The Weight Loss Lifestyle

With so many people struggling with their weight and fighting the health problems that accompany obesity it is unusual to see a community that is not predominantly overweight. Yet, the majority of the population of Tokyo is remarkably slim in comparison to western society. For many American's and people from other nationalities where weight is an issue, walking around Tokyo is a great source of inspiration. When you look closely at the typical lifestyle of someone living in Tokyo, the reason behind this slim physique becomes apparent, although naturally there are exceptions.

One aspect of the Tokyo lifestyle that is a clear example of why obesity is not such an issue is the portion size. America is well known for the generous portion sizes, with oversized meals being bulked out with large side dishes such as chips or onion rings. In Tokyo the size of the plate alone is much smaller, so naturally the portions will also be smaller. In addition to smaller sizes, the content of each dish is much healthier, consisting of a much higher amount of vegetables and seafood dishes. If the food is both smaller in size and contains more healthy ingredients then it stands to reason that in general weight gain would not be so much of a problem.

In addition to this exercise is not a daily chore in Tokyo, but a way of life. School children walk to school and people cycle to the shop instead of driving. The exercise that many people in other countries have to plan into their day is simply part of the day for many Japanese people, resulting in a slimmer frame and less obesity in general.

Many people have found that when visiting Tokyo they naturally lost weight without even trying to or thinking about it. Whether they were walking around the city visiting sights or eating out every night, the everyday situations and lifestyle of the Japanese is far healthier and therefore can result in weight loss for people who come from a much more sedentary and gluttonous lifestyle. Therefore, looking at the lifestyle of the Japanese can be a great way to identify habits that are not supportive of a healthy body.

The Tokyo Skyline

While the countryside is a relaxing and revitalising environment, there is something inspiring and invigorating about the skyline of a busy city. It shows the work of some of the most inventive people in world and is a statement to the nature of that city. Finding a spot with a superb view and taking in the skyline of a city is a great way to see the beating heart of that country in action and this is certainly the case for Tokyo.

There are 47 buildings in Tokyo that make up the most impressive aspects of the skyline, standing at over 180 meters tall. The Tokyo Skytree is the tallest and newest building in Tokyo, built in 2012. It has three functions, as a broadcasting tower, restaurant and observation tower. It has a lattice structure and certainly makes up an interesting part of the skyline, especially at night.

The Tokyo Tower is the second tallest structure in Tokyo and is easily recognised by its similarities to the Eiffel Tower. The noticeable exception being that it is painted orange and white. It is also a communications and observation tower. The Midtown Tower is the third tallest building and has an interesting design and multiple uses. Aside from the various businesses that reside in the building there is also a medical centre and an exhibition space.

Tokyo City Hall is the fourth tallest building in Tokyo and probably one of the most well known on the skyline. It is the Metropolitan Government Building and has a very interesting structure that certainly stands out against the other buildings at nightime. Observing the skyline of a city isn't something that everyone gets to experience, but for those that get the opportunity to it is a memorable experience. The Tokyo Skytree restaurant might just be the perfect place to experience this view, although those with a fear of heights might want to give that option a miss. Wherever you choose to view it from, remember to put down the camera for a moment and really take in everything that Tokyo has to offer in that moment.

The Food of Kings

It is such a shame when people visit a new country and stick to the same old food that they usually eat back at home. It is impossible to understand a country's culture if the food is never tried. Besides being very different to western food, Japanese food is nutritious and shouldn't be missed out on.

Different regions of Japan specialise in different dishes, but in general it is very varied across the country. The typical dishes include sushi, rice balls, donburi, curry and various seafood dishes.

The Shabu Shabu is a very interesting dish, which involves dipping small pieces of meat, seafood and vegetables in a hot soup, which cooks them, and then in a sauce directly before eating it. Similarly the Chanko Nabe is an unusual dish that is traditionally eaten by Sumo Wrestlers.

It is important to be aware of the manners and traditions used when eating out or as a guest at someone's house in Japan. Learn the Japanese phrases to say at dinner time. These are not complex, but involve more than a simple please and thank you. If a sharing dish has been served then use the thicker end of the chopsticks to serve a helping and place it on your own dish. It is also important to learn how to use the chopsticks properly, so that no food is flicked across the room by accident. Many things that are considered bad manners in western society are also unpopular in Japan, such as talking about toilet related issues, blowing your nose or burping. Slurping food, however, is considered to be a compliment to the chef and a sign that you are enjoying the food.

In most restaurants if it is a simple gathering of friends and family then drinking and eating is a relaxed affair. However if it is an expensive restaurant, or a meal in someone's home then these traditions and table manners are very important, so try to memorise them and be on best behaviour. People across the world understand that every country has different cultures and ways of doing things, but learning the table manners of the country you are visiting is a good way of showing respect.

The Empress of Pop

Japan is home to some of the world's most intuitive and exciting artists, but Ayumi Hamasaki is sure to be among the most popular. Named the Empress of Pop, her status goes far beyond simply being a singer as she inspires fashion trends and has a following wherever she goes. Her music has been hugely successful from a young age and there is no telling what she might do in the future.

One thing to note about Ayumi that could be a reason behind her undeniable popularity is the fact of her control. Every aspect of her marketing and portrayal to the public is considered, from the font on posters, to staying up with her staff waiting on new makeup orders. She is the master of her own success and now that she has even started composing her own music fans are even more inclined to buy into the Empress of Pop.

While her musical talent has never been claimed to be particularly spectacular, it is the flaws in her singing ability that seems to touch the audience. Each song is written by Ayumi and speaks volumes about who she is in this confusing world. The honesty that she expresses so easily is probably the cause of her success. Nearly every one of her singles has been in the Top 3 and considering that the price of a single in Japan is twice what it is in America, this is no mean feat. Every aspect of her appearance is picked up on by fans and the record company is keen to cash in on this, using her face on numerous advertising campaigns.

After being compared to Madonna on numerous occasions, the Empress of Pop is certainly one to look out for. Whether things eventually die down or not, Ayumi Hamasaki has certainly made a name for herself and her songs have touched so many hearts that I doubt anyone would consider her to be anything but a huge success for more than a decade now. The way that she took control of her rise to fame has set a fantastic example for people, no matter what their jobs might be. If you are in control of you life, you have no one to blame for your rise or fall.