https://nicknarigon.com/2020/07/18/a-balmy-trip-in-heaven/https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/170421-f-jz560-122-1.jpgA little stroll through a lot of jungleU.S. Air Force Airmen assigned to the 18th Medical Group navigate a jungle as part of the Preventative Aerospace Medicine Convention April 21, 2017, at Kadena Air Base, Japan. Correctly and safely navigating potentially dangerous terrain was one of the focal points of the PAMACON. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Quay Drawdy)2025-10-25T02:14:13+00:00monthlyhttps://nicknarigon.com/about/https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/644628_4867673654872_1645362679_n.jpg644628_4867673654872_1645362679_n2025-07-17T01:22:48+00:00weekly0.6https://nicknarigon.com/2025/03/07/cherry-blossom-season/https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/brianscottpeterson_20150329_6y4k0763.jpgHappy hanami everyone!https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/rikugien-2.jpgRikugien 2And then there's this guy...https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/rikugien-4.jpgRikugien 4I must apologize for the quality of photos as they do not give justice to the ethereal beauty of Rikugien Gardenhttps://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/rikugien-5.jpgRikugien 5Rikugien Garden is epically beautifulhttps://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/nakameguro.jpgNakameguroWho needs edibles here...https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/nakameguro-5.jpgNakameguro 5Nakameguro is a cool neighborhood to visit even when the sakura are not in bloomhttps://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/nakameguro-2.jpgNakameguro 2Nakameguro Riverhttps://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/inokashira-1.jpgInokashira 1Peekaboohttps://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/inokashira-2.jpegInokashira 2Picturesque ain't ithttps://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/hanami-food.jpgHanami foodA typical hanami spread2025-03-07T14:41:39+00:00monthlyhttps://nicknarigon.com/2025/02/20/the-f-man-himself/https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/hayseed-press-logo-words.jpgHayseed Press Logo wordshttps://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/fman-himself-cover_1.jpgFman Himself cover2025-02-21T15:42:44+00:00monthlyhttps://nicknarigon.com/2024/11/04/hayseed-press/https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/hayseed-pic-3.jpgHayseed pic 32025-02-13T00:32:32+00:00monthlyhttps://nicknarigon.com/2024/08/22/grandpa-joe/https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/grandpa-and-grandma.jpegGrandpa and Grandmahttps://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/grandpa-joe-and-fran.jpgGrandpa Joe and Franhttps://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/grandpa-joe-6.jpgGrandpa Joe 6https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/grandpa-joe-sei-jin-2.jpgGrandpa Joe Sei Jin 2https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/grandpa-joe-sei-jin.jpgGrandpa Joe Sei Jinhttps://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/grandpa-joe-5.jpgGrandpa Joe 5https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/grandpa-joe-4.jpgGrandpa Joe 4https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/grandpa-joe-3.jpgGrandpa Joe 3https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/grandpa-joe-2.jpgGrandpa Joe 2https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/grandpa-joe-1.jpgGrandpa Joe 12024-08-24T09:49:16+00:00monthlyhttps://nicknarigon.com/2024/05/22/hiking-in-singapore/https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/img_4304.jpgimg_4304https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/img_4303.jpgimg_4303https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/img_6710.jpgimg_6710https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/img_7124-3.jpgimg_7124-3https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/img_7124-2.jpgimg_7124-2https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/img_8238.jpgimg_8238https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/img_6008.jpgimg_6008https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/img_6021.jpgimg_6021https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/img_6642.jpgimg_6642https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/img_2457.jpgimg_24572024-05-23T14:09:26+00:00monthlyhttps://nicknarigon.com/2023/06/22/hiking-singapore-railroad-corridor-in-singapore/https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/img_6177.jpgIMG_6177https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/img_6218.jpgimg_6218https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/img_6201.jpgimg_6201https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/img_6250.jpgimg_6250https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/img_6246.jpgimg_6246https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/img_6238.jpgimg_6238https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/img_6228.jpgimg_6228https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/img_6208.jpgimg_6208https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/img_8271.jpgimg_8271https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/img_6193.jpgimg_61932024-05-23T08:01:13+00:00monthlyhttps://nicknarigon.com/2012/05/24/okaeri/2024-05-20T10:41:31+00:00monthlyhttps://nicknarigon.com/2022/06/30/move-tokyo-to-singapore-pandemic/https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/to-use-marina-sands-3.jpgTo use Marina Sands 3https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/to-use-christmas.jpgto-use-christmashttps://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/to-use-robot.jpgto-use-robothttps://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/to-use-mariokart.jpgto-use-mariokarthttps://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/to-use-hammock.jpgto-use-hammockhttps://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/to-use-palm-trees-1.jpgto-use-palm-trees-1https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/to-use-palm-trees.jpgto-use-palm-trees2024-05-20T02:39:56+00:00monthlyhttps://nicknarigon.com/2024/02/24/lazarus-island-family-camping-in-singapore/https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/img_2173.jpgimg_2173https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/boat.jpgboathttps://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/img_2232-1.jpgimg_2232-1https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/img_2248.jpgimg_2248https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/img_2194.jpgimg_2194https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/img_2185.jpgimg_2185https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/img_2232.jpgimg_2232https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/img_2217.jpgimg_2217https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/img_2739.jpgimg_2739https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/img_2261.jpgimg_22612025-10-01T01:43:17+00:00monthlyhttps://nicknarigon.com/2022/11/15/singapore-hawker-food/https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/heap-seng-leong-breakfast.jpgheap-seng-leong-breakfasthttps://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/heap-seng-leong-coffee.jpgheap-seng-leong-coffeehttps://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/heap-seng-leong-interior.jpgheap-seng-leong-interiorhttps://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/north-bridge-market-food-centre-feature.jpgNorth Bridge Market & Food Centre featurehttps://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/hill-street-pork.jpgHill Street Porkhttps://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/soon-huat-prawn-noodles.jpgsoon-huat-prawn-noodleshttps://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/hoe-hokkien-mee.jpghoe-hokkien-meehttps://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/nana-original-thai-golden-mile.jpgnana-original-thai-golden-milehttps://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/nana-original-thai-golden-mile-pad-thai.jpgnana-original-thai-golden-mile-pad-thaihttps://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/lams-kitchen-pork-noodles.jpglams-kitchen-pork-noodles2024-02-04T02:10:26+00:00monthlyhttps://nicknarigon.com/2013/11/27/mount-odake/https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/dscn1983.jpgDSCN1983https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/dscn1974.jpgDSCN1974Some pretty leaves.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/dscn1972.jpgDSCN1972Joe got angry at this retaining wall. That's what happens when you start drinking whiskey.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/dscn1963.jpgDSCN1963Can you see Mount Fuji? It's in there somewhere I swear.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/dscn1950.jpgDSCN1950The summit.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/dscn1930.jpgDSCN1930Ayahiro Fallshttps://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/dscn1921.jpgDSCN1921The natural "rock garden."https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/dscn1914.jpgDSCN1914Musashi-Mitake Shrine and some damn pretty leaves.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/dscn1902.jpgDSCN1902When you drink and hike at the same time you end up with a lot of pictures of trees.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/dscn1982.jpgDSCN1982The view from the scenic picnic spot at Mount Mitake. Fall may be the best time to hike in Japan.2024-01-16T15:32:13+00:00monthlyhttps://nicknarigon.com/2023/09/23/family-vacation-perth/https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/quokka-final.jpegquokka-finalhttps://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/sunset.jpgsunsethttps://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/kings-park-family.jpegkings-park-familyhttps://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/glass-bridge.jpgglass-bridgehttps://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/kings-park-kookaburra.jpgkings-park-kookaburrahttps://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/kings-park-parrot.jpgkings-park-parrothttps://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/kings-park-3.jpgkings-park-3https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/kings-park-2.jpgkings-park-2https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/kings-park-1.jpgkings-park-1https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/perth-zoo-2.jpgperth-zoo-22023-09-24T09:17:09+00:00monthlyhttps://nicknarigon.com/2014/04/20/mount-kobo/https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/dscn3169.jpgDSCN3169https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/dscn3165.jpgDSCN3165https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/dscn3161.jpgDSCN3161The bell at the summit of Mount Kobo.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/dscn3159.jpgDSCN3159Is that Enoshima Island in the distance?https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/dscn3158.jpgDSCN3158https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/dscn3155.jpgDSCN3155https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/dscn3151.jpgDSCN3151Kawaii!https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/dscn3148.jpgDSCN3148The walk to the summit.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/dscn3147.jpgDSCN3147https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/dscn3146.jpgDSCN31462023-03-18T04:39:54+00:00monthlyhttps://nicknarigon.com/2012/03/05/what-i-learned-about-washington-d-c/https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/p3040591.jpgOLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERAThe White House. Nobody was home.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/p3040666.jpgOLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERAVisitors standing outside the Washington Monument.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/p3040616.jpgOLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERAThe Lincoln Memorial. The best place to visit in Washington D.C.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/p3040631.jpgOLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERAThe Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/p3040650.jpgOLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERAThomas Jefferson, the third President of the United States.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/p3040662.jpgOLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERAThe Jefferson Memorial.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/p3050696.jpgOLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERAThe Spirit of St. Louis.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/p3050677.jpgOLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERATriceratops at the natural history museum. The dinosaurs were cool. Everything else was kind of lame.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/p3040671.jpgOLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERAMorris Minor performing at The Dubliners. Not sure which one is Morris, but they were good.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/p3040661.jpgOLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERALisa standing on the steps of the Jefferson Memorial.2023-03-10T12:56:34+00:00monthlyhttps://nicknarigon.com/2021/12/08/blog-blast-from-the-past-a-special-christmas-message-from-the-2007-amana-holiday-house-walk/2022-12-26T01:44:54+00:00monthlyhttps://nicknarigon.com/2022/11/04/one-day-on-sentosa/https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/burger.jpgburgerhttps://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/sentosa-cover-pic.jpgSentosa cover pichttps://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/universal-studios-singapore.jpguniversal-studios-singaporehttps://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/siloso-beach.jpgsiloso-beachhttps://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/palawan-extension-bridge.jpgpalawan-extension-bridgehttps://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/palawan-beach.jpgpalawan-beachhttps://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/arbora-cafe.jpgarbora-cafehttps://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/cable-car.jpgcable-car2025-05-06T02:28:38+00:00monthlyhttps://nicknarigon.com/2022/10/12/how-to-take-a-shit-in-tokyo/https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/asahi-golden-poop.jpgAsahi golden poophttps://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/tokyo-toilet-project.jpgtokyo-toilet-projecthttps://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/stop-button.jpgstop-buttonhttps://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/flush-instructions.jpgflush-instructions2022-10-14T01:25:17+00:00monthlyhttps://nicknarigon.com/2022/09/29/salaryman-in-tokyo/https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/img_2055.jpgIMG_2055https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/salaryman.jpgsalarymanhttps://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/img_4324.jpgimg_4324https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/img_2945.jpgimg_2945https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/karaoke.jpgkaraokehttps://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/dining.jpgdininghttps://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/img_1900.jpgimg_1900https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/screen-shot-2022-09-29-at-13.34.09.pngscreen-shot-2022-09-29-at-13.34.09https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/coverphotos.jpgcoverphotos2022-10-04T04:08:08+00:00monthlyhttps://nicknarigon.com/2022/09/22/home-to-cedar-falls/https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/img_1304.jpgimg_1304https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/img_1219.jpgimg_1219https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/img_1378.jpgimg_1378https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/img_1384.jpgimg_1384https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/img_1079.jpgimg_1079https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/img_0967.jpgimg_0967https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/img_0963.jpgimg_0963https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/img_1580.jpgimg_1580https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/img_1310.jpgimg_1310https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/img_1427.jpgimg_14272022-09-22T22:57:02+00:00monthlyhttps://nicknarigon.com/index/2022-06-04T08:24:07+00:00weekly0.6https://nicknarigon.com/2013/08/19/sweating-swimming-and-reconnecting-in-shikinejima/https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/dscn1329.jpgDSCN1329Sunset over Oura Beach.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/dscn1378.jpgDSCN1378Sunset over Oura Beach. Our tent is just up the hill from the lifeguard tower.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/dscn1373.jpgDSCN1373Bike riding during happier times.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/dscn1368.jpgDSCN1368Matsugashita Miyabi Hot Springs.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/dscn1365.jpgDSCN1365Ashitsuki Hot Springs.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/dscn1358.jpgDSCN1358Jinata Hot Springs.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/dscn1326.jpgDSCN1326Just a gaijin grilling at the communal bbq pits.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/dscn1318.jpgDSCN1318Another beautiful shot from Kanbiki Point.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/dscn1298.jpgDSCN1298Nakanoura Beach.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/dscn1292.jpgDSCN1292Our camping spot. This is actually our camping spot. On the morning of the second day (a Monday) a lot of campers cleared out, allowing us to choose a more favorable spot.2025-05-02T16:58:00+00:00monthlyhttps://nicknarigon.com/2013/05/14/a-whirlwind-tour/https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/dscn0493.jpgDSCN0493The Tecate girls at Cinco de Mayo. Stay tuned for part II coming soon.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/dscn0495.jpgDSCN0495Buffaro Winghttps://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/dscn0494.jpgDSCN0494Drug-on Tacoshttps://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/dscn0478.jpgDSCN0478Taking a rest break in Yoyogi Park.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/dscn0489.jpgDSCN0489Fabiola Jaramillo performing at the inaugural Tokyo Cinco de Mayo Festival.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/dscn0474.jpgDSCN0474Inside Camp Curry.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/dscn0468.jpgDSCN0468A statue in the courtyard outside the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/dscn0458.jpgDSCN0458The view of downtown Tokyo from the 45th floor of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building. The Sky Tree can be seen in the back right.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/dscn0453.jpgDSCN0453Some old dude plays some sort of old 'guitar' type instrument in Meiji Jingu.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/dscn0456.jpgDSCN0456Mom and Dad just hangin' at a French Cafe in Harajuku.2022-05-31T03:25:24+00:00monthlyhttps://nicknarigon.com/2013/05/23/a-whirlwind-tour-part-ii/https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/dscn0634.jpgDSCN0634Thank you for visiting, Mom and Dad! Come back again soon!https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/dscn0629.jpgDSCN0629A garden in Hasedera Shrine.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/dscn0628.jpgDSCN0628Amida Buddhahttps://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/dscn0658.jpgDSCN0658The view of the Pacific Ocean from Hasedera Shrine.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/dscn0595.jpgDSCN0595Tokyo Dome beer girl.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/dscn0588.jpgDSCN0588Our view of the Tokyo Dome.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/dscn0585.jpgDSCN0585Dad flipping the okonomiyaki.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/dscn0570.jpgDSCN0570Mom and Dad washing themselves with incense at Senso-ji Shrine.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/dscn0554.jpgDSCN0554Takoyaki and highbarrus.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/dscn0543.jpgDSCN0543A natural family pose in front of Tokyo Station.2022-05-31T03:24:36+00:00monthlyhttps://nicknarigon.com/2016/03/18/tokyo-parenting/https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/japan-politicians.jpgJapan politiciansLDP politicians claimed Kensuke Miyazaki would miss too much work by taking 1-month paternity leave.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/img_2257.jpgIMG_2257https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/img_23311.jpgIMG_2331https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/img_2331.jpgIMG_2331https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/6a00d8341c5d3253ef0133ecaf062f970b-320wi.jpg6a00d8341c5d3253ef0133ecaf062f970b-320wiLDP politicians claimed Kensuke Miyazaki would miss too much work by taking 1-month paternity leave.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/brianscottpeterson_6y4k6681_20150115.jpgBrianScottPeterson_6Y4K6681_20150115https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/brianscottpeterson_20150329_6y4k0729.jpgBrianScottPeterson_20150329_6Y4K0729Photo by Brian Scott Peterson2022-05-31T02:52:51+00:00monthlyhttps://nicknarigon.com/2022/05/27/30-experiences-living-in-tokyo/https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/img_8673.jpgIMG_8673https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/img_9492.jpgimg_9492https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/img_2978.jpgimg_2978https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/img_1975.jpgimg_19752022-05-27T09:12:40+00:00monthlyhttps://nicknarigon.com/2012/05/28/two-days-in-nara/https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/p52708311.jpgOLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERAThe gate to the empty Todaiji Temple.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/p5270834.jpgOLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERAA cheerier picture of Todaiji Temple.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/p5270839.jpgOLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERAIn 743, the emperor Shomu ordered the building of a giant Buddha. Japan had been suffering from smallpox and drought, and the emperor hoped to settle unrest and unite the people with the relatively new ideas of Buddhism. The almost 15-meter high Buddha, cast in copper and coated with gold, was completed in 752. https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/p5270831.jpgOLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERAThe gate to the empty Todaiji Temple.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/p5270830.jpgOLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERAThe Steggers family. Still smiling even though we were completely lost.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/p5270826.jpgOLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA1,300-year-old lanterns outside Kasuga-Taisha Temple.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/p5260823.jpgOLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERAThe squatting toilet of Nara. My arch nemesis.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/p5260813.jpgOLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERASarusawa-ike Pond. Buddhist monks release aquatic animals in the pond every year as some sort of religious ceremony.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/p52607941.jpgOLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERAThe Japanese love those frickin' deer.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/p5260794.jpgOLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERAThe Japanese love those frickin' deer.2022-05-27T08:15:18+00:00monthlyhttps://nicknarigon.com/2012/09/25/tokyo-disc-golf/https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/photo-61.jpgphoto-61https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/photo-63.jpgphoto-63Here's lovers rowing lovingly in rowboats.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/photo-62.jpgphoto-62Here's a garden.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/photo-64.jpgphoto-64Here's the mountain range.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/photo-67.jpgphoto-67For those who need a visual.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/photo-66.jpgphoto-66Showa Kinen Park. The sign.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/photo-65.jpgphoto-65A view of downtown Tachikawa from Showa Kinen Park.2022-05-27T06:35:56+00:00monthlyhttps://nicknarigon.com/2013/10/29/mount-buko/https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/dscn1782.jpgDSCN1782The mysterious Mount Buko.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/dscn1788.jpgDSCN1788The famous waterfall.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/dscn1768.jpgDSCN1768The view at the summit.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/dscn1765.jpgDSCN1765The Mount Buko shrine.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/dscn1757.jpgDSCN1757A demon dog guarding the entrance.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/dscn1750.jpgDSCN1750Yamaguchi River flowing past some cement plants.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/dscn1793.jpgDSCN1793Our new buddy.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/dscn1744.jpgDSCN1744Mount Buko from down below, before the clouds rolled in.2022-05-21T15:08:31+00:00monthlyhttps://nicknarigon.com/2013/10/30/halloween-in-tokyo-13/https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/dsc_131026_225314.jpgDSC_131026_225314Photo by Lukasz Palka (Lkpalka.com)https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/dsc_131026_222741.jpgDSC_131026_222741Photo by Lukasz Palka (Lkpalka.com)https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/dsc_131026_220919.jpgDSC_131026_220919 Photo by Lukasz Palka (Lkpalka.com)https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/dsc_131026_221948.jpgDSC_131026_221948Photo by Lukasz Palka (Lkpalka.com)https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/dsc_131026_221556.jpgDSC_131026_221556Photo by Lukasz Palka (Lkpalka.com)https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/photo-1.jpgphoto-1https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/photo-2.jpgphoto-2https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/dsc_131026_225239.jpgDSC_131026_225239The crazy kids in Shibuya went all out for Halloween this year. They weren't the only Tokyoites to go bananas for the holiday as parents and kids got involved for the first time. My friend and brilliant photographer Lukasz Palka was kind enough to share his photos. Find more of his work at lkpalka.com.2022-05-21T15:02:33+00:00monthlyhttps://nicknarigon.com/2022/05/19/personal-experience-why-doesnt-japan-love-me-as-much-as-i-do-japan/https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/img_8576.jpgIMG_8576https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/img_7600.jpgimg_76002022-12-13T03:27:43+00:00monthlyhttps://nicknarigon.com/2020/08/31/5-best-saxophone-solos-of-1988/2022-04-13T11:22:34+00:00monthlyhttps://nicknarigon.com/2016/03/11/helping-tohoku/https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/e5969ce5a49ae696b9e8978de69f93e7a094e4bfae-027.jpg喜多方藍染研修 027https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/dscn2761.jpgDSCN2761https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/exterior-of-the-ishinomaki-rh.jpgExterior of the Ishinomaki RHhttps://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/8945117149_1a06f51826_o1.jpg8945117149_1a06f51826_o(1)https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/tot_issue6_54-55_v31.jpgTOT_issue6_54-55_v3(1)https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/2014gigicafefinishedpainting.jpgDCIM109GOPRODCIM109GOPROhttps://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/img_1208.jpgIMG_1208https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/noaonwhite.jpgNOaonwhite2022-04-13T04:50:05+00:00monthlyhttps://nicknarigon.com/2016/03/19/10-stupid-things-you-must-not-do-in-your-20s/https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/nick-at-exodus-festival.jpgNick at Exodus festival2022-04-08T03:48:56+00:00monthlyhttps://nicknarigon.com/2016/04/08/mount-tanzawa/https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/dscn3336.jpgDSCN3336https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/dscn3321.jpgDSCN3321https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/dscn3293.jpgDSCN3293Intrepid motherfuckers.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/dscn3282.jpgDSCN3282https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/dscn3238.jpgDSCN3238https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/dscn3222.jpgDSCN3222Sonbutsu-sanso Lodgehttps://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/dscn3208.jpgDSCN3208Okay, maybe there are a couple deer.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/dscn3206.jpgDSCN3206https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/dscn3201.jpgDSCN3201https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/mount-nabewari.jpgMount Nabewari2022-04-08T03:21:53+00:00monthlyhttps://nicknarigon.com/2017/10/04/nick-tokyos-emergency-buttons/https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/emergency_stop_button.jpgEmergency_stop_button2022-04-08T03:13:10+00:00monthlyhttps://nicknarigon.com/2021/12/13/5-worst-covers-of-smells-like-teen-spirit-youtube/2022-04-08T03:06:08+00:00monthlyhttps://nicknarigon.com/2011/06/06/top-5-mallet-songs/2021-12-09T06:02:58+00:00monthlyhttps://nicknarigon.com/2014/03/11/remember-3-11/https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/dscn2849.jpgDSCN2849https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/dscn2845.jpgDSCN2845https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/dscn2843.jpgDSCN2843https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/dscn2842.jpgDSCN2842https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/dscn2837.jpgDSCN2837https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/dscn2832.jpgDSCN2832https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/dscn2827.jpgDSCN2827Brian taking Kaori's picture with her son.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/dscn2823.jpgDSCN2823https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/dscn2816.jpgDSCN2816https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/dscn2815.jpgDSCN28152014-03-12T03:06:58+00:00monthlyhttps://nicknarigon.com/2012/08/13/drinking-and-hiking/https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/p8121034.jpgOLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERAThe soggy hikers.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/p8121032.jpgOLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERAThe view from the top didn't improve much.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/p8111016.jpgOLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERAWe were above the clouds the whole time.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/p8110996.jpgOLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERAThis is what it looks like climbing Mount Fuji.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/p8111004.jpgOLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERALisa and I on Mount Fuji.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/jeff-and-nick.jpgJeff and NickDrinking beer before we start hiking.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/ozarks-view.jpgOzarks viewThe Ozarks Trail.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/john-and-nic.jpgJohn and NicPoor Elissa.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/rockies.jpgRockiesCan't beat the Rockies.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/four-eagle-scouts.jpgFour Eagle ScoutsFour Eagle Scouts. Do not follow these guys into the woods.2013-09-17T06:15:13+00:00monthlyhttps://nicknarigon.com/2012/08/15/mount-fuji-for-real/https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/p81210341.jpgOLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERAYuichi, Nick and Lisa at the summit of Fuji-san.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/img_01161.jpgIMG_0116We finally had a view on the way down.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/p8121035.jpgOLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERAA bad picture of the crater at the summit of Fuji-san.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/img_0116.jpgIMG_0116We finally had a view on the way down.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/p8121029.jpgOLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERALisa and I at the 10th station, or summit.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/p8111019.jpgOLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERALisa passing other hikers like a Kenyan competing in Running Man.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/p8111011.jpgOLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERAEating Cup O Noodles at the 7th station.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/p8111007.jpgOLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERAThere is nowhere to pee without being seen.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/p8110995.jpgOLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERAThe trail leading out of the 5th station.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/img_0114.jpgIMG_0114Yuichi taking a break near the 6th station.2013-09-17T06:14:53+00:00monthlyhttps://nicknarigon.com/2012/12/03/hiroshima-a-pictorial-with-lots-of-words/https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/photo-193.jpgphoto-193So that's it. We arrived on Friday afternoon and left on Sunday afternoon. We were able to see everything we wanted and based on tripadvisor's list of "things to see in Hiroshima" we didn't miss much. https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/photo-137.jpgphoto-137The park was completely wiped out by the atomic bomb and has since been rebuilt. On the day of the bombing several victims came to the park for refuge.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/photo-163.jpgphoto-163The girl on the rainbow bridge holding a parasol is a bride having her wedding pictures taken. The day we were there we saw three different wedding parties have their photographs done.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/photo-139.jpgphoto-139Sunday was our last day in Hiroshima and we made a short visit to Shukkei-en Garden. It was built in 1620 by the leading architects from Kyoto.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/photo-145.jpgphoto-145After returning to the mainland Lisa's relatives took us out to dinner to a wonderful restaurant. The oysters were delicious. While these were served grilled, I preferred them raw.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/photo-173.jpgphoto-173For instance, this rainbow. When we arrived on the island it was drizzling slightly, but it quickly cleared up. As we rounded a corner on the path we were greeted by this rainbow that stretched from the coastline to the mountains. It was brilliant, and we took a ton of pictures (Lisa took this one).https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/photo-133.jpgphoto-133After visiting the torii we hiked through Momijidani Park. This was a nice surprise. The only thing I knew about Miyajima was there was this torii out in the water. I assumed you took a boat ride, looked at the shrine and went back home. However, the park was gorgeous. There were some nice walking trails, splendid views and some nice surprises.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/photo-158.jpgphoto-158The torii was originally built in 1168 and the current gate dates back to 1875. The torii is built of camphor wood and it was designed to look like it is floating in the sea during high tide.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/photo-157.jpgphoto-157The view of the torii from the beach.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/photo-119.jpgphoto-119This is the actual Itsukushima shrine, even though the orange torii built in the water is the most famous symbol. The line to get in to the shrine was obscenely long. So, one of the many reasons I love my wife, Lisa and I both decided the wait wasn't worth the while and we would be able to get just as good of a view from the beach.2013-09-17T06:13:50+00:00monthlyhttps://nicknarigon.com/2013/04/15/mount-tsukuba-pronounced-scuba/https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/dscn0425.jpgDSCN0425A cool statue at Tsukuba-san-jinja.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/dscn0420.jpgDSCN0420Lisa and Nick happy to be done.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/dscn0412.jpgDSCN0412Saya and Martin.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/dscn0408.jpgDSCN0408Lisa wanted a picture of herself wearing pants.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/dscn0380.jpgDSCN0380The engraved 'map' at the summit.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/dscn0376.jpgDSCN0376Nick, Lisa, Saya and Martin at the summit of Mount Scuba.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/dscn0368.jpgDSCN0368The crowd of people at the summit of Mount Tsukuba.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/dscn0363.jpgDSCN0363Approaching the summit.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/dscn0357.jpgDSCN0357The rock formation that depicts the profile of Buddha.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/dscn0345.jpgDSCN0345Martin and Saya.2013-09-17T06:13:13+00:00monthlyhttps://nicknarigon.com/2013/09/13/climbing-mitake-san/https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/dscn1537.jpgDSCN1537Sucking in the gut at the peak of Mount Hinode.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/dscn1555.jpgDSCN1555A temple? A shrine? Who the hell knows. https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/dscn1546.jpgDSCN1546The trail from Mount Hinode to Hinawada Station.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/dscn1516.jpgDSCN1516Checking the map in kanji.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/dscn1519.jpgDSCN1519The view of Mount Mitake from Mount Hinodehttps://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/dscn1501.jpgDSCN1501The 2,000 year old Musashi-Mitake Shrine.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/dscn1476.jpgDSCN1476A house or a shrine? We walked in anyway.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/dscn1467.jpgDSCN1467A freaking worm 3 times the size of Joe's boot. A client suggested it might be a tsuchinoko.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/dscn1465.jpgDSCN1465The beginning of the trail from the Mitake cable car station.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/dscn1527.jpgDSCN1527The view of Chichibu-Tama-Kai National Park from the summit of Mount Hinode.2018-02-21T06:33:48+00:00monthlyhttps://nicknarigon.com/2013/07/13/traveling-home-a-culinary-experience/https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/iowa-sunset.jpgiowa sunsetSee you later Iowa!https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/rohan-pic.jpgRohan picMy 3-year-old nephew Rohan. He refused to have his picture taken until his father, my brother, Aaron, promised to let him ride shotgun in the red pickup truck.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/fullprktndr2011.jpgfullprktndr2011The pork tenderloin sandwich: a Midwest staple.2013-08-19T07:10:46+00:00monthlyhttps://nicknarigon.com/2013/03/15/taxes-success/https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/photo-8.jpgphoto-8The big doe eyes.2013-04-02T10:40:31+00:00monthlyhttps://nicknarigon.com/2013/03/20/tokyo-spring/https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/dscn0097.jpgDSCN0097We finished our night at our new favorite French restaurant in Sasazuka, Maison Bretonne.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/dscn0090.jpgDSCN0090Lovin' this new camera.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/dscn0076.jpgDSCN0076Another fave.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/dscn0044.jpgDSCN0044One of my favorite pics. https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/dscn0042.jpgDSCN0042Besides the weeping cherry trees, Rikugien featured a pond with manicured islands.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/dscn0057.jpgDSCN0057Pretty lady.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/dscn0011.jpgDSCN0011This guy.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/dscn0001.jpgDSCN0001Finally, here are pictures taken with our new camera at Rikugien.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/img_0767.jpgIMG_0767This is the cherry blossoms at the shrine across the street from our apartment. Today (one day later) they are in full bloom.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/img_0758.jpgIMG_0758There is a communal garden near our home that is immaculate.2013-04-02T10:39:55+00:00monthlyhttps://nicknarigon.com/2013/03/26/tokyo-spring-revisited/https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/dscn0186.jpgDSCN0186The cherry blossoms only last for about a week. They bloomed last Thursday and today, Tuesday, the petals are starting to drop. The Japanese celebrate the hanami because like life, and many things in life, the cherry blossoms are fleeting. We can capture the moment with pictures, but it was also nice to put down the camera and cherish the experience with my own eyes, my own imagination and my own heart.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/dscn0227.jpgDSCN0227In the end, the story of Shinjuku Gyoen is about hanami. Hanami includes the cherry blossoms as well as the people who enjoy them.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/dscn0172.jpgDSCN0172This is the picture of somebody else taking a picture of the bald cypress. I know this is a bald cypress because it said so on the map.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/dscn0206.jpgDSCN0206About 50 percent had professional photography gear while the other half were using cell phones.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/dscn0211.jpgDSCN0211These were the most vibrant flowers in the entire park and there was a flock of photographers surrounding this clump of bushes.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/dscn0219.jpgDSCN0219Eventually I just gave up entirely and decided to start taking pictures of the people taking pictures of the flowers.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/dscn0261.jpgDSCN0261The very last photo I took of the day was a close up shot, and then my battery died. So the close up flower shots killed my camera and are thus a bad idea in general.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/dscn0268.jpgDSCN0268Another technique I used to avoid stray passerby was just taking photos of the treetops.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/dscn0201.jpgDSCN0201I'm not really adept at close up shots and think they are rather boring, so I try to avoid them.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/dscn0210.jpgDSCN0210Most photographers avoided the overcrowding problem by just taking close up shots of flowers.2013-04-02T10:39:23+00:00monthlyhttps://nicknarigon.com/2013/04/02/pinching-yourself-with-battery-cables-or-the-day-i-spent-at-the-immigration-office/https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/photo-12.jpgphoto-12Was I ever happy to see this sign.2015-06-08T10:24:33+00:00monthlyhttps://nicknarigon.com/2013/03/12/directions-revisited/2025-05-06T03:13:12+00:00monthlyhttps://nicknarigon.com/2013/03/09/the-japanese-grocery-store-or-what-the-hell-is-that/https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/crunky.jpgcrunkyThe other day I bought a candy called "Crunky Popjoy." I just wanted to share that with you.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/dekopon.jpgdekoponTell me those aren't oranges?https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/vegetables.jpgvegetablesFor perspective, that is a normal sized tomato.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/photo3.jpgphoto(3)This is a picture of torisashi I took off google images.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/img_0342.jpgIMG_0342This is a picture of me eating sushi in our favorite island sushi bar. While sushi is my fave, I never know what kind of fish I am eating.2013-03-10T12:09:03+00:00monthlyhttps://nicknarigon.com/2013/02/25/getting-about/https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/shinjuku-stairs.jpgshinjuku stairsThis is the stairway at Shinjuku station. All you can do is lower your head and trudge forward.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/train.jpgtrainThis is a picture I took on the train on the Keio line between Tokyo and Shinjuku stations on a Friday at 5 p.m. Believe it or not, at the next stop the train got even more packed. This was cozy compared to what came next.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/p5280857.jpgOLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERAThey have cigarette vending machines everywhere in Japan. This would never, ever fly in the States. This just shows you how much more well behaved Japanese teenagers are than their American counterparts. https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/photo-48.jpgphoto-48I don't have any pictures of an escalator so here is a picture of a girls clothing store called "titty."https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/photo-305.jpgphoto-305The proper way to wait for a train.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/photo-216.jpgphoto-216Stupid glasseshttps://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/photo-303.jpgphoto-303I spend a lot of time at Shinjuku Station and Tokyo Station, two of the busiest train stations in the world. When traveling in swarms, it is best join in with the crowd rather than fight the current.2025-05-06T04:32:21+00:00monthlyhttps://nicknarigon.com/2013/02/19/nine-months/2013-03-10T12:03:03+00:00monthlyhttps://nicknarigon.com/2013/01/08/tokyo-new-year-2012/https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/photo-229.jpgphoto-229Lisa busy cooking our New Year's osechi. She cooked for two days straight. I helped.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/photo-228.jpgphoto-228https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/photo-227.jpgphoto-227https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/photo-226.jpgphoto-226https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/photo-225.jpgphoto-225Our osechi ryori prepared by Lisa. I helped carve the carrots into flowers and the potatoes into mushrooms.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/photo-224.jpgphoto-224https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/photo-223.jpgphoto-223https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/photo-222.jpgphoto-222https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/photo-221.jpgphoto-221When you leave the shrine you can buy a New Year's poem for 100 yen ($1) and tie it to the fence. My poem, written by Emperor Meiji, said before climbing your mountain make sure to be prepared. Fitting.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/photo-220.jpgphoto-220People cleansing their hands with sacred water before entering the shrine.2013-03-10T12:01:00+00:00monthlyhttps://nicknarigon.com/2012/12/25/christmas-in-japan-2012/https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/photo-208.jpgphoto-208Tokyo Station was still beautiful, but not as beautiful as we were promised.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/photo-202.jpgphoto-202Some neighbors decorated in the Christmas spirit.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/photo-3.pngphoto-3The weather in Tokyo on Christmas Day was warm and sunny. https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/photo-209.jpgphoto-209Japan doing what they do best - making ridiculous rules to protect us from ourselves. Here they are holding back the hoards who showed up to see the Michiterasu illumination at Tokyo Station.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/photo-207.jpgphoto-207At least we were able to see the beautiful revolving lanterns on Gyoko-dori Avenue.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/photo-205.jpgphoto-205My favorite Christmas decoration ever - the clotheslined reindeer outside our neighborhood department store in Sasazuka.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/photo-201.jpgphoto-201Lisa with her brother and his newborn son Hiroto.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/photo-198.jpgphoto-198We spent Christmas Eve at the home of Lisa's brother Yuichi and his wife Mika. Their son Takuto turned 1 last week and they gave birth to a newborn son Hiroto on Dec. 18.2013-03-10T11:58:32+00:00monthlyhttps://nicknarigon.com/2013/02/13/a-trip-to-osaka-and-an-homage-to-octopus-balls/https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/img_0345.jpgIMG_0345The sunset from the pier next to the aquarium. Revel in the sunset!https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/photo-266.jpgphoto-266The Glica candy sign in Dotonbori. This is famous for some reason.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/photo-281.jpgphoto-281We also made a side trip to Kobe which is known for its night view so here is a picture of the Kobe night view.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/photo-275.jpgphoto-275That's right, more freakin' takoyaki.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/photo-259.jpgphoto-259Lisa and Mae and Takoyaki.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/photo-253.jpgphoto-253Yu-chan. She's a goddamn whale shark!https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/photo-260.jpgphoto-260Takoyaki smothered in mozzarella cheese and tomato sauce. Don't forget the Tabasco!https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/photo-287.jpgphoto-287Okonomiyaki and takisoba. Two of my favorite "yakis."https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/photo-261.jpgphoto-261Still having fun on the first night.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/photo-244.jpgphoto-244There are freakin' Ferris wheels everywhere in Japan, especially Osaka. This one was next to the aquarium.2025-05-05T23:46:17+00:00monthlyhttps://nicknarigon.com/2013/01/21/blizzard-run/https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/photo-236.jpgphoto-236A scuba diver in the tank feeding all the sakana (fish).https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/photo-234.jpgphoto-234An iguana. A 'snow' iguana.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/photo-235.jpgphoto-235I ran out of snow pictures so here is a picture of fishes at the aquarium.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/photo-233.jpgphoto-233The only shovels I saw in Tokyo were outside the Sunshine City Mall. That's the definition of irony, right?https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/photo-232.jpgphoto-232A picture of everyone carrying their goddamned umbrellas outside Ikebukuro train station. I loathe the umbrella culture here in Japan, mostly because everyone is shorter than me and they carry their umbrellas at my eye level. Bonks to the noggin are not uncommon.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/photo-231.jpgphoto-231Lovely Lisa posing in the snow on the walking trail near our home.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/photo-237.jpgphoto-237This is one of the two-balled snowmen the neighborhood children built in the park across the street. Unfortunately I took the picture the day after the blizzard so poor Frosty already started to melt.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/photo-230.jpgphoto-230On Monday, Jan. 14, 2013, we got a shitload of snow here in Tokyo. This was the view from the third floor entryway.2025-05-06T04:48:29+00:00monthlyhttps://nicknarigon.com/2012/12/11/earthquake-2/2012-12-11T09:25:09+00:00monthlyhttps://nicknarigon.com/2012/11/21/a-little-japanese-can-be-worse-than-none/2012-11-21T17:00:58+00:00monthlyhttps://nicknarigon.com/2012/09/09/what-i-like-about-tokyo/https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/photo-55.jpgphoto-55There's no sharing the mic in this room.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/photo-561.jpgphoto-56Two Japanese, two French-Morrocans and one redhead at Hantei in the Shin-Marunouchi building.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/photo-56.jpgphoto-56Two Japanese, two French-Morrocans and a redhead at Hantei in Shin-Marunouchi building.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/photo-54.jpgphoto-54The Roppongi Hills Arena - site of the 2012 Belgian Beer Festival.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/photo-50.jpgphoto-50VIP is the only way I roll, even in Tokyo.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/photo-53.jpgphoto-53The Japanese instrumental rock band Mono performed at the Liquid Room in Ebisu last Friday night to a sold out crowd.2012-09-16T16:27:46+00:00monthlyhttps://nicknarigon.com/2012/09/15/the-little-blue-dot/https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/photo-2.pngphoto-2My blue life line.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/photo-1.pngphoto-1If it wasn't for this little blue dot I would still be in Kyoto.2012-09-16T17:39:04+00:00monthlyhttps://nicknarigon.com/2012/08/22/karaoke-at-1245/https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/2101_48928053186_9590_n.jpg2101_48928053186_9590_nWe can sing!2012-08-22T16:47:52+00:00monthlyhttps://nicknarigon.com/2012/08/05/baseball-and-pretty-explosions-in-the-sky/https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/photo-37.jpgphoto-37The party lasted for two nights.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/photo-391.jpgphoto-39There is an amusement park outside the Tokyo Dome.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/photo-361.jpgphoto-36This is the line of people trying to get out of the train station.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/photo-36.jpgphoto-36This is the line of people trying to get out of the train station.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/photo-32.jpgphoto-32I tried to take a cool picture of the fireworks over the river using my iPhone, but all the photos turned out blurry. Who would have known?https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/photo-34.jpgphoto-34Took this picture while we were walking to the Edo River.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/photo-39.jpgphoto-39There is an amusement park outside the Tokyo Dome.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/photo-40.jpgphoto-40Inside the air conditioned Tokyo Dome.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/photo-38.jpgphoto-38The Tokyo Dome - home of the Yomiuri Giants.2012-08-15T15:26:37+00:00monthlyhttps://nicknarigon.com/2012/07/31/health-insured/https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/photo.jpgphotoAs an added bonus, here is the text exchange between Lisa and I after my experience at the insurance office. Pretty sure she meant to type "worrier" and not "warrior."https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/pc300086.jpgOLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA"No Scout, that's my pork chop!"https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/photo-29.jpgphoto-29I finally tied the poles to the hooks.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/photo-30.jpgphoto-30Yesterday I spent 3 hours battling with the wind while trying to dry the laundry. It kep wrapping the sheets around the pole and even blowing the pole off the hooks.2012-08-15T15:25:03+00:00monthlyhttps://nicknarigon.com/2012/07/19/yep-still-in-tokyo/https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/p7160976.jpgOLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERAThe view of Mount Fuji, hidden behind the clouds.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/photo-27.jpgphoto-27Another Shinto shrine on Mount Takao.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/photo-28.jpgphoto-28A view of Tokyo from Mount Takao.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/p7160961.jpgOLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERAOne of the views on the way up.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/p7160965.jpgOLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERAThe summit of Mount Takao. Yes, there is a ramen restaurant at the peak. It is supposed to be pretty good.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/p7160955.jpgOLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERAThe wooded trails of trail 6. And Lisa.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/p7160958.jpgOLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERAThe stream is actually part of trail 6.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/p7160948.jpgOLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERAA Shinto shrine built on the side of Mount Takao.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/p7160941.jpgOLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERAThe entrance to trail 6.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/p7160971.jpgOLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERALisa and I at the top of Mount Takao.2012-07-20T04:29:55+00:00monthlyhttps://nicknarigon.com/2012/06/14/bricks-walking/https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/p6140955.jpgOLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERAThe quiet streets of Harajuku.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/p6140951.jpgOLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERAThey still have phone booths in Tokyo. This one is in Harajuku.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/p6140936.jpgOLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERAStalking the kid playing the conga.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/p6140935.jpgOLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERAThe parks of Tokyo are planned out so well. Walking through the parks is easily one of my favorite things to do. The homeless really like them as well.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/p6140930.jpgOLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERAThe Shibuya shopping and entertainment district.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/p6140938.jpgOLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERAThe "big fountain" (according to the sign) at Yoyogi Gyoen.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/p6130929.jpgOLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERAYebisu is the site of a former brewery and there is a beer museum. I must return.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/p6130928.jpgOLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERAYebisu Garden Place in Ebisu.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/p6140947.jpgOLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERAThe rose garden at Yoyogi Park (Gyoen). "Hana tachi wa mimashita" means "I saw many flowers."2012-06-16T16:24:21+00:00monthlyhttps://nicknarigon.com/2012/06/08/these-things-that-i-have-done/https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/p6090926.jpgOLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERAGetting all arts with my photography today. Here is an outside look at the inside of Meiji-Jingu Shrine.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/p6080903.jpgOLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERAThe iris garden in Yoyogi Gyoen. The brochure says it is "just an oasis in the center of the noisy city."https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/p6080893.jpgOLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERAThe shinko, or treasure house in the shrine courtyard. The original buildings were all destroyed during the air raids of WWII and were rebuilt in 1958.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/p6090922.jpgOLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERAAn artsy shot of the back entrance. Always going through the back door.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/p6080909.jpgOLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERAThe tearoom in the iris garden of Meiji Jingu. There were girls being trained in the Japanese art of tea service, but I was too cowardly to get close for a good picture.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/p6090918.jpgOLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERAThe giant torii at the entrance to Meiji Jingu Shrine. The Shinto shrine is dedicated to the souls of Emperor Meiji, who died in 1912, and Empress Shoken who died in 1914. https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/photo-11.jpgphoto-1The Hyakunin-bansho Guardhouse. One hundred samurai guardsmen had their quarters here. Their spirits speak to me.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/photo-1.jpgphoto-1The Hyakunin-bansho Guardhouse. One hundred samurai guardsmen had their quarters here. Their spirits speak to me.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/photo-4.jpgphoto-4Ninomaru Garden at the Imperial Palacehttps://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/photo-6.jpgphoto-6The eastern gardens of the Japanese Imperial Palace. This is the former site of the Edo Castle built in 1457. It was the residence of the shogun and was the military capital of Japan.2012-06-09T17:07:33+00:00monthlyhttps://nicknarigon.com/2012/06/03/whats-the-deal-with-slippers/https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/p6040887.jpgOLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERAThe shower boots.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/p6040886.jpgOLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERALisa's flip flops that are used solely on the balcony. I lost mine already.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/p6040890.jpgOLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERAThe surripa in the toire. It did not pick these out. https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/p6040885.jpgOLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERALeaving surripa at the edge of the tatami.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/p6040883.jpgOLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERALeave the shoes at the door. This prevents the dirt and germs collected in the outside world from entering the home.2012-06-03T15:28:34+00:00monthlyhttps://nicknarigon.com/2012/05/22/status-update/2012-05-23T01:41:55+00:00monthlyhttps://nicknarigon.com/2012/04/12/boston-revisited/https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/p40907491.jpgOLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA63 Burbank St. Where we eventually lived for 8 out of the 9 months we lived in Boston. The other month was spent in the youth hostel and sleeping in a Chevy Cavalier.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/p4080738.jpgOLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERAHaving some 'pops' at the Black Rose with the Moores (Shaeli and Courtney), Craig and my wife Lisa.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/p4090749.jpgOLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA63 Burbank St. Where we eventually lived for 8 out of the 9 months we lived in Boston. The other month was spent in the youth hostel and sleeping in a Chevy Cavalier.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/p4080736.jpgOLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERANick and Craig in front of Quincy Market in Boston on Easter weekend 2012.2012-05-10T13:23:11+00:00monthlyhttps://nicknarigon.com/2012/03/12/the-2-year-old-is-in-charge/https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/butters-pic-11.jpgButters-Pic-1https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/butters-pic-1.jpgButters-Pic-1https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/photo.jpgphotoThe scene of the crime. The suspects have been narrowed down to one.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/rohan-on-big-wheel1.jpgRohan on big wheelRohan on his Big Wheel that he received for his birthday.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/rohan-on-big-wheel.jpgRohan on big wheelhttps://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/rohans-2nd-bday1.jpgRohan's 2nd bdayRohan turned 2 on Feb. 15, 2012. His now lord and master of 1006 Oak Park Blvd.https://nicknarigon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/rohans-2nd-bday.jpgRohan's 2nd bdayRohan turned 2 on Feb. 15, 2012. He is now lord and master at 1006 Oak Park Blvd.2012-03-19T19:28:11+00:00monthlyhttps://nicknarigon.com/pop-song-or-bad-poem/2011-01-24T01:28:06+00:00weekly0.6https://nicknarigon.comdaily1.02025-10-25T02:14:13+00:00