From Recovery to Renewal: Your Inviting Escape to the Heart of Futaba | Japan Travel Guide

Futaba, located in Fukushima Prefecture, Japan, offers visitors a unique and moving experience as they explore the town's resilience and rich history, particularly in light of the recovery following the 2011 earthquake and nuclear disaster. Known as a center for "hope tourism," Futaba invites travelers to learn about its past while witnessing the community's ongoing revival.

One of the main attractions is the Great East Japan Earthquake and Nuclear Disaster Memorial Museum, which provides important insights into the events of 2011. Here, visitors can learn about the evacuation challenges faced by locals and discover the remarkable rebuilding efforts that followed. Nearby, the Futaba Art District captivates visitors with beautiful murals that reflect local culture and history, including representations of the famous daruma dolls. As you stroll through this area, you’ll embark on a visual journey that leads you to the reimagined JR Futaba Station.

Best Restaurants in California, New Mexico, Louisiana, Texas & Across America - Ken's Top Picks

By Ken Hulsey

In 2022, I published an article featuring my top 20 favorite restaurants across the USA. This year, I've expanded that list to 50 establishments, spanning burger joints, pizza places, Mexican eateries, sushi bars, upscale steakhouses, and hidden gems from California to New Jersey.

As a long-time resident of California, Texas, New Mexico, and Louisiana, the majority of the restaurants on my list are located within those states. I hope this comprehensive guide will prove useful for any travelers seeking a delicious meal, whether they're looking for an affordable bite or an upscale dining experience.

Enchanting Christmas Traditions In New Mexico - The Southwest At Its Best!

 New Mexico proudly boasts a vibrant tapestry of Spanish and Mexican history, which has profoundly influenced our state’s holiday traditions. The roots of these celebrations go back to early European missionaries who shared with the native population the heartwarming tale of Mary and Joseph’s quest for shelter and the miraculous birth of Jesus. 

A Wonderful Fall Walk Through The Town of Long Leaf | Louisiana Through My Lens

 Photos and Story by Ken Hulsey

I've been holding onto these images for nearly a month now, and I really wanted to share them sooner. Life has been a whirlwind lately, so I’m catching up on my 2025 inventory of images before I dive into creating fresh content for 2026. Back in late November, my adventures took me through the heart of the state, and I made a stop at one of my all-time favorite places: the historic town of Long Leaf.

Louisiana Through My Lens - A Foggy Morning Walk Through Shreveport Riverview Park

 Photos and Story By Ken Hulsey

Last week, I stayed overnight in Shreveport because I had an early morning meeting in Bossier City. After the meeting, I decided to visit one of my favorite places in Shreveport, Riverview Park, which is located alongside the majestic Red River. The weather was pleasantly cool for a change, with a lovely layer of fog hanging in the air, so I thought it would be a great opportunity to stretch my legs and take some photos of the area.

Jefferson, Texas Through My Lens | An Afternoon Walk Downtown

 Photos and Story By Ken Hulsy

A couple of weeks ago, Terri and I took a day trip to historical Jefferson, Texas. We instantly fell in love with the place. So, when I had to travel to Arkansas and Northeast Texas on Monday, I couldn’t resist taking a detour back to Jefferson. During our previous visit, Terri and I were tourists. This time, however, I was in photographer mode, feeling that the images I captured on our first visit didn't truly do justice to the magic of Jefferson.

Why Georgetown's Ghost Tours Make Fall the Best Time for Spooky Fun In Texas

 From Tour Texas 

As the crisp air sweeps in and your favorite seasonal drinks come back into play, it’s the perfect time to plan an autumn adventure. And what better destination to embrace the season than Georgetown? This picturesque gem in Hill Country has everything you need for an unforgettable weekend away. 

Anaheim Awaits: Your Summer Guide! From Trails to Tides: Discover the Best Outdoor Adventures!

 From Visit Anaheim

Anaheim may be the pulsing urban heart of Orange County, but it’s also near tranquil natural wonders for visitors to explore. Sitting right between the Santa Ana Mountains and the mighty blue Pacific Ocean, visitors can expect dramatic vistas with every hike around Anaheim. Orange County hiking trails offer an escape into forests, meadows, and beaches, all within a short drive from the theme parks and glamour of Anaheim. Cool coastal breezes and an average of 280 days of sunshine make the area a year-round hiking destination.

Best Beaches in California (2025) - #9 Newport Municipal Beach | USA TODAY

Situated along the picturesque Orange County coastline, Newport Municipal Beach is a stunning 5-mile stretch of soft sand and sparkling blue waters that beckons to beachgoers, surfers, and anyone seeking the quintessential Southern California beach experience. This expansive city beach is the perfect place to spread out your towel and soak up the warm sunshine as you watch the waves gently lap at the shore. For those looking for a bit more action, Newport Municipal Beach offers excellent surfing conditions, with consistent swells that attract surfers of all skill levels looking to catch the perfect wave. The beach is also a popular spot for swimming, bodyboarding, and simply splashing around in the refreshing Pacific waters. After a day in the sun and surf, take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront boardwalk and enjoy the incredible ocean views, or grab a bite to eat at one of the many delightful beachside cafes and restaurants just steps from the sand. With its idyllic setting, fantastic recreational activities, and lively surf town ambiance, it's no wonder Newport Municipal Beach earned a well-deserved spot on USA TODAY's list of the best beaches in California for 2025.

See The Full List At USA TODAY

Check Out:

Best Beaches in California (2025) - #10 Santa Cruz Main Beach | USA TODAY

Explore Whittier, California - A Charming Small Town Near Los Angeles | Discover LA's Hidden Gem

Antique Gems In The Desert: Kramer Antiques & Darr Military Rentals | California Treasures

Explore the Griffith Observatory in Los Angeles | Southern California Adventures

2018 Roswell UFO Festival News

Here's the latest news from the organizers of the 2018 Roswell UFO Festival:

New post on Official UFO Festival Roswell Website Free movie fun at the 2018 UFO Festival! by UFO Festival  In the epic adventure film `Independence Day,' strange phenomena surface around the globe. The skies ignite. Terror races through the world's major cities. As these extraordinary events unfold, it becomes increasingly clear that a force of incredible magnitude has arrived, its mission: total annihilation over the Fourth of July weekend. The last hope to stop the destruction is an unlikely group of people united by fate and unimaginable circumstances. What a perfect movie to show at the official 2018 UFO Festival Independence Day weekend!  Join us at the 3rd St. Station pavilion for a FREE showing of this critically acclaimed movie. Movie begins around 8:30 p.m.  The floor is concrete, so plan accordingly. Remember to bring your: Chairs Snacks Bug spray THIS IS A NON-SMOKING EVENT.  WELL BEHAVED PETS ARE ALLOWED. 501st Legion to appear at the 2018 UFO Festival! by UFO Festival Do you love Star Wars?  Who doesn't?   We are thrilled to announce that members of the 501st Dewback Ridge Garrison will be on hand for photos and more at the official 2018 UFO Festival! Since 1997, the costuming organization known as the 501st Legion has spread the magic of the Star Wars genre worldwide through its authentic-looking costumes, and has become the leading force in fan-based charity events. The 501st, also known as "Vader's Fist," is truly dedicated to brightening the lives of those less-fortunate. Members of all ages and characters, including Darth Vader himself, will thrill audiences at this year's event. There is nothing quite like a group of Stormtroopers to bring attention to an event. Unlike individual entertainers, the 501st Legion functions as a group creating a true science-fiction/fantasy ambience with a wide range of professional-grade costumes and props. Our internal standards ensure a high level of professionalism in both actions and appearance to ensure your event runs smoothly.

The Super Museum

Above, the main entrance to the Super Museum. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

by Armand Vaquer

With this year's Superman Celebration coming up on June 7 -10 in Metropolis, Illinois, it would be a good idea to show what the town's Super Museum has to offer you. I visited Metropolis in November 2016 to attend the memorial service for actress Noel Neill. 

Along with the Super Museum, the town also has a statue honoring Noel, which I also visited. 

Here, with some updates, is my 2016 article on my visit.

Following my visit to the Noel Neill Lois Lane statue, I headed to Harrah's Casino alongside the Ohio River for breakfast. After breakfast, I went to the square next to the Massac County Court House where the giant Superman statue and Super Museum are located.

Above, yours truly with the Superman statue, who is ready for Christmas.

Upon arrival, I found that the Superman statue was wearing a Santa Claus hat. There were already Christmas decorations on the fence surrounding it. A couple were viewing the statue and photographing it. They asked me to take some of them with the statue, so I obliged. I had them take some of me with it as well.

Above, the store of the Super Museum. Photo by Armnd Vaquer.

Once we were done picture-taking, I headed off to the Super Museum. Inside, is a large store filled with all kinds of Superman and super-hero goods. I bought a magnet for The Beast. While roaming around the store, I ran into Noel's biographer, Larry Thomas Ward. I didn't recognize him right off as he had his hair cut much shorter than the last time I saw him two years ago.

Above, Larry Ward talks to museum owner Jim Hambrick's daughter. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

We exchanged greetings and he marveled that I drove all the way from L.A. to Metropolis. I then paid my admission fee (just $5.00) to enter the museum. Before going in, I asked the lady at the counter if it is okay to photograph inside. It turned out that she's the daughter of the museum's owner/operator Jim Hambrick. She said that I can take all the pictures I wanted. (I always ask permission to take photos whenever I go into a museum. Some allow it and some don't.)

"Relics" From the Adventures of Superman TV Show:

Upon entering the museum, I first saw a big display case of assorted Superman toys. I made a right turn and immediately came upon the Adventures of Superman television show section. It contained many photographs and props from the show. I took some photos of the displays. I then headed down to the next section, which was (more or less) dedicated to the first screen Superman, Kirk Alyn.

Above, Kirk Alyn Superman display. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Following this, I headed further where I found props and memorabilia from the Christopher Reeve Superman movies, including one of his costumes.

Above, a Christopher Reeve Superman costume. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Next, was a section dedicated to the Broadway Superman show of the 1960s. Ahead was a new separate room of Superman items which was dominated by a huge figure of Doomsday, the "critter" that killed Superman in the comic books in 1992.

Above, the Supergirl room. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Then, I reached a room dedicated to Supergirl. All incarnations of the Supergirl character were in this room, but mainly the Helen Slater Supergirl movie. If there were anything pertaining to the current Supergirl television series in there, I certainly didn't see any. (Keep in mind that this was in 2016. They may have artifacts of the Melissa Benoist Supergirl show now.)

Above, an actual "lead" mask from "The Man In The Lead Mask" episode. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Further on, was another section of photographs and memorabilia from the George Reeves Adventures of Superman television show including a "flying pan" from 1951-53, a "lead" mask from the 1953 episode, "The Man In The Lead Mask", a color George Reeves Superman costume and the "Mr. Kryptonite" costume worn by Gene LeBell in 1957 during a county fair tour.

Above, a George Reeves color Superman costume. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Above, a costume worn by Gene LeBell during the 1957 county fair
 tour with George Reeves and Noel Neill. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Also in this section were some original art by Curt Swan, Dick Giodano and others. There were more Superman memorabilia from over the years in this section, mainly toys and figures.

Above, the "flying pan" device used by George Reeves from 1951 to 1953. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

After this, I exited the museum and re-entered the store.

The museum is a must-see for Superman fans of all ages.  It is worth a visit!

Above, this is just a small fraction of the Superman goods on display. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

I took many more photos inside the Super Museum. I will probably post them in a separate blog post in the near-future. For the museum's website, go here.

As I mentioned at the beginning, I visited the Noel Neill Lois Lane statue before touring the Super Museum.

Here's a photograph of it:

Above, Noel Neill as Lois Lane. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Roswell 2018 UFO Festival

by Armand Vaquer

On the subject of UFOs (per my last post on the 1977 UFO incident at the island of Colares), the 2018 Roswell UFO Festival is going to be here before we know it.

According to their website:

In 2017 we hosted 38,000 aliens in Roswell!  We were so amazed! Our surveys indicated people from 43 states and 16 different countries. 27 media groups, 24 live coverage network shows, and countless printed stories. We were featured on The Travel Channel’s Expeditions Unknown, The Food Network’s Carnival Eats and more! 

We realize 2017 will be hard to beat, but we are working hard on some exciting additions in 2018 to make this festival even bigger and better than ever.   Be sure to join over 32,000 subscribers at the bottom of the page for updates! 

This year the Festival will be held July 6-8, 2018 – start making plans to attend now!  Many hotels are already taking reservations and are usually booked, so we recommend making reservations now!  We are currently in the process of scheduling all the entertainment and events, so check back often. 

The City of Roswell invites UFO enthusiasts and skeptics alike to join in the celebration of one of the most debated incidents in history. The three-day event will feature guest speakers, authors, live entertainment, a costume contest, parade, a pet costume contest, parade, family-friendly activities and more.

I plan on attending and it should be an interesting and fun event.

For information, go here.

Superman Celebration June 7 - 10

by Armand Vaquer

Superman Returns star Brandon Routh has been announced as the celebrity guest at this year's Superman Celebration in Metropolis, Illinois, the home of the Super Museum.

Above, the Super Museum in 2016. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

The Superman Celebration is an annual four-day festival sponsored by The Metropolis Chamber of Commerce and the City of Metropolis- The Official Home of Superman.  

Held in Metropolis, Illinois during the second weekend of June every year, it celebrates Superman and all thing super-heroic with featured celebrity and artist guests, a costume contest, concerts, a film festival, and many other family-oriented events.  

Admission to Superman Celebration is free. For more information, please see our website at www.supermancelebration.net.

Above, my visit to the Superman statue in Metropolis, Illinois.

I have never been to a Superman Celebration, but I did visit Metropolis in November 2016 and toured the Super Museum. It is well worth a visit! Also in town, is a statue honoring Noel Neill as Lois Lane.

Since this is the celebration's 40th anniversary and the 80th anniversary of Superman, this year's event will be a special one.

The Great American Eclipse: What To Expect and Tips

Above, a partial solar eclipse projected onto a wall through foliage. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

by Armand Vaquer

For most of us, experiencing a total solar eclipse will be a first time experience. Many wonder what to expect during the event and what to do when it happens on August 21.

I will be viewing the total eclipse in Idaho.

The Republican Journal has an article on what to expect along with helpful tips on getting the most out of it.

 They wrote (in part):

Throughout a total solar eclipse and depending upon your location and good fortune with the weather gods, our sun will be partly or completely blocked out by the moon passing directly in front of it. The moon’s close proximity to Earth allows it to appear to cover (eclipse) the solar disk, even though it is hundreds of times smaller than our sun. As the moon's shadow travels across the earth at more than 1,000 miles an hour (because of the moon's orbital motion minus the Earth’s eastward), the viewer will witness the gentle lunar dance lasting about two hours from start to finish. 

The sky will slowly darken; temperatures will drop as the air under the shadow cools, causing winds to dissipate and transforming the landscape with an eerie stillness. One should not expect the sky to appear uniformly dark.The area closest to the sun will be darkened and, as we gaze toward the earth’s horizon, it will appear lighter. The highlight, (total coverage of the sun) will only last a little more than two minutes. During these tantalizing few moments, the jet-black disk of the moon is directly over the sun. A breathtaking sunlight halo called the corona (Latin for crown) surrounds the disc. Then, as the dance progresses, light streaks through the valleys of the lunar mountains in a brief sparkling phenomenon known as “Baily’s Beads.”

To read more, go here. 

The Best Comic Book Stores In The U.S.

Above, Mile High Comics at the 2014 Comikaze Expo in Los Angeles. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

by Armand Vaquer

It is Comic-Con time in San Diego, California. But you don't have to go there to get your fix on comic books and other fan-related goodies.

Travel + Leisure has an article on "The Best Comic Book Stores In The U.S.".

They begin with:

It's that time of year again, when comic fans, costumed characters, and film buffs descend on San Diego, California. 

That's right. It's Comic-Con.And in honor of the biggest comics convention of the year, we're highlighting the best comic book stores all across the U.S. From Florida's Emerald City to Washington's Arcane Comics, these are the best places to find all the DC and Marvel your heart desires.

To read more, go here. 

See Also: View Obscura Comics

Cover Ideas: "The Monster Movie Fan's Guide To Japan" 2nd Edition

by Armand Vaquer

Above, the cover to the current edition.

Now that I've seen Shin Godzilla (Godzilla Resurgence) twice, I can now finish work on the updated edition of The Monster Movie Fan's Guide To Japan. I'll do that after my upcoming cross-country trip to Metropolis, Illinois. Hopefully, I can finish it in time and get it to the publisher with enough time to promote it in the U.S. and in Japan by around April.

The real standouts as far as locations are concerned from Shin Godzilla are Tokyo Bay (near Yokohama), the Tama River and the historic Tokyo Station. I'll be adding those places into the travel guide.

If anyone has any suggestions for additions, feel free to let me know in the comments section for this blog post.

For the new edition's cover, I am considering these photographs (feel free to post your preference in the comments section):


  1. Shinjuku Godzilla

2. Hibiya Godzilla Statue

3. Godzilla Slide

Godzilla To Star In New Universal Studios Japan Attraction

by Armand Vaquer

Above, Godzilla in Shinjuku, Tokyo. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Since Toho Studios in the Setagaya district of Tokyo is a 100% working studio with no rides, tours or attractions (except for the Godzilla and Seven Samurai murals and the Godzilla statue, what would be the next best thing?

According to Malay Mail Online:

TOKYO, Aug 2 — Universal Studios Japan has revealed an all-new, 4D attraction set to debut at next year’s “Universal Cool Japan 2017” event, which will bring the Japanese legend of “Godzilla” to life. 

The Osaka-based resort revealed yesterday, August 1 that it will debut the multi-sensory experience “Godzilla: The Real 4D” early next year (at a date to be announced later), while the Universal Cool Japan 2017 event kicks off January 13, 2017. 

The attraction, based on the hit franchise, will see guests personally confront a giant, 118.5-meter-tall “Godzilla” rampaging through the city.

To read more, go here.

Notice To Godzilla Fans In Japan

by Armand Vaquer

Above, Yuu Asakura with the first edition of The Monster
 Movie Fan's Guide To Japan. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

A few minutes ago, I posted the following at several Godzilla and kaiju-related groups at Facebook:

If there's anyone in Japan or is about to go to Japan in the immediate future and sees "Shin Godzilla", I need a list of locations featured in the movie to incorporate them in the next edition of "The Monster Movie Fan's Guide To Japan". I will note contributors in the acknowledgments page. Thanks!

In case anyone in Japan who reads this, but doesn't have a Facebook account, the offer is extended to you here.

My email address is AMVaquer[at]aol.com. No spammers, please!

Thank you!

Monster Japan Travel Guide Update

by Armand Vaquer

Above, the Godzilla mural at Toho Studios will be included in the new edition. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Things are progressing on the new, updated edition of The Monster Movie Fan's Guide To Japan.

I have selected the publishing program, the publisher and most of it is written. I am waiting, at present, for more information on the new Toho Pictures production of Shin Godzilla (to be called Godzilla Resurgence outside of Japan). Also, I am trying to decide on what photograph to use on the cover. Maybe I'll post a poll or survey of some kind involving Godzilla fans to see what photo they like.

Above, the life-size Godzilla in Shinjuku will be also included in the new edition. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

I have contacted director Shinji Higuchi for information on the locations and/or landmarks used in the movie so that they can be included. Fans would then be able to go to those places when they visit Japan.

Stay tuned!

Osaka Sees Record Visitors In Fiscal 2015

by Armand Vaquer

Osaka Castle is best-known to Godzilla fans as the final battle site between Godzilla and Anguirus in Godzilla Raids Again (1955) (a.k.a. Gigantis The Fire Monster).

It appears Denise, Aiden and I added to the record number of visitors to Osaka Castle last October, in our small way. 

Kyodo News reported:

The number of visitors to Osaka Castle in western Japan has set a new record in fiscal 2015 mainly due to a rise in foreign visitors, its operator said Monday. 

The previous record was 2,124,790 people set in fiscal 1983, when an event was held to mark the 400th anniversary of the original castle's construction. The number of visitors surpassed the previous record Saturday ahead of the current fiscal year's end on March 31, the operator said.

Above, Denise and Aiden in front of Osaka Castle. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

To read more, go here.