I Want to Live in Lower East Side: A Local’s Insight

Estimated reading time: 5 minutes

I lived in the Lower East Side (LES) of Manhattan for about ten years. On a personal note, this neighborhood was one of the best places for pursuing music. In this post, I’ll share the highlights of living in the Lower East Side and why I recommend it.

One of the best things? You can live here almost without needing the subway if you use a bike or take a walk—everything is within walking distance.

Where is the Lower East Side?

The Lower East Side (LES) is a neighborhood located in downtown Manhattan, New York City, on the east side of the island. It’s a compact but culturally rich area, known for its immigrant history, music venues, and vibrant lifestyle.

The History of the Lower East Side

What makes the Lower East Side fascinating is its history. This was the first neighborhood where immigrants settled in New York. At one point, nearly 6,000 people lived crammed into this small district. Families shared communal bathrooms, washrooms, and kitchens. Infrastructure was poor, and sanitation was a major issue.

Waves of Immigration

• Early arrivals: Germans and Irish
• Later: Jewish, Italian, and other Europeans
• Post-WWII: Puerto Ricans and Chinese

Over time, immigrants spread out. Germans moved to the Upper East Side, Italians built Little Italy, and the Chinese community established Chinatown.

The Birthplace of American Musical Theater

After the Germans, Jewish immigrants came and played a key role in shaping New York’s culture. They were the ones who created the very first Broadway musicals. Irving Berlin, George Gershwin, and many others came from this area. This neighborhood also gave birth to Tin Pan Alley, where sheet music publishing started—making LES a cornerstone of American music history.

If you’re curious about immigrant life back then, I highly recommend visiting the Tenement Museum.

Music Venues in the Lower East Side

The Lower East Side is still known for its live music scene. Popular venues include:

• PIANOS – where up-and-coming bands perform and young crowds gather.
• The Living Room – a legendary venue (now closed) where Norah Jones began her career.

Many live houses and lounges attract musicians, artists, and creators. My own creative career also started right here in LES.

Essex Market – A Local Favorite

When I lived in the Lower East Side, the old Essex Market was still around. Today, the new building has opened across the street, but many of the longtime vendors remain. You can find fresh fish, local coffee, cheese, bread, and all kinds of specialty items.

It’s one of the best places to shop like a local.

Iconic Shops and Culture

The Lower East Side has long been home to unique businesses. For example, the famous 1915 eyewear shop—once frequented by Allen Ginsberg and John Lennon—was founded by Jewish immigrants from Belarus. Their stylish black-rimmed frames became iconic thanks to this shop.

Proximity to Chinatown

One of the great things about LES is its walking distance to Chinatown. You can easily shop for Asian ingredients, or grab delicious Chinese, Vietnamese, or other Asian food. There are even some amazing pho restaurants just around the corner.

Close to Brooklyn Too

The Lower East Side is also very close to Brooklyn. Whether by bike or just crossing a bridge, it’s easy to go back and forth. If you work in Manhattan but love Brooklyn’s vibe, LES is the perfect spot to live.

Transportation is also convenient—late at night you can still easily catch a Yellow taxi, making it a safe and practical neighborhood for creatives and night owls.

Conclusion

Living in the Lower East Side was one of the best decisions I ever made. I walked everywhere, from East Village to cozy cafés, music venues, and Chinatown. It’s a neighborhood full of history, creativity, and convenience.

If you’re moving to New York or just curious about its neighborhoods, I highly recommend experiencing life in the Lower East Side.

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Dentist in Japan Without Insurance: My Experience

Visiting the dentist in New York can cost a fortune, but in Japan, even without National Health Insurance, dental cleaning is surprisingly affordable. Discover the costs, tips for better brushing, and why going to the dentist in Japan is worth it.

Estimated reading time: 3 minutes

Why I Went to the Dentist in Japan

During a short trip back to Japan, I decided to visit a dentist. Living in New York, dental treatments often come with shocking bills—sometimes even a simple cleaning can cost around $300–$350 (about ¥40,000).

This time, I wanted to save money by getting dental care in Japan—and it was absolutely worth it. Not only did I spend much less, but I also learned updated tips on how to take better care of my teeth.

How Much Does It Cost Without National Health Insurance?

Even without Japan’s National Health Insurance, the price difference compared to the U.S. is huge.

Here’s what I paid during my visit:

• Dental cleaning: ¥4,500
• Gel toothpaste: ¥700
• Floss: ¥300
• Total: ¥5,500 (about $37)

In comparison, the same cleaning in New York would easily be around ¥40,000.

Updated Brushing Techniques I Learned

Every time I visit a dentist in Japan, I’m impressed by how carefully they teach brushing techniques. This time, the dental hygienist also explained how oral health affects overall health.

I learned that before surgeries, doctors often recommend dental treatment first—because gum disease and plaque can negatively impact your body. Keeping the spaces between teeth clean and “breathable” is essential for long-term health.

Here are the key tips I received:

• Apply fluoride toothpaste on floss before use.
• Floss each tooth one by one, gently rubbing.
• Use interdental brushes—and also apply fluoride toothpaste to them.
• Focus on cleaning the triangular spaces between teeth, not just the surface.
• Brush while looking in a mirror.
• Divide your mouth into four sections and brush systematically: upper right → upper left → lower right → lower left (inside, surface, outside).
• Avoid brushing within 1 hour after meals (your mouth is more acidic).
• Electric toothbrushes are not always the best.
• For back teeth, keep your mouth half open and relaxed to reach deeper.
• Slight amounts of fluoride are safe, but poor brushing habits are far more harmful.
• Coffee and wine don’t cause tartar buildup—bad brushing does.

These tips completely changed the way I care for my teeth.

Recommended Dental Care Brand: BOKA

If you’re looking for high-quality dental care products, I recommend BOKA. Their toothpaste and brushes are designed with enamel safety in mind. You can check out their website.

Final Thoughts

For those living in the U.S., I strongly recommend visiting a dentist in Japan if you get the chance. Even without National Health Insurance, the cost is much lower than in America, and the service is more thorough.

I hope these brushing tips from a Japanese dental hygienist help you keep your teeth and gums healthy. A little extra care now can prevent big dental bills later—especially in New York!

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Upper East Side NYC: A Local’s Experience Explained

Having lived in the United States for 20 years, I’d like to share what I loved most about living in Manhattan’s Upper East Side. Back then, I lived near York Avenue, one of the easternmost avenues in Manhattan.

Estimated reading time: 4 minutes

The Upscale Atmosphere of the Upper East Side

The Upper East Side stretches from Central Park to the East River. This area, especially near Central Park and Madison Avenue, is home to some of the wealthiest people in New York. On one occasion, I even saw Robert De Niro in Central Park! I saw him one time!

Rent in the Early 2000s

Rent in the Upper East Side decreases as you move closer to the highways, but even “cheaper” rates are still high by Japanese standards. Around 20 years ago, rent was approximately $1,000–$1,500 per month, but today it can reach $3,000–$4,000 per month now and even more.

Back then, I shared an apartment with three roommates and paid about $500 per month. Over the years, residents in Manhattan have aged, and properties near Central Park have likely become multi-million-dollar assets.

Walkable and Scenic

What the most I enjoyed living that neighborhood was Walking through the Upper East Side, especially in spring, is refreshing. From any point in the neighborhood, you can reach Central Park on foot. Imagine strolling between European-style brick buildings and blooming flowers in the early spring—it’s truly delightful. In autumn, the fall foliage is stunning and inspiring.

Safe and Convenient Transportation at Night

The Upper East Side was also home to Carrie Bradshaw from Sex and the City. Remember those scenes where she returned home by yellow cab late at night? That was everyday life before Lyft and Uber arrived.

Courtesy: Sex and the City

Today, Lyft and Uber allow ride-sharing, but taxis are still reliable in the Upper East Side. Even after midnight, you can always find a ride—a convenience not guaranteed in other parts of Manhattan. If you live in a different borough, sometime, it’s hard to catch one.

Running Along the East River Greenway

The Upper East Side features a beautiful running route along the East River, from 71st to 89th Street. You can see Roosevelt Island and Queens across the river. Spring and autumn runs are especially enjoyable. Summer may be too hot, but winter running is refreshing. I used to walk there just to be relaxed from all the matters.

Walk or Bike, No Subway Need

If your workplace is in Manhattan, living here allows you to commute without relying on the subway. Citi Bike stations are abundant and allow flexible pick-up and drop-off.

Convenient Japanese Grocery Delivery

Sunrise Mart is the most famous Japanese grocery store in NYC. In the Upper East Side, purchases over $50 can be delivered directly to your home. Back then, I did my weekly shopping this way—it was extremely convenient. This area also has many Japanese restaurants and bars, making it popular among expatriates.

Summary

Living in the Upper East Side was extremely efficient. Everything was within walking distance, allowing me to complete daily tasks within 30 minutes. In contrast, living in other areas often meant spending an hour or more commuting due to subway construction or delays. For those seeking convenience, safety, and a scenic environment, the Upper East Side is a top choice.

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Understanding Roe v. Wade: The U.S. Abortion Debate Explained

The abortion issue in the United States has become one of the most debated topics in recent years. Many states now limit a woman’s ability to make decisions about her own body, and this issue has played a significant role in recent U.S. presidential elections.

What Happened on June 24, 2022

On Friday, June 24, 2022, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that abortion is illegal after a fetal heartbeat is detected (around six months of pregnancy) even if the woman is healthy. This means that in some states, women cannot legally terminate an unwanted pregnancy, even in cases of rape.

However, this is a federal decision, and some states—like New York and California—still protect the right to choose abortion. In contrast, eight states, including Texas, now ban most abortions. Women seeking abortions in restrictive states face major financial and logistical challenges.

Roe v. Wade: Who Were Roe and Wade?

In the U.S., court cases are often named after the people involved.

• Roe: Norma McCorvey, who used the pseudonym “Jane Roe” to hide her identity. She filed the case in the early 1970s after an unwanted pregnancy. Norma came from a difficult background, having faced poverty and assault. Though her initial case allowed her to legally seek an abortion, she ultimately gave birth to the child.
• Wade: Henry Wade, the district attorney of Dallas, Texas. He became widely known due to this case and also handled the prosecution related to the assassination of John F. Kennedy.

In 1973, Roe won her case based on the interpretation of the 14th Amendment’s right to privacy, which protects a woman’s right to make decisions about her own body. This became the legal foundation for abortion rights in the U.S.

Why the Supreme Court Reversal Matters

The recent Supreme Court decision overturned Roe v. Wade, stating that abortion is not protected under the 14th Amendment’s privacy clause. Some reasons for the ruling include:

• Protection of the mother’s health and religious interpretations
• Conservative ideology influencing the judiciary

The current Supreme Court has 9 justices:

• 3 Democratic-leaning
• 6 Republican-leaning, including 3 appointed by Trump, such as Amy Coney Barrett, known for her conservative stance

This shift in the Court means major U.S. policies may lean conservative, affecting not only abortion but also issues like:

• Gun control
• Immigration policies
• Diversity and civil rights protections

State-Level Impact

Texas

Abortion is now heavily restricted. Doctors performing abortions may face harsh penalties, including up to 10 years in prison or large fines. Hospitals have paused abortion procedures to comply with state law.

New York

While New York currently protects abortion rights, federal changes may influence regulations in fertility treatments, IVF, or pre-implantation diagnostics.

Why This Matters Beyond the U.S

Even for Japanese citizens living in the U.S., this issue is relevant. Laws can directly affect personal safety, medical access, and women’s rights. It also highlights how the law can shift national policies based on the ideology of appointed judges, a lesson for all democracies.

Conclusion

The Roe v. Wade reversal is a significant legal and social event in the United States. While it may seem distant to some, understanding this decision is crucial for anyone living in the U.S., studying there, or following global women’s rights movements.

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Cannabis Legalization in New York: What You Need to Know

Estimated reading time: 3 minutes

In New York City, you might notice a new type of subway ad: “Cannabis is for adults 21 and over.”
Yes—cannabis means marijuana. Until recently, I didn’t even know the English term and had to look it up in the dictionary. Judging from the design, I guessed it was about marijuana—and I was right.

Since March 2021, both New Jersey and New York State have legalized cannabis, and now it’s openly advertised—even in the subway. For long-time residents like me, it’s still surprising to see.

The Smell of Cannabis in New York

Walking around New York, especially in the evening, you may notice the scent of marijuana drifting through the air. Personally, I’m sensitive to smoke, so I dislike it as much as cigarettes. But of course, some people enjoy the smell.

Cannabis Is Now Treated Like Alcohol and Cigarette

After 20 years of living in New York, I’ve witnessed a big cultural shift. Cannabis is now regulated like alcohol and tobacco.

• Federal government stance: Still opposed, especially under Republican influence.
• State stance: Laws vary by state. In Democrat-leaning New York, cannabis is legal.

This contradiction—legal on a state level but illegal federally—creates a unique situation.

Public Awareness and Safety Campaigns

Subway ads and billboards don’t just promote cannabis—they also remind people to use it responsibly.

Is legalization about boosting the economy? Or is it a way to reduce crime?
Supporters argue that legalization can:

• Reduce illegal drug trade
• Generate tax revenue
• Normalize safer usage

Rethinking Cannabis: From “Bad” to Understanding

In my generation, cannabis was taught as something purely “bad.” That education created a strong bias. But recent studies show that alcohol may actually cause more harm than cannabis.

Of course, it’s important to approach this topic critically and study verified information before forming conclusions.

Cannabis and the Economy

Like alcohol and tobacco, cannabis is taxed, bringing revenue to the state. Tobacco has especially high taxes due to its health risks. In that sense, New York’s approach seems logical: regulate, tax, and educate.

Side Effects of Cannabis

Cannabis, like alcohol, affects the brain. Studies show it may reduce memory function. Some musicians use it for relaxation, but for people who rely heavily on memory—like myself when memorizing music—it could be harmful.

What About Japanese Residents in New York?

The Japanese Consulate in New York has issued warnings:
Even though cannabis is legal in New York, it remains illegal for Japanese citizens under Japanese law. That means Japanese people should avoid using it, even abroad.

Conclusion

Seeing a subway sign saying “Cannabis is for adults” reminded me how much New York has changed.The key takeaway: it’s important for us to have accurate knowledge about cannabis, free from old prejudices. By understanding both its benefits and risks, we can make more informed decisions.

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