paradise: What Happened When Abe Met Duterte

As Abe pivots from trade agreement issues with the West, he looks to shore up support a little closer to home with an unexpected ally.

By 4 min read

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The 6 Types of People You Meet on a Japanese Train

Trains are an unavoidable part of daily life in Japan — they also give life to specific genera of homo sapiens.

By 4 min read

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7 Things I Miss About Living in the Japanese Countryside

The grass isn't always greener — especially if it's artificial.

By 5 min read

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7 Places in Tokyo to Check Out If You’re a Gamer

Welcome to Japan. You've reached gamers' paradise.

By 5 min read

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6 Wacky Homes in Japan

Searching for a new apartment, this writer stumbled upon a whole different set of options.

By 4 min read

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The Saudi King and I: What Happened When Salman met Shinzo

Now that's what you call an entrance.

By 4 min read

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9 Ways to Survive the Japanese Commuter Train

Keep calm and listen to Enya.

By 6 min read 2

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What Trump’s Rejection of the TPP Means for Japan

Did a 19-second handshake manage to soften the blow?

By 4 min read

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An Open Letter to Japanese Weather

Dear Japan, we have to talk about your weather.

By 3 min read 1

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Dealing with a Bad Neighbor in Japan

What to do when your friendly neighborino isn't so friendly?

By 5 min read 22

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Expectation vs Reality: Google’s New Live Camera Translation

I tried Google Translate's updated feature and may have uncovered a Japanese conspiracy in the process.

By 4 min read 7

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The Onsen Summit: What Happened When Putin Met Abe?

What happens in the hot spring stays in the hot spring. But here's what we know.

By 4 min read 3