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STAY SALTY ...... means column
Ayumi Ogo Column
Everyday life from two bases, Taiwan and Japan.
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from Taiwan / Kanagawa
9.10.2024
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Everyday life from two bases, Taiwan and Japan.
New connections born from “traveling as if you were living in the city
When I travel in Taiwan, as well as in other countries, what I value is to “travel as if living in the country.
I travel by meeting local people and visiting places that only local people know about.
By doing so, I can learn about the country and the people who live there, and I believe that this will ultimately become the driving force behind the creation of something.
Traveling is not something that consumes money or energy, but something that gives you the energy to take the next step.
What you see, feel, and experience there will come back to you.
We have incorporated this concept directly into our program, “Everyday Non-Daily Life,” a trial immigration program that we are developing in Taiwan and various other countries.
Just as I was able to connect with Taiwan, I would be happy if I could help participants create something abroad.
Although we are still a small community, connections are gradually being made and the program is developing into various forms.
If you are interested in this program, please take a look at the “Everyday Life: Extraordinary” website.
>>Click here for details of the Migration Experience Program
4.15.2024
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Everyday life from two bases, Taiwan and Japan.
"Work" born from local connections
Delicious food, beautiful nature...there are many things to love about Taiwan, but what I love the most are the Taiwanese people.
They are a bit nosy, caring, and somewhat reminiscent of Osaka's aunties (maybe that's why so many Taiwanese like Osaka...) lol.
For example, when I told my Taiwanese friend that I was living in a share house, she replied, "That share house is expensive! You should live in our house because we have a room available.
I politely declined because I need my private time.
Since everything is like this, it is easy to connect with people. It may be that the city is small, but when we talk about things like "I'm looking for someone like this," or "I want to do something like this," we quickly come to a solution.
In this sense, I feel that Taipei is a great spot for people who want to do something abroad.
We are planning to hold a trial immigration program, " Everyday Non-Daily Life," in Taipei, Taiwan, this summer as well.
Why don't you start something new by connecting with a group of nosy and aggressive Taiwanese people?
>>Click here for details of the Migration Experience Program
12.10.2023
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Everyday life from two bases, Taiwan and Japan.
What Links the Two Countries
Since holding the "Nichijo-Hinichijo" trial immigration program in Taipei, Taiwan in June and July of this year, I have been increasingly asked to work as a link between Taiwan and Japan.
In Taiwan, we mainly accepted Japanese people, but in October this year, we held a reverse version in Kotohira Town, Kagawa Prefecture. Taiwanese people were able to enjoy an "everyday non-ordinary" experience in Japan.
I was personally deeply moved by the Taiwanese participants' active engagement with the local people and their attempts to communicate with them.
I felt frustrated that I could not communicate as well as I wanted to, or that I could not keep up with the conversation that was going on among the Japanese....
After returning to Japan, all of them began to study Japanese.
No matter how advanced AI is, we still want to communicate our thoughts and feelings in our own language.
Meeting local people and wanting to "know more" and "talk more" seemed to be the driving force behind the program.
I believe this alone was worth holding this program.
In January 2024, we have decided to hold the "Everyday Non-Daily Life" trial immigration program in Taipei, Taiwan again.
We hope you will take this opportunity to enjoy an exchange program abroad, immersing yourself in the local area!
You will surely have a different feeling and experience from your previous trips.
>>Click here for details of the Migration Experience Program
8.5.2023
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Everyday life from two bases, Taiwan and Japan.
Taiwan's "Fruit Heaven" in Summer
Summer in Taiwan is hot anyway.
Especially in Taipei, heat tends to stay in the air due to its location in a basin.
The humidity is also high, and the temperature felt is higher than the actual temperature.
If you go outside during the daytime, you will sweat nonstop and feel like you are in a sauna.
Because of these conditions, it is best to avoid visiting Taiwan in the summer if possible, but summer is the season for fruits!
From May to August, there is a plethora of delicious fruit.
At markets and supermarkets, you will find mangoes, pineapples, dragon fruit, passion fruit, guavas, papayas, and many other tropical fruits that are representative of Taiwan.
And they are all inexpensive! You can buy them for about 1/3 of the price in Japan.
They are also colorful in appearance, giving them a very tropical feel.
Shaved ice shops and bean-jam shops also offer mango-based sweets from spring to summer.
These menus are only available during this time of year, and are not available during the winter months!
The melting mangoes are truly exquisite and a must-try sweet for visitors to Taiwan in the summer.
Although the heat is unavoidable, Taiwan in summer is a paradise for fruit lovers!
Be careful not to suffer from heat stroke, but enjoy Taiwan only in summer.
6.10.2023
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Everyday life from two bases, Taiwan and Japan.
Creating Your Own Work Abroad
As I continue my life of traveling back and forth between Taiwan and Japan, I often hear from people around me that they would like to work overseas as well.
Especially after the Corona Disaster, remote work has become mainstream, creating an environment in which people can work from anywhere and expanding the range of options for "where to base myself".
Against this background, I feel that overseas has become an option.
Although it depends on the type of business, we now live in an age where you can work anywhere with a single PC.
Turning on the PC brings us back to our usual routine, but I want people to experience something a little different and extraordinary by turning off their PCs.
With this in mind, we are planning a program called "Everyday Non-Daily Life," an immigration experience program to Taiwan this summer.
Thankfully, many people are interested in this immigration experience program, and I am inspired every day by their willingness to do something new.
I am inspired every day by people's willingness to try something new and exciting.
I would be happy if this program could be an opportunity for you to create your own work overseas.
We are still accepting applications for the program, so if you are interested, please do not hesitate to apply!
2.8.2023
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Everyday life from two bases, Taiwan and Japan.
From "interest" to work
am currently working on a project with some Taiwanese friends.
To put it briefly, we are trying to contribute to Taiwanese inbound tourism, but we were not asked to do so by anyone in particular.
The people who came to the project, saying, "Sounds good and interesting," included designers, planners, marketers, and others.
Some work for themselves, while others work for major companies.
But they are all serious in their own way because they are all here with their own thoughts and feelings.
I kind of like that feeling of comfort.
In Taiwan, the salaries in general companies are low, and many people are thinking about starting their own businesses from a young age, so they are all really talented.
And they are fast and graceful (laughs).
They have a "try it and see if it doesn't work" mentality before worrying about it, so they start moving without much second thought.
Sometimes that is a good thing, and of course there are times when I regret it later... (laughs).
How will our project turn out..., you'll have to wait and see!
12.15.2022
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Everyday life from two bases, Taiwan and Japan.
First visit to Taiwan in 3 years
The Corona disaster has eased restrictions on entry into foreign countries, which had kept me away from them for a while, and the mood is starting to change.
This fall, the mood was beginning to change as people began to think that it might be time to go to .......
I also went to Taiwan for the first time in three years.
I wondered if the city of Taipei, which I hadn't visited in a while, had changed much.
I wonder if the atmosphere of the people living in Taipei has changed. ......
I landed at the airport in Taipei with such anxieties and expectations.
There was a spicy aroma mixed with the familiar humidity in the air.
I was filled with a sense of "coming home" at once.
In fact, my Taiwanese friends, whom I hadn't seen in about three years
I was impressed by how they had "changed" firmly in a good way and were moving forward faithfully to what they wanted to do even in the midst of the Corona Disaster.
I wonder if I could have started something new like them. ......
I came home feeling a bit left out.
However, this trip was definitely "stimulating" for me for the first time in a long time.
As we enter the new year of 2023, I would like to think again about where I want to head.
11.7.2022
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Everyday life from two bases, Taiwan and Japan.
Kitchen Conditions in Taiwan
Taiwanese people love to "eat.
In fact, even in conversation, instead of "Hello" or "Good evening," I am often asked "Have you eaten? If you go outside, you will find a lot of restaurants.
If you go outside, you will never have a problem finding a place to eat, as there are many restaurants crammed into a small space.
When I was looking for a house in Taiwan, the first thing that surprised me was that there was no kitchen in the room.
Of course, even rented houses for families have kitchens, but some one- or two-person houses do not have kitchens in their layouts.
This shows how deeply rooted the culture of eating out is.
One may wonder if eating out all the time will not lead to unbalanced nutrition. But in Taiwan, there are places that are like common people's restaurants.
The name of such a place is "zìzhùcān" (自助餐).
The literal translation in Japanese is "buffet," but unlike the buffet you might imagine in Japan, the dishes lined up on the shelves are Taiwanese home-cooked side dishes.
You take as much of it as you like on your plate, and have the waiter calculate it for you.
Take-out is also available, and some customers bring their own lunch boxes or Tupperware and fill them with prepared dishes.
The hot side dishes are prepared with a good balance of vegetables, meat, tofu, and other ingredients, making it a strong ally of both single people and families with two working parents.
Of course, tourists can also use this restaurant, so if you want to experience a taste of Taiwanese style, please visit us.
10.7.2022
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Everyday life from two bases, Taiwan and Japan.
Once again, a day to go to Taiwan freely.
Taiwan has been difficult to visit freely since the coronary disaster, but the quarantine requirement for overseas travelers will finally be abolished on October 13.
The obligation of PCR testing upon arrival will also be abolished, and visa-free travel will also be possible.
Finally, we will be able to enjoy our trip to Taiwan as we did before the coronation.
Not only Taiwan, but also other countries are beginning to relax their regulations, and now we will once again be able to go abroad freely.
For about three years after the Corona disaster, I had a blurred feeling that I could not easily go abroad, but not being able to go outside made me realize some things anew.
I was also able to feel the advantages of being in Japan.
Still, I still want to go abroad .......
I want to experience that exciting sense of adventure.......
Since I have not been able to go abroad for a while, I am sure I will discover many new things by visiting a foreign country.
I am looking forward to the future.
9.5.2022
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Everyday life from two bases, Taiwan and Japan.
"Medicinal herbs" in your daily life
In Japan, "yakuzen" may seem like a difficult hurdle to overcome, but for people living in Taiwan, it is a familiar concept.
I feel that people in Taiwan have a strong sense of trying to heal themselves with natural products rather than relying on medicines when they feel unwell.
Of course, it is also incorporated into their daily diet, so I feel that just eating Taiwanese food naturally makes them healthier. ...... (Is it just my imagination?) (Laughs).
One of the most commonly used ingredients is wolfberries. They replenish the liver and kidneys and also help to heal tired eyes from computers and smartphones.
There are also traditional Chinese medicine shops in town.
Even among the younger generation, many people have their pulses checked by Chinese herbalists and receive prescriptions that suit their bodies.
In fact, when my Taiwanese friend treated me to a home-cooked meal, she served me a stewed chicken soup with lots of ginger and wolfberries.
When I asked her about it, she told me that it was a family favorite that her mother had been making for a long time.
This is a natural remedy that has been handed down from generation to generation.
Today, we tend to rely on medicines, but now is the time when we want to strengthen our immune system, so I feel that we should eat foods that are truly good for our bodies.
7.11.2022
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Everyday life from two bases, Taiwan and Japan.
Cafes in Taiwan
In fact, Taiwan is a "cafe paradise.
Especially in Taipei City, there are many cafes with stylish interiors.
(However, the changeover is quite frequent, so the next time you go to a cafe, you may find that it has turned into a different one. ...... LOL).
) Moreover, most cafes are equipped with wi-fi, and there are many people studying or working there.
It is not uncommon to spend two or three hours in a café.
Students also study hard with textbooks and computers open.
With the increase of remote work in Japan, the number of cafes with wi-fi has finally increased, but I think Starbucks is still the standard. ......
A Taiwanese friend once asked me, "Why do all Japanese people go to Starbucks like that?" I have even been asked by a Taiwanese friend, "Why do Japanese people go to Starbucks so much?
That is how much it is natural for people in Taiwan to spend time in cafes.
Of course, there are many stylish and delicious cafes and sweets stores.
One of my personal favorites is the "lemon tart," which is frequently seen in Taiwanese cafes.
It is hard to find in Japan, but it has a perfect balance of refreshing sourness and sweetness!
If you have a chance to visit a cafe in Taiwan, please order one.
5.5.2022
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Everyday life from two bases, Taiwan and Japan.
Flexibility in the way we work
In talking with Taiwanese friends and helping out at a Taiwanese start-up company, I have come to see a difference in the way Japanese and Taiwanese people work.
Although the way of working has been changing in Japan recently, Taiwanese do not place much importance on being a full-time employee.
Many young people think about starting their own businesses after two or three years in the workforce, and there are many start-up companies (I am surrounded by many young entrepreneurs).
It is also normal to work freelance or have a side business, and if things don't work out, they can always think of something else.
However, they are very serious about their work.
I think this is evidence of their ability to spread out financial risk, work efficiently, and be themselves.
Because of this background, he is very positive about changing jobs.
I feel that many people think that they can change jobs because they are competent, and that this is related to career advancement.
Flexibility in the way they work is typical of Taiwan.
I think that if this kind of Taiwanese way of thinking spreads more in Japan, people will be able to work in their own way more.
4.5.2022
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Everyday life from two bases, Taiwan and Japan.
Refresh yourself with a relaxing cup of Taiwanese tea
Recently, many people have been feeling somewhat unsettled, saddened by the daily news or sickened by the daily temperature differences.
It is at times like this that I want to spend some time relaxing and refreshing. ......
So, let's talk about "Taiwanese tea" this time.
I happened to interview the owner of a Taiwanese tea brand the other day, and his story was so interesting that I think a Taiwanese tea boom is coming (in my opinion).
The most famous type of Taiwanese tea is "green tea," and the degree of fermentation is actually the key to making this green tea.
You can drink it with any degree of fermentation from 1% to 99%, but the flavor will be completely different depending on the degree of fermentation.
It is a strange thing to be able to enjoy different types of tea depending on the degree of fermentation, even if the type of tea leaves are the same.
(Incidentally, Japanese green tea is unfermented.)
Generally speaking, tea with a low degree of fermentation has a refreshing aroma and a clean taste.
As the degree of fermentation increases, the flavor and color become richer.
It is very deep. ......
I used to pick up Taiwanese tea without much thought, but from now on, I will be more conscious of the "degree of fermentation" when I buy it.
It will be fun to find a cup to my liking before my next visit to Taiwan.
3.6.2022
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Everyday life from two bases, Taiwan and Japan.
What we can do now
When I turn on the TV, the news of war outside the sea comes on.
While the corona has not been settled, the atrocious attacks continue outside the sea, and I feel a blurring of feelings welling up in my gut.
But I also feel frustrated that I cannot do anything about it.
The Ukraine incident is a man-made disaster, but I feel somewhat similar to the feelings I had on March 11.
What can I do now, where I am living right now? ......
What I can do may be limited, but I must not forget to think about it.
There is even a possibility that this incident will affect the relationship between China and Taiwan.
It is by no means something that is happening in a distant place.
The truth is, everyone wants to live happily.
Let's start with what we can do, one step at a time.
12.5.2021
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Everyday life from two bases, Taiwan and Japan.
Iron windows" decorate Taiwanese houses with rich individuality.
When walking around the streets of Taiwan, you will often see "tier chuan" (iron windows).
These are retro iron windows that retain the look of the past.
When you think of iron windows, you tend to think of heavy iron grates, but Taiwanese iron windows are full of the owner's attention to detail.
Iron windows were originally installed for security purposes.
However, as time went by, the need for design became more apparent.
There are more than 100 different motifs to choose from.
The designs are nostalgic, but also somehow new.
It's fun to just look at them.
Recently, young designers who have taken notice of the appeal of steel windows are increasingly incorporating them into the design of their original items. (As you can see in the photo, some iron windows are illustrated on buildings.)
Iron windows" add a lot of character to Taiwanese homes.
This is one of the things you can look forward to on your next trip to Taiwan.
11.5.2021
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Everyday life from two bases, Taiwan and Japan.
Soy milk, a staple of Taiwanese cuisine
Soy milk is an indispensable part of Taiwanese cuisine.
Breakfast is always accompanied by soy milk, and sweets made with soy milk, such as "tsukka," have become a staple.
In the supermarket, soy milk takes up more space than milk.
There is a wide variety of soy milk on the shelves.
It is said that Taiwanese people consume twice as much soy milk as Japanese people.
You can see how deeply rooted soybeans are in their daily lives.
Taiwan's organic soybeans have long been used as a food source because of their high freshness and suitability for extreme climates such as drought and water shortages.
Recently, soybean meat has been gaining attention in Japan as "meat from the fields" due to its high quality vegetable protein, but in Taiwan, soybean milk has been a part of the food culture for a long time.
There are also many delicious Taiwanese sweets that use soy milk, so be sure to check them out!
10.5.2021
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Everyday life from two bases, Taiwan and Japan.
Why BBQs Start at the Mid-Autumn Moon
In Japan, the name "Mid-Autumn Moon" means "moon viewing".
In Taiwan, however, BBQs start everywhere. In Taiwan, however, BBQs start everywhere, so noisy that no one seems to be watching the moon. ......
The Mid-Autumn Moon is called "Mid-Autumn Festival" in Taiwan, and is one of the biggest events of the year.
Schools and offices are closed, and the big holidays begin.
Moon cakes, paper lanterns, and BBQs are essential to the Mid-Autumn Festival.
Why BBQ? It all started in the 1980s with a commercial for BBQ sauce.
A commercial for a brand called "Jinlan Yakiniku Sauce" was aired in which a large group of people gathered around meat in the mountains to have a BBQ, and it became a huge hit!
At the time, they were not aware of the Mid-Autumn Festival, but the commercial was aired just before the Mid-Autumn Festival, and people watching it thought, "Let's have a BBQ for the Mid-Autumn Festival! They came up with the idea.
From there, it became a family reunion, and before long, grilled meat became a national event.
Nowadays, you can see people having BBQs all over the streets.
It's interesting that a national event was born from a single commercial, isn't it?
If you have a chance to visit Taiwan during the Mid-Autumn Festival, be sure to join in the local BBQ!
9.5.2021
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Everyday life from two bases, Taiwan and Japan.
Connecting Japan and Taiwan. Nostalgic "Taiwan Majolica Tiles
Taiwan majolica tiles have a cute retro design and colorful colors.
In Taiwan, they were often used in traditional buildings.
In fact, did you know that Taiwanese majolica tiles have close ties with Japan?
It is said that the origin of majolica tiles is the island of Majolica in Spain.
It is said to have originated from the island of Majolica in Spain, where a British pottery manufacturer imitated Spanish pottery and sold it under the name "majolica tiles.
Such British tiles came to Japan after the Meiji Restoration, and majolica tiles with original designs were produced in Japan.
In the first half of the 1900s, when Japan ruled Taiwan, majolica tiles were brought to Taiwan and became popular in ordinary households.
The charm of majolica tiles is not only their colorfulness, but also the meaning behind each tile.
Plants and fruits that are considered lucky in Taiwan, such as the pomegranate for prosperity, the peach for longevity, and the grape for good luck, are incorporated into the design.
Recently, young Taiwanese artists have begun to use majolica tiles as a design motif for their Taiwanese goods.
It may be interesting to take a look at the tiles while thinking about the thoughts behind each design.
Let the retro atmosphere of the tiles remind you of the Taiwan of the past.
8.2.2021
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Everyday life from two bases, Taiwan and Japan.
Relationship with Taiwan felt at the Tokyo Olympics
The opening ceremony of the Tokyo Olympics was held on July 23.
Despite all the difficulties, it went off without a hitch.
At the opening ceremony, the order in which the athletes from each country/region entered the venue was in the order of "aieo" (Japanese alphabet).
In other words, Taiwan, known as "Chinese Taipei," was supposed to appear 107th, after the Czech Republic.
However, on the day of the opening ceremony, Taiwan appeared after the Republic of Korea as "Taiwan (Taiwans).
When the NHK announcer announced the entrance of the Taiwanese athletes, he said, "This is Taiwan! The NHK announcer's comment, "Taiwan!
In Japan, it is common sense, but being called "Taiwan" at an international ceremony really struck a chord with the Taiwanese people.
I feel that this was also an opportunity to symbolize the relationship between Japan and Taiwan.
I hope that, little by little, the world's view of "Taiwan" will change in this way.
I hope that the day will come sooner than later when Taiwan will be recognized internationally as "Taiwan.
7.2.2021
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Everyday life from two bases, Taiwan and Japan.
That we can take each other's hands.
On June 3, Japan decided to provide about 1.24 million doses of the new coronavirus vaccine to Taiwan.
The next day, June 4, the vaccine went to Taiwan.
Seeing Japan's quick response, I received many messages of "Thank you" from my Taiwanese friends.
As a Taiwanese, Taiwanese people sent messages of "thank you" to Japanese people.
I felt the national character of Taiwanese people and was filled with a sense of joy even though I did not do anything directly.
On the day the vaccine arrived, messages such as "Taiwan handsome Japan," "Taiwan-Japan bond and gratitude," and "Let's fight corona together" were projected on Taipei 101.
The relationship between Japan and Taiwan has always been one of reaching out to each other whenever we face a major challenge.
When the Great East Japan Earthquake struck, Taiwan donated 20 billion yen to Japan, and when there was a serious shortage of masks in Japan in April 2020, Taiwan provided 2 million masks for medical use.
What we can do for each other at that time.
And if we can overcome difficulties together, we can do so at .......
I hope that the day will come soon when we can see each other's faces and talk directly.
6.2.2021
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Everyday life from two bases, Taiwan and Japan.
Freshly picked Taiwanese fruits
Taiwan is a fruit heaven!
In the hot summer months, the markets and supermarkets are filled with fresh, lush fruits.
The most famous fruits are mangoes and pineapples, but lychees are also popular.
In fact, lychees are so popular that they are called the pearl of the tropics.
The dragon lychee, in particular, can only be tasted for a few weeks a year in Taiwan.
The dragon lychee is only available in Taiwan for a few weeks a year, and it is so delicious that you may wonder, "Is that really the lychee I've been eating?
The lychee is so delicious that you may wonder, "Are these really lychees?
The lychee has a thick, plump texture and a deep sweetness.
Some people are shocked by the taste.
Of course, they are not only delicious, but they are also full of nutrition.
They contain glucose, protein, iron, and a large amount of vitamin C.
I know that there are many people who are bothered by the fact that they can't visit Taiwan very often, but this is the time to order from Taiwan.
You can buy Taiwanese lychees in Japan from this website.
Enjoy the feeling of Taiwan from the comfort of your own home.
4.1.2021
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A new way of life without boundaries
From April 24 to May 5, TOKYO RAINBOW PRIDE will be holding Pride Week.
A variety of events will be held to deepen awareness and understanding of LGBTQ people and to realize a society where everyone can live comfortably.
In a sense, 2020 was the year when the stereotypes that we had held until now changed dramatically. We realized that we were bound by what we thought were "rules," and now we are looking for new ways to live. I started to think about diversity.
In Taiwan, the neighboring country, there are many LGBT activities.
In 2019, Taiwan became the first country in Asia to legalize same-sex marriage.
In 2020, it held the largest LGBT parade in Asia, with 130,000 people participating despite the corona scare.
This was made possible by the fact that Taiwan has had no domestic infections for 200 days.
What's even more wonderful is that the LGBTQ community in Taiwan has a spirit of mutual support in times of trouble.
In addition to LGBTQ issues, Corona Peril is actively involved in a variety of activities to support restaurants and hotels, such as holding a stamp rally and promoting certification as a Pride Friendly Hotel.
It's good that they are focusing on things that can be positive for everyone.
Toward a society where people can live their own lives without being bound by gender.
Now that we are moving into a new era, I would like to make more time to think about the diversity of ways of life.
3.1.2021
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Feel the unique charm of Japan.
In the midst of the corona scare, it is impossible to travel abroad, as is the case in Taiwan.
However, since the infection has not spread that far within Taiwan, more and more people are traveling within Taiwan.
Taiwan's land area is about the same size as Kyushu in Japan, and since there are only a few prosperous areas, there are many rural towns that people don't have a chance to visit.
It is a fact that there are many rural towns that people don't have a chance to visit.
In fact, a Taiwanese friend of mine, who used to spend half of her time abroad, came back to Taiwan and started traveling around the country, which awakened her to the charm of Taitung.
Along with photos of the beautiful countryside, he sent me a message saying, "Taiwan is really great! (laughs).
Now that we can't go abroad, we often find unexpected charms when we look at the domestic scene.
I'm sure it's the same in Japan.
Now that I can't travel long distances, I feel that it is time for me to take a fresh look at my environment and be grateful for the things that I take for granted.
2.1.2021
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Chinese New Year in Taiwan, a must experience!
n Japan, it is already New Year, but in Taiwan, it is Chinese New Year.
This year's Chinese New Year is on February 12, so the week from February 10 is the New Year's vacation.
The Chinese New Year is similar to the Japanese culture in some ways, but also has a unique culture that is unique to the Chinese world, so it would be interesting to spend some time there. (Just be aware that if you go there for sightseeing, none of the stores will be open!
Just like New Year's Day in Japan, people usually go home to their parents' houses on New Year's Eve and have a New Year's Eve meal.
One of the most common foods eaten on New Year's Eve is "dumplings".
The shape of the dumplings resembles the old coin "Yuan Bao", which is why they became a "money inviting" food.
As the Chinese New Year approaches, you will see "chunlien" everywhere.
It is a piece of red paper with lucky words written on it in black or gold ink.
For example, the words "Fortune" and "Spring" are written on the paper, but when pasting them, they should be upside down.
This is because the word "upside down" (dao) means "arrival".
By pasting it upside down, it represents "good fortune coming" and "spring coming.
When you see it for the first time, you might think that it was put up by mistake, but when you hear the reason, it makes sense.
By the way, it's also fun to write with your friends.
Gold ink is something you don't see very often in Japan, so it's refreshing.
While there are other cultural aspects similar to Japan, such as New Year's gifts and cleaning, there is also the noisy aspect of setting off firecrackers (laughs).
The streets are decorated with Chinese New Year's decorations, and the atmosphere is full of New Year's spirit.
Please try to experience Taiwan during Chinese New Year.
1.3.2021
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Everyday life from two bases, Taiwan and Japan.
Surprisingly cold? Winter in Taipei
When I was living in Taipei, my friends in Japan often told me that Taiwan was nice because it was warm even in winter.
But actually, winter in Taipei is quite harsh....
First of all, the weather is always bad.
In December, it rains all the time in Taipei.
My Taiwanese friend told me that in December of 2020, it rained for about three weeks straight.
Even when I lived there, it was normal to have more than one week of rainy days.
When it rains for that long, I feel depressed.
The sun is so important! I was reminded of the importance of the sun.
In addition, it was very humid even in winter.
In Japan, humidifiers are indispensable in winter, but in Taipei, dehumidifiers are indispensable.
This naturally lowers the temperature you feel.
Even if the temperature is the same as in Japan, it is much colder in Taipei.
It feels as if water is clinging to your body, and you get chilled to the bone.
And even though it is so cold, there is no "heating".
Generally speaking, air conditioners are equipped with heating and cooling functions, but air conditioners in Taipei only have cooling functions.
Since there is no heating system, heavy clothing is required even indoors.
Trains and restaurants are sometimes air-conditioned even in winter because of the humidity....
Looking back, it was quite a difficult situation.
So if you go to Taipei in the winter, please be prepared for the cold (laughs).
By the way, the southern part of Taiwan is sunny and warm even in winter, so I recommend Tainan and Kaohsiung if you want to go there in winter.
12.1.2020
DAYS/ Ayumi Ogo Column
Connect the dots
Everyday life from two bases, Taiwan and Japan.
Reviewing "food" in your home time
As you spent more time at home this year, you may have had more opportunities to reevaluate your "food".
The idea of "taking care of your own health" has led to a rise in health consciousness.
I think we often hear people say that they are becoming more conscious of what they eat on a daily basis.
In this context, I've been hearing a lot about "veganism" lately, which means not eating animal products.
In other words, it means that people do not eat animal products.
In fact, the concept of veganism has been actively adopted in Taiwan for some time now.
In Taiwan, it's called "Taiwanese Elementary Food".
Originally, it referred to vegetarian food that was eaten for religious reasons.
Nowadays, there are many restaurants with signs that say "Taiwanese Food".
Taiwan's elementary schools have even incorporated "Meat Free Monday" into their school lunches.
In 2017, Taipei was featured as one of the ten largest vegan cities in the world by CNN in the United States.
These days, more and more trendy cafes in Taipei are vegan.
Sweets like muffins, cookies and cakes are also made without butter and milk.
(And they are so delicious!)
When it comes to healthier, greener, and more delicious
What does it mean to eat meat? That's right.
Veganism is not only healthy, but also environmentally friendly.
In order to consider the future of the earth-friendly lifestyle, it is important to
You may want to take a fresh look at your "food".
11.1.2020
DAYS/ Ayumi Ogo Column
Connect the dots
Everyday life from two bases, Taiwan and Japan.
Work From Anywhere
It's not easy for me to go to Taiwan, but
The Corona disaster has given us the opportunity to rethink our lifestyle.
Now that telecommuting has become the norm and you can work from anywhere
Work and personal life.
The boundary between travel and residence has been erased.
We live in an age where people can freely choose their living environment.
In fact, more and more people are actually thinking about moving from the city center to the countryside.
Under such circumstances, my Taiwanese friends and I have been quietly working on a project.
If there's an option to live in the countryside.
Can we take the plunge and say "Taiwan" as an option?
Rather than travel, I'm going to try to live a little longer in a "micro-dwelling
In addition, a "long stay" to connect with the people living in the area.
And to "residence" where you can enjoy living and working.
Just as with rural migration.
We thought we would launch a service to help people think more easily about moving to Taiwan.
Taiwan is a good environment for Japanese to live in.
And yet, you can also feel the different culture.
As the first step to consider a new lifestyle
We feel that "Taiwan" is the perfect place for us.
Please take a look at our "Taiwan Migration Plan" page.
If you would like to experience Taiwan first hand, you are more than welcome to check it out.
We hope that you will be able to visit Taiwan as soon as possible.
10.3.2020
DAYS/ Ayumi Ogo Column
Connect the dots
Everyday life from two bases, Taiwan and Japan.
Different ways of thinking about "work"
When you talk to the local people in Taiwan, you may be surprised to learn that their attitude towards work is completely different from that of Japan.
In Japan, it is considered good to work for one company for a long time, but in Taiwan, the opposite is true.
Because there is no guarantee of long-term employment unless you are paid according to a seniority system, there are many people who change jobs in search of a workplace with better benefits.
Furthermore, considering the cost of living in Taiwan, the average annual salary for a salaried worker is quite low.
If that's the case, "I want to start my own business and make good money! It's also characteristic of many young people who think "I want to be a part of this".
In fact, many people in their twenties and thirties are starting their own businesses, and it seems that they have a clear vision of what they want to be from a young age.
Maybe that's one of the reasons why Taiwanese people are more willing to try things out than they are to think about the risks.
If you are Japanese, you would think about the risks first and get stuck in, but for the Taiwanese, it's all about speed.
In fact, the shops that line the streets of Taiwan are opening and closing repeatedly.
It's relatively easy for anyone to open a store, so people seem to think that if they can't make it, they just close it.
People don't seem to care about the public's opinion, so it's probably just a sense of "If it works, you're lucky.
However, Taiwanese people are like that from start to finish, so I guess it took a little bit of thought to figure that out. This happens a lot (laughs).
What is important is the balance between the two.
If we can combine the boldness of Taiwanese people and the cautiousness of Japanese people, we will be able to develop a good business.
9.4.2020
DAYS/ Ayumi Ogo Column
Connect the dots
Everyday life from two bases, Taiwan and Japan.
The Relationship Between Taiwan and Art
When you're in Taiwan, you'll often see streets and buildings that are much more stylish than Japan's. Even the packaging in cafes and grocery stores is stylish. Even the packaging of casual products in cafes and grocery stores is stylish.
I'm amazed at their good taste.
This sense of "art" is actually something that is cultivated in Taiwan on a daily basis.
We have an environment that allows people to feel art all around them.
In particular, due to the "Cultural Creation Policy" announced by the Taiwanese government in 2002, industries that combine culture and creativity are encouraged throughout Taiwan.
As a result, the city's art culture can be found throughout the city.
The historic old buildings of the city have been transformed into art spaces where visitors can see the work of various creators.
In Taipei, it's Huashan 1914 Cultural and Creative Park. In Tainan, there is the famous Blueprint Cultural and Creative Park. Both spots were built by renovating buildings built during the Japanese colonial era. There are cafes and general stores lined up inside, and young creators can casually exhibit their work or set up shop here.
I feel that this environment, where anyone can work as a creator, has contributed to the development of art.
Contemporary art may be unfamiliar to Japanese people, but in Taiwan, it's surprisingly accessible.
If you ever visit Taiwan, please take a look at the relationship between Taiwan and art.
8.2.2020
DAYS/ Ayumi Ogo Column
Connect the dots
Everyday life from two bases, Taiwan and Japan.
Eco-consciousness for everyone
On July 1, Japan started charging for plastic bags.
But the truth is that our neighboring country, Taiwan, has banned free plastic bags since 2002.
Taiwan has always been highly eco-conscious, partly because of its lack of land and resources.
Taiwan is said to be one of the most eco-friendly countries in Asia, and its recycling rate is among the highest in the world.
Only in the last few years have we heard the word "eco" frequently in Japan.
It is said that Japan is quite a bit behind other developed countries in this regard.
Ethical and sustainable culture has already taken root in Taiwan, especially among young people.
Carrying your own bottle, as well as your own straw, is commonplace these days.
From July 2019, plastic straws will no longer be offered.
In Taiwan, where tapioca and other drink stands are everywhere, walking around with a drink in hand is an everyday occurrence.
The amount of plastic consumed is completely different from using a plastic straw every time and carrying around your own straw.
That's why the stylish straws are coming out in droves.
You can even find brushes for washing your own straws.
There was even a music festival that was talked about that didn't offer disposable tableware at its food and drink stalls.
All attendees brought their own tableware or rented eco-friendly tableware from the venue.
However, if you find your favorite bag or bottle and incorporate it into your lifestyle, it will become a part of your daily life.
Let's have fun while thinking about ecology in accordance with our future lifestyle.
7.1.2020
DAYS/ Ayumi Ogo Column
Connect the dots
Everyday life from two bases, Taiwan and Japan.
Beyond ethnic differences
One of my favorite movies is the Taiwan movie “KANO”. The story is based on the true story that a Taiwanese school participated in Koshien in 1931 during the Japanese rule, as the copy "Koshien across the Sea 1931" is attached. The stage is Chiayi, a town in southern Taiwan. Under the guidance of the Japanese director, the small team of mixed ethnicity, “Kayi Agricultural and Forestry Baseball Club (KANO)” in Chiayi, aims to participate in Koshien. I wanted to watch it all the time, but I was missing the timing, but it was by accident that I was able to watch this movie on a flight to Taiwan.
Like any history, Taiwan in the Japanese era has light and darkness. Each person has their own perspective, and each person has a different historical perception. I think that there is a place that cannot be called "good" or "bad". However, "We wanted to draw in the movie, not in the political history and background of Taiwan and Japan, but in the dedicated eyes of moving people," said Wei Darshon, the scriptwriter. As you can see, the film depicts Japanese, Taiwanese, and aboriginal people moving towards one dream of "Koshien," transcending each other's positions, values, and ethnic groups. Instead of discriminating against each other as an ethnic group, we recognize each other's values. And I feel that it teaches me the importance of looking back at my identity. Race issues that are relevant to any age. Now, if we can once again recognize each other's values... The world may change more.
"KANO" creates an opportunity to reconsider the relationship between Japan and Taiwan and your own country. Not only for baseball lovers, but for those who don't, you can enjoy it, so please take a look at it while you are at home.
6.1.2020
DAYS/ Ayumi Ogo Column
Connect the dots
Everyday life from two bases, Taiwan and Japan.
Tolerance and freedom.
I got help from a company headquartered in Taiwan,
Working with a Taiwanese friend,
Recently, “Taiwan” has something to do with something.
Warm people in a cityscape that feels nostalgic.
For some reason, if you fall in love with that charm, you can't escape...
It's a strange country (laughs).
Did you know that "pink" has recently become a little booming in Taiwan?
In Taiwan, the government collectively manages masks under the influence of the new coronavirus that spreads all over the world.
Therefore, I can't choose the color of the mask that I can get...
One boy was worried that he would be teased if he wore a pink mask.
The men at the new Coronavirus countermeasures headquarters, who heard such stories, wore pink masks themselves at the press conference.
He said, "Pink is also good."
From there, a hashtag called "# Gold-colored gender (regardless of gender regardless of color)" spread and pink became a boom.
There was a slight movement that the number of companies that changed the logo to pink also increased.
Taiwan values new ideas rather than traditional gender and customs.
The idea of "accepting" rather than refusing may be creating that warm national character.
Taiwanese people are very good at accepting new ideas.
Is it because of the historical background that it was governed by various countries, including Japan?
It feels like the culture isn't tied to fixed ideas, but to respond flexibly and sometimes.
This forgiveness and the freedom of not imposing values may be the biggest reason to be attracted to this country.
