Karina Ikedo
Karina Ikedo is passionate about culture, travel, and the simple joys in life, especially a good cup of coffee or matcha. She has visited 38 countries and brings a global perspective to her writing. With degrees in international business and cosmetology, her career spans from luxury hospitality at sea to creative brand storytelling. Outside of work, she enjoys skincare, taking photos, and discovering the traditions that make each place unique.
Articles by Karina Ikedo
Kokuto: The Best Okinawa Brown Sugar Snacks
Kokuto (Okinawa’s healthy brown sugar) is one of Okinawa’s best gifts to the world. Produced in Japan’s southernmost tropical islands, it plays a vital role in the local economy, agriculture, and diet.
Nikko’s Best-Kept Secret: The Marshlands of Senjogahara
One of the highlights of Nikko is Senjogahara Marshlands, Japan’s largest and most renowned high-altitude marshes.They’re surrounded by forest-green nature, a large lake, a waterfall, and a hiking course.
Anko Donuts Love: A Overview and Recipe for Red Bean Pastries!
Anko (red bean paste) donuts are trendy in Japan and soul food for many Japanese people. If you know a little about Japanese desserts, then you know that the anko filling is consistent in many treats. And anko donuts are no exception!
Nori: Everything You Need to Know About Dried Seaweed!
If you have ever eaten sushi before, you have probably tasted nori. But it’s a bit of an unsung hero, so much more than just a sushi wrapper. It’s a nutritious treat, providing health benefits too!
Shincha: New Green Tea in Japanese Cuisine
The world of tea is so much bigger than just your standard black tea or herbal tisane. Within each different type of tea, dozens of unique variations enhance the art of tea drinking. Green teas are no exception.
Dango: More Than Just a Classic Delicacy!
Dango is a small, ball-shaped sweet treat, often skewered with a bamboo stick. They are sweet Japanese rice dumplings that have a chewy texture.
