Asia

Unlocking the secrets of Japanese martial art Shorinji Kempo

After my first few weeks in Tokyo I discovered Shorinji Kempo and decided to dedicate my three months in the city training in this Japanese martial art. I had never heard about…
Ian Yacobucci

Japan| Is Tokyo Robot Restaurant the Weirdest Show on Earth

Tokyo’s Robot Restaurant is a 60 minute extravaganza that features robots, girls, dancing, drumming, bomber planes, tanks, motorcycles, quads, giant video screens, and three gigantic…
Ian Yacobucci

The friendly side of Kabukicho: Losing things where the Yakuza and the Japanese sex trade live

Kabukicho , if you ask Tokyoites, is the most dangerous neighbourhood in the city. Stereotyped as home to the Yakuza (Japanese mafia) and Japans underground sex trade the likely…
Ian Yacobucci

Himalayan Mountaineering Institute Basic Course : Phase 1 – Theory and Equipment

Theory – Daily lessons and movies Usually there are between two and four lessons a day. In the beginning of phase 1 lessons dominate the curriculum however, as the week progresses…
Ian Yacobucci

Himalayan Mountaineering Institute Basic Course Phase 1: physical training and mountaineering skills

Phase 1 is designed to prepare students for base camp in the Himalayan mountain range of West Siikim.  During phase one students focus on physical training and mountaineering skills…
Ian Yacobucci