This year’s autumn leaves prediction suggested a later bloom than usual due to the prolonged summer heat. However, in the Tohoku region, the beautiful fall colors have already begun to sparkle. At the Morioka Castle Ruins, landscapes of red, orange, and gold maple leaves abound.

A 15-minute walk from Morioka Station, or just a few steps from the Morioka Castle Ruins stop on the Dendenmushi loop bus, the castle grounds offer a pleasant stroll among thick trees and a charming pond with a traditional Japanese bridge. The castle was constructed in 1611 under the Nanbu clan, but it was demolished in 1874 when the Meiji government ordered the abolition of all domains and castles that opposed the government. The original stone walls and storehouses have remained.

The site was thankfully reopened to the public in 1906 as a park, which has since become a popular spot for both sakura (cherry blossom) and momiji (autumn foliage) viewing. The Sakurayama Shrine is also located near the riverside.

The castle was designated a National Historic Site in 1937.

The climb up to the Honmaru (main castle) is quite steep but offers a fantastic panoramic view of the castle grounds and Morioka City. The castle is surrounded by two rivers, with a moat inside the castle and an enchanting pond. The winter scenery must be equally breathtaking, so be sure to include this site in your visit to Tohoku.

Photo credits:     © Alma Reyes

As for chocolates, Hokkaido's lineup tops any other chocolate maker in Japan. The traditional Rokkatei (1933) and Sapporo's Ishiya Co. (1947) are the oldest manufacturers and have never lost their quality and high reputation, especially for Shiroi Koibito and Marusei. Shiroi Koibito wafers are made from smooth white chocolate sandwiched between two thin langue-de-chat cookies. Marusei butter sandwich is the most sought-after product of Rokkatei. Its white chocolate and raisins blended with 100% Hokkaido-produced fresh butter leave a long-lasting taste that makes you crave for more. The newer Royce chocolates (1983) and Tobiko corn chocolates from Hori Co. are equally demanding. From Seigetsu in Kitami, Hokkaido, Akai Silo (1996) has been a popular cheesecake delight, as well as Fresh Caramels made from fresh cream and honey, produced by North Plain Farm in the Okhotsk region.

These are only just a few of Hokkaido's mouth-watering sweets and are definitely worth plunging into, even when you're on a diet!

© Alma Reyes

Photo credits: @Alma Reyes @Amazon Japan @Carousell @Shopee

Be sure to stop by this charming oasis of beauty on your next journey to Hiroshima.

photos © Alma Reyes

Finding work in Japan can be a truly exasperating ordeal for foreigners. Despite having entered the 21st century, Japanese work ethics in many companies still abide by “antiquated” conditions raised by tradition. Disparate treatment between men and women; new female hirees asked to serve tea and run errands; rigid hierarchy; difficult attainment of managerial positions below 40 years old; limited job opportunities for women above 30-35 years old; staying late at the office for a better impression; complacency in demanding salary increases; and restrictions for working mothers—these are just some of the uncomfortable traditional setbacks foreigners have to contend with in most conventional Japanese companies.

It would be best to check tips online about handling job interviews in Japan and to know as much as you can about Japanese culture and way of life before appearing for the big day.

Below is a list of typical job interview questions asked in Japan and some tips on how to answer them. If you have minimal Japanese language ability, the chance of acceptance could be higher.

Standard job interview questions in Japanese companies:

1. Mazu, keireki ya jisseki o majiete jiko shōkai o onegaishimasu.  (Please introduce yourself, including your background and achievements.)

—Always keep it brief and not highfalutin. Humility is well appreciated by the Japanese.

2. Tenshoku riyū wa nan desu ka? (What is the reason for changing your job?)

—Honesty is always safe in case the company may have checked your previous workplace, but it is better not to go into details.

3.　Tōsha o shitta kikkake wa nan desuka? (How did you find out about our company?)

4.　Tōsha wa daiichi shibō desu ka? (Is our company your first choice?)

—Naturally, “yes” would be the best answer to this, even if it is not true.

5.　Tōsha e no shibō dōki o oshiete kudasai. (Please tell us your motivation for joining our company.)

—Try not to involve salary as one of the reasons.

6.　Tōsha no rinen ya bijon o dō omowaremasu ka? (What do you think about our company philosophy and vision?)

—Always be prepared by reading in advance about the company’s background.

7.　Kono shigoto de mottomo jūyōna shishitsu wa nanda to omoimasu ka? (What do you think is the most important quality for this job?)

8.　Tōsha ni donna kōken ga dekimasu ka? (What contribution can you make to our company?)

—You can use your English ability as an asset for the company.

9.　Zangyō ya kyūjitsu shukkin ni tsuite dō omoimasu ka? (What do you think about overtime and working on holidays?)

—Many Japanese companies are not accustomed to long or sporadic holidays, so it would be wise not to show hesitance during possible long hours of work.

10.　Anata no kyaria puran ni tsuite oshiete kudasai. (Please tell us about your career plans.)

—A clear and feasible career vision is good without emphasizing the ambition to attain a high rank in the company.

11.　Anata no chōsho to tansho o oshiete kudasai. (Please tell us your strengths and weaknesses.)

—In some foreign countries, honoring yourself with accomplishments and excellent points impresses confidence, but Japanese culture is rooted in humility and acts of service. Your strengths should not sound overly decorative.

12.　Shōrai-teki ni wa tenkin kanō ga aru bai daijōbu desu ka？ (Would you agree with the possibility of a transfer in the future?)

—Refusing transfer assignments is generally taboo in Japan. Compliance is recommendable.

13.　Go kekkon wa sareteimasu ka? / Chikaiuchi go kekkon no yotei wa arimasu ka? (Are you married? Do you have marriage plans in the near future?)

—Conservative Japanese companies are careful about the mix of marriage, family, and work. For women, it is advisable to emphasize how indispensable you are to the company.

14.　Chīmuwāku ga motomerareru shūgyō keiken ga arimasu ka? (Do you have work experience in teamwork?)

—While many foreign companies highly credit individual achievement, most Japanese companies value one’s performance based on team camaraderie.

15.　Nihon de hatarakitai riyū wa nan desu ka? (What is your reason for working in Japan?)

—Talking about the attractive points of Japanese culture and the people helps to “flatter” the Japanese.

16.　Nihon de kurashiteite, komatta koto wa arimasu ka? (Have you had any troubles while living in Japan?)

—Japanese do not wish to take responsibility for employees’ unpleasant actions. You may mention any bad experiences you have had in Japan, as long as they are not offensive to their culture.

Always bow, show respect, observe proper body language (no crossed legs nor placing hands in pockets), and refrain from asking too many questions unless asked. Talking about salary figures is not customary during the interview until after a job offer has been received. Presenting yourself in a tidy appearance from head to toe (no creased attire nor exaggerated make-up and jewelry for women), practicing the proper greetings, and speaking in a clear, audible voice are plus points. If you get over one interview, the succeeding ones can be taken in stride.

Although the museum has existed since 2010, I only had the chance to finally delve into its wonders a few months ago. What a haven of paradise! Upon entering the premises, I was greeted by its enormous botanical garden encircled by white stone buildings, reminding me of Moorish-Mediterranean villas. Outdoor sculptures, little ponds and fountains scatter everywhere. Renowned artist and architect Antonio Leaño designed a multi-leveled forested nook on a two-hectare estate, comprised of seven individual galleries using industrial materials and elastomeric cement. The galleries house precious collections of Filipino neurologist and patron of the arts, Dr. Joven Cuanang, who began filling up his inventory from the 1980s.

The artworks reflect Spanish and primitive remnants of academic and religious art, as well as contemporary pieces that echo surrealism, expressionism, minimalism, social realism, and conceptual art. 

A day at Pinto Art Museum is well spent promenading around the property, up and down staircases leading to panoramic views, pausing at sofa and patio seating areas, and tasting the various gourmet offers at the three restaurants, café and cocktail bar. There is also a chapel, and of course, the museum shop for your charming souvenirs.

Escaping the city traffic and disarray to this utopian refuge of nature and art is absolutely unmissable.

Photo © Alma Reyes

Text and photos   © Alma Reyes