Contributor

Kyle Von Lanken

Kyle Von Lanken was born and raised in a peaceful Chicago suburb. His Japanese studies took him from universities in Hawaii to Japan, eventually settling in rural Niikappu, where he continues to be fascinated by Japanese culture from a Hokkaido perspective.

Articles

Live

Big Fish, Small Pond: Finding Purpose in Rural Japan

City life isn't for everyone. Here's how I found my place in rural Japan with a bit of luck and skill.

By 5 min read

Explore

4 Things to Look Out for at the 2017 Sapporo Snow Festival

Headed to the Sapporo Snow Festival next week? Here's a teaser of what to expect and what you shouldn't miss.

By 4 min read

Live

We Need to Talk about This Indian Curry in the Hokkaido Inaka

One man's search for Indian curry has led him to this gem in Sapporo.

By 2 min read

Live

Traditional Culture Exemplified in Modern Japanese Media

As manzai has such a long history in Japan, it is only natural that it would be deeply engrained in Japanese comedy in general.

By 3 min read

Explore

Beating the Winter Blues in Hokkaido

During the cold weather nothing warms me up like a hot bowl of ramen.

By 4 min read 2

Work

Japanese Phrases Teachers Hate Hearing from their Students

This word lets you know that this is not going to be an easy class.

By 3 min read 2

Explore

Sapporo’s Autumn Festival and Octoberfest

As the old adage goes: eat, drink and be merry.

By 3 min read

Live

Conversations with Japan’s Elders

These and many other conversations reminded me why I wanted to learn the Japanese language in the first place

By 4 min read 2

Explore

A Timeless Cultural Experience in Iwamizawa

Who knew that working with pumpkins could be so invigorating?

By 3 min read

Live

Being a Foreigner in Japan: The Greats and Not-So-Greats

It's not all anime and sushi.

By 5 min read 35

Explore

The Natural Splendor of Takino Suzuran Hillside National Park

Takino Suzuran Hillside National Park, a park with waterfalls, pleasant nature walks and colorful rolling fields on various flowers.

By 2 min read