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Japan's Fighting Spirit

by Chiara CastaÃ±eda - May 22, 2011 - 12:00am

Let’s talk about the weather. Or not. In Japan, this typical, non-fail small-talk topic takes a backseat to the magnitude 9.0 Tohoku earthquake that hit them on March 11.

Talk with Yan

by Chiara CastaÃ±eda - May 1, 2011 - 12:00am

There’s a reason why you’ll always find a Chinese take-away joint when you’re craving something delicious with rice — it’s just universally delicious.

Chat and chew with Anna Olson

by Chiara CastaÃ±eda - January 23, 2011 - 12:00am

Confession: I am a food show addict. From Top Chef to Masterchef, to cooking and lifestyle shows headed by Tony and Jaime — anything that features food on TV has become an obsession.

It's WSK! time

by Chiara CastaÃ±eda - November 21, 2010 - 12:00am

All music lovers loathe the fact that Manila isn’t a stop for international bands touring Asia, the same way Tokyo and, to a lesser extent, Singapore are.

Borough for a slice of the Big Apple

by Chiara CastaÃ±eda - October 24, 2010 - 12:00am

I doubt that there is anyone without a fascination for New York City. From the well-seasoned traveler to the curious first timer, NYC has a unique charm that definitely captivates.

The Legend that is Kurosawa

by Chiara CastaÃ±eda - September 12, 2010 - 12:00am

When revered film director David Lynch was told that one can watch movies on mobiles, his was not an enthusiastic response.

Nara and Hanoi: 1,000 in the making

by Chiara CastaÃ±eda - August 29, 2010 - 12:00am

Myriad milestones have already marked this year.

Pedal pushers

by Chiara CastaÃ±eda - July 18, 2010 - 12:00am

Let me be the first to say it: cycling in Manila is scary.

Tokyo fashion shines on rue Saint-HonorÃ©

by Chiara CastaÃ±eda - April 11, 2010 - 12:00am

By virtue of globalization, everything becomes extra competitive. Even in the fashion-crazed country of Japan, building a fashion career gets more challenging.

Countdown to cherry blossoms

by Chiara CastaÃ±eda - March 21, 2010 - 12:00am

Tracking where and when cherry blossoms, or sakura, will bloom is a serious business here. They are monitored like crops that need to be harvested, while the Japan Weather Association (JWA) provides updates on dates...

Beyond Nippon's borders

by Chiara CastaÃ±eda - February 14, 2010 - 12:00am

Undeniably, Japan’s biggest export is coolture. From Comme to cosplay, Japanese culture and creativity still inspire and evoke desire.

Malls as modern museums

by Chiara CastaÃ±eda - November 29, 2009 - 12:00am

Fifty years ago, having art installations and design exhibits in a commercial space was unheard of.

Finds from the Fashion Week Fringe

by Chiara CastaÃ±eda - November 15, 2009 - 12:00am

It may be surprising to know that Japan Fashion Week (JFW) is a minor affair compared to buzz-generating events like the Tokyo Motor Show or Tokyo Game Show.

Sheer fabrics, ruffles and a casual vibe make up Japan's take on S/S 2010

by Chiara CastaÃ±eda - November 1, 2009 - 12:00am

Subscribing to the same trend websites, look books and color forecasts, it is expected that designers from around the world get into a similar frame of mind each season.

The pulse of Fall

by Chiara CastaÃ±eda - October 18, 2009 - 12:00am

There’s a familiar chill in the air nowadays. The intensely humid Japanese summer, described as mushi atsui in Japanese, is now gone. Although the weather is just getting comfortable, some people are already...

Tokyo on 2 wheels

by Chiara CastaÃ±eda - September 27, 2009 - 12:00am

It may be known for its extensive train system, but there is life beyond the tracks. A huge chunk of Tokyoites rely on their own energy and two wheels to get around this gigantic city.

Fashion's Night Out Tokyo edition

by Chiara CastaÃ±eda - September 20, 2009 - 12:00am

It was like a dream. Flutes of champagne and glasses of wine greet you at the entrance. Silver platters of pralines and chocolates entertain while you browse the shelves.

Like sitting on a throne

by Chiara CastaÃ±eda - August 16, 2009 - 12:00am

For me, the term “comfort room” is only appropriate when describing Japanese public restrooms. Unlike the usual smelly, substandard restrooms, the ones in Tokyo satisfy the basics — clean, fresh-smelling...

Sweet charm of mine

by Chiara CastaÃ±eda - July 5, 2009 - 12:00am

It’s true. Japanese take food as seriously as they do fashion. Both are expected to have the best ingredients, be pleasing to the eye and in season, and produced by an expert. As consumers, they don’t...

Baguio by numbers

by Chiara CastaÃ±eda - May 31, 2009 - 12:00am

BAGUIO, Philippines — What’s to love about Baguio? Is it the ukay, the chilly weather, the elegant Manor at Camp John Hay? Ask photographer Rudy Furuya.

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