Why is Japan’s 器 missing a dot? Is 卓 really just 桌 without 木? Two characters sent me looking for answers.

One lunchbox led my Japanese friend and me from pickled greens to some very Taiwanese dishes.

A friend’s long wait for a new air conditioner sparks a reflection on harsher summers and why cooling has become essential.

A chat with a Japanese friend explores how Taiwan’s green grass jelly plant becomes the refreshing black dessert enjoyed all summer.