I had already been to “Festa de Rama” and “Green Green,” both smaller-scale music festivals in Hiroshima. Despite being hit by a typhoon at Festa de Rama, I had great experiences at these festivals and was looking forward to what Summer Sonic had to offer. But would braving Japan’s second largest music festival (behind Fuji Rock), in the heat of the Japanese summer sun, leave me craving another typhoon to cool me down?

Down here on the Wide Island, we aim to bring together JETs from far and wide. Hiroshima AJET organizes activities and gatherings for the surrounding communities.

This is the first article from our new music reviewer Dan Wilson. Each month Dan will highlight an artist who is performing in Hiroshima. Let the musical education begin!

Like team sports? Looking for a sports team to join? Want to make great friends and get fit? Like drinking? Have some hand-eye coordination?

Navigating the rapids
 
Words by Katie Ray
Photos by Happy Raft
 
From snowboarding and rock climbing, to spelunking and scuba diving, there are many sports that adventurers can find in Japan. The snowy mountains, tropical reefs, sandy dunes and freshwater rivers throughout the country provide the perfect playground for those seeking excitement.
 
The Yoshino River on the island of Shikoku is one of those playgrounds. With powerful rapids interspersed by serene stretches, the river is one jungle gym short of heaven. For that reason every year Hiroshima AJET organizes a trip to Kochi prefecture …