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
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.
Halloween in Japan: What’s Different?
The appeal of Halloween in Japan lies in two things: commercialism and costumes.
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.
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.
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.
Beating the Winter Blues in Hokkaido
During the cold weather nothing warms me up like a hot bowl of ramen.
Japanese Phrases Teachers Hate Hearing from their Students
This word lets you know that this is not going to be an easy class.
Sapporo’s Autumn Festival and Octoberfest
As the old adage goes: eat, drink and be merry.
Conversations with Japan’s Elders
These and many other conversations reminded me why I wanted to learn the Japanese language in the first place
A Timeless Cultural Experience in Iwamizawa
Who knew that working with pumpkins could be so invigorating?
Being a Foreigner in Japan: The Greats and Not-So-Greats
It's not all anime and sushi.
