The Wanderer Ezine Fall 2018
Going Going Gondola: Forget Rome: When In Venice Do As The Venitians Do! Pg. 16
What Wikipedia Can’t Tell You About London: By Seeing London I Have Seen As Much Of Life As The World Can Show Pg. 24
The Majestic Culture of Japan: How Japanese Culture Is Changing The World Pg. 42
Leaving Footprints in Athens: The City May Be In Ruins But Your Visit Doesn’t Have To Be! Pg. 32
C O N T E N T S
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PICK YOUR CITY VENICE LONDON ATHENS TOKYO Images courtesy of OnlyGFX
Letter from the editors Dear Reader, We accept the fact that we had to sacrifice a whole semester to this magazine to get our Ezine credit. We did make a good magazine, and we did recieve our credit. But we think you’re crazy to write a letter from the editors when we already had to write our feature articles. You’ll see them as you want to see them. In the simplest terms. The most convienient definitions. The Floating City... The City of Glass...The City of Dreams... and The City of Ruins. Does that Answer Your Question? Sincerely Yours, The Wanderer
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Meet the editors
Meera is kind, sweet, and funny. She enjoys learning about pop culture with her friend Larissa. She is a bookworm who’ll give you the best book recomendations. She often makes everybody laugh and is very competive.
Dean is funny, creative, and loves sneakers. Dean games with his friends every moment he can when he’s not buying shoes. His friends and him share a passion for reselling anything they can to make quick side cash. Dean loves spending time with his family and, of course, his dog Ramzie.
Larissa is sassy, sweet, trustworthy, kind-hearted, adventureous, loves fashion, and is very feminine. She is very funny too. In the blink of an eye she’ll come up with an idea that’ll make you laugh.
Hudson Day is a very creative, graphic-design loving artist. He enjoys many hobbies including crafts, painting, and drawing. He loves going to Micheals, shopping on Amazon, and chilling at Radio Coffee Shop in Austin, TX.
Sarai is a strong-willed and occasionally sarcastic person. She loves McDonald’s, and basically just food in general. She was stubborn and tended to do her own thing. But she was a really nice person. And had really good aesthetic sense. The Wanderer - Ezine Fall 2018 | 7
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Where in the world is your destination?
Mostly A’s: Page 24
London
Mostly C’s: Page 16
Venice
Mostly D’s: Page 32
Athens
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Look at this ASF for some fun info about Australia!
Australia
n a p
Mostly B’s: Page 37
Ja
Tokyo
All images courtesy of mapchart.net & NASA
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Architecture in Venice
What types of architecture make modern Venice? By Larissa Borg
Santa Maria della Salute was created in an effort to save boroque style
Image Courtesy of Getty Images
Roma San Sebastian was another effort in the renessance to save boroque and Roman Style
baroque Gothic 14 | The Wanderer - Ezine Fall 2018
Image Courtesy of Salius Lag Gothic architecture took over venice in the 14th century, this is because of the christian goth style that was brought by the monks
Image Courtesy of Didier Descouens
The Inspirations In the 16th century the Doge’s Palace an example of Islamic Architecture mixing Christian Architecture with Islamic elements such as the central windows.
Islamic ByzANTINE
Image Courtesy of Barbra Rodgers
St.Mark’s Basilica has a mixture of Islamic Architecture such as the domes and Byzantine achitecture such as the mosacis
Image Courtesy of Getty Images
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Going Going Gondola Forget Rome, When In Venice, Do As The Venitians Do!
By Larissa Borg
St. Francis student looking onwards as he rides a gondola on the Grand Canal
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All Photos Courtesy of Larissa Borg
V
enice—the floating city—there’s no place in the world like it. The city is full of wonderful sites, but some of it’s most fascinating experiences are hidden in plain sight. This is an inspirational guide of where to go, what to expect and what one shouldn’t do.
Highlights of Venice include the Doge’s Palace, Piazza di San Marco, Santa Maria Della Salute, San Sebastian, St. Mark’s Basilica, St. Mark’s Clocktower, Campo San Barnaba, Rialto Bridge and Murano. Yet sometimes frequent tourists give us a better perspective on the city and the unique experiences it has to offer.
it captures the 21st century Though its roads are made of combining with the 13th centu- water, Venice’s streets are a sight to see. ry,” Hale said. He often said he likes to look down at his feet when he is walking through Venice. He imagines his apparel and his surroundings as if they were from the 13th century. He explained that it gives you a whole new perspective on Venice.
“I love to write poetry on the Rialto Bridge, usually when we go to the Rialto it’s the end of the day and the sun is setting,” Hale said, noting that some of his favorite places in Venice depend on what he wants to do. “So I have everyone stop and I say ‘look up at the sky, there’s no other place in the world Don Hale is the founder of St. Francis school’s annual pilgrim- where the sky is this blue.’” age to Assisi, Italy. In his spare time, he studies Italian culture and history. He has been to Italy over 20 times as part of this program. Every year during these pilgrimages he stops in Venice with the students. “I love the uniqueness of the city,” Hale said. “The whole idea of these people fleeing oppression by building a floating city is astounding! And the fact that they ruled the Mediterranean for 700 years is even more amazing.” Hidden Gems
I Love T he Uniqness Of T he City
“I love the street quality, it’s like a labyrinth but much more of a maze with lots of dead ends.” Hale said. “I love walking with large groups like we’ve had because I’m usually at the end and just watching how our group can be 3 blocks away from each other with all these twists and turns. Every turn is a new part of a city… Walking in and outside the city is just magical.” Eli Dawkins, a St. Francis School alumni, agreed. He said his favorite activity was walking in the city with friends. During his time in Venice, he was allowed to wander the streets around Rialto and enjoyed it immensely. GLASSBLOWING “Glassblowing is famous in Venice,” Hale said, reminiscing on his previous pilgrimage. “For years we went to this store where they did a demonstration but didn’t sell it [glass],”
Glassblowing was a technique used to illuminate Roman bathhouses in the early 8th cenVenice is known for its gortury. Since then it has become geous sky and amazing sunsets. a major tradition and form of exports for the city. Wendy LaBarre, another St. Francis School teacher who participates in the annual pil“One year they had a student come up and they allowed a When in Italy Hale often walks grimages concurs with Hale. student to start making the the streets trying to find hidden glass with them.” Hale said. gems among the brick roads. “My favorite part of Venice is the Rialto Bridge,” LaBarre said. The experience was such a great hit with the students that every “It’s inspiring to stand over “It’s warren of unique shops, the grand canal. I also like the gelaterias and people watching year since then they make a point to do it again. market near the Rialto—to me are hard to beat.” The Wanderer - Ezine Fall 2018 | 17
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Piazza Di San Marco is the central square of Venice, it holds the Doge’s palace, St. Mark’s Basilica, and St. Mark’s Bell Tower
St. Francis Students on a Gondola in Spring of 2018 when the School usually takes their annual Pilgrimage
“One year they had a student come up and they allowed a student to start making the glass with them.” Hale said. The experience was such a great hit with the students that every year since then they make a point to do it again. “I love the glass blowing and think it is so beautiful,” LaBarre said. “ I wish it could last longer. I have always been made to feel welcome and only slightly pressured into buying things.” Most of the glass demonstrations are done at shops, so it’s not unusual that you are expected to buy something in in return for a free demonstration. MASK MAKING Mask making is another Venetian tradition that dates back to the 13th Century when they wore them for the Carnival. Many original mask shops still exist in Venice and allow tourists to learn how to make Masks while learning about the tradition and its history. “The mask making [is my favorite], it’s just so wonderful and creative,” Hale
is a particular fan of this activity. “You know we’ve been doing all this physical activity and everything goes into this mask emotionally.” PIAZZA DI SAN MARCO Piazza di San Marco is another popular destination in Venice, renowned for its many restaurants and cafes. “The most expensive place in the world to get coffee is at coffee shops in the Piazza or the hot chocolate,” said Hale. However, there is more to the Piazza then food, as it is also the best spot to admire the Basilica. “I always love to search the detail of the mosaics on the church.” LaBarre said. “ It’s hard to believe they are so old and still so vibrant.” GONDOLAS A visit to this amazing city must always include a gondola. This unique type of transport is one you would think of when Venice comes to mind.
“Yes, 100%, everybody needs to ride a gondola at least once. I mean you’re seeing the city from a vantage point that is 600 years old, looking up at the city,” said Hale The famous mode of transport began when Venetians needed a sleek and form of transport. It became especially important when someone needed to travel alone. The gondolas have become a large source of tourism for Venice since now motorboats replace its form of transport. “Yes, it’s fun. Tourists should know that not all the gondoliers speak English and/ or like to sing,” said LaBarre. As is often the stereotype of a Gondola experience. Many tourists should know that the gondoliers only speak Italian and don’t like being photographed. Regardless of this, it is still an experience everyone agrees to recommend. DOGE’S PALACE The Doges Palace, next door to the Basilica di San Marco is historicalal attraction rich in art and drama. The Doges Palace was the seat of power during The Wanderer - Ezine Fall 2018 | 19
Venice’s reign as ruler of the Mediterranean. Instead of princes or kings, a Doges was elected as “ruler” till his death, similar shows a desire to learn.to the reign of the Pope of the Catholic Church. The Doges Palace was a home, a government office building, and a prison, all in one structure. It held many a famous prisoner and was the site of all Doges elections and deaths.
LaBarre recounted “I love the pride that all the restaurants have in the food that they serve. They clearly have a love of food and hospitality that shines through.” For those travelers with dietary restrictions, Yelp is almost necessary to help navigate menus that can accommodate everyone’s needs.
With regards to Venice, Hale said “Especially Roman and Venetian. It sets a whole new way of looking at where you are.” Wendy LaBarre added “It is a huge advantage to study Italian culture before the visit. It gives context and a depth that a simple site seeing trip does not give.” Yet Dawkins said it depends on how you are traveling, saying “If you’re traveling alone, yes. If you’re traveling with a controlled group… it won’t change much besides enriching your experience.”
Dawkins stated “The Doges Palace was my favorite place in Venice. The nylon ding was so old yet cool. If [only] those walls could talk, my the things they’d say!”
Locals are also a great source of help with directions, site, and hotel recommendations. Italians take pride in their history and culture and are always eager to share what they know with any tourist who shows a desire to learn.
LOCALS
CULTURE
Italy as a whole, and Venice, in particular, is full of wonderful history and amazing culture.
Every interviewee said that one should not be afraid to ask the locals about good eats. Dawkins recounted a time when he was in Venice and he asked someone about pizza and found the most amazing little pizza shop right next to the Doge’s palace.
Most people recommend studying Italian culture before visiting. When traveling to Italy, learning the culture allows you to have fresh eyes. Many people say to always study a culture before visiting, it not only enhances your experience but also allows you to blend in.
Like with any place on earth, if you focus on the glass being half full you’ll have an amazing experience. Simple precautions can enhance a trip and avoid trouble. Venice is one of the many wonders of the world that should be explored to its fullest extent.
Trevor Shaw in the Grand Canal of Venice in Spring 2018
Ancient passage way durring Spring of 2018
Restaurant along the Grand Canal in Spring 2018
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Gondoliers rowing on the Grand Canal in Spring 2018
VISIT BALI FOR THE SURF OF A LIFETIME
Photo The Wanderer Curtesy of- Kalle EzineLundonholm Fall 2018 | 21
Are you more fond of plants or animals? a. plants b. animals Use this road map to discover your next London destination! Start at the tour bus and answer questions to get further along the road. Then, look on the next page to find out more on your destination. By Hudson Day You have arrived at the London telephone booth! Call your family!
no
yes
Do you get homesick when you travel?
a. You have arrived at the Royal Botantical Gardens!
b. Are you more of a history buff or more of an adventurer? a. history buff b. adventurer
You have arrived at the famous Tower Bridge!
a. b. a. You have arrived at the London boat tours!
b. You have arrived at the famous London Eye! Are you afraid of heights? a. YES!!! Aah! b. No way!
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More information about your destination: Find it here! The Royal Botantical Gardens: A vast green wonderland perfect for families! Adult admission is only 18 dollars.
The Famous Tower Bridge:
Come here with your whole family to enjoy a breathtaking view of London. You may even learn some history!
London Boat Tours:
Enjoy a relaxing boat tour around the lake. See tower bridge along with many other famous attractions! They have very good ratings and some boats even have the option to have a 4-course meal and listen to live jazz music.
The London Eye
This is surely one of the most iconic modern attractions in London today. If you aren’t afraid of heights and you want a new perspective on London, try out the London Eye. The only downside is that there is a long wait. Photos courtesy of: puzzledepo.com, express.co.uk, locallondontours.com, and www.touracti.com. Sources from londoneye.com, towerbridge.org.uk, kew. org, and trip advisor.com.
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Photos courtesy of buisnessinsider. com & handluggageonly. co.uk. 24 | The Wanderer - Ezine Fall 2018
By seeing London I have seen as much of life as the world can show
Samuel Johnson
What Wikipedia Can’t Tell You About London
Photo Courtesy of : https://www.visitbritainshop.com/world/articles/london-insider-market-guide/
manage time well. When most people think There are many places of London, they think of like Kensington, the Brick Buckingham Palace and Lane, the Churchill War Big Ben. But London has Rooms, that travel agent so much more to offer than Katy Chadwell said she clock towers and castles. enjoyed the most when she It’s a great city, primarily first visited London. These because it is a great place kinds of places are what to be for first-time travelers the real London is known and families but because it for. The real London is a is easily accessible and still city of vibrance and is full of culture. character. By Hudson Day
London is the melting pot of the United Kingdom. A travel agent from the American Automobile Association (also known as “Triple A”) even said that there is “a London pass that you can get that includes literally attractions to almost a hundred places.” This means London is not only fun, but can be somewhat affordable if you can 26 | The Wanderer - Ezine Fall 2018
Many people from many cultures live there. For instance, the Brick Lane is an amazing and quirky antique shop that appeals to many different kinds of people.
London is also known for many of its great Indian restaurants. One of the best ones is Dishoom Indian Food, a modern Indian restaurant that serves unique items like bacon naan or the Bombay omelette. This restaurant is a newer, trendier spot to try classic and new flavors. They have an amazing story that can be found at dishoom.com/designing-dishoom/.
There are many world-class museums like the Victoria & Albert Museum and the Cartoon Museum. The Victoria & Albert Museum is an amazing museum based on Many other attractions include the London Eye, the art and design. Royal Gardens, Shoreditch, The classical architecture of and countless unique the museum itself is a work restaurants. of art. It almost always has
A travel agent from AAA, “It is a great an agency that helps place to be for around 25,000 tourists per year per office, said that first-time their agency has Another fun thing to do extremely customizable travelers and for all of the Potterheads packages to London, “We families out there is going to the have lots of different ones Warner Brothers Studios, that we can pick, depends because it is where Harry Potter is on how many days you easily accessible showcased including sets, want to go. Some people, costumes, and more a lot of people like to do and still is full of miscellaneous movie magic London combined with culture.” (pun intended). other cities in Europe so we can do that for you. But we One benefit of traveling to have one that’s just like a London, said Katy week in London and they -Katy Chadwell Chadwell is that the have everything planned Travel Agent language is the same, so it out for you. Every day you makes it more can go with the group. You visitor-friendly. It is a can go on your own. We stellar bonus to many have premade itineraries or people, knowing that most you can just customize that Americans speak English. however you want to do it.” She also says that “As far They do mostly cruises and as culture goes, the people airfare, but you can also arare definitely extremely range for a rental car to use nice. It sort of makes it in London one you have nicer for visitors. It’s easy to arrived at your hotel. One The “Tube.” Photo Courtesy of visitlondon.com get around.” of the only downsides something new to offer, so even if you’ve been before, it’s a great place to visit again.
Dishoom Indian Food in Shoreditch Photo Courtesy of dishoom.com
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Victoria and Albert Museum Photo Courtesy of divento.com
The Royal Gardens
Photo Courtesy of claytonhotelchiswick.com
that this travel agent says is that she doesn’t “like that the roads are very hard to get around. Where, most of the excursions won’t pick you up and drop you off from your hotel if somebody wants to go if somebody wants to get an excursion that picks you up and drops you off from the hotel. In almost any other city in the world can do that and don’t have to worry about driving, in London they always make you meet them at the central meeting point because it’s so hard to get to... It’s so hard to get to every individual place.” Even though there are not that many efficient ways to travel on the road, you can also take The Tube; a rapid-transit subway that zips along all throughout London. Some events coming soon
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to London are exhibits at the Victoria and Albert Museum including one featuring Frida Kahlo’s unique style and wardrobe, a unique exhibit on videogames, and a design project based around the future. Some of these exhibits have been widely popular and are interesting to spectate. The Dishoom Indian Restaurant also has many new dishes to try, seasonal items included. When you next visit Europe, make sure you stop by London to taste many cultures, feel the vibrance of life, and learn about the world around you. It is a kind city ready to embrace change and people as if it were their second home. The architecture and art in London is inspiring and reminds people of both the older times and the new. London is a unique city that usually suprises people every time they visit. New and vibrant opportunities are always waiting around the bend for each and every tourist. y
Visit Today!
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Photo Courtesy of Australian Olympic Commitee
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Leaving Fooprints in Athens
This city may be in ruins, but your visit there doesn’t have to be. By Meera Ravi Photo Courtesy of Amanda
The Theatre of Dionysus is a 150,000 feet Greek ruin said to be the world’s first major amphitheater, estimated to be built at around 6 B.C. Right behind it is the Acropolis, a complex of old ruins comprised of many buildings from ancient Greece, on top of a grassy hill. In the Acropolis, you find the famed Parthenon, built to honor the goddess Athena. Athens, Greece is a city filled with old and valuable stories from thousands of years ago, back when the Parthenon was first built from marble on a great mound of stones. The historic resonance of the city is a massive one, and people come from around the world to see it first-hand.
The historic monuments in Athens are among the most well-preserved in the world. Ruins like Parthenon and the Theatre of Dionysus are the things that make Athens a magnet for tourists. Giant structures of marble and limestone made by hand, with no assistance from any modern technology. The sense of wonder these ruins give when seen is something a tourist will remember for a long time.
forests and mountains that have been well kept, which only adds to the appeal of Athens. The Acropolis is one of Greece’s most famous attractions, and brings a ton of tourists every year. Rabun Taylor, a professor of Greek and Roman architecture at the University of Texas at Austin, explains the ruins.
“The word acropolis actually means any gathering of buildings on an elevation higher than Another thing that attracts any surrounding land. However, the word tourists is the endearing ‘acropolis’ is now culture and feel of the ancient city. The shops and synonymous with the ruins restaurants are all open and in Athens. That’s how comfy. Athens is also a very famous it has become.” green city, and has many Photo Courtesy of Amanda.
The ruins combined with the warm and friendly atmosphere of the town itself is what makes this city such a famous and attractive one to visit. Tourists come from around the world to visit Athens, for its ruins and its culture.
The Theatre of Dionysus, still standing today even after centuries of it being built. The Wanderer - Ezine Fall 2018 | 33
Parthenon. Most of the ruins built were typically built out of limestone, but the Parthenon was an exception. The columns there were built out of marble, which also began to gain popularity.” Taylor said. The view of the City of Ruins from one of its many hills. The natural beauty of this city is phenomenal. Photo Courtesy of Amanda.
These ruins, dating from 5 B.C., have built a magnificent reputation for themselves over the years, as they have remained standing and intact. Out of all of the ruins that make up the Acropolis, the Parthenon is the most famous. It was built out of marble and limestone by hand to honor the Greek goddess Athena. The ruin is an iconic representation of all of ancient Greek architecture. Taylor explained, “The Greeks were well-known for their use of marble, columns and detail. All of which are represented very distinctly in the Parthenon.” He says this is why 34 | The Wanderer - Ezine Fall 2018
the ruin is so famed. The temple has also been preserved very well, and despite being there for many millennia. There are also a lot of other temples dedicated to Greek gods and goddesses, though none of them are anywhere near as well-known as the Parthenon. The thing, architecture-wise, that the Greeks were most wellknown for was beginning the use of columns in their buildings. “Columns first began to get popularity thanks to ancient Greek architecture, most notably thanks to the
Along with temples, the Greeks were also known for something else: theaters. Built out of stone on a hill, the Theatre of Dionysus’ design would continue to influence the design of many theaters to come. “The semi-circular arrangement of seats allowed for a very open feel, and the acoustics traveled excellently in that [arrangement]. Another thing was the curtain that backed the performers of the stage; it was something that had been started by the Greeks and something that carried with more and more popularity through the centuries.” Taylor explained. You can see the traces of Greek influence in the theatres of today, with their
circular arrangement and seating style. Along with ancient architecture, Greece is also famous for its food. The beauty of Greek food, according to the manager of a local Greek restaurant, Mahmoud Nouri, is its versatility. “Greek food can be eaten by almost anyone, and there are so many [dishes] that almost anyone can find one to fit their tastes.” Nouri explained, manager of Tino’s Greek Cafe.
dishes in Greece too. Dishes like the spanakopita, which is a spinach pie. There are many different versions of this, according to Nouri, but the one his customers love best is the one with cheese. Another popular vegetarian dish is yigandes plaki, which is just baked beans and tomato with seasoning. Greek food is also known
for being heart-healthy and nutritious. “It is not typically made from a lot of sugar or other unhealthy substances. And though a lot of food has meat, there are plenty of vegetarian classics on the menu too.” said Nouri about his food options. He also mentioned that the reason a lot of people come to his restaurant is because they love that the dishes there can be healthy and delicious all in one.
He says that he fell in love with Greek food when he was growing up, when his mother would cook and make him taste her creations. He describes how he grew up loving food, but Greek food was a passion for him. Some of the most popular Greek foods are gyros and pitas, both of which are normally made with meat but can be made to taste just as good without the meat. However, you can also find classic vegetarian
The ancient steps of Plaka, one of the key remanants of ancient Greece. Photo Coutesy of Amanda
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atop the many hills. They The food is just part of are so beautiful and raw, Athens’ cultural charm. I can’t say how much raw The ancient city is full of beauty fills that city. traces of the old city, in Amanda says that the city things other than the ruins. will fill tourists with marvel The community of Plaka is, and wonder. according to world traveler Amanda, the heart of the One of the causes of ancient Athens. Amanda this wonder is the ruins. is an avid traveller, and she Though she says that the manages a travel blog with architecture is only a small her husband, a traveller as part of the big picture of well. the city, she also states that when looking at the ruins, She says the city is full of “There is a sense of historical resonance, inferiority and amazement, especially on the like you realize exactly well-known steps of Plaka. what went into building Those steps are surrounded this monument,” she said, by shops and restaurants “especially since they had which follow the city’s no electricity or advanced theme of welcoming and machines.” sunny. It is a bustling and busy place, but Amanda “There is a sense of says that just adds to the inferiority and amazement, charm of the city. People like you realize exactly shop or get food and eat it what went into building on the ancient steps. this monument.” -Greenbottom Another thing that makes Athens such a delightful And she says that she has place to visit is its natural high hopes for the future beauty. One of the things of the city, especially since that she says are a must see the city has been preserved in Athens is the landscape. amazingly well. Amanda “There are a ton of explains that Athens has beautiful views over the made an effort to keep their city and the ruins from environment clean and 36 | The Wanderer - Ezine Fall 2018
rich, so that the hills and stones that make up the beauty of the city don’t lose their appeal. She states that Athens really is a city of wonders. Athens really is, with its food and ruins and historic value. Tourists flock to this city for these reasons, and why they will continue to for years to come. Tourists like Amanda travel there and leave with amazing memories that they can revisit and think about, and admire when remembering all the things that captured and expanded their wonder while there. All of the temples and mountains and culture will remain an integral part of the city and the reason why this city will remain one for the ages.
Visit
Austin
You Won’t See Views Like This Anywhere But
Austin. The Wanderer Photo courtesy - Ezine ofFall Meera 2018 Ravi | 37
SNEAKERS of JAPAN 1800
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‘CHUNKY’ SHOES By: Dean Wysocki
One of the most popular sneakers in Japan right now is the Balenciaga Triple S. It fits right in with the popular chunky shoe trend. With the high price point of close to “$850” (Highsnobiety), many other companies have made look-alikes to interest anyone who is not willing to pay that. All pictures courtesy of The Idle Man and The Sole Supplier
MAJESTIC CULTURE OF by: dean wysocki
Courtesy of GaijinPot Travel
T O K Y O
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apan contains many of the world’s fastest growing industries. It’s culture consists mainly of film, fashion, and of course, cuisine which have been a major influence recently across the globe. Sneakers have only recently become a big focus in Japan while Japanese film has always been relevant. Sneaker culture, especially, has been growing with new releases of shoes every week and everyone tries to get a pair of limited edition sneakers. According to Kamamoto, in Japan, “Shoes speak louder than words.” Many Japanese teens and young adults buy sneakers to make a statement with their outfits but, it isn’t always the easiest with shoes selling out in minutes or even seconds. “Japan has a culture known as ‘Otaku,’ which is not only to look at the present, but know the past...” The main concept of Japanese sneaker culture, when compared to other countries, is the love for vintage sneakers. Japanese ‘sneakerheads’ want “to know the history of the shoe to understand its purpose,” said Kamamoto, sneaker store owner. On the other hand, Japan has one of the oldest and largest film industries in the world. Their history spans more than 100 years. A box total of $2.3 billion arose in 2011 when Japan produced about 400
feature films. These films have been in production since as early as 1897. The Academy Award for the Best Foreign Language Film was presented to Japan four times, more than any other Asian country. Over time, both Japanese film and Japanese cuisine have thrived around the world. Japanese cuisine consists of a wide variety of interesting and delicious dishes, including tako-yaki, sushi, sashimi and tempura. Japanese cuisine has evolved over centuries of social and political changes. A few aspects that set Japanese cuisine apart from other cuisines are the emphasis on using quality ingredients and having an amazing presentation. Its sneaker culture has been said to be formed of a mashup between American and European sneaker culture
combined. In Japan, the main focus is on style. Detail and functionality are also important and additionally, who is wearing the shoe. Recently, high-tech and chunky shoes have undoubtedly stood out in Japan. Everyone now, wants something unique, that no other person has. The most popular sneaker is the Nike Air Max. Many say “it is the most comfortable and stylish shoe” they have ever worn. Not only is the average person interested in sneakers but collectors are interested as well. Collectors tend to buy so many pairs, they might not remember that they have them in their collection. “We buy shoes even though we don’t wear them,” Kamamoto stated. Japanese cuisine has been
The Nike Air Max 1 has been one of the most popular sneakers in Japan through time. Image courtesy of Sneakers Magazine.
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expanding across the world and has recently snuck into Texas. Many new Japanese restaurants and cuisines have been opening in Austin and have been attracting many Austinites. As Shion Aikawa, head of communications at Kemuri Tatsu-Ya, puts it, “It is cool to see culture from home happening to where I am living now.” Kemuri Tatsu-ya, which calls itself a “Texas izakaya,” is named one of the country’s best new restaurants. The “Texas izakaya” comes from their infamous “dishes that include brisket and other smoked meats with a twist to them,” said Aikawa. The constant spread of Japanese cuisine across America is improving the way people view the culture. Today, Japanese restaurants are flourishing here in Austin. As Aikawa put it, “One assumes that staff is very knowledgeable and experienced, and they would take care of you. Not saying other cuisines do not have this, but saying that Japanese food is perceived that way.”
An example of an ad for a Japanese film that could have been produced. Courtesy of YakuzaFilms.
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Japanese film has also been growing rapidly over the centuries. However, Japanese film is somewhat different from other types of cinema. Accord-
Japanese temples are one of the most visited attractions in Japan because of the story behind them. Image courtesy of LvxPhotography.
Kemuri Tatsu-Ya has some of the best Texan style Japanese dishes in town. Image courtesy of Texas Monthly.
“I think there also tends to be whenever I teach film, my students are like oh my God, there's no happy ending. So I think Japanese resists closure sometimes — a lot of Japanese directors they resist closure; they really resist the Hollywood happy ending.” - Kirsten Cather
Professor at the University of Texas at Austin
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ing to Japanese Film Professor at the University of Texas at Austin, Kirsten Cather, there are two impulses. “They tend to really like to create genres of sub genres of sub genres of sub genres. It will be a very specific gangster who lost his mother at a young age and then has to revenge his mother’s death against the father that robbed her or something like that,” said Cather. Cather also mentions how there is a distinct reaction from viewers when watching these films. “I think there also tends to be whenever I teach film, my students are like oh my God,
there’s no happy ending. So I think Japanese resists closure sometimes — a lot of Japanese directors they resist closure; they really resist the Hollywood happy ending,” said Cather. Japanese culture has evidently changed the world. From sneakers, to cuisine, to film, there is so much that has shaped the way we live. Everyone loves going out for a bite to eat at a local Japanese cuisine and have a chat about Japanese sneaker culture or Japanese film. It can be found that when compared to other cultures, nothing can ponder to the pure authenticity of Japanese culture.
“I think that the Japanese culture is one of the very few cultures left that is its own entity. They’re just so specific in their ways. It’s kind of untouched, it’s not americanized.” - Toni Collete
Classic cultural architecture can be found all throughout Japan. Image couresty of Pexels.
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the WANDERER by: LARISSA BORG, HUDSON DAY, MEERA RAVI, and DEAN WYSOCKI