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

The Trials of Obtaining a Japanese Driver’s License

Getting a driver's license in Japan puts you directly in contact with the hierarchical nature of Japanese society.

By 5 min read 48

Learn

Proper Etiquette Towards Your Japanese Neighbors

The general rule of thumb is be quiet and sort your garbage.

By 4 min read 15

Live

Kissaten: A Slowly Dying Part of Japanese Culture

Kissetans are great for those who want a quieter more personal setting than the crowded western style cafés.

By 3 min read 12

Learn

The Ever Changing Japanese Language

As a language evolves, who is speaking the "correct Japanese"?

By 2 min read 21

Explore

A Summer of Fun in Niseko at the Hanazono Resort

Whether it’s skiing or zip lining, snowboarding or kayaking, Niseko always has something to offer those looking for a fun and event filled vacation.

By 3 min read

Explore

Getting from Chitose Airport to Sapporo

A quick guide on how to travel from Chitose Airport to the city of Sapporo.

By 2 min read 3

Explore

American Style Burgers in the Heart of Sapporo

A New York style burger joint in the heart of Sapporo.

By 3 min read

Live

What Makes things Popular in Japan

What are you a fan of?

By 3 min read 3

Live

What Yome Means for Foreign Wives

When marrying into a Japanese family, his parents become your parents.

By 3 min read 5

Learn

Aimai: A Dynamic Intertwined in Japanese Culture and Language

All things aimai (vague, vagueness): they are the bane of many non-Japanese people

By 3 min read 13

Live

Battling Moisture and Mold During Japan Winters

Mold is a serious health issue and is something you need to pay attention to.

By 3 min read 7

Live

The Difficult Lives of the Geinin

The glamorous life of a geinin in Japan may not be as glamorous as it appears.

By 3 min read 2