tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20769323350399639642024-03-13T13:17:52.450+09:00キャリー in Japan!Ramblings and updates from Japan.kunobothttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15513489268165917619noreply@blogger.comBlogger20125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2076932335039963964.post-76449782420641037262012-04-13T18:01:00.001+09:002012-04-13T18:01:27.518+09:00Welcome Trip, Version 2.0!<p>Well it’s back to school for me. The vacation is officially over, classes have begun. And what does that mean? Going on a trip with my classmates! Working hard already, you say? Of course not! </p> <p>Our group of 52 lost some students who were only signed up for half the year. But for all that left, we gained another! In order to acclimate the newbies into our group of goof-offs we went on a trip to Beppu. Some of you might recall this from <a href="http://weeshuggy.blogspot.com" target="_blank">Hugh’s blog</a> as we ventured there for a few days of relaxation. </p> <p>And with that said, let’s begin!</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-siGFy7tQwUA/T4fphxvmZGI/AAAAAAAACBA/REprKhm3kaI/s1600-h/IMG_3483%25255B1%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_3483" border="0" alt="IMG_3483" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-dM7ppAgpgr8/T4fpjIHkOUI/AAAAAAAACBE/tu6bvoWxWpg/IMG_3483_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="526" height="404"></a></p> <p>As always, the traditional food shot. The meals this trip seemed much more fantastic than any of the others. Perhaps it is because I’m now more used to Japanese food? Or perhaps because I really don’t eat this way on a normal day (peanut butter and jelly isn’t Japanese food?!) so these big traditional meals were really great to eat again. My favourite was the wasabi mushrooms (far right). OOooOoh delicious!</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-baNAXW25C8s/T4fpkKKQNPI/AAAAAAAACBQ/419IaemT33k/s1600-h/IMG_3491%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_3491" border="0" alt="IMG_3491" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-8Xetye3E2JU/T4fplGvKb2I/AAAAAAAACBY/WaeaUytiNIQ/IMG_3491_thumb%25255B5%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="539" height="430"></a></p> <p>Our first stop was at Usa Shrine. It was a huge area, and apparently one of the biggest and most important shrines around. So much so that is receives financial support from the government. I had a much better description of the situation told to me, which I have now unfortunately forgotten, but it was something along those lines.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-pPEIeEQvmvg/T4fpl-3PmWI/AAAAAAAACBg/f7VJEqYSqRk/s1600-h/IMG_3494%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_3494" border="0" alt="IMG_3494" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-pyQZabuwwfY/T4fpnZArqDI/AAAAAAAACBo/K0j8SAs6gqc/IMG_3494_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="519" height="398"></a></p> <p>Enter, humans….</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-cj5N5cfELfI/T4fpoTPDP-I/AAAAAAAACBw/A1t1MkybM7k/s1600-h/IMG_3495%25255B11%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_3495" border="0" alt="IMG_3495" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-gTT5AaGpC0Q/T4fpphZKtCI/AAAAAAAACB4/UiqptsvcECg/IMG_3495_thumb%25255B11%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="562" height="431"></a></p> <p>These smaller shrine houses are apparently to attract and house various <em>kamisama</em> (gods) around the shrine. The grounds had tons of them scattered all over.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-wIodf12Rk98/T4fpqkqfGMI/AAAAAAAACCA/Iya2-thag3E/s1600-h/IMG_3499%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_3499" border="0" alt="IMG_3499" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-dIF9OSwLMnk/T4fprtyoQrI/AAAAAAAACCI/dncJ7Zq8DTg/IMG_3499_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="541" height="415"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-0JcQyDKlfOY/T4fpsiWh4II/AAAAAAAACCM/3tVPg3uh6vA/s1600-h/IMG_3500%25255B17%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_3500" border="0" alt="IMG_3500" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-aTaJHKWZ-1Y/T4fptv3vUgI/AAAAAAAACCU/rcOo5t_oEUY/IMG_3500_thumb%25255B17%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="542" height="416"></a></p> <p> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-gcfo5OmNx0Q/T4fpus6daPI/AAAAAAAACCg/x3yzu5B1FwI/s1600-h/IMG_3502%25255B1%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_3502" border="0" alt="IMG_3502" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-VvzPoUFygfs/T4fpvqfM1II/AAAAAAAACCo/pe8mhEqFBE8/IMG_3502_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="434" height="566"></a></p> <p>As you’ve seen many times by now, the entrance to the main part of the shrine, complete with water to purify with.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-87RsS9x2HSE/T4fpws3FbdI/AAAAAAAACCw/_-jiX4TPiyc/s1600-h/IMG_3507%25255B10%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_3507" border="0" alt="IMG_3507" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-yrZaHGgq5Y0/T4fpzfXIT2I/AAAAAAAACC4/R4HE-nh6BUc/IMG_3507_thumb%25255B10%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="559" height="429"></a></p> <p>There was moss everywhere! It really made things look eerily beautiful. The photos don’t do it must justice though…</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-wfLVRyRICz0/T4fp0K5bEGI/AAAAAAAACDA/4ivEqp58GW8/s1600-h/IMG_3508%25255B1%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_3508" border="0" alt="IMG_3508" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-ieL0YKbEFvU/T4fp1JUrXiI/AAAAAAAACDI/F-N8ubBwN4w/IMG_3508_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="578" height="443"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-2GV8n8qy9m4/T4fp2AgsT2I/AAAAAAAACDM/Qamf4Qjk9jo/s1600-h/IMG_3511%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_3511" border="0" alt="IMG_3511" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-kx11xOKPF_s/T4fp22MUb6I/AAAAAAAACDY/He0AZkAlU2w/IMG_3511_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="580" height="445"></a></p> <p>This was probably my favourite, and the first one I’ve seen in pink! It even had beautifully contrasting white stones all around it. Fantastic!</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-HP8JLgMDu44/T4fp4V_3DVI/AAAAAAAACDg/Ip33TJwrk_U/s1600-h/IMG_3512%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_3512" border="0" alt="IMG_3512" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Ny2BCOwEACo/T4fp5O8F9II/AAAAAAAACDo/TzpXchXGQ3w/IMG_3512_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="582" height="454"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-SiJfhzqF7fQ/T4fp6xIukjI/AAAAAAAACDw/EJwq5w48_9g/s1600-h/IMG_3514%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_3514" border="0" alt="IMG_3514" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-9oBUkuB_Bbw/T4fp7xnCnWI/AAAAAAAACD4/XxJjlEfohlQ/IMG_3514_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="583" height="451"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-NPIxAkEHIyg/T4fp-Q923pI/AAAAAAAACEA/Yv6XDq6UU_w/s1600-h/IMG_3515%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_3515" border="0" alt="IMG_3515" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-RhSx1LqKE0A/T4fp_WIP0UI/AAAAAAAACEE/YZt5O2DimBE/IMG_3515_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="592" height="454"></a></p> <p> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-v7P7__7j5rk/T4fqAYt1RJI/AAAAAAAACEM/EeV23vA19lI/s1600-h/IMG_3518%25255B13%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_3518" border="0" alt="IMG_3518" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Y4oT0vNMW3E/T4fqBvdO_MI/AAAAAAAACEY/-tHuZ3RkF4c/IMG_3518_thumb%25255B13%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="460" height="600"></a></p> <p>This gianormous tree growing between the buildings was just amazing!</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-F0HlzFa_Bg4/T4fqCyw4moI/AAAAAAAACEg/ESip5Vu1fII/s1600-h/IMG_3519%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_3519" border="0" alt="IMG_3519" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-pN32F6XH5Y0/T4fqDxFcClI/AAAAAAAACEo/SpmIDeltsSQ/IMG_3519_thumb%25255B6%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="613" height="470"></a></p> <p>Although, this one was even more gianormous-er.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-efOd3mDawTo/T4fqFFg1kmI/AAAAAAAACEs/Zo-H--XV6Ac/s1600-h/IMG_3520%25255B1%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_3520" border="0" alt="IMG_3520" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-f7hqMU9rH2o/T4fqGB1qf-I/AAAAAAAACE4/rte-_o1ViIw/IMG_3520_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="605" height="464"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-WECVhDM6jZs/T4fqG2uajaI/AAAAAAAACFA/w53Yw-Thwwk/s1600-h/IMG_3522%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_3522" border="0" alt="IMG_3522" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-_fXeHRRzRIU/T4fqItPb-vI/AAAAAAAACFI/ZP4b0ogoEyQ/IMG_3522_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="608" height="466"></a></p> <p>Luckily I was able to only walk down, and not up, these stairs!</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-j2W6UwCL2h8/T4fqJm_2NTI/AAAAAAAACFM/kfUGJJ7i9Pc/s1600-h/IMG_3527%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_3527" border="0" alt="IMG_3527" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-uEUzsnP1qwQ/T4fqK_ad1HI/AAAAAAAACFY/-WmKuqlXb_U/IMG_3527_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="591" height="453"></a></p> <p>Too cute. But would you expect any less from Japan? Of course not!</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-OBRIoIrgr10/T4fqL6zaUMI/AAAAAAAACFc/tNJLsnk6kXw/s1600-h/IMG_3537%25255B1%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_3537" border="0" alt="IMG_3537" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Tbc3NmtCHCI/T4fqM6I6-vI/AAAAAAAACFo/s3LYoRVHoTg/IMG_3537_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="615" height="472"></a></p> <p>Our next stop was in Beppu, where we visited the Beppu Jigoku (Hells) which are very famous hot springs that come in various temperatures and compositions. We were only able to visit one, and my group chose Umi Jigoku (Sea Hell) which is apparently the most beautiful hell. Who ever told you hell couldn’t be beautiful? </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-tmuyPU9QpTY/T4fqN-twEqI/AAAAAAAACFs/Fi9Rgjb0Elg/s1600-h/IMG_3540%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_3540" border="0" alt="IMG_3540" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Gb0ULSanI-0/T4fqO73yHOI/AAAAAAAACF4/N5FIT5KlwqI/IMG_3540_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="611" height="469"></a></p> <p>Off to a good start…</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-5b6jvfaYiOU/T4fqPwgZ4TI/AAAAAAAACGA/q8PMQRJYJJM/s1600-h/IMG_3543%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_3543" border="0" alt="IMG_3543" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-_ZUPhoRXWRs/T4fqQ4_3ksI/AAAAAAAACGI/I1A7ITI09UI/IMG_3543_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="616" height="476"></a></p> <p>This was a lovely sulphur hot spring, and boy did it smell fantastic! Boiled eggs, anyone? </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-6Zs9T0f6i4k/T4fqRhFIZuI/AAAAAAAACGM/PoXCdpXqf6E/s1600-h/IMG_3546%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_3546" border="0" alt="IMG_3546" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-tZIhemrUogA/T4fqS-HqMCI/AAAAAAAACGY/P-xbMwof2os/IMG_3546_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="594" height="456"></a></p> <p> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-k9sGj9KQE4Q/T4fqTgoEwQI/AAAAAAAACGg/RJl6D3pgNcA/s1600-h/IMG_3549%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_3549" border="0" alt="IMG_3549" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-RPTc2W-lXOw/T4fqUsU_j7I/AAAAAAAACGo/kTduQcsouHs/IMG_3549_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="597"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-W0aFrz9nrZs/T4fqWfTFnvI/AAAAAAAACGw/UKy6D7_zvv0/s1600-h/IMG_3553%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_3553" border="0" alt="IMG_3553" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-aCa513AwBl4/T4fqXG_R7-I/AAAAAAAACG4/A_nyRO6N4ZM/IMG_3553_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="601" height="461"></a></p> <p> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-P7I7jDCrTis/T4fqYRwT-GI/AAAAAAAACHA/grf9oVKqe1o/s1600-h/IMG_3554%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_3554" border="0" alt="IMG_3554" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-fBt1weTC2OA/T4fqZKVctNI/AAAAAAAACHI/EJhSxDkMr0k/IMG_3554_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="474" height="618"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-BpeGiYe6Ukk/T4fqaTjeFqI/AAAAAAAACHQ/tEqQ7824qPg/s1600-h/IMG_3556%25255B1%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_3556" border="0" alt="IMG_3556" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-cb0yzmTN_xI/T4fqbrs6ZKI/AAAAAAAACHY/i4scAa936Pw/IMG_3556_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="582" height="447"></a></p> <p>I don’t think I need to explain anything about this greenhouse. Pretty clear, no?</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-nqUdoNM_ZDQ/T4fqcrfXY9I/AAAAAAAACHg/SBWdZcZzr1I/s1600-h/IMG_3557%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_3557" border="0" alt="IMG_3557" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Cp7gfBZaTRk/T4fqdqlTnyI/AAAAAAAACHo/dWn5GLCgW5s/IMG_3557_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="580" height="445"></a></p> <p>It was really lovely inside. And luckily the sulphur smell was hardly there. Phew.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-I3AlsSS49T4/T4fqesbrSwI/AAAAAAAACHw/Nl83j2rACIY/s1600-h/IMG_3561%25255B1%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_3561" border="0" alt="IMG_3561" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/--t7HViKtd0Q/T4fqfcJzDRI/AAAAAAAACH4/4boJBUjaSXA/IMG_3561_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="631" height="484"></a></p> <p> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Ie1sVXZ7ANw/T4fqgh8TdkI/AAAAAAAACIA/qjs5vUj8p7o/s1600-h/IMG_3565%25255B1%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_3565" border="0" alt="IMG_3565" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-UP4ZXMsxiAc/T4fqhqgppCI/AAAAAAAACII/K6aX86ZJY4E/IMG_3565_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="480" height="626"></a></p> <p> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-orfrJw_stXA/T4fqi-bpBTI/AAAAAAAACIQ/YqZ9dX3WpxQ/s1600-h/IMG_3569%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_3569" border="0" alt="IMG_3569" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-_MFaBqXKfQc/T4fqjtas2II/AAAAAAAACIU/Wy5PX23a3FM/IMG_3569_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="479" height="619"></a></p> <p>Hell emitting gas use greenhouse banana, anyone?</p> <p> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-8J7_YW_Vz5w/T4fqkrIvLcI/AAAAAAAACIg/7yLaRLxcTrs/s1600-h/IMG_3572%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_3572" border="0" alt="IMG_3572" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-uxXTibYMJnM/T4fqmbmw-kI/AAAAAAAACIo/7hlR3ulvTuM/IMG_3572_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="483" height="624"></a> </p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-caXboEMOp7M/T4fqnbBSKeI/AAAAAAAACIw/9wnAqqV7onU/s1600-h/IMG_3575%25255B1%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_3575" border="0" alt="IMG_3575" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-rWD8G1rUBfU/T4fqoNCl8fI/AAAAAAAACI4/j8PTRwVj1RY/IMG_3575_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="496" height="647"></a></p> <p> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-QyYuX30wo0M/T4fqpEkntVI/AAAAAAAACJA/0V7Lxz0mtzg/s1600-h/IMG_3573%25255B1%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_3573" border="0" alt="IMG_3573" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-CGO5BR_wbSU/T4fqqmVBZQI/AAAAAAAACJI/77jJLcYZqCo/IMG_3573_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="452" height="589"></a></p> <p>These were the biggest orchids I’ve ever seen. Unfortunately I wasn’t smart enough at the time to put in something to show scale…but trust me, the petals were massive! Two or three times the normal size. </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-sTJHO5oBWfY/T4fqrmwDmjI/AAAAAAAACJQ/ofhcwJRDl7Y/s1600-h/IMG_3577%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_3577" border="0" alt="IMG_3577" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-jPwISWbumQU/T4fqs8Ymd0I/AAAAAAAACJY/VraHNhFBftE/IMG_3577_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="635" height="491"></a></p> <p>And here it is, in all its blue glory. Umi Jigoku. </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-eqchSafTQrY/T4fqt-hhk-I/AAAAAAAACJg/fuMtQoGZqtE/s1600-h/IMG_3578%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_3578" border="0" alt="IMG_3578" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-tnM9ojb7bU8/T4fquzKv0WI/AAAAAAAACJo/DbL6kZbGjXk/IMG_3578_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="632" height="488"></a></p> <p>As you can see, they boil eggs in the water and then sell them. Apparently you gain 4 or 5 year upon eating an egg? I decided to eat only one, as anything else that looked, smelled, or tasted like a boiled egg at this point might have made me pass out.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-a6MmdopVVbo/T4fqv1jjQgI/AAAAAAAACJw/Mxg5_BNBAco/s1600-h/Team%252520Egg%2525202012%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Team Egg 2012" border="0" alt="Team Egg 2012" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-KkAMTlnE-10/T4fqwxr4EBI/AAAAAAAACJ4/WshzCfN3V_s/Team%252520Egg%2525202012_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="628" height="486"></a></p> <p>The eggs came in bags of five so we had to recruit some fellow students to join in the eating splendour.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-TL26JHqJ1yw/T4fqyCYLQmI/AAAAAAAACJ8/O_1eQMXw6vU/s1600-h/IMG_3590%25255B1%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_3590" border="0" alt="IMG_3590" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-ZLCqlzhWzM4/T4fqzLajaXI/AAAAAAAACKI/T2JZ32X-AiQ/IMG_3590_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="588" height="451"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Ah4Y7VbGRq8/T4fq1aRv5aI/AAAAAAAACKQ/F_0WY28tPcg/s1600-h/IMG_3593%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_3593" border="0" alt="IMG_3593" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-wgg29o1IB6w/T4fq2Z6y9eI/AAAAAAAACKU/X1pFgQdUACA/IMG_3593_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="587" height="450"></a></p> <p>Finally after taking in as much hell and egg as possible, we headed to our hotel for the night.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-8Mvz3NHxOYI/T4fq3ZUPZhI/AAAAAAAACKc/11WSJdjO3Oo/s1600-h/IMG_3614%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_3614" border="0" alt="IMG_3614" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-MhFk1-LwJM4/T4fq5jjwmsI/AAAAAAAACKo/9gkO7piHz_A/IMG_3614_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="597" height="458"></a></p> <p>This is a photo of our <em>ryokan</em> (Japanese style) hotel, which was right on the beach. And it also had a rooftop <em>onsen</em> (hot spring bath). Talk about fancy pants! A few of us attempted a sunrise <em>onsen</em> at 6am, but unfortunately we missed sunrise by about 20 minutes and couldn’t actually see the beach from the roof. Oh well, it was…uh… an early morning. Hah.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-vZ02iCDYqkE/T4fq6vA7thI/AAAAAAAACKw/-eKx8icnqpU/s1600-h/IMG_3616%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_3616" border="0" alt="IMG_3616" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-6QznTzBc9Ps/T4fq77VR3mI/AAAAAAAACK4/z-eCgOZYaUM/IMG_3616_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="590" height="457"></a></p> <p>Just a shot of nearby mountains, from the beach out front of the hotel.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-wjB_FdWxquk/T4fq8wuZQlI/AAAAAAAACLA/HkQudXspKxQ/s1600-h/IMG_3618%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_3618" border="0" alt="IMG_3618" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-mtGK83ZcQFs/T4fq-F3N2iI/AAAAAAAACLI/KjVZEbJY_XY/IMG_3618_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="578" height="443"></a></p> <p>Dinner was alright, but they did serve these three small pieces of corned beef, or something related to that? Nothing to write home about. Oh wait…didn’t I just..? </p> <p>The next day we stayed in Beppu and visited the Monkey Park (also in Hugh’s blog) and the aquarium. The monkeys were still cute, but the highlight for me was the aquarium. Because as if I’m not nerdy about enough things in life, I loooooooove a good aquarium. And boy was it ever! Depressing, yes, but still good. All you aquarium haters our there just shush it for the next few minutes, or go somewhere else on the Internet, because I’m about to enjoy some awesome fishies and you can’t stop me.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-8uAcOnopWsU/T4fq_CSpEEI/AAAAAAAACLQ/PYSAXos6il0/s1600-h/IMG_3619%25255B1%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_3619" border="0" alt="IMG_3619" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-PHbQANrqAVE/T4fq_wYNe9I/AAAAAAAACLY/_pETNmJyqME/IMG_3619_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="584" height="448"></a></p> <p>This little guy was telling us which way to find monkeys. We listened, and were glad we did. Although I wasn’t quite sure if he is supposed to look like he’s got some sort of head gear on? Super Monkey, or poorly sculpted? You be the judge.</p> <p>I will spare you from ten million pictures of cute monkeys. Although if you really want to see more, yet again I advise you to visit Hugh’s blog. I think he has some cute monkey videos kickin’ around too. Instead, here are just a few of my favourites.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-7u0TP02sxms/T4frBMQ-QmI/AAAAAAAACLg/0mqTQmfkWeY/s1600-h/IMG_3623%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_3623" border="0" alt="IMG_3623" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-sK64OpaQYLE/T4frB5KnyAI/AAAAAAAACLo/Yh8VFIRf-JM/IMG_3623_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="610" height="468"></a></p> <p> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Q0Vrr3ghv9E/T4frDRqe6DI/AAAAAAAACLw/d8_YEZ8OwcM/s1600-h/IMG_3626%25255B9%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_3626" border="0" alt="IMG_3626" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-O7kyKdTLj10/T4frEttf7lI/AAAAAAAACL0/J1I_BKM0lvU/IMG_3626_thumb%25255B9%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="446" height="576"></a></p> <p> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-hPKLle7uAmo/T4frFlAd9PI/AAAAAAAACL8/dIRqTvfc_jY/s1600-h/IMG_3629%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_3629" border="0" alt="IMG_3629" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-TQFIxo5i_DA/T4frGtljfuI/AAAAAAAACME/Nlyys-J6_b4/IMG_3629_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="448" height="584"></a></p> <p>And now it’s aquarium time! (Leave now or be silent.) </p> <p>I can’t remember what these were called, but boy were they weird! They were these little tiny snake-looking guys that just went up and down, and up and down, and up and down. Boring? Of course not! Cute? Sort of! Creepy? Definitely!</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-dEQ-TiMrQv0/T4frHmkN1kI/AAAAAAAACMQ/iOQ5gore1kA/s1600-h/IMG_3636%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_3636" border="0" alt="IMG_3636" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-lgvCu3DpDkc/T4frJKlxBUI/AAAAAAAACMY/-9GgbOqjvaU/IMG_3636_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="579" height="444"></a></p> <p>I actually didn’t take that many photos in the aquarium, as I was too busy buzzing around like a six year old. Oops.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-89YwZf4Xe98/T4frKVW9ktI/AAAAAAAACMg/LD9mzZBmJEw/s1600-h/IMG_3649%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_3649" border="0" alt="IMG_3649" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-2VP3m-xeg4k/T4frLbhcDaI/AAAAAAAACMo/COb8aOj-4DI/IMG_3649_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="591" height="453"></a></p> <p>Somebody wants to say hello….</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-nyYQ-TzqbTg/T4frMZUktSI/AAAAAAAACMw/pWnWmumuCFY/s1600-h/IMG_3651%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_3651" border="0" alt="IMG_3651" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-au7kUGrlYjw/T4frNH30ksI/AAAAAAAACM0/Pe94l2k1hVg/IMG_3651_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="600" height="460"></a></p> <p>OH HAI. And now I bite your face off with my vicious teeth!! CHOMP.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Kdb4KzL-ckI/T4frOWr7lUI/AAAAAAAACNA/QOQdSXDRgFg/s1600-h/IMG_3665%25255B1%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_3665" border="0" alt="IMG_3665" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-WAX8uNf6bOc/T4frPvjG3xI/AAAAAAAACNI/T1VZjHHgmO8/IMG_3665_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="610" height="468"></a></p> <p>Herro. :3</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-9W0KVrhkETY/T4frRUeU-6I/AAAAAAAACNQ/RYEQw7BPxwc/s1600-h/IMG_3670%25255B1%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_3670" border="0" alt="IMG_3670" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-bHwAAuaamQ8/T4frSaTzpRI/AAAAAAAACNY/P8vAgL_ol-U/IMG_3670_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="613" height="470"></a></p> <p>We received a lot of hellos. A lot of really cute hellos.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-_x0hqiZJqv8/T4frWdjzDaI/AAAAAAAACNg/LY3Wsb7DzDc/s1600-h/IMG_3673%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_3673" border="0" alt="IMG_3673" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-05Xn0-LbeCI/T4frXXxoOEI/AAAAAAAACNo/_1I6OHZDElA/IMG_3673_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="617" height="473"></a></p> <p> And some not so cute…</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-2-YgvZg8YfI/T4frYYjmFnI/AAAAAAAACNs/bHfIoy_VoWw/s1600-h/IMG_3678%25255B1%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_3678" border="0" alt="IMG_3678" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-MhfY_H7W5TA/T4frZJnAV1I/AAAAAAAACN4/haOqqTakamw/IMG_3678_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="614" height="471"></a></p> <p>Well, that’s it. The animal misery is over, yes. I managed to refrain from purchasing one of the many stuffed cutesy animal things from the gift shop. I feel like I’ve accumulated such a gross number of stuffed “cute” things since I’ve lived here. I now have so many more than I ever did as a child, that I just couldn’t do it. It actually was hard not to buy something cute though, sadly.</p> <p>This past weekend we celebrated the wonderful season of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hanami" target="_blank">Hanami</a>. For those who many not know, this involves having outdoor picnic/drinking parties while sitting under and “viewing” the <em>sakura</em> (cherry blossom) trees. It ended up being a two-day affair, and did not disappoint thanks to some fantastic friends! Hopefully I’ll have those photos up sooner than later, but again, no promises. Luckily today was rainy and cold out, hence my motivation to finally post these. </p> <p>As always, I hope everyone is staying happy and healthy, and is only getting in just the right amount of trouble. Save the big trouble for when I’m back, okay?</p> <p>So long, folks!</p> <p>xoxoxo</p> kunobothttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15513489268165917619noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2076932335039963964.post-13524132885579634402012-03-23T23:43:00.002+09:002012-03-24T01:06:02.544+09:00Video Time!<p>Hello strangers! Or lovers and others strangers…(sorry only those living in Kitchener-Waterloo in the 90s will catch that one)</p> <p>A short but delicious entry for you. For those who may not have seen, Hugh blogged about his three weeks visiting me, and I figured instead of doing some double-blogging I would be a lazy person (surprise, surprise, right?) and just let him do all the work and link you on over to his page! Here goes! PS: his blog is WAY better than mine, sorry I can’t be so awesome.</p> <p><a href="http://weeshuggy.blogspot.com" target="_blank">Hugh's Superfantastical Awesome Bloggy Blog</a></p> <p>In other news, I posted a video to YouTube. Nothing new, you say? Well this time I decided to eat up some of this exhausting spring vacation time and add fancy captions and editing. And by fancy I mean terrible. Not really YouTube worthy I’m sure, but what video is? It’s my first go at it, so be gentle with your feedback. Or don’t. Whatever makes you happy. Either way, just watch!</p> <div style="padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: none; padding-top: 0px" id="scid:5737277B-5D6D-4f48-ABFC-DD9C333F4C5D:49b5b49d-41bc-4b06-9104-a4e1c9acef4f" class="wlWriterEditableSmartContent"><div id="b351b0f1-f0cc-4867-aed1-cc12603f7b6f" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; display: inline;"><div><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GUyNTlL1JSc" target="_new"><img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-U5cVMtxmdD8/T2yfaBD_oHI/AAAAAAAAB9Q/Cnkx-P21Vls/video4b1ff5f66bdf%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-style: none" galleryimg="no" onload="var downlevelDiv = document.getElementById('b351b0f1-f0cc-4867-aed1-cc12603f7b6f'); downlevelDiv.innerHTML = "<div><object width=\"514\" height=\"430\"><param name=\"movie\" value=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/GUyNTlL1JSc&hl=en\"><\/param><embed src=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/GUyNTlL1JSc&hl=en\" type=\"application/x-shockwave-flash\" width=\"514\" height=\"430\"><\/embed><\/object><\/div>";" alt=""></a></div></div></div> <p>Taadaaa!</p> <p>In other news, school starts in a week. We are going on another overnight trip to Beppu (you can read all about the wondrous town of Beppu in Hugh’s blog) to enjoy monkeys and <em>onsen</em> (hot springs). Our school trips start up again soonish so hopefully that means I will have more exciting things to write about. If not, well, maybe I’ll just start stealing other people’s photos from the Internet and making up wild stories about what an exciting adventure I’m having. </p> <p>As always, I hope everyone at home is doing well. Lots of love and virtual hugs to all of you!</p> <p>Until next time…</p> <p>xoxoxo</p> kunobothttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15513489268165917619noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2076932335039963964.post-50397942565586273552012-02-07T19:06:00.001+09:002012-02-07T19:06:31.370+09:00Holy Shamoly!<p>Well, it certainly has been a while hasn’t it. You know…I’ve been busy, lazy, whatever you want to call it. Excuses aside, hello! Long time no see, I’ve missed you! </p> <p>I sit here wondering where on earth to start catching up on what’s been going on. SO MUCH. Well, so much, and so little. School, school, some more school, a bit of holiday new years-y fun, and a little more school. Alas, classes are over, and only one last paper to write, so what better way to avoid paper writing than to update my blog?! Ahoy!</p> <p>To get everyone in the mood for fun, I will start you off with a little something I like to call “cute doggy: ready for school”…</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-JlVYy-kyqXc/TzD2uGANL-I/AAAAAAAABx8/teeNhgdia_s/s1600-h/Photo-0152%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Photo-0152" border="0" alt="Photo-0152" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-n20kpUE-YCY/TzD2u_NhPwI/AAAAAAAAByA/vbxKG0YUTF0/Photo-0152_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="456" height="594"></a> </p> <p>This little guy was just TOO excited to get on his way to school, even had his backpack and everything ready to go. Doesn’t it just make you sick? Whether for cute-factor or not, I bet it does.</p> <p>Moving on to less adorable things, how was your New Years? I thought it was about time to ask seeing as the first week of February is now gone. Mine was just great. Was able to spend some time doing traditional Japanese things, including eating interesting foods and watching Kouhaku! On that note, let’s begin the photo spree!</p> <p>(The order of these photos will be off, sorry!)</p> <p>Here we have the traditional Japanese new years foods. It included a lot of seafood, and meats, some beans and mixed salads, and a tiny couple squares of dessert crepe. There were so many meanings of all these things that I have unfortunately now forgotten, my apologies! We ate this as “brunch” on New Year’s day.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-t73-_dTH-7w/TzD2vtfPt9I/AAAAAAAAByM/S7Ud8lOaXRY/s1600-h/New%252520Years%2525202011%252520143%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="New Years 2011 143" border="0" alt="New Years 2011 143" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-MOzNPk8wrIQ/TzD2wd2-BaI/AAAAAAAAByU/imyf64-3IcI/New%252520Years%2525202011%252520143_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="468" height="604"></a></p> <p>That yellow guy on the right is half a lobster!</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-r_EzUU-H0tY/TzD2xq2UgYI/AAAAAAAAByY/cInwFagO1Zo/s1600-h/New%252520Years%2525202011%252520145%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="New Years 2011 145" border="0" alt="New Years 2011 145" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-yQ-BwpCQbh8/TzD2yJ3tVVI/AAAAAAAAByg/EgyHu-P00Uw/New%252520Years%2525202011%252520145_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="614" height="471"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-PHPbU3K9n9M/TzD2y-llxVI/AAAAAAAABys/a-WZvfHVtQk/s1600-h/New%252520Years%2525202011%252520146%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="New Years 2011 146" border="0" alt="New Years 2011 146" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-IxLklVxkU6U/TzD20AzgZVI/AAAAAAAABy0/LFCLByVGbJ4/New%252520Years%2525202011%252520146_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="621" height="483"></a></p> <p>This was holding the sake that we drank. The tiered plate-looking things on the left are used to drink it from. </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-ji0Aqvm63bw/TzD20sbLNyI/AAAAAAAABy4/Pt5uehHxZvY/s1600-h/New%252520Years%2525202011%252520148%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="New Years 2011 148" border="0" alt="New Years 2011 148" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-0QM-IxKIFOo/TzD21akPUwI/AAAAAAAABzE/uVks9EwN4TU/New%252520Years%2525202011%252520148_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="582" height="447"></a></p> <p>This was also part of brunch.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-BOxwdnrTRkU/TzD22RiG0BI/AAAAAAAABzI/yQBFNCIuAp4/s1600-h/New%252520Years%2525202011%252520147%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="New Years 2011 147" border="0" alt="New Years 2011 147" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-6qHFX5azuSw/TzD220jAy-I/AAAAAAAABzM/Io-9c62_Wr8/New%252520Years%2525202011%252520147_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="583" height="447"></a></p> <p>I went to a gorgeous old <em>soba</em> noodle restaurant and had a fantastic lunch on New Year’s eve. It is tradition to eat <em>soba</em> (buckwheat) noodles for New Years.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-4-xxl2MlUeM/TzD23iB33kI/AAAAAAAABzY/AaAaNQwgNeM/s1600-h/New%252520Years%2525202011%252520012%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="New Years 2011 012" border="0" alt="New Years 2011 012" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-HSe1jDFE-AE/TzD25QdwUiI/AAAAAAAABzg/Tu94Q-UAuJc/New%252520Years%2525202011%252520012_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="591" height="453"></a></p> <p>(I didn’t eat the flower…dawwwww.)</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-2kk_GjebdtM/TzD26P9sTvI/AAAAAAAABzo/6lvAc7rquvc/s1600-h/New%252520Years%2525202011%252520014%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="New Years 2011 014" border="0" alt="New Years 2011 014" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-OWJ0-9_m3xM/TzD260yuteI/AAAAAAAABzs/wlNw9MgRboY/New%252520Years%2525202011%252520014_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="583" height="447"></a></p> <p>And now for some other photos from New Years related things…</p> <p>My host family’s beautiful home. It’s all wood interior and exterior. Gorgeous!!</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-yJwrcNi5LwY/TzD27sCleNI/AAAAAAAABz0/pSePBoCBHG4/s1600-h/New%252520Years%2525202011%252520153%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="New Years 2011 153" border="0" alt="New Years 2011 153" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Awji5QASLog/TzD28ZvjsBI/AAAAAAAAB0A/GtRGJfubPD0/New%252520Years%2525202011%252520153_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="610" height="468"></a></p> <p>This is the second floor. Open concept style.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-pdUF7B0m34c/TzD29uHcGsI/AAAAAAAAB0I/d52t0680l00/s1600-h/New%252520Years%2525202011%252520032%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="New Years 2011 032" border="0" alt="New Years 2011 032" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-gH_JUM6XEnM/TzD2-e9tq9I/AAAAAAAAB0Q/2bO-7sxsTyc/New%252520Years%2525202011%252520032_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="585" height="453"></a></p> <p>My room. Yes, I slept on that *wonderful* futon on the floor. And by slept I mean didn’t sleep. Oi. The big part on top is the comforter….</p> <p> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-fS_psMxrAyE/TzD2_LzFjOI/AAAAAAAAB0Y/ASiZwCfNUYg/s1600-h/New%252520Years%2525202011%252520031%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="New Years 2011 031" border="0" alt="New Years 2011 031" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-ShnBHh7W1Yw/TzD3AfCf-TI/AAAAAAAAB0g/MV8utNEzHkM/New%252520Years%2525202011%252520031_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="440" height="574"></a></p> <p> Living room fireplace…</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-3l9KzuejOZ4/TzD3BH2wJTI/AAAAAAAAB0o/xaiFTN02YIk/s1600-h/New%252520Years%2525202011%252520024%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="New Years 2011 024" border="0" alt="New Years 2011 024" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-xaxbsSGI0cc/TzD3CDVk2sI/AAAAAAAAB0s/XVbLoI7SWnE/New%252520Years%2525202011%252520024_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="581" height="446"></a></p> <p> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-1cfjYHcrq_c/TzD3C_OJvbI/AAAAAAAAB04/YXCZx76hoI4/s1600-h/New%252520Years%2525202011%252520023%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="New Years 2011 023" border="0" alt="New Years 2011 023" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-jprsSIwb8JE/TzD3DZXkHsI/AAAAAAAAB1A/oxkXJ1Hk1wQ/New%252520Years%2525202011%252520023_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="496" height="646"></a></p> <p> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-opiPehXDJIQ/TzD3Ev0TLgI/AAAAAAAAB1I/ciVZippvgrE/s1600-h/New%252520Years%2525202011%252520021%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="New Years 2011 021" border="0" alt="New Years 2011 021" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Hf0WWny8xWY/TzD3FhkA37I/AAAAAAAAB1Q/GLaYJeHbGTA/New%252520Years%2525202011%252520021_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="455" height="593"></a></p> <p>And now for some great shots from the Kouhaku show that was on from about 7pm until 11:30pm on New Year’s eve. It was quite entertaining!</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Dkc3XRDRi5g/TzD3GZq_3yI/AAAAAAAAB1Y/b4yKqK6G2w0/s1600-h/New%252520Years%2525202011%252520111%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="New Years 2011 111" border="0" alt="New Years 2011 111" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Vzsj3S4iB0M/TzD3HpekdzI/AAAAAAAAB1k/ZavM9m47ZFw/New%252520Years%2525202011%252520111_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="533" height="409"></a></p> <p>These fellas were on first, and boy were they snazzy!</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-QHDZEVGQlsI/TzD3IS2Fy8I/AAAAAAAAB1o/G_nI3bkiazg/s1600-h/New%252520Years%2525202011%252520038%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="New Years 2011 038" border="0" alt="New Years 2011 038" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-XF0rNllN7YI/TzD3JCaVJ7I/AAAAAAAAB1w/2Fpmz0ngrYc/New%252520Years%2525202011%252520038_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="614" height="475"></a></p> <p> 100% snazzy!</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-cxcWcRBpL-k/TzD3KIXjB0I/AAAAAAAAB18/pCGa-j6_SIM/s1600-h/New%252520Years%2525202011%252520041%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="New Years 2011 041" border="0" alt="New Years 2011 041" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-6YbD82tGseI/TzD3K8LqIJI/AAAAAAAAB2A/SiLmtXYM0bQ/New%252520Years%2525202011%252520041_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="604" height="463"></a></p> <p>The hosts, including the big superstar boys from Arashi.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-nULOzN1ZY7s/TzD3LneEumI/AAAAAAAAB2M/J0AQReKbJ0I/s1600-h/New%252520Years%2525202011%252520042%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="New Years 2011 042" border="0" alt="New Years 2011 042" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-l2sC5pLM-gU/TzD3NApoccI/AAAAAAAAB2U/YeuLpRiREoM/New%252520Years%2525202011%252520042_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="579" height="444"></a></p> <p> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-DWK4OjiVOLI/TzD3Np3a6uI/AAAAAAAAB2c/kmIJdrc_8Rc/s1600-h/New%252520Years%2525202011%252520058%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="New Years 2011 058" border="0" alt="New Years 2011 058" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-VQQidzsqp7g/TzD3Ot4eTQI/AAAAAAAAB2g/yG1Z8XT67J0/New%252520Years%2525202011%252520058_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="593" height="455"></a></p> <p>Nice name….</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-_WAV-4lQRxM/TzD3PSuKFDI/AAAAAAAAB2s/o4Kq4OYfqGE/s1600-h/New%252520Years%2525202011%252520078%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="New Years 2011 078" border="0" alt="New Years 2011 078" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-9h-Y4F1tnio/TzD3QIw7IvI/AAAAAAAAB2w/qpudWphGx_8/New%252520Years%2525202011%252520078_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="592" height="454"></a></p> <p>But even better were the backup dancers. Wahoo!</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-raz1tcMKgEg/TzD3Qo_inOI/AAAAAAAAB28/Ajfz8QTcvx0/s1600-h/New%252520Years%2525202011%252520073%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="New Years 2011 073" border="0" alt="New Years 2011 073" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-wuPvfOTRsXs/TzD3RjYuDfI/AAAAAAAAB3A/i8T0NfjetRw/New%252520Years%2525202011%252520073_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="596" height="457"></a></p> <p> Ooh, the first of many costume changes for Arashi!</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-RNwlXCnJyK4/TzD3SaHo2JI/AAAAAAAAB3M/DZyyBHoW3P4/s1600-h/New%252520Years%2525202011%252520083%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="New Years 2011 083" border="0" alt="New Years 2011 083" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Mbnu0f4kOqg/TzD3TYPgrwI/AAAAAAAAB3U/xTpG8aFFvc4/New%252520Years%2525202011%252520083_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="640" height="491"></a></p> <p>I was happy to see a lot of traditional music mixed with all the current stuff.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-wzI4sepMkrU/TzD3UMFHumI/AAAAAAAAB3c/l_saAD1DtQQ/s1600-h/New%252520Years%2525202011%252520094%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="New Years 2011 094" border="0" alt="New Years 2011 094" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Rplh6isNHNA/TzD3VATd1sI/AAAAAAAAB3g/UjzmIXvQqMg/New%252520Years%2525202011%252520094_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="622" height="477"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-ru1Txs7msCE/TzD3V_x3T2I/AAAAAAAAB3o/iu4geRAOOLI/s1600-h/New%252520Years%2525202011%252520101%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="New Years 2011 101" border="0" alt="New Years 2011 101" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-3iQL0C9To5E/TzD3WQ0cgwI/AAAAAAAAB3w/M1NZyQ1NLvo/New%252520Years%2525202011%252520101_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="626" height="480"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-txwqaIRIaU4/TzD3XLCWqPI/AAAAAAAAB34/tYTVu0T-Iis/s1600-h/New%252520Years%2525202011%252520103%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="New Years 2011 103" border="0" alt="New Years 2011 103" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-tFFsqXLFj4I/TzD3X1QTe1I/AAAAAAAAB4A/NywS_9qQaXc/New%252520Years%2525202011%252520103_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="626" height="480"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-RRFvnitZQ8Q/TzD3YiOhr_I/AAAAAAAAB4I/JYPfRm1-L_Q/s1600-h/New%252520Years%2525202011%252520105%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="New Years 2011 105" border="0" alt="New Years 2011 105" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-6V6hGi8UDeQ/TzD3Zd-u61I/AAAAAAAAB4M/vbxjqR-D6zM/New%252520Years%2525202011%252520105_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="640" height="491"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-HmhCY622VMI/TzD3Z0wgqGI/AAAAAAAAB4Y/_moZY1sD-Dw/s1600-h/New%252520Years%2525202011%252520106%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="New Years 2011 106" border="0" alt="New Years 2011 106" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-A4J_vZewrW8/TzD3akrfnzI/AAAAAAAAB4k/SdrhEfQa34E/New%252520Years%2525202011%252520106_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="605" height="464"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-_TNUtyZQ8S4/TzD3byOrfhI/AAAAAAAAB4o/XuLmLPTC_tk/s1600-h/New%252520Years%2525202011%252520113%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="New Years 2011 113" border="0" alt="New Years 2011 113" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-11c0vD1USbQ/TzD3cgzwy2I/AAAAAAAAB40/rSOB3s41VKc/New%252520Years%2525202011%252520113_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="605" height="464"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-JYGSx9amdtI/TzD3dZ9VX8I/AAAAAAAAB44/oyR-bNYRRUA/s1600-h/New%252520Years%2525202011%252520115%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="New Years 2011 115" border="0" alt="New Years 2011 115" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-2q_26uU720c/TzD3eERb_5I/AAAAAAAAB5A/_9FjZPEJh7k/New%252520Years%2525202011%252520115_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="691" height="530"></a></p> <p>This was a neat stage setup!</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-oTDEnJzm0wM/TzD3ewwaC5I/AAAAAAAAB5I/6X4TFAALJB4/s1600-h/New%252520Years%2525202011%252520123%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="New Years 2011 123" border="0" alt="New Years 2011 123" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-zQFnx7XwJtY/TzD3fmmvAOI/AAAAAAAAB5U/NKMDXQIZAGw/New%252520Years%2525202011%252520123_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="674" height="517"></a></p> <p>I can’t remember which costume change this was…three, four?</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-4U0802k2ads/TzD3gjMbKsI/AAAAAAAAB5c/1UVoVwi4Gc0/s1600-h/New%252520Years%2525202011%252520125%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="New Years 2011 125" border="0" alt="New Years 2011 125" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-JqIpCHijHcI/TzD3hiYlK_I/AAAAAAAAB5g/Cd9g3C1H7cA/New%252520Years%2525202011%252520125_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="646" height="496"></a></p> <p>When Arashi performed they used this piano which was recovered from the tsunami area. The one side had an enormous scratch on it. Sorry, not pictured here.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-s2WZlarBDZE/TzD3if3dT3I/AAAAAAAAB5s/aP4QvK4j6ik/s1600-h/New%252520Years%2525202011%252520126%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="New Years 2011 126" border="0" alt="New Years 2011 126" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-kTC_4_KBxAA/TzD3i4CRC-I/AAAAAAAAB50/iBQdHhOgX3s/New%252520Years%2525202011%252520126_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="624" height="479"></a></p> <p>I was told that this performer always had really extravagant outfits for this Kouhaku show. She certainly didn’t disappoint this year!</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-DJaYYHXug-k/TzD3j3sMK4I/AAAAAAAAB54/5J1H_E4OQus/s1600-h/New%252520Years%2525202011%252520137%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="New Years 2011 137" border="0" alt="New Years 2011 137" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-cKpdb48eWQ8/TzD3kt5vd7I/AAAAAAAAB6E/YH1P68OW3Bc/New%252520Years%2525202011%252520137_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="657" height="504"></a></p> <p> Holy jeez…</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-NUI6-2XG4m0/TzD3lc34d7I/AAAAAAAAB6I/Z5nUY1H50Fo/s1600-h/New%252520Years%2525202011%252520138%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="New Years 2011 138" border="0" alt="New Years 2011 138" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-3ppw34v6anA/TzD3mPAouKI/AAAAAAAAB6U/CluULcx7M6g/New%252520Years%2525202011%252520138_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="682" height="523"></a></p> <p> And her sweet ride…</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-JjlwiwdR4f4/TzD3nI_AutI/AAAAAAAAB6c/yDq0TSBqm1E/s1600-h/New%252520Years%2525202011%252520139%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="New Years 2011 139" border="0" alt="New Years 2011 139" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-AoS0rd1aexY/TzD3n2F0k-I/AAAAAAAAB6g/BNpr_l29vBU/New%252520Years%2525202011%252520139_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="658" height="505"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-ukxaHlum0Es/TzD3oqR2OSI/AAAAAAAAB6o/i-kq-lUJ5W4/s1600-h/New%252520Years%2525202011%252520140%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="New Years 2011 140" border="0" alt="New Years 2011 140" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-zuyeWuOv9Vk/TzD3pZmUE_I/AAAAAAAAB6w/OwVWi4RI6Zo/New%252520Years%2525202011%252520140_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="628" height="482"></a> </p> <p>Well, that’s about all I have the energy for today. I will be travelling a bit over the next three to four weeks, so hopefully I can snap some good photos and post them at some point in the next ten years. No promises though. </p> <p>I hope everyone is happy and healthy, wherever you are!</p> <p>So long, folks…</p> <p>xoxoxo</p> kunobothttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15513489268165917619noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2076932335039963964.post-10938644364028232222011-12-04T20:37:00.001+09:002011-12-04T20:41:33.931+09:00Sushi, Sushi, Sushi!<p>Hello again! Today I bring you some of Fukuoka’s finest. And by finest, I mean cheapest (but most delicious)…sushi! I have fallen in love with a local sushi restaurant that is just 5 minutes away from home and wanted to bring you along with me on a sushi-licous adventure. With that, we embark!</p> <p>Enter, mortal…</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-VzrjAj5dQhk/TttbCcC-yrI/AAAAAAAABxQ/nkfAbTlM20s/s1600-h/Sushi%252520Resto%252520004%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Sushi Resto 004" border="0" alt="Sushi Resto 004" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-7ciKozmK2jM/TttbDMP-yZI/AAAAAAAABxU/mnN2XJ_srr4/Sushi%252520Resto%252520004_thumb%25255B5%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="541" height="425"></a></p> <p>Once inside you are seated at one of the many booths. The conveyer belts that carry the sushi plates run up and down the rows of booths, entering the back kitchen at each end. Above the conveyer belt is a digital touch display that can be used to order items individually (drinks, dessert, special sushi, etc) and they arrive on the upper belt. I have a video later on to show you it’s fantastic-ness in action!</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-lWvjIkegkkI/TttbD_Ivg1I/AAAAAAAABxY/OukLwNBzBas/s1600-h/Sushi%252520Resto%252520005%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Sushi Resto 005" border="0" alt="Sushi Resto 005" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-KL2fhe4TLFU/TttbExguIHI/AAAAAAAABxc/Q5hisOy-gik/Sushi%252520Resto%252520005_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="548" height="424"></a></p> <p>Here we have the accompanying items, including ginger, wasabi, tea powder, spoons, soy sauce, the hot water spout for tea, and the plate return.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-YYMQM-LvgKM/TttbF5fA-RI/AAAAAAAABuI/5O6TsqSfuYo/s1600-h/Sushi%252520Resto%252520007%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Sushi Resto 007" border="0" alt="Sushi Resto 007" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-hNo-7ikuTCM/TttbG4zqHlI/AAAAAAAABuQ/5-BWHr8XoxE/Sushi%252520Resto%252520007_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="602" height="462"></a></p> <p>All plates are 100 yen (more or less equal to $1.00), although these specially marked plates are more expensive, and super fancy. I’m too cheap to try them, but, maybe someday when I’m feeling <strong>really</strong> ritzy. </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-O_yLl1xDvZI/TttbIIGYlaI/AAAAAAAABuU/XPwco5Pm9sI/s1600-h/Sushi%252520Resto%252520008%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Sushi Resto 008" border="0" alt="Sushi Resto 008" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-BV0gIE2ujb4/TttbI0mNRRI/AAAAAAAABuc/wY8cu7iIhyk/Sushi%252520Resto%252520008_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="596" height="457"></a></p> <p>Here we have the pickled ginger. I am not a fan, but have heard (for those who like it) that it’s tasty! Mmm, gingery.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-4CoEhHYDjds/TttbJpKWVZI/AAAAAAAABuk/FwFJsDrpdAQ/s1600-h/Sushi%252520Resto%252520012%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Sushi Resto 012" border="0" alt="Sushi Resto 012" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-BGzmvuS4KhY/TttbKN2qwyI/AAAAAAAABus/GCKJa-aR-lQ/Sushi%252520Resto%252520012_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="605" height="464"></a></p> <p>Now this is one of my favourite parts. The wasabi! Notice that it’s not the wasabi paste that most of us are used to. And holy cow does it make your face explode when you eat too much, dear god! But SO delicious! If your eyes water, you know it’s good. Mmm, want to eat! </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-trG3LlsqpbM/TttbK_WMKFI/AAAAAAAABu0/auX4u-KQG4Q/s1600-h/Sushi%252520Resto%252520013%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Sushi Resto 013" border="0" alt="Sushi Resto 013" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-YG04b-hUXew/TttbL_qfE4I/AAAAAAAABvA/W6wZyRHMejA/Sushi%252520Resto%252520013_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="627" height="481"></a></p> <p>Next, a tea demonstration! Here Leah prepares our yummy tea from the green powder you see at the bottom. You just press your cup against the button and voila, hot water for everyone! We learned the hard way that three heaping spoons of powder is a teensy bit too much. Noted for next time.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-DHiHX0UeVmQ/TttbM7tD_MI/AAAAAAAABvE/oG8ZM-3iqvA/s1600-h/Sushi%252520Resto%252520019%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Sushi Resto 019" border="0" alt="Sushi Resto 019" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-7BypaRHnKCY/TttbN63066I/AAAAAAAABvQ/zpHXr0S2WeM/Sushi%252520Resto%252520019_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="594" height="456"></a></p> <p>The finished product! Mmm, greeny.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-fVGDdxAkEGA/TttbOtgAoFI/AAAAAAAABvU/ntQcBH1AObw/s1600-h/Sushi%252520Resto%252520010%25255B9%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Sushi Resto 010" border="0" alt="Sushi Resto 010" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-nVwoRbV-b-s/TttbPcBt8VI/AAAAAAAABvY/FREeWOgJXgs/Sushi%252520Resto%252520010_thumb%25255B5%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="640" height="491"></a> </p> <p>And here Leah uses her expert sushi plate removal technique to capture our next victims. The little plastic lids flip up automatically when you start to the lift the plate. What will you think of next, Japan? (Please note the young man pictured back right also displaying his fine sushi plate removal technique. Bravo, sir.)</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-JTk3U2IZZwI/TttbQAfZdpI/AAAAAAAABvk/LtSSOLtB89o/s1600-h/Sushi%252520Resto%252520011%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Sushi Resto 011" border="0" alt="Sushi Resto 011" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-rcqThbKGawI/TttbRMcyi1I/AAAAAAAABvs/GhMDGJ05We8/Sushi%252520Resto%252520011_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="626" height="480"></a></p> <p>And here are a few of the MANY plates we enjoyed that day. From top middle, clockwise….corn and mayonnaise, cucumber <em>maki</em> (rolls), sweet potato sticks, <em>ebi</em> (shrimp) and <em>sake</em> (salmon).</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-hvUqhVfmKp0/TttbRvJuB-I/AAAAAAAABv0/0LTjzL98D64/s1600-h/Sushi%252520Resto%252520014%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Sushi Resto 014" border="0" alt="Sushi Resto 014" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-I3S8PSd3mkA/TttbSTmCXSI/AAAAAAAABv8/6vXxulG35JI/Sushi%252520Resto%252520014_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="582" height="447"></a></p> <p>Next we decided to order a few things from the menu. You can just select what you’d like and it will be brought to you on a cute little tray when it’s ready. The tray is constantly zipping back and forth during your meal, delivering random tasty treats to various tables. </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-t59OahaTTQc/TttbTGQvnTI/AAAAAAAABwE/U7oVCj5fPEU/s1600-h/Sushi%252520Resto%252520015%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Sushi Resto 015" border="0" alt="Sushi Resto 015" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Wm8hKURuqjA/TttbTwBNwbI/AAAAAAAABwQ/RpjlSrk8w_4/Sushi%252520Resto%252520015_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="604" height="463"></a></p> <p> I decided to order some shrimp tempura sushi. They were hot and freshly tempura’d. Nommers!</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-1xixM3u6aJU/TttbUgG1kuI/AAAAAAAABwU/Ng3tFIC2jnM/s1600-h/Sushi%252520Resto%252520020%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Sushi Resto 020" border="0" alt="Sushi Resto 020" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-9y76EBvBuUg/TttbVKpWquI/AAAAAAAABwc/MrC40BOJDeA/Sushi%252520Resto%252520020_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="584" height="448"></a></p> <p>I wanted to film a bit of the experience because the photos don’t really give you the full picture on how fun this is. Enjoy! (PS: I finally stopped being an idiot and figured out how to film with proper picture quality, phew.)</p> <p> <div style="padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: none; padding-top: 0px" id="scid:5737277B-5D6D-4f48-ABFC-DD9C333F4C5D:0a5754e3-8c3b-4ae7-b607-0fe6e8d5e004" class="wlWriterEditableSmartContent"><div id="b06c360d-e16e-469b-91af-c7a832dd86e4" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; display: inline;"><div><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fArXT6M_Dc4" target="_new"><img src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-O1IpBJIO9mw/TttbV0RzpdI/AAAAAAAABxk/Fbv7uL-ErKw/videoa7a5f9f34687%25255B9%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-style: none" galleryimg="no" onload="var downlevelDiv = document.getElementById('b06c360d-e16e-469b-91af-c7a832dd86e4'); downlevelDiv.innerHTML = "<div><object width=\"554\" height=\"463\"><param name=\"movie\" value=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/fArXT6M_Dc4&hl=en\"><\/param><embed src=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/fArXT6M_Dc4&hl=en\" type=\"application/x-shockwave-flash\" width=\"554\" height=\"463\"><\/embed><\/object><\/div>";" alt=""></a></div></div></div></p> <p>Now, as you saw in the video, we unfortunately lost the plate game. But! We have won before, and if you do, a cute little plastic bubble pops out of the top here and you get a silly prize. They all seem to be little wind up sushi toys that are fun to make crash into things on the table.</p> <p> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-EukVFhtaRiE/TttbWgetFvI/AAAAAAAABws/1nI6kp6dGNg/s1600-h/Sushi%252520Resto%252520021%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Sushi Resto 021" border="0" alt="Sushi Resto 021" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-8zKv3-mnJf0/TttbXexT48I/AAAAAAAABw0/awgj4FemMOo/Sushi%252520Resto%252520021_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="447" height="582"></a></p> <p>And to finish off an incredible meal, I ordered one of the 100 yen desserts. This is basically a giant ice cream filled cream puff thing. Very puffy, and very delicious!</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-kbqfKe9tNvM/TttbYPlXqvI/AAAAAAAABxA/tKMSOh0WFN4/s1600-h/Sushi%252520Resto%252520024%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Sushi Resto 024" border="0" alt="Sushi Resto 024" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-CXMjB3cfP00/TttbZGCUP7I/AAAAAAAABxE/GQVUnwrMpZU/Sushi%252520Resto%252520024_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="549" height="421"></a></p> <p>Well, that ends the sushi adventure. I hope you are now good and hungry, I know I am just from posting these photos! I have to admit I was never extremely fond of the giant fish topped sushi before coming here, but I seem to eat them quite a lot now. Either the fish quality is much better here, or I’m turning Japanese. One of the two. Or both?</p> <p>On a side note, holiday time is fast approaching, and things are starting to feel a lot like Christmas around here (aside from the blazing sun during the day and 15 degree temperature). I hope everyone is gearing up for a nice holiday season.</p> <p>Until next time….take care, folks!</p> <p>xoxoxo</p> kunobothttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15513489268165917619noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2076932335039963964.post-45646600414706234382011-11-21T20:50:00.001+09:002011-11-21T20:50:45.326+09:00Dazaifu Sumo and Shrine Adventure<p>Well, it sure has been a while. How are you? Keeping well? Busy? Chipper? Thank you for keeping in touch via blog! </p> <p>For my next installment, I bring you to Daizaifu, again! This trip was a visit to the local sumo practice stable and then the Tenman-gū Shrine. </p> <p>*You are warned, bazillion pictures ahead.* </p> <p>Immediately stepping off the bus we walked along this gorgeous sidewalk. Already, I knew I was going to enjoy this trip. Beautiful.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-6w7vq8PyTFg/Tso5gbHl4BI/AAAAAAAABdE/SLZ4KJ5Y9uw/s1600-h/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520003.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Dazaifu Trip 003" border="0" alt="Dazaifu Trip 003" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-0TCjrMZ8Rqg/Tso5g4rkEtI/AAAAAAAABdM/lnwBovn29ro/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520003_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="430" height="560"></a></p> <p>We walked down what appeared to be a touristy street on the way to the shrine and sumo stable. We arrived early in the morning and the shops were not quite open, nor were there many visitors filling the streets yet.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-mQcMvGn-708/Tso5h2GdVbI/AAAAAAAABdQ/KPHepbBHOdQ/s1600-h/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520009.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Dazaifu Trip 009" border="0" alt="Dazaifu Trip 009" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-BeQQHSEb9iE/Tso5ivSqw9I/AAAAAAAABdc/kGwoUM1-JmY/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520009_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="535" height="411"></a></p> <p>This little fellow was happy to see us though…</p> <p> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-PawIH5jt3VM/Tso5jT7gAPI/AAAAAAAABdg/mY8Wm4rZBeA/s1600-h/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520011.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Dazaifu Trip 011" border="0" alt="Dazaifu Trip 011" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-arImGGMMKgI/Tso5j-2fy2I/AAAAAAAABds/PwB5ZRBhRCM/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520011_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="437" height="570"></a></p> <p>Upon entering the area where the shrine and temple were.</p> <p> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-5mY9wU1Dc7k/Tso5lWnWU1I/AAAAAAAABd0/NFlJFm0bzXc/s1600-h/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520016.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Dazaifu Trip 016" border="0" alt="Dazaifu Trip 016" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-NB6jQcITysE/Tso5mDeCoAI/AAAAAAAABd8/f4-S0gDDnmc/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520016_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="445" height="580"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-PjguiJjQUOo/Tso5m-0emiI/AAAAAAAABeE/RxBRzk4os4o/s1600-h/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520017.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Dazaifu Trip 017" border="0" alt="Dazaifu Trip 017" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-vLDmMTxeKK8/Tso5n9-D0mI/AAAAAAAABeI/99U9W_QDSEM/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520017_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="561" height="430"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-cRHB6o5-MQk/Tso5oXe2s3I/AAAAAAAABeQ/M-rFUJ3bkEw/s1600-h/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520018.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Dazaifu Trip 018" border="0" alt="Dazaifu Trip 018" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-bHGtJX9NK0M/Tso5pNWgSqI/AAAAAAAABeY/xQ43h38jBc0/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520018_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="578" height="443"></a></p> <p>Our path to the sumo stable was a splendid walk… definitely a breath of fresh air after being in the city.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-wXhBfjsoBm8/Tso5pxjXwSI/AAAAAAAABek/tYf98avPSO8/s1600-h/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520021.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Dazaifu Trip 021" border="0" alt="Dazaifu Trip 021" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-guDmZedXJUM/Tso5qjOfk1I/AAAAAAAABeo/E84kPTmja2U/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520021_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="428" height="558"></a></p> <p>After about a 15 minute walk we reached our first destination. We were very fortunate to be allowed inside the sumo stable while many of the wrestlers practiced. There was a bit of discussion and for a brief time it sounded as though it may not be possible for us to go inside, but luckily things were settled and we were able to keep close to the walls and watch for almost an hour! </p> <p>The practice was quite fascinating. There was a very prominent hierarchy visible upon watching the practice. The darker belted wresters were the low men on the totem pole. They had first practice and boy did they go hard. The wrestler crouching with his back to the camera was being “picked on” for some reason and I was sure he was going to vomit by the end of his training, he was breathing so heavily and falling on the ground. Thankfully, he didn’t. He did get kicked around (literally) by the lovely gentleman standing facing them in the white.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-I8G99SgXo3c/Tso5rQDZ-8I/AAAAAAAABe0/vckD3inl-38/s1600-h/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520027.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Dazaifu Trip 027" border="0" alt="Dazaifu Trip 027" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-1tGx-j3VCxY/Tso5scEBZGI/AAAAAAAABe4/3DRBde8XV9o/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520027_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="583" height="447"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-hUsAM-jHvTM/Tso5s5h_A5I/AAAAAAAABfA/bcsEGJMOIHs/s1600-h/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520031.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Dazaifu Trip 031" border="0" alt="Dazaifu Trip 031" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-1RLPxDCUyZ0/Tso5tWIZRwI/AAAAAAAABfI/jz73ugXuf8o/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520031_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="588" height="451"></a></p> <p>We were informed that this gentleman below was the stable owner. For all but 5 minutes of the time we spent in the sumo stable, he disinterestedly sat reading various print…the newspaper or random magazines brought to him by some outside errand boy. I would like to note that his cell phone had a ridiculous number of dangly charms on it, and his track suit says HELLO KITTY in block letters up the leg. Fashionista, let me tell you. Although, he seemed like someone you wouldn’t want to mess with, so probably best to keep the ribbing to a dull roar. </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-YKLHnUEq6Tw/Tso5uMi0uPI/AAAAAAAABfU/UkWiIkDFD4M/s1600-h/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520036.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Dazaifu Trip 036" border="0" alt="Dazaifu Trip 036" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-GV60uq22U80/Tso5vFdYYQI/AAAAAAAABfY/6XPLDRHbJvc/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520036_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="598" height="459"></a></p> <p>This gentleman was the Sumo Master. He was a former wrestler who now trains the up and coming. I also got the impression he was someone not to be toyed with… mainly due to the fact that we were asked not to look him in the eye and to bow while walking in front of him. Done and done.</p> <p> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-BB99lqSQR-M/Tso5vwhExtI/AAAAAAAABfg/GP2mfVuZ3J4/s1600-h/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520040.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Dazaifu Trip 040" border="0" alt="Dazaifu Trip 040" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-5EZ225clFQo/Tso5wpFNzCI/AAAAAAAABfo/NJhlbJTm7QE/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520040_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="434" height="566"></a></p> <p> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-nX0cMiep84A/Tso5xPVOBVI/AAAAAAAABfw/z9QExOT-eZc/s1600-h/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520042.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Dazaifu Trip 042" border="0" alt="Dazaifu Trip 042" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-yWYt1OcvcrA/Tso5x1-quXI/AAAAAAAABf4/EyYZrIzSmy8/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520042_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="477" height="622"></a></p> <p>After the lower rank wrestlers were finished their training, they re-sanded and swept up.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Rtp5SO82bRg/Tso5ydH4fTI/AAAAAAAABgA/PlSMW5L5hIs/s1600-h/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520052.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Dazaifu Trip 052" border="0" alt="Dazaifu Trip 052" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-r8KTvZY1JIM/Tso5zBFisKI/AAAAAAAABgM/8n-AxxpAhC4/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520052_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="598" height="459"></a></p> <p>The serious business was next. I decided to stop taking gazillion photos, but I’m sure you have a pretty good idea of what went down after this…</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Ot3ePtWSims/Tso50PAyzUI/AAAAAAAABgU/uEJPYjWUtyI/s1600-h/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520056.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Dazaifu Trip 056" border="0" alt="Dazaifu Trip 056" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/--wbpoO0MQ3A/Tso51FpxLEI/AAAAAAAABgY/BNqwjTaJpJU/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520056_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="610" height="468"></a></p> <p>After sumo time, we wandered over to the area where the shrine was. Another gorgeous walk. Luckily the weather cooperated and, unlike at the Balloon-less Fiesta, was not scorching hot, but sunny and beautiful. </p> <p>Some funky looking flowers that I don’t know the name of.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-OLLaVHA9aPs/Tso51rwQhOI/AAAAAAAABgg/-HecV_niMRM/s1600-h/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520059.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Dazaifu Trip 059" border="0" alt="Dazaifu Trip 059" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-ER5vF1n1j_I/Tso52KvrO3I/AAAAAAAABgs/k6mWGfPmQMM/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520059_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="473" height="616"></a></p> <p> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-wqyqTat4aig/Tso53PcSqhI/AAAAAAAABgw/ZKroNXBwlpI/s1600-h/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520061.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Dazaifu Trip 061" border="0" alt="Dazaifu Trip 061" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-TeqCy-rQYuE/Tso535zrE-I/AAAAAAAABg8/Q_S15VvAudY/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520061_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="623" height="478"></a></p> <p>Before entering the main area it is customary to rinse your hands here.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Y9u3YrVZIh8/Tso54-Q5OgI/AAAAAAAABhE/JYf7e5KW6y8/s1600-h/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520063.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Dazaifu Trip 063" border="0" alt="Dazaifu Trip 063" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-hUnQIqV46sk/Tso55rXcdgI/AAAAAAAABhI/ClNPkqFjg6A/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520063_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="486" height="634"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-P66FVe9_xis/Tso56LzqSpI/AAAAAAAABhQ/Q3sr2AwCKrI/s1600-h/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520064.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Dazaifu Trip 064" border="0" alt="Dazaifu Trip 064" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-IQWz1O_f5Bc/Tso563IBsRI/AAAAAAAABhc/FwlDhRWX8yA/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520064_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="627" height="481"></a> </p> <p>The main entrance gate to Tenman-gū Shrine…</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-ZsWytnwc3nQ/Tso58G8UEwI/AAAAAAAABhk/H4a68R584GY/s1600-h/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520065%25255B9%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Dazaifu Trip 065" border="0" alt="Dazaifu Trip 065" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-kkd5kvcQbvE/Tso59IfTppI/AAAAAAAABho/oGcvsiWKJDE/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520065_thumb%25255B9%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="635" height="487"></a></p> <p> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-11pyuNfutHM/Tso59gfSRHI/AAAAAAAABhw/JLWheBWy1nU/s1600-h/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520066%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Dazaifu Trip 066" border="0" alt="Dazaifu Trip 066" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-8FnJN3hJt1c/Tso5-QYVw8I/AAAAAAAABh8/4B9GC3pw4io/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520066_thumb%25255B5%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="482" height="628"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-_vxwDioLxS0/Tso5_but3kI/AAAAAAAABiA/kxYLpeGHoiY/s1600-h/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520071.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Dazaifu Trip 071" border="0" alt="Dazaifu Trip 071" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-iWqz7cMLlfQ/Tso6ALGyoqI/AAAAAAAABiM/nPtaq4W0HaI/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520071_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="645" height="495"></a></p> <p>Inside of the above…</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-jK-T1hf165I/Tso6BJTCP1I/AAAAAAAABiU/e4ySwcD0_Z0/s1600-h/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520091%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Dazaifu Trip 091" border="0" alt="Dazaifu Trip 091" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-ez5ZRhrs6hU/Tso6B8FHqOI/AAAAAAAABiY/6ciDHEy-5fY/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520091_thumb%25255B7%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="464" height="605"></a><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-ZmVwBAeo4RY/Tso6CWUUOdI/AAAAAAAABig/vSsaY4y2xSM/s1600-h/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520073.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Dazaifu Trip 073" border="0" alt="Dazaifu Trip 073" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-MxjY5-Mbddk/Tso6DIbJcaI/AAAAAAAABio/g9kNwwVI9v0/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520073_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="639" height="490"></a></p> <p>This was the Shinto priest that assisted us in getting around to the areas we visited, and also told us a brief history of the area and the shrine. </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-a2Ql_zZ-P_M/Tso6D5J5lHI/AAAAAAAABiw/Y4sChqGBRwg/s1600-h/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520081.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Dazaifu Trip 081" border="0" alt="Dazaifu Trip 081" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-xUK_4Od9_RY/Tso6Ev3MCiI/AAAAAAAABi4/8DL5h-snMcw/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520081_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="500" height="652"></a></p> <p>We happened to be here on the day of the <em>Shichi-Go-San Festival</em>. This festival is when parents bring their children age 3, 5, and 7 to a local shrine to pray for their healthy futures. (More info click here: <a title="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shichi-Go-San" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shichi-Go-San">http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shichi-Go-San</a> ) What this meant for me is that I got to stalk adorable children wearing <em>kimono,</em> all day. I almost died. Eventually parents started having their children pose for me. So, so, so cute. Wow. </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-_Ovsw1WeAqU/Tso6FAvPH7I/AAAAAAAABi8/4Qw0ji2wVhY/s1600-h/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520077.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Dazaifu Trip 077" border="0" alt="Dazaifu Trip 077" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-OuseOmV7Esc/Tso6F7H20JI/AAAAAAAABjI/jD_ifGOlAYk/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520077_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="462" height="602"></a></p> <p> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-lTIz7s9rr1I/Tso6GcUZxfI/AAAAAAAABjQ/cnxtjKukVUM/s1600-h/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520080.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Dazaifu Trip 080" border="0" alt="Dazaifu Trip 080" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-ANSuvdj_g7Y/Tso6HF68l4I/AAAAAAAABjY/-xy40El8we4/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520080_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="470" height="612"></a></p> <p> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-B_IolQGTnPw/Tso6Hjm0dwI/AAAAAAAABjg/20OWGpZZwcg/s1600-h/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520085%25255B9%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Dazaifu Trip 085" border="0" alt="Dazaifu Trip 085" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-_PdwOlLBYTk/Tso6IbaFmNI/AAAAAAAABjs/wj_WgTH7cQU/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520085_thumb%25255B9%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="475" height="619"></a> </p> <p>You could pay 500yen ($5.00) to write your name plus whatever wish you have and hang it here. I was too cheap to do so, surprise, surprise. But here`s a photo!</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-a0QTPh2LKcE/Tso6JT04GtI/AAAAAAAABj0/txBkgv7GuWI/s1600-h/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520095%25255B13%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Dazaifu Trip 095" border="0" alt="Dazaifu Trip 095" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/--n3b6lST1pM/Tso6KF3-IuI/AAAAAAAABj4/i2Yfuy--xsU/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520095_thumb%25255B13%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="596" height="457"></a></p> <p>I am unsure if Charlie Sheen stole this from Japan, or Japan from Sheen. It was entertaining nonetheless. </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-D69L90D5A1s/Tso6KrYdLxI/AAAAAAAABkA/uLIOU3Dz1oQ/s1600-h/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520097.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Dazaifu Trip 097" border="0" alt="Dazaifu Trip 097" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-OlUzW9woTu8/Tso6LdiS3AI/AAAAAAAABkI/c_d8jk9Le9Q/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520097_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="571" height="438"></a></p> <p>On a serious note, there were many amulets and various good luck charms to be purchased. This shrine is over the burial ground of <em>Sugawara no Michizane</em>, who was most renowned for separating Chinese and Japanese literature and education, and assisting Japan in becoming more autonomous by developing a Japanese style of poetry and education. Most families and children come to this shrine to pray for good luck with their studies.</p> <p>On a not so serious note, this is my new Japanese family. They were irresistible, and I had to steal a photo as someone was taking one of them. Loooove.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-aQJRW7PYNt0/Tso6L3awPoI/AAAAAAAABkU/uHf9kREWDV4/s1600-h/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520101%25255B21%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Dazaifu Trip 101" border="0" alt="Dazaifu Trip 101" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-pOIV1JF0x70/Tso6M3oUjMI/AAAAAAAABkc/7M7fnw4oYCM/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520101_thumb%25255B21%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="583" height="447"></a></p> <p>And here is proof that I actually am in Japan, and not just ripping off all these photos from the Internet and adding my ‘oh so witty’ commentary. </p> <p> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-H1Yik9yMNe8/Tso6N4DfIWI/AAAAAAAABkg/D9dq1czdSB8/s1600-h/DazaifuTrip1023.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="Dazaifu Trip 102" border="0" alt="Dazaifu Trip 102" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-sDZpbPzVlM4/Tso6Obyji-I/AAAAAAAABks/5AlMbaXWkOE/DazaifuTrip102_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="456" height="594"></a></p> <p>And back to the adorable children! Oh my gosh!”//$%?</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-02ZPX6ot75E/Tso6PtoEXdI/AAAAAAAABkw/iTPE8vU76Ew/s1600-h/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520107.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Dazaifu Trip 107" border="0" alt="Dazaifu Trip 107" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-PtBo_q3WzSk/Tso6QH5kxlI/AAAAAAAABk8/m5uEaqOBCAA/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520107_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="512" height="667"></a></p> <p>With a fish-feeding man stuck in there, just for fun.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-SVzIMFFrAfc/Tso6RFMrl8I/AAAAAAAABlE/1BZVawOneHQ/s1600-h/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520109.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Dazaifu Trip 109" border="0" alt="Dazaifu Trip 109" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-ftCQxaWEai8/Tso6Sfv6qnI/AAAAAAAABlI/3Nh6_RynlUM/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520109_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="629" height="483"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-1kHfIlO13R4/Tso6S9O7xZI/AAAAAAAABlU/VXqICwzqrn4/s1600-h/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520113.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Dazaifu Trip 113" border="0" alt="Dazaifu Trip 113" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-6f6vVjVl2po/Tso6Tu92ZXI/AAAAAAAABlY/-rNJ8iOfev0/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520113_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="608" height="466"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-vwjAa0d8xj4/Tso6Ul-slLI/AAAAAAAABlg/58Sp1Pi6X_M/s1600-h/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520115.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Dazaifu Trip 115" border="0" alt="Dazaifu Trip 115" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-AXgFaP_n4kU/Tso6VIhC3NI/AAAAAAAABls/gvCwOah9FHE/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520115_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="608" height="471"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/--ureKKjrLec/Tso6WLeoF5I/AAAAAAAABlw/fsubb2QBeKk/s1600-h/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520119%25255B9%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Dazaifu Trip 119" border="0" alt="Dazaifu Trip 119" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-ErX7rnVlDpg/Tso6WqgeGsI/AAAAAAAABl4/72J4SHV8oDs/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520119_thumb%25255B9%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="601" height="461"></a></p> <p> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-eBXgWFrP0_4/Tso6XGtu8pI/AAAAAAAABmA/pEjeo2SOQ1Q/s1600-h/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520120.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Dazaifu Trip 120" border="0" alt="Dazaifu Trip 120" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-aLH4UAv_HCk/Tso6XwBWSfI/AAAAAAAABmM/z2qGH43kWuk/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520120_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="474" height="618"></a></p> <p>And then we stumbled upon this creepiness…a monkey show! o_O</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-5e86FQiZmbc/Tso6YlJUZcI/AAAAAAAABmQ/5x9JFzqxuSE/s1600-h/DazaifuTrip1223.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="Dazaifu Trip 122" border="0" alt="Dazaifu Trip 122" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-vJudSpLVWEY/Tso6ZNxkbLI/AAAAAAAABmc/hKlkd2-PKkE/DazaifuTrip122_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="420" height="548"></a></p> <p>Have to give monkey some credit though, he could walk on stilts… yeesh.</p> <p> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Fmea398gFak/Tso6aAHJ5HI/AAAAAAAABmk/T0p0n2s7KTc/s1600-h/DazaifuTrip1263.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="Dazaifu Trip 126" border="0" alt="Dazaifu Trip 126" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-0Q4Gb0fov8g/Tso6a-2cTBI/AAAAAAAABms/cUQKZ30WkcU/DazaifuTrip126_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="472" height="615"></a></p> <p>I am still unsure, however, what monkey shows and Japanese leprechauns have to do with each other. </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-fCJgWcWJwgo/Tso6btaazKI/AAAAAAAABm0/q3--3eF6x9U/s1600-h/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520131%25255B8%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Dazaifu Trip 131" border="0" alt="Dazaifu Trip 131" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-gVdvBuLydjw/Tso6cRRdFeI/AAAAAAAABm4/NB4XAxgxQog/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520131_thumb%25255B8%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="429" height="559"></a></p> <p>This one I had to take a couple photos of because the back of her <em>kimono</em> was so intricate and , well, she was just gorgeous!</p> <p> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-THCLInFgK54/Tso6dNeFvpI/AAAAAAAABnE/gKPSE72t30Q/s1600-h/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520135%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Dazaifu Trip 135" border="0" alt="Dazaifu Trip 135" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-qPbn_hQ8C5Y/Tso6eJWelkI/AAAAAAAABnM/YYoslxqa6S0/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520135_thumb%25255B6%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="450" height="586"></a></p> <p> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-FVYYF2VdkoU/Tso6fOR0pbI/AAAAAAAABnQ/tDgg03VRAYk/s1600-h/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520137%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Dazaifu Trip 137" border="0" alt="Dazaifu Trip 137" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-5MqGLxU_vVs/Tso6fgCNG8I/AAAAAAAABnY/Ykmsenyz6hE/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520137_thumb%25255B7%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="497" height="648"></a></p> <p>It took every ounce of my being to not pick up this cute young man and bring him home with me. </p> <p> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-qf2yUoKlkdQ/Tso6gS2AnoI/AAAAAAAABng/GurdOeqwQUU/s1600-h/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520139.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Dazaifu Trip 139" border="0" alt="Dazaifu Trip 139" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-tA_7fTShn2U/Tso6hI4qaHI/AAAAAAAABns/Jd9ic24ekTw/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520139_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="460" height="600"></a></p> <p>And now to keep the balance in nature, I give you my other secret obsession in this country. Dapper old Japanese men. Yeah.</p> <p>I have selected just a couple of my favourites of the day, as not to bore you….or creep you the heck out, either one.</p> <p> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-KNMkqjPlUYY/Tso6inv7NyI/AAAAAAAABnw/lGnFF31ttuY/s1600-h/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520083.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Dazaifu Trip 083" border="0" alt="Dazaifu Trip 083" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-BrLH-88saso/Tso6jFmpFZI/AAAAAAAABn4/biAQbdkYk_c/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520083_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="445" height="580"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-qLTeNY7wBjI/Tso6j_3NnjI/AAAAAAAABoE/9kWKsFvMGjA/s1600-h/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520141%25255B8%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Dazaifu Trip 141" border="0" alt="Dazaifu Trip 141" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-ldDO_8tcxHE/Tso6knTfJ2I/AAAAAAAABoM/iYZXajAig6Y/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520141_thumb%25255B8%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="450" height="587"></a></p> <p>And now for the tackiest store you will ever see. Hello Kitty-rama. I actually don’t know what the name of this monstrosity was as I couldn’t focus my eyes in the direction of the store for long, due to the disgusting amount of pink glaring back to me.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-qG89xT8yo90/Tso6lj8rITI/AAAAAAAABoQ/4a5OF0LwI5s/s1600-h/DazaifuTrip1473.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="Dazaifu Trip 147" border="0" alt="Dazaifu Trip 147" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-EaSVKNoiWJA/Tso6mA0kUjI/AAAAAAAABoY/bqaN98BelTI/DazaifuTrip147_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="557" height="427"></a></p> <p>After all this excited we were starving and ventured to this yummy ramen shop. For those who aren’t familiar, quite often in Japan you order your meal from a ticket machine and then take it in with you and give it to the servers.</p> <p> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-LLbBfTBAZ3U/Tso6m44PUkI/AAAAAAAABok/TPjP0ZPYlgk/s1600-h/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520165.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Dazaifu Trip 165" border="0" alt="Dazaifu Trip 165" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-cUIa376V-X4/Tso6oH0EuwI/AAAAAAAABos/TgcdmjLxSIw/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520165_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="439" height="572"></a></p> <p>Not a huge place, as you can see.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-m0ES1DxLX6Y/Tso6o7fh0PI/AAAAAAAABo0/47-MTXOCj-E/s1600-h/DazaifuTrip1523.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="Dazaifu Trip 152" border="0" alt="Dazaifu Trip 152" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-3ZZku6d8SNw/Tso6p8cVBZI/AAAAAAAABo8/74P2VIZFdyc/DazaifuTrip152_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="579" height="444"></a></p> <p>I unfortunately scarffed down my ramen so quickly I forgot to take a photo. So here is one of the ramen next to me. Goodness, just posting this is making me hungry. It was really good! </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-3G2h_6TMl98/Tso6quwCoeI/AAAAAAAABpA/dtJzVMvmg0M/s1600-h/DazaifuTrip1563.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="Dazaifu Trip 156" border="0" alt="Dazaifu Trip 156" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Ym7ijFTUR9c/Tso6rO31M6I/AAAAAAAABpI/cs2s8oblhYY/DazaifuTrip156_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="580" height="445"></a></p> <p>And my favourite part of the restaurant, the funny bathroom poster. You had the pleasure of staring at this while in the stall. How glorious…</p> <p> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Fz3ZV4w0AL4/Tso6r0C98YI/AAAAAAAABpU/bq61px3JS98/s1600-h/DazaifuTrip1623.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="Dazaifu Trip 162" border="0" alt="Dazaifu Trip 162" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-5L13cs7fXbw/Tso6tFus_UI/AAAAAAAABpY/4MK5TXzarsk/DazaifuTrip162_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="463" height="603"></a></p> <p>HELLO.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-TPbV7rXiYtI/Tso6ts0Zb1I/AAAAAAAABpk/LPk8RLXzN50/s1600-h/DazaifuTrip1613.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="Dazaifu Trip 161" border="0" alt="Dazaifu Trip 161" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-VWHOjO315M8/Tso6uhjBL3I/AAAAAAAABpo/ejoJjJhUsgg/DazaifuTrip161_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="618" height="474"></a></p> <p>Who’s your favourite? I can’t decide between angry glasses screamer near the top right, or chubby angry eyebrow guy second row near the left. Hahahahaha, so good.</p> <p>Next, tummies full, we ventured to the Buddhist temple where the 700 year old garden was located.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-eVSwmwQFot0/Tso6v_g5NqI/AAAAAAAABp0/wWc852p9Tmk/s1600-h/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520148.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Dazaifu Trip 148" border="0" alt="Dazaifu Trip 148" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-rfbsT3F0qEA/Tso6wXzV_EI/AAAAAAAABp8/bGhjZbjyZUE/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520148_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="598" height="459"></a></p> <p>The entrance to the building was lined with beautiful rock gardens. </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-L1IxApENWfA/Tso6xAR4ppI/AAAAAAAABqE/f133LBZyrSo/s1600-h/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520168.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Dazaifu Trip 168" border="0" alt="Dazaifu Trip 168" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-d1qb28qf-jQ/Tso6yNBkO8I/AAAAAAAABqM/k4Voq4Gesp8/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520168_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="518" height="676"></a></p> <p>These really put my tiny desk-sized zen garden to shame. I’m sorry, Japan.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-eNopARhWrI8/Tso6y7XHFoI/AAAAAAAABqQ/PdLHompk4UU/s1600-h/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520169.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Dazaifu Trip 169" border="0" alt="Dazaifu Trip 169" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-UIKFXao3xig/Tso6zaEeraI/AAAAAAAABqc/d90P3zxOHFI/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520169_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="614" height="471"></a></p> <p> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-XgbqKMeT4y0/Tso60WCH6CI/AAAAAAAABqg/MAjmyI4IxSM/s1600-h/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520171.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Dazaifu Trip 171" border="0" alt="Dazaifu Trip 171" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Gaw1_6cWUZQ/Tso608EFc4I/AAAAAAAABqs/XpQWE6enDm8/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520171_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="460" height="600"></a></p> <p> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-lAWIsU563Ow/Tso61iTJzqI/AAAAAAAABqw/ENXf-YKf7sY/s1600-h/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520172.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Dazaifu Trip 172" border="0" alt="Dazaifu Trip 172" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-aiNUu0Vw-Eo/Tso62XZkVGI/AAAAAAAABq4/aAQDppf5r8k/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520172_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="505" height="658"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-sFOiQivqTZg/Tso63GqwlBI/AAAAAAAABrA/6aBVqmHLDYI/s1600-h/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520173%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Dazaifu Trip 173" border="0" alt="Dazaifu Trip 173" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-zSapnZP0krM/Tso63sioKJI/AAAAAAAABrI/OUhGNcat8vw/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520173_thumb%25255B5%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="614" height="471"></a></p> <p>Luckily, this little fellow hung around long enough for me to get a nice photo of him. Thank you! </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Ie4P2mvGuGA/Tso64p6P-QI/AAAAAAAABrQ/FdhQLRLvq0I/s1600-h/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520174.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Dazaifu Trip 174" border="0" alt="Dazaifu Trip 174" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-xXz9SX-WFTE/Tso65BZou_I/AAAAAAAABrc/ym87-eCjDxo/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520174_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="568" height="436"></a></p> <p>This was the inside on our way to the back to see the garden.<a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/--JWuX5Z5sh0/Tso66Nk76lI/AAAAAAAABrk/PS7JO-Zwy-Y/s1600-h/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520176%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Dazaifu Trip 176" border="0" alt="Dazaifu Trip 176" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-PXTI-t7S1dA/Tso67Hp4lBI/AAAAAAAABrs/H41HGeNkreA/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520176_thumb%25255B7%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="580" height="445"></a></p> <p> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Sp_e36YXgRY/Tso67ndIvmI/AAAAAAAABrw/RYezRBiGp-0/s1600-h/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520177.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Dazaifu Trip 177" border="0" alt="Dazaifu Trip 177" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-t9DV3IxIaHc/Tso68IWeiVI/AAAAAAAABr8/ksz5roHB_ek/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520177_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="440" height="574"></a></p> <p> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-7WaNO0XAFWs/Tso680KIukI/AAAAAAAABsA/La0ltLKW6Qs/s1600-h/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520178%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Dazaifu Trip 178" border="0" alt="Dazaifu Trip 178" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-I_i12kpYIfg/Tso69q8N5gI/AAAAAAAABsM/iz97TdJxtik/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520178_thumb%25255B6%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="502" height="655"></a></p> <p>And here it is. Really stunning. It is one of the most famous gardens in all of Japan. And if it weren’t for the group of old Japanese ladies to my right yammering away constantly, it would have been the most peaceful garden I have ever visited! Oh well, it was still remarkable. Look!</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-5PYVJRdb_WU/Tso6-rG_D4I/AAAAAAAABsQ/mPr6w0XiuGI/s1600-h/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520179.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Dazaifu Trip 179" border="0" alt="Dazaifu Trip 179" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-c1v3uhbmDpw/Tso6_ECn2jI/AAAAAAAABsY/r_o0lI06pyA/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520179_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="624" height="479"></a></p> <p> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-mpjHOXXKcss/Tso7AM4QajI/AAAAAAAABsg/NQW3BoRy5GM/s1600-h/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520185.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Dazaifu Trip 185" border="0" alt="Dazaifu Trip 185" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-O-jyWkmhsas/Tso7AqnA3fI/AAAAAAAABss/AKR6ztffRSo/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520185_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="468" height="610"></a></p> <p>This gives you a taste of what it could look like when the leaves start to change colour, oh my.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-pd0EVu7O9X8/Tso7BR01VDI/AAAAAAAABs0/V1LAw7zkDcY/s1600-h/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520189%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Dazaifu Trip 189" border="0" alt="Dazaifu Trip 189" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-m9Y-r6tLsAc/Tso7CFCH7AI/AAAAAAAABs8/wGUIwHhbU30/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520189_thumb%25255B5%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="467" height="609"></a></p> <p>And as usual, something silly at the end. Well, this isn’t THAT silly…mostly cute, I suppose.</p> <p> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-4ayt3HICAsk/Tso7C-qx3tI/AAAAAAAABtA/m1X4znRQigs/s1600-h/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520194.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Dazaifu Trip 194" border="0" alt="Dazaifu Trip 194" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-QMbCzg9o2IY/Tso7DgWy8aI/AAAAAAAABtI/YzEvRJ629Rc/Dazaifu%252520Trip%252520194_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="472" height="615"></a></p> <p>But can you get enough of these great hats? I can’t! The store keeper was so kind as to offer to take a picture of us. Only in Japan. So nice.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-nA2BXxMNmHE/Tso7ECYN7wI/AAAAAAAABtQ/oabyNH7S4z8/s1600-h/DazaifuTrip1953.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="Dazaifu Trip 195" border="0" alt="Dazaifu Trip 195" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-t5eQ9quWLcM/Tso7E6FPk7I/AAAAAAAABtY/9vodQfcbDl0/DazaifuTrip195_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="617" height="473"></a> </p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p>Just in case you were worried, no I did not buy that hat. Although it was pretty hard to resist. </p> <p>There you have it! </p> <p>I don’t have anything too exciting after this to post as my life has become somewhat boring. And by boring I mean busy. I decided that filling all my spare time with tutoring English would be a fun way to keep myself from having any fun. But, I’m sure I will get around to something interesting eventually, and when I do, I will do my best to post it within 6 months of doing whatever it is… hah.</p> <p>Hope all is well, wherever you are!</p> <p>So long, folks!</p> <p>xoxoxo</p> kunobothttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15513489268165917619noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2076932335039963964.post-30200198640185423122011-11-08T21:32:00.001+09:002011-11-08T21:33:40.783+09:00Balloon-less Fiesta<p>Alright, here is the shortest blog post ever. We went to the Saga Balloon Fiesta, but it wasn’t very balloony, or fiesta-y. However, I did manage to get a couple photos, so here they are.</p> <p>I would first like to note that we went to this “fiesta” on November 3rd. It was so horrendously hot we pretty much stayed under a giant tent the entire time. It had to be upwards of 35C in the sun. It was unbearable. Not a cloud in the sky. Remember, we went on NOVEMBER 3rd. I cannot stand much more heat in this country. Oh, what’s that you say? I should be thankful? Well, I’m not. Deal with it. We had such a hot humid summer at home, and I’m still getting one! I am really ready for some cool air to flow on through. /end rant</p> <p>Anyway, on with the lacklustre photos…</p> <p>Upon entering the festival grounds we passed this lovely balloon artwork. Who knew it would be the only balloons I would see that day…sigh.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Deyzf9op9aQ/TrkhO0-kA2I/AAAAAAAAA8s/E4rSg_eOsfc/s1600-h/001%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="001" border="0" alt="001" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-go4fC4izWWE/TrkhPkwJeAI/AAAAAAAAA80/EGXhAX2JbSg/001_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="549" height="425"></a></p> <p>Look at how inviting it is. Really gets you in the mood for hot air balloons.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-FwrGViiOWSU/TrkhQWJdC-I/AAAAAAAAA-M/RjGXh4WcvZU/s1600-h/002%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="002" border="0" alt="002" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-2mDiyMUstGI/TrkhRCZkTyI/AAAAAAAAA-Q/ip9jBBbrMD8/002_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="537" height="415"></a></p> <p>There were quite a few different stands with lots of yummy food and souvenirs. This one was one of my favourites. He really wants you to eat whatever he’s selling, gosh.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-EDpiA-YZ8Wk/TrkhRmEPc-I/AAAAAAAAA9M/8fd4cZQPLr8/s1600-h/007%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="007" border="0" alt="007" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-jh_4GjH5bY8/TrkhSlbMKRI/AAAAAAAAA9Q/DKgpQRM__jU/007_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="615" height="472"></a></p> <p>I took this for the toast-face mask. This guy seems to pop up all over, and you can purchase him in many forms. Mask, pen, notebook, etc. I debated buying this and dressing up as Powdered Toast Man for Halloween. No one seemed to know who that was though… boo.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-6_A90NdxYt0/TrkhTECbdrI/AAAAAAAAA9Y/bw-xR_5EKoY/s1600-h/009%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="009" border="0" alt="009" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-lOVppC4gTXM/TrkhTxccvWI/AAAAAAAAA9g/czOMM31RSqc/009_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="592" height="454"></a></p> <p>Yet again, being the creeper that I am. The cutest little girl in the entire country of Japan just happened to be at the fiesta. What a coincidence. </p> <p> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-pYMgzQFXJGI/TrkhUtenUSI/AAAAAAAAA9s/lTVnZRpeBKE/s1600-h/012%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="012" border="0" alt="012" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-57BM3NLaKxQ/TrkhVllH5wI/AAAAAAAAA90/nKuBSOmN8Io/012_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="447" height="583"></a></p> <p>And finally…I was too slow to get the front view, but this fellow was dressed as some sort of fun creature-y or robot-y type thing. I didn’t see anyone else dressed up as anything in particular so I’m not quite sure what he was going for, but hey, it’s Japan…it just seems slightly more acceptable to walk around in a robot costume, right?</p> <p> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-gB4WuQQvebo/TrkhWa0dBdI/AAAAAAAAA94/hD4bBivD6Fs/s1600-h/015%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="015" border="0" alt="015" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Owo_HCbwOYs/TrkhXP3_uQI/AAAAAAAAA-E/ar1TXDwx5Hw/015_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="450" height="582"></a></p> <p>So did you like all the hot air balloons? I know I did! Bitterness aside, it was a neat festival and had the balloon competition actually gone on, it would have been even better. I think the horrifically hot weather was really the worst part of the day. But! We all managed to make it home in one not-too-sunburned piece and survived another day. Go team!</p> <p>To counter this sad entry I have a bazillion great photos to post from our trip to the sumo practice stable and the Dazaifu shrine. Let’s hope it doesn’t take me six weeks to upload them.</p> <p>Keep in touch folks, and stay cool. Okay, now I’m rubbing it in a little…. </p> <p>LOVE YOU!</p> <p>xoxoxo</p> kunobothttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15513489268165917619noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2076932335039963964.post-37613081342036021792011-11-05T15:35:00.001+09:002011-11-05T15:35:04.844+09:00Dazaifu Elementary School Visit<p>Look at me posting two posts so close together! Don’t get too excited, this will probably never happen again. As the Internet is vacant at the moment I will consume my time with uploading photos. Huzzah!</p> <p>Our group went to a town just outside of Fukuoka (a 30 minute bus ride) to visit some ridiculously cute children. They host a bazaar and festival and we were lucky enough to join the fun. Here’s the photo scoop…</p> <p>The school was definitely all about learning English. The stairs had various themes including fruit, sports, and what you see below. </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-ezWxtKCJPQw/TrTYrX-9hoI/AAAAAAAAA4k/WgzMwzQCRXA/s1600-h/0013.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="001" border="0" alt="001" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-c7zcHH8abVI/TrTYsGK9BpI/AAAAAAAAA4o/a4evXJY_7lk/001_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="476" height="620"></a></p> <p>We were all seated at tables with our very own name cards. This was only the beginning of the specialness yet to come.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-zdCrpWncy5I/TrTYspioPYI/AAAAAAAAA40/Sk7OcvOqnWA/s1600-h/0023.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="002" border="0" alt="002" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Ly6iG4y-lGs/TrTYtnb4u1I/AAAAAAAAA48/CRDiH2iuOME/002_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="536" height="411"></a></p> <p>This was the principal. Very kind and very happy to have us there. Thank you!</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-0w3gcUOTgAc/TrTYuZ9iE6I/AAAAAAAAA5A/2KREN2E4yS8/s1600-h/0043.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="004" border="0" alt="004" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/--fs60R36Ic8/TrTYvKZLbAI/AAAAAAAAA5I/OsaJhHiOLPo/004_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="550" height="422"></a></p> <p>After a bit of opening orientation info we were greeted by the first round of kids. They came in with signs up high to get us. Cuuuute.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-JLkQbVbSz54/TrTYwBYLnWI/AAAAAAAAA5Q/G9WbkTQ8HYY/s1600-h/0083.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="008" border="0" alt="008" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Ry-QjFb_MS4/TrTYwiAeNQI/AAAAAAAAA5c/qv_GRhhJlaY/008_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="558" height="428"></a></p> <p>We first visited the lower grade classes. Our class did a very cute trivia game where each round a group of four kids would stand at the front with a question and signs with pictures and we would have to vote and guess the answer to the question. I got half of them wrong, oops. During this trivia game they even sang us three songs and played us some music on their recorders. Don’t you just love recorders? I do! (I still have one by the way…)</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-e5qcJ9Z0epc/TrTYxw5lKFI/AAAAAAAAA5k/Ze4JW6MyDsU/s1600-h/0113.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="011" border="0" alt="011" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Uhq1VBgbx4c/TrTYyhNOmsI/AAAAAAAAA5o/OQp31gMLl3o/011_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="590" height="453"></a></p> <p>Their teacher was quite excited for the performance, and helped them along with this handy sheet music that he projected up on their classroom TV screen. I wonder if that is the class motto posted next to the clock. </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-keNgjO_LR_k/TrTYzCvjfbI/AAAAAAAAA5w/MB54XMi6R-s/s1600-h/0133.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="013" border="0" alt="013" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Aod8EOq4YfA/TrTY0GjMgMI/AAAAAAAAA54/v193C2aFS6k/013_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="486" height="634"></a></p> <p>An amazing group photo of our wonderful class!</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-lw_anmTXp_0/TrTY03BxtLI/AAAAAAAAA6E/ZRgw-BhKiAI/s1600-h/0164.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="016" border="0" alt="016" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-TSNUH7QaUO4/TrTY1wduU0I/AAAAAAAAA6M/RGLKOqYUFno/016_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="650" height="503"></a></p> <p>Please also note that I am wearing slippers. Inside the entire school you are to wear indoor shoes or slippers, they take their shoes off near the doors and store them in cubbies.</p> <p>This was my little group of girls. We played a game where you have to do “rock, paper, scissors” against someone at the front of the room, and if you lose you take a sheet of newspaper your entire group stands on and fold it in half. That sheet gets small pretty quickly if you are on the losing team! Very fun, and hilarious to see the kids try to pile on top of each other to stay on the newspaper as it got tinier and tinier. The one on the far right in the photo was my favourite. Yeah, yeah…not supposed to have favourites. Well, I did.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-4wcLfIIyAAI/TrTY2imXH5I/AAAAAAAAA6U/MqPH7ptsEMI/s1600-h/0193.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="019" border="0" alt="019" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-B3mICg3nBPQ/TrTY3l4wyzI/AAAAAAAAA6Y/rPVd_ZgeP7o/019_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="601" height="461"></a></p> <p>Next our group moved on to one of the grade six classes. There we were taught how to play the <em>koto</em>. As you can see below it is a huge string instrument, and it sounds beautiful. </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-A2CWE9F2Qjg/TrTY4N5_amI/AAAAAAAAA6g/eba5xm7hwqE/s1600-h/0233.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="023" border="0" alt="023" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-QROh4IBeXEc/TrTY4w0VtuI/AAAAAAAAA6o/6zzVAPI2bqA/023_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="596" height="457"></a></p> <p>You wear little finger picks to pluck the strings with. Needless to say they were a liiiiittle bit too small for my giant hands. I managed to get one on but by the end of our lesson my finger tip was about to explode from pain.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-PigBNrE7v0g/TrTY5mhPJYI/AAAAAAAAA60/RQjQ6pAYSxk/s1600-h/0213.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="021" border="0" alt="021" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-R1ROkJwkEMU/TrTY62vCWMI/AAAAAAAAA68/tRP-UEbyFXA/021_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="589" height="452"></a></p> <p>We learned to play the main chorus of “Sakura Sakura”. Here is the worst quality video you will ever watch…I tried to record the kids playing but my camera is just horrid for video. Just close your eyes and listen, okay?</p> <div style="padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: none; padding-top: 0px" id="scid:5737277B-5D6D-4f48-ABFC-DD9C333F4C5D:79b2c2c6-ef46-4906-a2e0-32f0c5651ab9" class="wlWriterEditableSmartContent"><div id="8f5e53fd-2ca2-4a5b-a10f-35ec9d1593b0" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; display: inline;"><div><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BNTkqyLRO5Y" target="_new"><img src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-2_PNvBpnulQ/TrTY76N-8vI/AAAAAAAAA7A/WDP5pfwGmII/video02dda98893c9%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-style: none" galleryimg="no" onload="var downlevelDiv = document.getElementById('8f5e53fd-2ca2-4a5b-a10f-35ec9d1593b0'); downlevelDiv.innerHTML = "<div><object width=\"459\" height=\"383\"><param name=\"movie\" value=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/BNTkqyLRO5Y&hl=en\"><\/param><embed src=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/BNTkqyLRO5Y&hl=en\" type=\"application/x-shockwave-flash\" width=\"459\" height=\"383\"><\/embed><\/object><\/div>";" alt=""></a></div></div></div> <p>Believe it or not, after being taught by these wonderful students, the group of us were all able to play this together! Not bad for a first try. </p> <p>After we played the <em>koto</em> we then got to wander around the bazaar and eat lunch. There were food stalls set up with lots of different things to eat, and a small area where they were selling various trinkets. My big purchase of the day was a cute polka-dot tissue holder. Japan is the country of polka-dots. I love it!!!</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-30lV0QxPxZQ/TrTY8geNWcI/AAAAAAAAA7I/piglgwD49IE/s1600-h/Tissuepack3.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="Tissue pack" border="0" alt="Tissue pack" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-4LCcjKYEsH0/TrTY9AvvD_I/AAAAAAAAA7Q/T4ehk9POeKw/Tissuepack_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="574" height="440"></a></p> <p>After lunch we were treated to a tea ceremony. It was my first time and since being in the Tea Ceremony class at school I actually had a clue what was going on and why she was doing what she was doing. Neat!</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-V2LjPmT5k4o/TrTY9jao2PI/AAAAAAAAA7Y/d2CISYQXOv4/s1600-h/0343.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="034" border="0" alt="034" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Gx-cgyU9a70/TrTY-uCTnII/AAAAAAAAA7k/knkDEcj_sDg/034_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="589" height="452"></a></p> <p>While waiting for the tea to be prepared we were given these adorable <em>mochi</em> (sweet rice dessert). You can tell what time of year it was. Too cute!</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-6hIaa9t-3fU/TrTY_vmPqpI/AAAAAAAAA7s/czSsDMpHx_c/s1600-h/0373.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="037" border="0" alt="037" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-69dmyynC4QE/TrTZAbvU39I/AAAAAAAAA70/ZYYWEZnkjsM/037_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="606" height="465"></a></p> <p>This guy made my day…</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-dWImiRvFnDs/TrTZBe3IDsI/AAAAAAAAA78/xfCsv37Tuu4/s1600-h/0394.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="039" border="0" alt="039" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-ld7vWM1c9Fs/TrTZCO2NJQI/AAAAAAAAA8A/K__t3i4wzA8/039_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="609" height="471"></a></p> <p>We were all given our own bowl of tea. Please note the <em>tatami</em> floors (shoes off at all times).</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-GNU3qw9aZZ8/TrTZC_yBGII/AAAAAAAAA8M/Kr4gM1sBHEw/s1600-h/0403.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="040" border="0" alt="040" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-twoFjN1AGeA/TrTZDn83qFI/AAAAAAAAA8U/4JJjtE7zytA/040_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="626" height="480"></a></p> <p>Collecting the bowls from us. Look at that beautiful kimono…I really want to go to a shop where you can try them on. Definitely on the To Do list!</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-dpDjF42L-Cg/TrTZEtijNdI/AAAAAAAAA8c/ufhAPGJwcew/s1600-h/0443.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="044" border="0" alt="044" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-ZBdJWzGKoSk/TrTZFtegS2I/AAAAAAAAA8k/zpXh-gTd2WU/044_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="614" height="471"></a></p> <p>After the tea ceremony we gathered our things and made our way back to the bus. What an excellent day! The trip definitely was a highlight of my time here so far. I’m sure the adorable children aren’t adorable ALL the time, but at least for the day they were really fun to be around and put on such amazing performances. It was honestly touching to see how excited they were and how much they prepared for our visit. </p> <p>As I mentioned before, we attended a balloon fiesta on Thursday during the national holiday…but it was more like a bust-loon fiesta. Okay that joke didn’t work at all, but I really don’t have much to show from it since the balloon competition was cancelled! I’ll throw up a couple photos of the vendors eventually…but knowing me that will be three weeks from now, hah!</p> <p>We are off to a sumo stable and local shrine on Monday, so let’s hope I get some better photos there.</p> <p>Until then, take care everyone!</p> <p>xoxoxo</p> kunobothttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15513489268165917619noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2076932335039963964.post-62567074014545302222011-11-01T21:49:00.001+09:002011-11-01T22:07:32.777+09:00Rice Harvesting Trip: Day Two<p>Boy am I ever behind! Busy bee has no time for bloggy…bee? Well, anyway, here are the photos from the second half of our rice harvesting trip, FINALLY.</p> <p>Enjoy!</p> <p>We traveled to a mountain that I now forget the name of and am too lazy to look up. We drove to the top and walked to the bottom. I was definitely happy with this decision. Look at that view! </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Zfq9MC4_cVw/Tq_qM5dmUrI/AAAAAAAAA3M/tVttmTJCU7g/s1600-h/221%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="221" border="0" alt="221" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-T8dxeMHMOYc/Tq_qNvyDT7I/AAAAAAAAA3Q/8fDwjKAxApA/221_thumb%25255B5%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="568" height="442"></a></p> <p> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-u132cMhGL8Q/Tq_qOo2jQMI/AAAAAAAAA3U/rfUIxfuEQ74/s1600-h/222%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="222" border="0" alt="222" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-1MT3W8JV6q0/Tq_qPzbRZiI/AAAAAAAAA3Y/UlRpzKuRH3E/222_thumb%25255B5%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="574" height="448"></a></p> <p> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-hnEmXGuQPRI/Tq_qQ1FsnGI/AAAAAAAAA3c/06GxLgi7cxM/s1600-h/223%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="223" border="0" alt="223" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-UwaUs2kKMLM/Tq_qSpH5gfI/AAAAAAAAA3g/pjhlRZsFVEY/223_thumb%25255B5%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="576" height="449"></a></p> <p>This gentleman enjoyed the view so much, he decided to take photos of it with his HUGE GIGANTIC LENS. Complete with super camouflage blankey. Necessary? I think so! We are talking serious wilderness here people.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-zFvnxsn9bDw/Tq_qTYZluBI/AAAAAAAAAy8/8AEKXkpn7vY/s1600-h/224%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="224" border="0" alt="224" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-SeN8d8V-ISI/Tq_qUg_llWI/AAAAAAAAAzE/owNs1y9iHec/224_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="661" height="507"></a></p> <p>This was an interesting statue we came across. Looks somewhat normal from here.</p> <p> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-9lba6UxjA8Q/Tq_qVu4lSLI/AAAAAAAAAzI/halZ3Mp0rZ0/s1600-h/226%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="226" border="0" alt="226" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-hh6mRVmgc14/Tq_qW5G-jfI/AAAAAAAAAzU/CGnOpyyYR7c/226_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="506" height="660"></a></p> <p>But then….ZOMG.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-ZSGapwCEhDs/Tq_qYEKFMfI/AAAAAAAAAzc/9qsFeeGdaXY/s1600-h/227%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="227" border="0" alt="227" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-lasAxxqEHcc/Tq_qZXa7oPI/AAAAAAAAAzk/iSYoQvDxF-c/227_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="688" height="528"></a></p> <p>And we also ran across a praying mantis. Cute little fellow blended in so well, perhaps hard to see. But he is there, somewhere. Keep looking.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-dUU0OcaS58k/Tq_qaZlZ1GI/AAAAAAAAAzo/KhcocjEYELo/s1600-h/228%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="228" border="0" alt="228" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-OqGseltZBNg/Tq_qbjwvqiI/AAAAAAAAAz0/P8sNJb_Cvl4/228_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="547" height="713"></a></p> <p>We then reached the entrance point to the path we hiked down.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-jsIpB3FAq_Q/Tq_qcgUmyTI/AAAAAAAAAz8/HiCyVU6BTak/s1600-h/229%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="229" border="0" alt="229" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-JiztwWDQ3oM/Tq_qdihyBQI/AAAAAAAAA0A/octNqJ2I7j4/229_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="527" height="687"></a></p> <p> Love, love, love…</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-LRLBNFq18hI/Tq_qeUso8KI/AAAAAAAAA0I/sFtFNIxI0u8/s1600-h/230%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="230" border="0" alt="230" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Qs00Sv78Q2c/Tq_qffFL3_I/AAAAAAAAA0U/3qWOxf8ItgA/230_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="540" height="704"></a></p> <p>Along the walk beside the path…HELLO.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-5xWM7ZX9tsQ/Tq_qhrg1eKI/AAAAAAAAA0c/2Z_wCMfwd0Q/s1600-h/231%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="231" border="0" alt="231" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-OQJRN75MwpQ/Tq_qiv7QFVI/AAAAAAAAA0k/2WrV_rU-DKk/231_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="713" height="547"></a></p> <p>This path led somewhere we didn’t go… but where?</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-NpqqIkSRGz4/Tq_qjYwgukI/AAAAAAAAA0s/7EwKjCStzvs/s1600-h/232%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="232" border="0" alt="232" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-RM5MR12s0zs/Tq_qkfk_PRI/AAAAAAAAA00/VhsTdQEp9is/232_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="529" height="690"></a></p> <p>In case you didn’t get enough spider in my recent posts, here’s another “fun” looking one that was hanging above our heads. DEAR GOD. It was insanely massive. Biggest spider I have ever seen. Ever.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-jFoMas6QIu0/Tq_vDwXsDiI/AAAAAAAAA3k/CDgi0oO0jTU/s1600-h/234%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="234" border="0" alt="234" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-OkotWTW4NjA/Tq_vEgNSs6I/AAAAAAAAA3o/csM6O2Yqj4E/234_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="662" height="508"></a> </p> <p>We came across a bamboo forest on the mountainside. My first time to see bamboo growing in the wild. Very neat!</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-fxxFxUcByX4/Tq_qllURr3I/AAAAAAAAA08/0dXQRtgH55Y/s1600-h/235%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="235" border="0" alt="235" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-On-rlHw5gkI/Tq_qnuAgbvI/AAAAAAAAA1E/r1IJtDEXDHI/235_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="534" height="696"></a></p> <p> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-ks7-xfmPeiI/Tq_qoXZnrKI/AAAAAAAAA1I/GTmYbqqWi7U/s1600-h/238%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="238" border="0" alt="238" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-TGebHhyINlQ/Tq_qpYbwF_I/AAAAAAAAA1Q/whl2Wkt6ChY/238_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="554" height="723"></a></p> <p> Look at all that bamboo!</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-553hnF_0IQA/Tq_qrcR-cOI/AAAAAAAAA1c/E2rTmwpmoBk/s1600-h/239%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="239" border="0" alt="239" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-opgfscR8l0Y/Tq_qsLO8hlI/AAAAAAAAA1k/x5_Z-6P-cCA/239_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="706" height="541"></a></p> <p> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-s11eB3E286M/Tq_qtj6rKtI/AAAAAAAAA1s/xryTUSI-B54/s1600-h/240%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="240" border="0" alt="240" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-hcynqEURMEw/Tq_qub1nStI/AAAAAAAAA10/LrSFKcHjM4g/240_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="516" height="673"></a></p> <p>So much bamboo! Are you feeling bamboozled? Ahaha. C’MON.</p> <p>Another entrance to the mountainside seen while on our way from the hike to our lunch destination.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-glM6_af0VQs/Tq_qvYt-4dI/AAAAAAAAA18/sPV-A3nEAM4/s1600-h/242%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="242" border="0" alt="242" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-JJJNV_a1g1Y/Tq_qwnt7_zI/AAAAAAAAA2E/Wd2dqicA5OI/242_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="656" height="503"></a></p> <p>A quick note: For the last two trips we had eaten copious amounts of fish. For our dinner and breakfast previous to this meal we ate fish. For lunch AND breakfast. You will not be surprised to hear that when we were told we had arrived at “Fish Town” for lunch no one jumped up out of their seat with joy. But, to my surprise it was actually the best fish we ate within those three meals! The <em>sashimi</em> (the raw cut fish pieces) was delicious, and I’m usually not a big fan of it!</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-0Taw2_SFyDw/Tq_qxojLk3I/AAAAAAAAA2M/tvGyxK0zb_E/s1600-h/243%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="243" border="0" alt="243" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-mU89mFA_2JU/Tq_qy4AeJxI/AAAAAAAAA2Q/IwMJh1hD0ZE/243_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="687" height="527"></a></p> <p>There was a market next to the restaurant. Whale, anyone?</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-0aOPSfelCrw/Tq_qzhDkolI/AAAAAAAAA2U/60CA22ScQU8/s1600-h/244%25255B12%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="244" border="0" alt="244" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-wpCZJ4cGcgI/Tq_q0hdcN1I/AAAAAAAAA2g/_CtrCPyoQ5o/244_thumb%25255B10%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="600" height="460"></a></p> <p>There were many varieties and cuts, as you can see…….uh yeah.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Ik8SzOWDOTQ/Tq_q2E_WKoI/AAAAAAAAA2s/hXLhqzIOnZ0/s1600-h/245%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="245" border="0" alt="245" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-kCxYOGzU0Uo/Tq_q3v6QoeI/AAAAAAAAA20/FmpasQz0Ryk/245_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="585" height="449"></a></p> <p>On a happier note…in case you didn’t get enough from the last post, here is another photo of me holding rice. YAHOO!</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-XSFa_pJN5JE/Tq_q4o5yu6I/AAAAAAAAA24/Aoxdzsxhmhc/s1600-h/Rice%252520Peace%252520Harvesting%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Rice Peace Harvesting" border="0" alt="Rice Peace Harvesting" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-I2XAWJ0Y0LQ/Tq_q6JlOLEI/AAAAAAAAA3E/pf53bNiXjUA/Rice%252520Peace%252520Harvesting_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="611" height="469"></a></p> <p>Next on the list are some photos from our visit to an elementary school, and perhaps some random Halloween shots… We are headed to a “balloon fiesta” this Thursday as it is a national holiday. I am unsure what constitutes a balloon fiesta but I will be sure to take photos. I assume it has something to do with balloons. Probably in a fiesta type of format…hm… </p> <p>As always, hope everyone at home is doing well. </p> <p>Take care! I miss you all!</p> <p>xoxoxo </p> kunobothttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15513489268165917619noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2076932335039963964.post-59445887824745510982011-10-22T16:52:00.001+09:002011-10-22T16:53:19.620+09:00Rice Harvesting Trip: Day One!<p>Last weekend we went on another study trip. This was our first experience with harvesting rice, and it was great! We stayed at a hotel overnight and took in some sights the next day, but I have about a bazillion photos so I will split this into two posts. </p> <p>I also just got home from a day long festival at a local elementary school, so I need to get moving and get these posts up. Too many photos, so little time!</p> <p>To begin the trip we were whisked away to a rice paddy that was among many of the terraced fields in the countryside. The view was stunning!</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Vccd8rfgcvY/TqJ1gUz124I/AAAAAAAAAxw/dpYFTjihx5k/s1600-h/053%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="053" border="0" alt="053" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-t5opQZ6JQKI/TqJ1gz-DWHI/AAAAAAAAAx0/uLbv2WlfcKc/053_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="564" height="436"></a> </p> <p>This is a photo of the rice fields before being harvested. </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-fM-kS8rmV40/TqJ1hb0Hw2I/AAAAAAAAAx4/Lrb9nayXH6o/s1600-h/052%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="052" border="0" alt="052" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-U2hn6wya56U/TqJ1iOcSivI/AAAAAAAAAx8/QRerDcUTcFY/052_thumb%25255B5%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="563" height="435"></a></p> <p>This was one of our wonderful hosts. Here he is giving us a demonstration on how to use the sickle to properly harvest the rice. Rice holds great importance in Japan so the technique to harvest it was quite specific. The way you hold the stalks and cut them specific. You are not supposed to saw the stalks but make a quick cut across the bases. </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-j6h9JjPCa-I/TqJ1ill59rI/AAAAAAAAApg/jiDiN5RS1jg/s1600-h/058%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="058" border="0" alt="058" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Kdwss02w0Mw/TqJ1jOTa2RI/AAAAAAAAApo/FJhBuqXpsuM/058_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="449" height="585"></a></p> <p>The stalks then had to be placed in piles. This was to prepare for putting them through the machine that would separate the grains from the stalks.</p> <p>Here are some pro rice harvesters in action.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-X6uXvQZ5zJA/TqJ1jvdx6VI/AAAAAAAAApw/Tw5_M41_G3E/s1600-h/067%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="067" border="0" alt="067" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-7nh9_2mQjPs/TqJ1kMn1DZI/AAAAAAAAAp4/zkteoTd_1ao/067_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="634" height="486"></a></p> <p>This rice in this paddy was planted in spring by the JTW class from last year. We will return here in June and plant new rice for next year’s students to harvest. </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/--Venl5BU31U/TqJ1ksRnuSI/AAAAAAAAAqA/D1ZlRiFffOo/s1600-h/073%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="073" border="0" alt="073" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-9utkhqgeJ_0/TqJ1lctKkPI/AAAAAAAAAqI/F00E4t2jdeA/073_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="635" height="487"></a> </p> <p>A close up of the top of the stalks. You can see the small rice grains still encased in the husk. They will be husked and cleaned elsewhere.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-4u5rl-m8gtI/TqJ1l54OtBI/AAAAAAAAAqQ/nCHkg_sPOUo/s1600-h/085%25255B8%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="085" border="0" alt="085" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-HzYe7yZPuvg/TqJ1mubrUTI/AAAAAAAAAqY/DJ_NS-GBMOE/085_thumb%25255B6%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="711" height="549"></a> </p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p>Yes, I really did harvest rice. Tash and I decided to get matching rice harvesting hats. Not only were we “super fashionable” but it was quite handy for the blaring sun. </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-49x_lLfVxcs/TqJ1nX1LTvI/AAAAAAAAAqg/7iUTPsJkBbY/s1600-h/086%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="086" border="0" alt="086" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Gl3t8EKi6uM/TqJ1oHRgSsI/AAAAAAAAAqo/2089snkBWNM/086_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="520" height="678"></a></p> <p>Below, our field almost completely harvested. I was asked by one of the farmers to walk around and pick up every single stray stalk. No rice is to be wasted. It took a while, but we finally had every one! </p> <p></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Y9gLIGVp1vA/TqJ1oiGjsxI/AAAAAAAAAqw/4Vc9gEWt6T8/s1600-h/098%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="098" border="0" alt="098" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Tzlqq11gkaI/TqJ1pDS44yI/AAAAAAAAAq4/XrkrRzaamKc/098_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="680" height="522"></a></p> <p>This young fellow was out playing near our field.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-wWgnchOZcrU/TqJ1pk7Y8pI/AAAAAAAAArA/Xpz9WDe5z30/s1600-h/100%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="100" border="0" alt="100" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-1CGbGCy91L4/TqJ1qZIYvyI/AAAAAAAAArI/oXPTgxeeYV4/100_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="475" height="619"></a></p> <p>His partner in crime, inspecting his catch.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-tsPqKzOHXMw/TqJ1q8iTj8I/AAAAAAAAArQ/7Jd_tF9pCN8/s1600-h/109%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="109" border="0" alt="109" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-aSgS_0PhihY/TqJ1rXLC09I/AAAAAAAAArY/OvPG5S5tvxA/109_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="478" height="618"></a></p> <p>This little guy was found wandering around the rice paddy. We came across quite a few squiggly things while down there. </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-iMFEHBbmp4Q/TqJ1r4VSOnI/AAAAAAAAArg/WzfLGlI44Cs/s1600-h/113%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="113" border="0" alt="113" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-VF9ztGqU5VQ/TqJ1sNWborI/AAAAAAAAAro/OnAc5MMmbTA/113_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="482" height="628"></a></p> <p>Joel waiting to place his rice bundle into the separating machine. He was a great rice harvester!</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-puR0gMFOHRI/TqJ1tUtXEDI/AAAAAAAAArw/hPywl8pje_I/s1600-h/116%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="116" border="0" alt="116" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-D4o1eeyuUic/TqJ1tyc02eI/AAAAAAAAAr4/9ZRDqofu97E/116_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="486" height="634"></a></p> <p>The bags of separated rice grains we collected. We harvested quite a lot!</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-aI229yhIs0Q/TqJ1uQafBqI/AAAAAAAAAsA/ZtBiVqulNpg/s1600-h/118%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="118" border="0" alt="118" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-XZFYkekjs7A/TqJ1vJrFsGI/AAAAAAAAAsI/JX9BDtx9gyg/118_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="631" height="484"></a></p> <p>The completely finished paddy. Looks great! The machine to the right was what separated the grains from stalks.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-IuU7ve6IXuM/TqJ1vnbvZkI/AAAAAAAAAsQ/MLpbSRDk9gk/s1600-h/121%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="121" border="0" alt="121" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-aid7lf6jtg8/TqJ1w9t--NI/AAAAAAAAAsU/X2fSQ2sCG7k/121_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="659" height="505"></a></p> <p>After our hard work the farmers treated us to an unbelievable meal. Beginning with a toast!</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-yhXE9eyAwh8/TqJ1xeB-zmI/AAAAAAAAAsg/lRtkEFWs9Ws/s1600-h/127%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="127" border="0" alt="127" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-h8zRzWji0PU/TqJ1x5olufI/AAAAAAAAAso/1DFsbuua76s/127_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="632" height="485"></a></p> <p>We ate some of the most delicious meats and veggies, all grilled by our group. Well, mostly by Maylene (in the ASU sweater), the<strong> super grill expert</strong>. It was amazing!!! Definitely the best (and biggest) meal I have had since coming to Japan!</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-qTVOt24KKco/TqJ1yqMZXgI/AAAAAAAAAsw/H6_tLa1yujU/s1600-h/132%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="132" border="0" alt="132" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-7ms_ODvaAtg/TqJ1zAoJyCI/AAAAAAAAAs4/5yzNt0vunx0/132_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="642" height="492"></a></p> <p>After the meat came the <em>yakisoba</em>. They fried the noodles right over the barbecue as well.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-YbYdva468qA/TqJ1zmE5C1I/AAAAAAAAAtA/X8Hbn2Tu5Vs/s1600-h/145%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="145" border="0" alt="145" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-C9QRDxiixy4/TqJ10DaU8oI/AAAAAAAAAtI/b5cD-frU5nQ/145_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="700" height="537"></a></p> <p>I thought you might enjoy a shot of the neat footwear the farmers wore. I wish we got to try them out! Might have made walking around in the mud a bit easier.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-86B3-Bk7sKU/TqJ101GV3eI/AAAAAAAAAtQ/8tk-3MeiCx8/s1600-h/138%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="138" border="0" alt="138" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-8q1K50SdWYI/TqJ11XNrQiI/AAAAAAAAAtY/iMqoUk_q3bY/138_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="700" height="537"></a></p> <p>Another friendly creature we came across. Yikes!</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-qiaHxWSMJM4/TqJ119IYcMI/AAAAAAAAAtg/XrnvTHrNTAc/s1600-h/056%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="056" border="0" alt="056" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-J8OT5FALm30/TqJ12X2_J0I/AAAAAAAAAto/2LolmMuMSLw/056_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="688" height="528"></a></p> <p>Stomachs full and bodies tired, our next stop on the trip was a ceramics park. The architecture here was really interesting. For a few hours I really didn’t feel like I was in Japan. It was also eerily empty…so somewhat strange to wander around. </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-35h58iBcsO8/TqJ12zvnj3I/AAAAAAAAAtw/hzJyM1ux0WQ/s1600-h/154%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="154" border="0" alt="154" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Db7Cvov6AnA/TqJ13vaL6wI/AAAAAAAAAt4/rWMkT0skw0E/154_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="674" height="517"></a></p> <p>This building was beautiful!</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-bjSv7otDZj4/TqJ14CIceEI/AAAAAAAAAuA/fIagPE87hwc/s1600-h/155%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="155" border="0" alt="155" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-C6p2RJGVcXY/TqJ14n0CkvI/AAAAAAAAAuI/67Umr5DhJvQ/155_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="701" height="542"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/--5i3SnxvYm8/TqJ14xVI_QI/AAAAAAAAAuQ/hnqQUpqF6uY/s1600-h/157%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="157" border="0" alt="157" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-PrtV7A7Zcio/TqJ15agzD1I/AAAAAAAAAuY/CUMw9ZokeJ8/157_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="516" height="673"></a></p> <p> We then got to make some handmade pottery of our own! Apparently it will arrive glazed and fired in about three weeks time. Let’s hope it turned out well. Mine is the ugly one on the far right. Yeah, not pretty. Tash definitely won the prize for best pottery with her curvy bowl!</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-iPyLV94wyFU/TqJ155F3-rI/AAAAAAAAAug/mkshbQKtcEs/s1600-h/161%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="161" border="0" alt="161" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-GjtZYYB7gxs/TqJ16nJvb9I/AAAAAAAAAuo/Vqp4fRKu82c/161_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="693" height="532"></a></p> <p>Wandering around the deserted park…</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-lCgUQN3fjaM/TqJ164Zd2sI/AAAAAAAAAuw/n01AhEvq-YA/s1600-h/168%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="168" border="0" alt="168" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-a0m049nqK0U/TqJ172-mkPI/AAAAAAAAAu4/atuwztiL4gA/168_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="663" height="509"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-cEkPBiUI8TM/TqJ18jkzcDI/AAAAAAAAAvA/oPbI5qbhuBY/s1600-h/169%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="169" border="0" alt="169" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-rrxiu_Q46GY/TqJ19YKpNaI/AAAAAAAAAvI/w9SdYA1uF4I/169_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="657" height="504"></a></p> <p>I couldn’t resist taking a photo of this little guy. Everything, I mean EVERYTHING, has a cute face in Japan. <strong>Everything</strong>.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-lnMmDAeTV4k/TqJ19-Ui8GI/AAAAAAAAAvQ/9RUI_mogw8M/s1600-h/172%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="172" border="0" alt="172" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-sgLkZFZ1eTI/TqJ1-QxyZTI/AAAAAAAAAvY/EBcDb0Ml-Y4/172_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="608" height="470"></a></p> <p>After crafting some pottery we were then taken to our hotel. It was a traditional Japanese style hotel. This is my room, shared with another student. While out for dinner this table was moved by the staff and two futon beds were placed on the <em>tatami</em> floors. I’m such a wimp and have a hard time sleeping on them, but it was a great time nonetheless! </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-cGSAA1y9Sik/TqJ1-5BlEgI/AAAAAAAAAvg/My889XEyBGk/s1600-h/177%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="177" border="0" alt="177" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-fZiBEeWF2FY/TqJ1_REd0AI/AAAAAAAAAvk/S05nWbqqDsg/177_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="661" height="507"></a></p> <p>We actually didn’t have these toilet slippers, they were in a different room, but too cute so I had to steal a photo. The kitty in the middle is my favourite.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-SuDkoGU_Gao/TqJ1_ycrWsI/AAAAAAAAAvw/8g6cECMAklU/s1600-h/179%25255B22%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="179" border="0" alt="179" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Cwad1pYO72k/TqJ2AQ0xDqI/AAAAAAAAAv4/gQPBYcMS1q8/179_thumb%25255B20%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="654" height="502"></a></p> <p>I also had to show you the tiniest and cutest TV remote in the entire universe. Behold its cuteness! </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-KP827wOjkw0/TqJ2Ax6p0-I/AAAAAAAAAwA/lDjjzGrWiGg/s1600-h/184%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="184" border="0" alt="184" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-FOHe3qBdiqM/TqJ2BfrlviI/AAAAAAAAAwI/W0uFPfI6Q_0/184_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="688" height="528"></a></p> <p>We then had dinner in the main dining area. Another amazing meal! </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-7YuLqZ4xwnY/TqJ2B1YUm-I/AAAAAAAAAwQ/PHXtoxUSdK4/s1600-h/192%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="192" border="0" alt="192" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-_yTuE4uKqvo/TqJ2CQIWR5I/AAAAAAAAAwY/jcdCk--HYNg/192_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="557" height="726"></a></p> <p>Unfortunately I took this photo before the rest of the dishes came out. The space is missing a big bowl of veggie and shrimp tempura and a bowl of rice. This meal was fantastic!</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-GcgH2AlgBc8/TqJ2C2RdSSI/AAAAAAAAAwg/fv5qC2I8l54/s1600-h/193%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="193" border="0" alt="193" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-3A3_Y_zYwV0/TqJ2DfFqnWI/AAAAAAAAAwo/ShFYSv3X0go/193_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="665" height="510"></a></p> <p> We cooked the meat and veggies over this. So yummy!</p> <p> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-chpa51B6XgY/TqJ2D5JLvFI/AAAAAAAAAww/_381A2jf_J4/s1600-h/203%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="203" border="0" alt="203" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-cSKqosp7ZFw/TqJ2FPQH7NI/AAAAAAAAAw4/OzZ3ROfJEhU/203_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="482" height="628"></a></p> <p>This was probably the most interesting part. I admit I did not try the fish eggs, but I sampled the purple cube. It tasted sort of like sweet potato! I honestly have no clue what it was, if anyone knows please let me know.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-gg9SLyV7JGE/TqJ2FmzHDEI/AAAAAAAAAxA/-u8Y4BmsK2g/s1600-h/198%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="198" border="0" alt="198" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-EaLXv8kMVHU/TqJ2GEP18AI/AAAAAAAAAxI/UyDnggo3ukU/198_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="664" height="509"></a></p> <p>Finally, it was time to relax…with another <em>onsen</em> (hot spring)! I was able to sneak a photo of the inside <em>onsen</em> and shower area, but there was also an <em>onsen</em> outside through the sliding doors. The outside <em>onsen</em> was really lovely, and all stone, but holy cow it was hot!</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-36ovrRWRb-Q/TqJ2GifPKSI/AAAAAAAAAxQ/ScM5MGrjFKE/s1600-h/182%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="182" border="0" alt="182" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-HO2ojtWZVbE/TqJ2HTk1YeI/AAAAAAAAAxY/Kkdfo35PYac/182_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="635" height="487"></a></p> <p>And these are the nice <em>yukatas</em> we were given to wear around. Traditionally <em>yukatas</em> were also worn to sleep, but lazing around before and after <em>onsen</em> in these was most popular! </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-qrv_4hd-myk/TqJ2HmTkv5I/AAAAAAAAAxg/f8GWdiDciLg/s1600-h/213%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="213" border="0" alt="213" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-lf5-ObgDORk/TqJ2IG0nFNI/AAAAAAAAAxo/rxcGnQxQfT4/213_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="503" height="656"></a></p> <p>Of course I had to end with me in pj’s, how could I resist. </p> <p>This trip will continue in another blog post but I don’t want to overwhelm you with too many more photos at once! I will try my best to catch up this week, but the school workload has jumped up with the start of Japanese classes so my free time is usually spent passing out in bed. </p> <p>Hope everyone is doing well at home, and keep in touch!</p> <p>Toodles!</p> <p>xoxoxo </p> kunobothttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15513489268165917619noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2076932335039963964.post-45260591063309093082011-10-12T14:46:00.001+09:002011-10-12T14:50:03.785+09:00Nom, nom, nom…Part Two<p>The next update in the food series. I have been low on funds so my options have been somewhat limited lately, so hopefully I will have better food photos to show off when I have more money to spend on it!</p> <p>The following intrigued me one day at the grocery store, so I had to buy one just to see how good (or bad) they were. It’s your very own soft-serve swirl cone to eat at home!</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Ty2xmzvh3dc/TpUpjm2g78I/AAAAAAAAAnM/ZsI8y3VZmdg/s1600-h/Food%252520etc%252520001%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Food etc 001" border="0" alt="Food etc 001" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-KKkhv_jYMMw/TpUpkH9zKrI/AAAAAAAAAnU/dkp-FAv59tQ/Food%252520etc%252520001_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="489" height="637"></a></p> <p>As you can see it is even placed atop a traditional style cone. But not just any traditional cone, it’s a Deluxe Cupcake Sunny Cone.</p> <p> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Lacxsqzzf-0/TpUpk6FwhdI/AAAAAAAAAnc/Z6VBmIrfZc8/s1600-h/Food%252520etc%252520002%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Food etc 002" border="0" alt="Food etc 002" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-3m5tE6kZKjU/TpUplVsj0xI/AAAAAAAAAnk/4ZTNjpxaPZA/Food%252520etc%252520002_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="501" height="653"></a></p> <p>First impressions…the vanilla half was very airy and really not satisfying. The chocolate half was actually good and had a fairly rich chocolate flavour, and wasn’t nearly as air-filled as the vanilla. But, the cone. Oh the cone. It was a bummer, too soggy. But in fairness, I guess it would be difficult to maintain it’s crunchiness while sitting in a freezer for who knows how long.</p> <p>Next we have my first trip to McDonald’s. I feel some sort of sick guilt going into a McDonald’s here, but I did it anyway. I really wanted to see how it compared to home. And as you may guess, it was almost identical! I had a double cheeseburger and small fry. The cheeseburger was almost exactly the same, but the burger patties had a bit more pepper on them. Fries, identical. Although, they did come with this handy ketchup packet that I’ve never seen before. Apparently they have these in the UK and elsewhere, so perhaps Canada is just behind the times.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/--QDvVrqfxD0/TpUpl83G7sI/AAAAAAAAAns/Pwu8UJjirPw/s1600-h/Food%252520etc%252520006%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Food etc 006" border="0" alt="Food etc 006" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-nTtYxw_DlvI/TpUpmhgc7VI/AAAAAAAAAn0/0sbgbTiv5CY/Food%252520etc%252520006_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="641" height="492"></a></p> <p>I also decided to try the McFlurry. As some of you may or may not know, I am somewhat of a McFlurry connoisseur. That’s probably not something to be proud of, and most definitely had something to do with the extra pants size happening before I left, but gosh darn they are just too good, I can’t help myself. So saying goodbye to my self control once more, I decided to partake here in Japan.</p> <p>First impressions…they come in one size and one flavour. Perhaps this is different at other locations? I took this shot to give you some perspective of the cup size. This is next to a “medium” Japanese McDonald’s drink, which is actually just a teeeensy bit taller than the “small” size in Canada. </p> <p> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-WpTYEa2i3CA/TpUpnCgF0tI/AAAAAAAAAn8/jUO08SKGcJI/s1600-h/Photo-0009%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Photo-0009" border="0" alt="Photo-0009" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-HvLxKAeRwk8/TpUpn95UJgI/AAAAAAAAAoE/k1hYI12WgqY/Photo-0009_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="509" height="664"></a></p> <p>The cup was short and stubby (as was the mixing spoon), fairly wide, and there was about one to one and a half inches of space at the top that wasn’t even filled with ice cream. Stingy server or normal style? I suppose I will have to sample more to find that answer out. Oh darn. But on to the taste…the cookies were the same, but the soft-serve was definitely not. I can only liken it to something like Cool Whip…you know that oil-based producty taste? Believe it or not, the Canadian soft-serve actually tastes more like real cream-based ice cream whereas the Japanese one tasted quite synthetic. One positive is the price, only 190yen. And I suppose another positive for my waistline is that it wasn’t amazing so I won’t be running back anytime soon. Phew.</p> <p>Next a couple randoms. </p> <p>First, this was the dessert selection at the buffet we went to for the Welcome Party. They had self serve soft-serve, which was probably my favourite. You could decorate it with fruit sauces and sprinkles, it doesn’t get much better than that. And those tiny cakes were tasty! The bottom right one had Oreos on top, mmmm. All around it was a great meal, I really should have taken photos of the main course dishes. Go figure, Carey only taking pictures of desserts. Surprised?</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-O-cqvTQIvjQ/TpUpoYjNQBI/AAAAAAAAAos/CseSv7jFQpU/s1600-h/Food%252520etc%252520007%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Food etc 007" border="0" alt="Food etc 007" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-EX0kSrPbzcE/TpUpo5EWl8I/AAAAAAAAAow/6_CVrudnuZE/Food%252520etc%252520007_thumb%25255B5%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="683" height="524"></a></p> <p>And finally, this is more to suffice anyone worrying about my illness (mom, I’m looking at you). I am actually attempting to get a decent intake of vitamin C by eating tiny oranges daily and drinking this lovely beverage! It is carbonated… but really tasty. Unfortunately because my camera decided to focus on the corkboard behind, you can’t see that is contains 50 lemons worth of vitamin C in every can! Although, I’m sure it’s packed with sugar, but luckily I can’t read the Japanese nutritional contents very well, so I’ll just pretend it’s not bad for me.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-A5DOdAvuj1U/TpUppSzWR_I/AAAAAAAAAo0/wpVIVLF35nw/s1600-h/Photo-0011%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Photo-0011" border="0" alt="Photo-0011" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-I72MonjOhyg/TpUpp9B9W2I/AAAAAAAAAo4/k8cwpUmPVws/Photo-0011_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="392" height="511"></a></p> <p>That’s all I have for now in the way of food! We are going on a rice harvesting trip this weekend and have been told this includes some delicious barbeque, so I hope to get some photos of more wonderful things! Apparently I am also going to attempt to make pottery on this trip, so let’s hope all that practice as a child pays off. And we have to bring shoes that we don’t mind getting muddy for wading around in the rice paddies. I don’t deal well with nature or mud so this will be veeeery interesting. I’m going to hit up my local discount cheapy cheap store Box Town to try and find a cheapo pair of mud-friendly shoes. Wish me luck!</p> <p>Until next time, toodles!</p> <p>xoxoxo </p> kunobothttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15513489268165917619noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2076932335039963964.post-51249678984843815412011-10-09T18:09:00.001+09:002011-10-09T21:04:49.238+09:00Uminonakamichi Koen<p>(You are warned, this is very long, lots of photos!)</p> <p>Today was fantastic!! Some of the Japanese tutors took us to Uminonaka Koen. It was an amaaaaazing park surrounded by the ocean. I stole this photo from the Internet (don’t kill me) as you have to see how gorgeous this area is. Wow! Please <strong>click this photo</strong> so you can see the original size. Notice the ferris wheel on the left side, this will come up later, but I’m pointing it out now to give some perspective.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-qT6q4Y4YWng/TpFjo7Kb4II/AAAAAAAAAbQ/07aJ1vusLPY/s1600-h/Uminonaka%252520Park%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Uminonaka Park" border="0" alt="Uminonaka Park" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-95SNPavnzKA/TpFjpYNessI/AAAAAAAAAbU/yW4lAjBFDkw/Uminonaka%252520Park_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="494" height="349"></a></p> <p>This is the map of the park grounds. You can also get an idea of the layout of the peninsula. </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-GIZ5BT0Lkag/TpFjpyvKDFI/AAAAAAAAAlw/Wr6-lzDICbQ/s1600-h/Umi%252520Naka%252520Koen%252520123%25255B12%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Umi Naka Koen 123" border="0" alt="Umi Naka Koen 123" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Nl1__u6Rmi0/TpFjqELZ_hI/AAAAAAAAAl0/WAwzCoO5LhE/Umi%252520Naka%252520Koen%252520123_thumb%25255B10%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="680" height="525"></a></p> <p>Tash and Mayu being sheepish. Very charming.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-RMAcqlsYq70/TpFjq8xtoWI/AAAAAAAAAl4/NPkwdbiRoGg/s1600-h/Umi%252520Naka%252520Koen%252520004%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Umi Naka Koen 004" border="0" alt="Umi Naka Koen 004" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-LfgvL30HGRk/TpFjrIqe4JI/AAAAAAAAAl8/_pSYJHDKVIQ/Umi%252520Naka%252520Koen%252520004_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="576" height="442"></a></p> <p>So…Fukuoka has the biggest spiders ever! Ok, maybe not ever, but bigger than I’m used to. And they are everywhere! YUCK. This sucker was about 2 inches long from leg to leg. /shudder</p> <p> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/--uPoKo6mz7w/TpFjruuB7-I/AAAAAAAAAmA/dAGfGPiacM0/s1600-h/Umi%252520Naka%252520Koen%252520005%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Umi Naka Koen 005" border="0" alt="Umi Naka Koen 005" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-jsLR-NbdwBc/TpF3-JMkEfI/AAAAAAAAAmE/TyDSBkrgB9Q/Umi%252520Naka%252520Koen%252520005_thumb%25255B5%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="442" height="576"></a></p> <p>We first went to the zoo section of the park. Technically it was called the Zoological Garden on the map. It was filled with amazing animals, and you could walk around with a lot of them. Very zoological. As opposed to zoo-illogical…? Hm…</p> <p>This handsome fellow was less than thrilled. Also, all the animals had their own name tags, very cute.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-PL_BXTSqEDY/TpFjsubHQBI/AAAAAAAAAgE/1nr3RJU7ASM/s1600-h/Umi%252520Naka%252520Koen%252520008%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Umi Naka Koen 008" border="0" alt="Umi Naka Koen 008" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-NQlYCc8FTOU/TpFjtL6LciI/AAAAAAAAAgI/DW8z6k4DAcI/Umi%252520Naka%252520Koen%252520008_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="398" height="519"></a></p> <p>This was one of the <strong>three</strong> monkey islands in the Zoological Garden area. Three! They were truly amazing and disgustingly cute. I could have stayed and watched the monkeys all day. </p> <p> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-pk2bhuPMCww/TpFjulN-KGI/AAAAAAAAAmI/SZecCCaKfdE/s1600-h/Umi%252520Naka%252520Koen%252520009%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Umi Naka Koen 009" border="0" alt="Umi Naka Koen 009" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-48GWrgJgy4I/TpFjvJGKjLI/AAAAAAAAAmM/9_U62KFxQo4/Umi%252520Naka%252520Koen%252520009_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="613" height="470"></a></p> <p>HELLO!</p> <p> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-az5tAVUZjzY/TpFjvugx1rI/AAAAAAAAAmQ/xJ-UCyPj5Og/s1600-h/Umi%252520Naka%252520Koen%252520013%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Umi Naka Koen 013" border="0" alt="Umi Naka Koen 013" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-idM4rluuCV8/TpF6MZOgawI/AAAAAAAAAmY/fA5M4ucvrO0/Umi%252520Naka%252520Koen%252520013_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="482" height="624"></a></p> <p> Ugh, look at that curly tail! So cute it just makes me want to jfkjdflsdakdfj@#@!?.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-ijyfgd1Eb6I/TpFjwTwvkZI/AAAAAAAAAmc/hzpXURPrIS0/s1600-h/Umi%252520Naka%252520Koen%252520016%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Umi Naka Koen 016" border="0" alt="Umi Naka Koen 016" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-pZA7uK4guRA/TpFjwzHWgxI/AAAAAAAAAmg/YY4gPlZSb_U/Umi%252520Naka%252520Koen%252520016_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="671" height="515"></a></p> <p>We then came upon the “petting zoo” area. The kids could ride these ponies, but only if sporting a cowboy hat and scarf. Very western, and cute, of course.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Pjpjt6HvyIk/TpFjxVUFAxI/AAAAAAAAAmk/EogFXeJqLQI/s1600-h/Umi%252520Naka%252520Koen%252520019%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Umi Naka Koen 019" border="0" alt="Umi Naka Koen 019" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-ATivOiVxMis/TpFjxw8-JGI/AAAAAAAAAmo/wfbEdSkipBA/Umi%252520Naka%252520Koen%252520019_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="631" height="484"></a></p> <p>This little boy was definitely enjoying giving this piggy a tummy rub. Well it was more a tummy smack, but I’m sure his tiny hands didn’t do much harm. Very cute.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-iBK9pvnSZYs/TpFjyeYpN4I/AAAAAAAAAms/LwbGXwxlUo8/s1600-h/Umi%252520Naka%252520Koen%252520024%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Umi Naka Koen 024" border="0" alt="Umi Naka Koen 024" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-NCt299J4emE/TpFjy6v_QMI/AAAAAAAAAmw/N_t2nJQW4Ak/Umi%252520Naka%252520Koen%252520024_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="585" height="449"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-qPW49EscRmU/TpFjzVNEh-I/AAAAAAAAAm0/BzzjHf96G0g/s1600-h/Umi%252520Naka%252520Koen%252520021%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Umi Naka Koen 021" border="0" alt="Umi Naka Koen 021" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-wFeKnkfYPoA/TpFjzrBaACI/AAAAAAAAAm4/LXny_ftv6Lo/Umi%252520Naka%252520Koen%252520021_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="586" height="453"></a> </p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p>Now you may be wondering, what are there adorable children waiting for in their bright orange aprons?</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-perMxphjhrg/TpFj0KDnRQI/AAAAAAAAAm8/CCBwWbpO5d0/s1600-h/Umi%252520Naka%252520Koen%252520032%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Umi Naka Koen 032" border="0" alt="Umi Naka Koen 032" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-3FlhtCT7jZQ/TpFj0kffVqI/AAAAAAAAAnA/JCcWsI5ZRDs/Umi%252520Naka%252520Koen%252520032_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="587" height="450"></a></p> <p>Guinea Pigs!! The littlest girl in the pink hat eventually started crying. She wasn’t too thrilled with her guinea pig. He didn’t seem to mind though.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-ASjDrQqh-e8/TpFj1BPiKcI/AAAAAAAAAhE/c1AdokslPIM/s1600-h/Umi%252520Naka%252520Koen%252520033%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Umi Naka Koen 033" border="0" alt="Umi Naka Koen 033" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-vJvqIOZCwKE/TpFj1nKEHSI/AAAAAAAAAhI/FF5izaRqkaY/Umi%252520Naka%252520Koen%252520033_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="619" height="475"></a></p> <p>Then we came upon monkey island number two. This was my favourite of the monkey islands. CAN YOU BELIEVE HOW CUTE THESE ARE?! Seriously. I almost died of cute overload at this point. After today, I am fully convinced that all things cute originate and cluster in Japan. This whole country is unbelievably cute. </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-7OcLZ596ekk/TpFj3KQAuDI/AAAAAAAAAhM/ZkntnrSHpO4/s1600-h/Umi%252520Naka%252520Koen%252520045%25255B20%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Umi Naka Koen 045" border="0" alt="Umi Naka Koen 045" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-BY7BnKHAKLM/TpFj3oOKquI/AAAAAAAAAhQ/ncY1kdwaV5Y/Umi%252520Naka%252520Koen%252520045_thumb%25255B18%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="637" height="489"></a></p> <p> Weeeeeeeeeeeee!</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-z2tgWf_pcp0/TpFj49aRL_I/AAAAAAAAAhU/GMO5g61bVoQ/s1600-h/Umi%252520Naka%252520Koen%252520050%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Umi Naka Koen 050" border="0" alt="Umi Naka Koen 050" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-sIVIHG7F8Xw/TpFj5pXW8CI/AAAAAAAAAhY/oIUyS4YuNTo/Umi%252520Naka%252520Koen%252520050_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="636" height="488"></a></p> <p>They were drinking water with their little hands. SO CUTE.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-sJq9u7xwhqo/TpFj6FFhH9I/AAAAAAAAAhc/4pnf1PbZhgE/s1600-h/Umi%252520Naka%252520Koen%252520051%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Umi Naka Koen 051" border="0" alt="Umi Naka Koen 051" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-msiuSTnHN6c/TpFj6pG9sZI/AAAAAAAAAhg/sHNTgrAhu0k/Umi%252520Naka%252520Koen%252520051_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="521" height="679"></a></p> <p> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-vG7GvovNCIs/TpFj6309vZI/AAAAAAAAAhk/EoT27VOoOG8/s1600-h/Umi%252520Naka%252520Koen%252520056%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Umi Naka Koen 056" border="0" alt="Umi Naka Koen 056" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-ybp4EA60tPg/TpFj7T2yc6I/AAAAAAAAAho/szfQChdF0ZE/Umi%252520Naka%252520Koen%252520056_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="663" height="509"></a></p> <p>And on to the goats. I couldn’t tell if this guy was sleepy or giving me the winky winky eye. I liked his loner style though.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-i0fS5FWkTG0/TpFj70B4G4I/AAAAAAAAAhs/WLzM8JgW9gs/s1600-h/Umi%252520Naka%252520Koen%252520060%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Umi Naka Koen 060" border="0" alt="Umi Naka Koen 060" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-OkAHd5m7qpU/TpFj8RjliOI/AAAAAAAAAhw/uE7wujqFRa8/Umi%252520Naka%252520Koen%252520060_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="645" height="495"></a></p> <p>Check out their sweet beards. Very beardy.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Z5fY9Z8ex3c/TpFj8y27pRI/AAAAAAAAAh0/GJ7xs1qaAWE/s1600-h/Umi%252520Naka%252520Koen%252520061%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Umi Naka Koen 061" border="0" alt="Umi Naka Koen 061" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-1FEM2ssORB0/TpF4OXVfQ-I/AAAAAAAAAh8/-wXHNdcgju4/Umi%252520Naka%252520Koen%252520061_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="643" height="493"></a></p> <p>These guys were very neat! What are they?? They looked like a cross between a rabbit and a dear. A dabbit? A rabear?</p> <p> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-CtnnzTZRKjw/TpFj9tXirCI/AAAAAAAAAiA/rIYPrAIlJ6Q/s1600-h/Umi%252520Naka%252520Koen%252520065%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Umi Naka Koen 065" border="0" alt="Umi Naka Koen 065" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-pgtJILdQj-U/TpFj-LvDEDI/AAAAAAAAAiE/tACfmm0PYl4/Umi%252520Naka%252520Koen%252520065_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="464" height="605"></a></p> <p>He was definitely striking a pose.</p> <p> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Rn3R3I2cjv4/TpFkP-mF2yI/AAAAAAAAAiI/P0xDz64-6hM/s1600-h/Umi%252520Naka%252520Koen%252520068%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Umi Naka Koen 068" border="0" alt="Umi Naka Koen 068" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-54sGUnokFbY/TpFkQQEuvgI/AAAAAAAAAiM/uvBayUp4qHI/Umi%252520Naka%252520Koen%252520068_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="468" height="610"></a></p> <p>And then the kangaroos. Can you believe this guy? Just laying around…awww he thinks he’s people.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-YrDxcyzCk7w/TpFkQ00mKiI/AAAAAAAAAiQ/fxKhVL08hxQ/s1600-h/Umi%252520Naka%252520Koen%252520070%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Umi Naka Koen 070" border="0" alt="Umi Naka Koen 070" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-K2to0T7Pv24/TpFkk87t9HI/AAAAAAAAAiU/c0b6SK1oiUM/Umi%252520Naka%252520Koen%252520070_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="624" height="479"></a></p> <p> Is it me or do they appear permanently annoyed?</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-uYvXM5VfdfA/TpFklSDsnSI/AAAAAAAAAiY/QIGx0pEtF7E/s1600-h/Umi%252520Naka%252520Koen%252520073%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Umi Naka Koen 073" border="0" alt="Umi Naka Koen 073" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-BGPAzL2t1WA/TpFklxP71XI/AAAAAAAAAic/bR3xnIf9kM0/Umi%252520Naka%252520Koen%252520073_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="608" height="466"></a></p> <p>This one is for Hugh. Sorry, I couldn’t get the camera to focus properly due to the cage. Silly point-and-shoots. </p> <p> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-mX4SuVnHhIg/TpFkmIRFJ7I/AAAAAAAAAig/6pccjwp8T9E/s1600-h/Umi%252520Naka%252520Koen%252520075%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Umi Naka Koen 075" border="0" alt="Umi Naka Koen 075" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-SVXIj8IbJys/TpFkmiPiPoI/AAAAAAAAAik/NdRvl2lSTC0/Umi%252520Naka%252520Koen%252520075_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="489" height="637"></a></p> <p>And these photos are for me! Yes, I love tiny dogs. Go on, hate me. But look at how cute they are! Also please note the ruffled blue and white striped dress cute puppy on the far right is sporting. We were able to enjoy sitting near these dogs while we had our lunch. I really wanted to steal one.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-bejTHuMDkh4/TpFknOza9BI/AAAAAAAAAio/oxdqT6ocsdg/s1600-h/Umi%252520Naka%252520Koen%252520079%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Umi Naka Koen 079" border="0" alt="Umi Naka Koen 079" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-h8Wq8tNTJvM/TpFkntWw5xI/AAAAAAAAAis/zctSWodCWTw/Umi%252520Naka%252520Koen%252520079_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="592" height="454"></a></p> <p>The tiny black guy on the right was my favourite. The one on the left I called Scrappy. He was really into putting on a show by kicking up dirt with his hind paws.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-_dDSvR7VHus/TpFkoCiM6BI/AAAAAAAAAiw/arb-b0O4JWM/s1600-h/Umi%252520Naka%252520Koen%252520082%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Umi Naka Koen 082" border="0" alt="Umi Naka Koen 082" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-CWdMNsuh7RE/TpFkqAGOJhI/AAAAAAAAAi0/3Y9ZCvBppNk/Umi%252520Naka%252520Koen%252520082_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="587" height="450"></a></p> <p>And now for a bathroom shot. I just got a kick out of this child seat. It was in the stall with the toilet I used. I thought it was pretty clever. Perhaps I just don’t get out much.</p> <p> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-QfDbQisqYEs/TpFkqovUDJI/AAAAAAAAAi4/jOsCGu4XyEM/s1600-h/Umi%252520Naka%252520Koen%252520083%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Umi Naka Koen 083" border="0" alt="Umi Naka Koen 083" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-yS8LwdbbHX8/TpFkrGu8PRI/AAAAAAAAAi8/pStE9WkCiBY/Umi%252520Naka%252520Koen%252520083_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="444" height="579"></a></p> <p>And now onto the flower garden. Another wow. This was breathtaking! I couldn’t choose which photos to post therefore you are stuck with quite a few. This was one of my favourite parts of the park.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-AKUVQGvrNZE/TpFkrs52qvI/AAAAAAAAAjA/3WO-dvISV0M/s1600-h/Umi%252520Naka%252520Koen%252520092%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Umi Naka Koen 092" border="0" alt="Umi Naka Koen 092" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-1PVoidYddXk/TpFkslAH-dI/AAAAAAAAAjE/TBwa6ElTNZ0/Umi%252520Naka%252520Koen%252520092_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="702" height="538"></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-3zv-HVWbZr0/TpFktGkwbdI/AAAAAAAAAjI/OmLhFURo23E/s1600-h/Umi%252520Naka%252520Koen%252520085%25255B8%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Umi Naka Koen 085" border="0" alt="Umi Naka Koen 085" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-9_qdrCa95pE/TpFktu06s3I/AAAAAAAAAjM/-QngoslU9Pg/Umi%252520Naka%252520Koen%252520085_thumb%25255B6%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="491" height="635"></a></p> <p> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-U5n9R9zcxas/TpFkuaVBllI/AAAAAAAAAjQ/YPQM9zpDaAE/s1600-h/Umi%252520Naka%252520Koen%252520087%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Umi Naka Koen 087" border="0" alt="Umi Naka Koen 087" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-EhO3R1Hl8D0/TpF4abCjS4I/AAAAAAAAAjU/K-iQ-Fd-lFI/Umi%252520Naka%252520Koen%252520087_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="486" height="633"></a></p> <p> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-oJV6MZDRLBs/TpFkvQqVoFI/AAAAAAAAAjY/-S1DrV3Zc7k/s1600-h/Umi%252520Naka%252520Koen%252520088%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Umi Naka Koen 088" border="0" alt="Umi Naka Koen 088" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-IsMnS41SwKo/TpFkvz_3bqI/AAAAAAAAAjc/YNTtz7X6qVM/Umi%252520Naka%252520Koen%252520088_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="481" height="622"></a></p> <p> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-JIoaAlMfslo/TpFkwYN47gI/AAAAAAAAAjg/oLUFsT8wf2E/s1600-h/Umi%252520Naka%252520Koen%252520089%25255B18%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Umi Naka Koen 089" border="0" alt="Umi Naka Koen 089" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-aghkZ2XfRWk/TpFkw69JiKI/AAAAAAAAAjk/yrnjTS0X9VE/Umi%252520Naka%252520Koen%252520089_thumb%25255B16%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="497" height="648"></a></p> <p> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-xr9scsvL9ao/TpFkxpRZeAI/AAAAAAAAAjo/RZuxQ5SyRsc/s1600-h/Umi%252520Naka%252520Koen%252520090%25255B28%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Umi Naka Koen 090" border="0" alt="Umi Naka Koen 090" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-z8rJLF3DdzY/TpFkyBvNpbI/AAAAAAAAAjs/bMN5wrLo5hQ/Umi%252520Naka%252520Koen%252520090_thumb%25255B26%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="667" height="512"></a></p> <p> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-P35ZW7-IwDk/TpFkyrMvPbI/AAAAAAAAAjw/r6hqZ44MggM/s1600-h/Umi%252520Naka%252520Koen%252520091%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Umi Naka Koen 091" border="0" alt="Umi Naka Koen 091" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-WyGa30jhowU/TpFky_DhHuI/AAAAAAAAAj0/FEQFO72_ZjQ/Umi%252520Naka%252520Koen%252520091_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="467" height="609"></a></p> <p>These were very cool.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-AbYlxJol_Ig/TpF4fIsdzGI/AAAAAAAAAj4/jQi4Ufp1Vrs/s1600-h/Umi%252520Naka%252520Koen%252520095%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Umi Naka Koen 095" border="0" alt="Umi Naka Koen 095" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-vAeVkcmDs_g/TpF4fjme5kI/AAAAAAAAAj8/1W_P6vzdp-0/Umi%252520Naka%252520Koen%252520095_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="656" height="503"></a></p> <p>So you can see how gianormous they were.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-4HClVGuarGg/TpF4gF6YpzI/AAAAAAAAAkA/FKuGHiaBLIc/s1600-h/Umi%252520Naka%252520Koen%252520096%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Umi Naka Koen 096" border="0" alt="Umi Naka Koen 096" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-KqbWeCqbzqU/TpF4gzl0EtI/AAAAAAAAAkE/SXdV8Phpmuk/Umi%252520Naka%252520Koen%252520096_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="632" height="485"></a></p> <p>Yay for flowers!</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-eIvdLKQN8r0/TpF4hQdvc-I/AAAAAAAAAkI/NyHSeoxGUOQ/s1600-h/Umi%252520Naka%252520Koen%252520097%25255B10%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Umi Naka Koen 097" border="0" alt="Umi Naka Koen 097" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-j0m0ebEPquU/TpF4h17ecaI/AAAAAAAAAkM/_zfU02ss1R4/Umi%252520Naka%252520Koen%252520097_thumb%25255B8%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="676" height="518"></a></p> <p>Now on to the amusement area. These giant inflatable rolly-on-water thingers looked very fun! They had multiple children inside for extra excitement. </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-nmjQzjNhxHY/TpF4iYSg6sI/AAAAAAAAAkQ/Nzx4cdmVc4E/s1600-h/Umi%252520Naka%252520Koen%252520107%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Umi Naka Koen 107" border="0" alt="Umi Naka Koen 107" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Ztbz-_ijZdc/TpF4jLIqCrI/AAAAAAAAAkU/BGPHjpGv0IY/Umi%252520Naka%252520Koen%252520107_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="645" height="495"></a></p> <p> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-az1N-miZ5RU/TpF4jr8qT7I/AAAAAAAAAkY/YxhzE-Nstiw/s1600-h/Umi%252520Naka%252520Koen%252520108%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Umi Naka Koen 108" border="0" alt="Umi Naka Koen 108" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-hAN3RwlHPCU/TpF4kIICJjI/AAAAAAAAAkc/Epc-JoSyBU8/Umi%252520Naka%252520Koen%252520108_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="466" height="608"></a></p> <p>And the amazing ferris wheel! It went super slow so they could continuously load new passengers on as the cars passed underneath. Clever.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-u51OKCZPFgM/TpF4kucbm_I/AAAAAAAAAkg/XtJWgJ1wi6U/s1600-h/Umi%252520Naka%252520Koen%252520106%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Umi Naka Koen 106" border="0" alt="Umi Naka Koen 106" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-J-rKZ-3aiHo/TpF4lNRddoI/AAAAAAAAAkk/b5mr6kacOO4/Umi%252520Naka%252520Koen%252520106_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="470" height="613"></a></p> <p> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-rTvYb6lhzGI/TpF4ltOHwPI/AAAAAAAAAko/Tj2v_FhnET4/s1600-h/Umi%252520Naka%252520Koen%252520110%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Umi Naka Koen 110" border="0" alt="Umi Naka Koen 110" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-6EBNh-OrTcY/TpF4mELrHDI/AAAAAAAAAks/7aLm7WPJ4ic/Umi%252520Naka%252520Koen%252520110_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="483" height="630"></a></p> <p>Proof that I actually went on this ride. It was extremely tall, and a bit scary actually. But the view was incredible!</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-yZzpzz0rXPU/TpF4ms3mTvI/AAAAAAAAAkw/HeuKMAYBWRY/s1600-h/Umi%252520Naka%252520Koen%252520115%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Umi Naka Koen 115" border="0" alt="Umi Naka Koen 115" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-wK2qF3KZRHo/TpF4nHKQUEI/AAAAAAAAAk0/N3Xrm4hrwuk/Umi%252520Naka%252520Koen%252520115_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="554" height="425"></a></p> <p>I was trying to get a good shot of the surrounding ocean, but it’s hard to see in the photos. </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-gie2GKomyq8/TpF4n8OXJMI/AAAAAAAAAk4/D9XnIbe_rT8/s1600-h/Umi%252520Naka%252520Koen%252520118%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Umi Naka Koen 118" border="0" alt="Umi Naka Koen 118" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-fzXVmm2fR_Q/TpF4oZIY98I/AAAAAAAAAk8/5V4G06LCr_k/Umi%252520Naka%252520Koen%252520118_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="643" height="493"></a></p> <p>The other half of our group. Hello!</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-U1iheGAJLp4/TpF4o-0LQfI/AAAAAAAAAlA/-ny3hnwujsw/s1600-h/Umi%252520Naka%252520Koen%252520119%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Umi Naka Koen 119" border="0" alt="Umi Naka Koen 119" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-KdzFtt0JmxI/TpF4pdMWRaI/AAAAAAAAAlE/iesJ42PVVvI/Umi%252520Naka%252520Koen%252520119_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="643" height="493"></a></p> <p>View of another flower park. See the rabbit?</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-OeG9AO3TmLo/TpF4p4ZAcdI/AAAAAAAAAlI/umpGclRDvCc/s1600-h/Umi%252520Naka%252520Koen%252520122%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Umi Naka Koen 122" border="0" alt="Umi Naka Koen 122" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-UuX2lg4XeQA/TpF4qlx3smI/AAAAAAAAAlM/YKp_kqStaqk/Umi%252520Naka%252520Koen%252520122_thumb%25255B5%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="657" height="504"></a></p> <p>New addition to my family….Sheepy-chan. I couldn’t resist her, so she came home with me, and is now watching my while I type up this blog. I suppose that could sound creepy if she wasn’t just do darn <strong>cute</strong>! I would like to note that the tag she came with just had the word CUTE on it in rainbow letters. Seriously.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-iwm3T_ayMxk/TpF4rCUrpEI/AAAAAAAAAlQ/1oaXUJsKkCQ/s1600-h/Umi%252520Naka%252520Koen%252520121%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Umi Naka Koen 121" border="0" alt="Umi Naka Koen 121" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-N_JdPAb5GkM/TpF4rhwdIMI/AAAAAAAAAlU/VIxYuWUgB8I/Umi%252520Naka%252520Koen%252520121_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="425" height="554"></a></p> <p>And now for the highlight of the day. NARUTO. These cosplayers were doing a photo shoot in the park and were kind enough to let us wacky <em>gaijin</em> (foreigners) take photos with them. Can you tell how excited I was? Oh yeah, super dorky.</p> <p>*EDIT* Being reminded that these folks didn’t want photos posted, I have just altered it so you can’t tell who it is. Sorry! If you want to see the real one you’ll have to come visit me. Or wait until I’m back home.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-VUAEejlP13w/TpGKDqMozLI/AAAAAAAAAnE/hTPdxdltkxg/s1600-h/Blog%252520Naruto%25255B9%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Blog Naruto" border="0" alt="Blog Naruto" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-uqSz2dGbdOY/TpGKELXGcWI/AAAAAAAAAnI/Xg1gEyJ_TyQ/Blog%252520Naruto_thumb%25255B5%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="660" height="506"></a> </p> <p>And this concludes an amazing day! Thank you to all the wonderful tutors that treated us to an unforgettable time. I hope to go back again sometime and explore the rest of the park that we didn’t see. Admission was free today, but apparently it’s only 400yen normally, and it’s not far to ride our bikes there from the dormitory. And then you can bike around the park! It’s huge so that idea sounds pretty good.</p> <p>Speaking of bikes…I guess I should show you my sweet ride.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-_BbO9PoozBc/TpF4tLmmQeI/AAAAAAAAAlg/WD4Hpjg7IgE/s1600-h/Umi%252520Naka%252520Koen%252520125%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Umi Naka Koen 125" border="0" alt="Umi Naka Koen 125" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-5X3KRHVVGWE/TpF45ZIo6HI/AAAAAAAAAlk/H-VrGuA-8mI/Umi%252520Naka%252520Koen%252520125_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="641" height="492"></a></p> <p>And since almost all the students have purchased the same bike, I have decorated mine to distinguish it from the others. With polka-dot cupcake stickers, of course. :3</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-i1FNdOlS_4U/TpF4556uqOI/AAAAAAAAAlo/GbJ9pIpsmGo/s1600-h/Umi%252520Naka%252520Koen%252520126%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Umi Naka Koen 126" border="0" alt="Umi Naka Koen 126" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-XbCkbYuQt20/TpF46cN0jQI/AAAAAAAAAls/QzfYLNSZ6sQ/Umi%252520Naka%252520Koen%252520126_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="598" height="459"></a></p> <p>And as it seems every time I post these blog entries, it’s now dinner time! So that’s it for now, folks. I have a couple food photos I want to post, but will wait until I collect a few more interesting food items to share.</p> <p>Until then…. </p> <p>xoxoxo </p> kunobothttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15513489268165917619noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2076932335039963964.post-87977538247215906212011-10-07T17:41:00.001+09:002011-10-07T18:34:20.409+09:00Orientation Trip: Day Two<p>I am going to just jump right into day two, as I have a lot of photos to post coming up and want to get a move on. So let’s go!</p> <p>After a not-so-restful sleep, it was day two of our orientation trip. We tidied up our rooms and then were given breakfast which consisted of a bit of cabbage salad, fried egg, tiny fishies, miso soup, rice, and a <em>nori</em> (seaweed) snack. I was adventurous and tried everything. Although I didn’t eat the fishy heads, their bodies were pretty tasty! Not sure if it is my new favourite breakfast food, but maybe an addition to lunch? </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-ijatEOe2BaE/To66vYA4a2I/AAAAAAAAAYg/u9RLbwIW76o/s1600-h/Orientation%252520Trip%252520074%25255B43%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Orientation Trip 074" border="0" alt="Orientation Trip 074" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-PHyIZgi-uqY/To66vwAnfPI/AAAAAAAAAYk/0XH1Uh7-xzg/Orientation%252520Trip%252520074_thumb%25255B41%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="518" height="403"></a> </p> <p>After cleaning up and getting our bags together we headed back to the bus for the return trip, and some more wonderful sightseeing on the way home. </p> <p>Our first stop was Daikambo Observation Point. This was part of Aso Kuju National Park. This observation point looks over a giant crater area within the mountains. Again, the photos don’t fully express how stunning it was, but here are a select few that I hope illustrate it well enough.</p> <p>The sign for Aso Kuju National Park.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-2fPsBbqAhE8/To66wUtAcPI/AAAAAAAAAYo/VB8z3ul4nqE/s1600-h/Orientation%252520Trip%252520089%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Orientation Trip 089" border="0" alt="Orientation Trip 089" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-GqFSRgxPp1c/To66xMk_jKI/AAAAAAAAAYs/CEsOjIEYkZA/Orientation%252520Trip%252520089_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="592" height="454"></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-MK8AvET3FXc/To66xgRdIqI/AAAAAAAAAYw/1zogRDNdDoY/s1600-h/Orientation%252520Trip%252520079%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Orientation Trip 079" border="0" alt="Orientation Trip 079" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-cpxcvAUJYQM/To66yDcLJPI/AAAAAAAAAY0/F3JJE6xt20Y/Orientation%252520Trip%252520079_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="635" height="487"></a></p> <p> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-oY0xyZSSaGg/To66ygkKvRI/AAAAAAAAAY4/9LJmIuxBn8o/s1600-h/Orientation%252520Trip%252520083%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Orientation Trip 083" border="0" alt="Orientation Trip 083" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-HslVymEeNWM/To66zalWZUI/AAAAAAAAAY8/38a7sORDdFM/Orientation%252520Trip%252520083_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="635" height="487"></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-dCif9aKPDxM/To66z1ZQMmI/AAAAAAAAAZA/xg420N2R8hU/s1600-h/Orientation%252520Trip%252520085%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Orientation Trip 085" border="0" alt="Orientation Trip 085" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Xjk2ZMStMvM/To660ql75jI/AAAAAAAAAZE/1ZFm_vcGS4s/Orientation%252520Trip%252520085_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="637" height="489"></a> </p> <p>Proof that I’m actually in Japan seeing all these things and not just stealing images off the Internet…</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-ZNY3e_L5vCU/To660-xjqlI/AAAAAAAAAZI/_Mt2QGtJgm4/s1600-h/Orientation%252520Trip%252520090%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Orientation Trip 090" border="0" alt="Orientation Trip 090" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-JKPmIxn-fTM/To661TEpt6I/AAAAAAAAAZM/GgcipxNFWcQ/Orientation%252520Trip%252520090_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="587" height="450"></a> </p> <p>On the walk back from the observation point I noticed these tiny shrine statue type things. I don’t really know what they are, only that there were coins placed at the bases of them. If anyone knows please comment below!</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-B3qvEO3mcSo/To662DxIZNI/AAAAAAAAAZQ/GtFn8tq0ppQ/s1600-h/Orientation%252520Trip%252520093%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Orientation Trip 093" border="0" alt="Orientation Trip 093" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-S1lYMQnrnZU/To662lMqj6I/AAAAAAAAAZU/pEkJMNtuC9o/Orientation%252520Trip%252520093_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="457" height="596"></a></p> <p>I liked this guy’s cape and coin hat. Very handsome.</p> <p> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-EQveNYO8Ans/To663LFLWQI/AAAAAAAAAZY/yEo4oOF9reI/s1600-h/Orientation%252520Trip%252520094%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Orientation Trip 094" border="0" alt="Orientation Trip 094" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-5ckuqVX5Ff0/To6633a5SJI/AAAAAAAAAZc/kb09YYpoVKs/Orientation%252520Trip%252520094_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="469" height="611"></a></p> <p>Then it was back on the bus and off to find lunch. We were treated to my favourite lunch since coming to Japan, <em>shabu shabu</em>. This is Japanese hot pot, and it is fantastic! Interestingly enough hot pot was also my favourite thing to eat in China, perhaps I just have a thing for cooking things in boiling liquid. Strange.</p> <p> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Vz6Cuc1yx6o/To664r3dKgI/AAAAAAAAAZg/gjs09FCX5QE/s1600-h/Orientation%252520Trip%252520097%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Orientation Trip 097" border="0" alt="Orientation Trip 097" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-LnDAfcJ3uOo/To665JlU1qI/AAAAAAAAAZk/n-lahc2qJYo/Orientation%252520Trip%252520097_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="623" height="482"></a></p> <p>And in case you weren’t sure (as I wasn’t when I sat down…) the green fruit top left is actually a mandarin orange, not a lime. I have since tracked them down at the grocery store. Yum!</p> <p>We all had our own personal hot pot bowls avec burning base thinger that lasted the exact amount of time it took to cook and eat the meal. How precise, Japan.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-vw1emzMZSNc/To665ieQBgI/AAAAAAAAAZo/E58MBhGnoGs/s1600-h/Orientation%252520Trip%252520096%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Orientation Trip 096" border="0" alt="Orientation Trip 096" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-x5iwV-zRgiY/To666YGBrWI/AAAAAAAAAZs/7zeAvFyB4lg/Orientation%252520Trip%252520096_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="447" height="582"></a> </p> <p>Upon finishing this delicious meal, we headed back onto the bus yet again! This time we were off to our final destination before heading home, Kumamoto Castle. Just the name got me excited as I have some sort of wild fascination with historical architecture, especially castle-y architecture. </p> <p>A bit of information about Kumamoto Castle. It was built in the mid 15th century. It was a housing place for the local <em>daimyo</em> (lord) and was very well fortified against invading enemies. The castle was partially burned down in 1877. It was then somewhat reconstructed in 1960, and then full restorations began in 1998.</p> <p>The entrance into the castle grounds.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-2XoPOVs6F6o/To666xxk-pI/AAAAAAAAAZw/XQ7lmOkFkVY/s1600-h/Orientation%252520Trip%252520099%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Orientation Trip 099" border="0" alt="Orientation Trip 099" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-jHo4lnUL7rU/To667lx4VBI/AAAAAAAAAZ0/ENC-Utsl73Q/Orientation%252520Trip%252520099_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="598" height="462"></a></p> <p>A couple having wedding photos taken. I am still just speechless at how beautiful these outfits are…I expect I’ll probably take photos of them every time I see them. Jealous.</p> <p> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-tUbPCQjEA1M/To668JWiGrI/AAAAAAAAAZ4/yp2t4Ojl9QM/s1600-h/Orientation%252520Trip%252520100%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Orientation Trip 100" border="0" alt="Orientation Trip 100" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-DcMTCl_RhME/To6689ihfNI/AAAAAAAAAZ8/9Jok89eKLWQ/Orientation%252520Trip%252520100_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="574" height="440"></a></p> <p>Below is one of the defence towers. We were able to go inside and see the turret holes and the openings where they would drop giant rocks and hot oil down the walls to defend against enemies. We were even able to climb all the way to the top of the tower on the right side of the photo.</p> <p> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/--LOUqUPrXxY/To7HEvXfn7I/AAAAAAAAAaA/vmpBE4eCD6c/s1600-h/Orientation%252520Trip%252520102%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Orientation Trip 102" border="0" alt="Orientation Trip 102" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-kByQlMRbOzY/To66-fiSPeI/AAAAAAAAAaE/gYLpIy87C7o/Orientation%252520Trip%252520102_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="650" height="499"></a></p> <p> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-91iwmQaj1aQ/To66-_0dagI/AAAAAAAAAaI/XUEh2Ax2Xpk/s1600-h/Orientation%252520Trip%252520103%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Orientation Trip 103" border="0" alt="Orientation Trip 103" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-PffMHhrqGQI/To66_bbg2nI/AAAAAAAAAaM/1sP0Y8rrlec/Orientation%252520Trip%252520103_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="466" height="607"></a></p> <p>We then walked to the main castle grounds, through this amazing entrance hall.</p> <p> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-1cbTIK3tuFY/To66_7mG_KI/AAAAAAAAAaQ/ai3lSNyT-5E/s1600-h/Orientation%252520Trip%252520105%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Orientation Trip 105" border="0" alt="Orientation Trip 105" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-24E4G_CKmBo/To67Ae8x3fI/AAAAAAAAAaU/gUgAIIJvzTk/Orientation%252520Trip%252520105_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="476" height="621"></a></p> <p>The main castle grounds had a few fun things to take in. Like this jaunty fellow.</p> <p> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-6jFP9xMWpO4/To67A8YzPuI/AAAAAAAAAaY/nufPuO2gvkE/s1600-h/Orientation%252520Trip%252520107%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Orientation Trip 107" border="0" alt="Orientation Trip 107" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-XV4YG6IEmCc/To67Bgci1LI/AAAAAAAAAac/Hkedji8Lnt8/Orientation%252520Trip%252520107_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="472" height="615"></a></p> <p>We were then directed to another area to watch a ninja climb a wall. It was certainly hyped up to be an unforgettable moment, but I have to admit it was somewhat less than thrilling. I did like his outfit though.</p> <p> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-QRXFhuYM3qo/To67CScSsDI/AAAAAAAAAag/PqeFPkytF5M/s1600-h/Orientation%252520Trip%252520110%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Orientation Trip 110" border="0" alt="Orientation Trip 110" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-a3JzUkENspw/To67CwIQpuI/AAAAAAAAAak/TWZ8L151Quo/Orientation%252520Trip%252520110_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="600" height="460"></a></p> <p>We then had fun taking silly photos of ourselves. Check out my great hat.</p> <p> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-wjFeSZi_k08/To67DQt-oxI/AAAAAAAAAao/6WyTPrtKq3c/s1600-h/Orientation%252520Trip%252520112%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Orientation Trip 112" border="0" alt="Orientation Trip 112" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-P67BbcTieAo/To67EASCI9I/AAAAAAAAAas/YaVPC12a_Ao/Orientation%252520Trip%252520112_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="456" height="595"></a></p> <p>This was my favourite historical guy wandering the grounds. He made excellent grumpy angry faces.</p> <p> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-xrSvjEuxhLk/To67E4wcFaI/AAAAAAAAAaw/sQsd8LmlHck/s1600-h/Orientation%252520Trip%252520118%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Orientation Trip 118" border="0" alt="Orientation Trip 118" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-GnlrQHr3cdc/To67FU5eTVI/AAAAAAAAAa0/50Xb8KDm6BA/Orientation%252520Trip%252520118_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="476" height="620"></a></p> <p>And finally, the main building of Kumamoto Castle. Gorgeous.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-1wj8CxqIaiI/To67GHW0z2I/AAAAAAAAAa4/Pr2hXMq60k4/s1600-h/Orientation%252520Trip%252520106%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Orientation Trip 106" border="0" alt="Orientation Trip 106" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-ZE6N307M1ho/To67Gp2XneI/AAAAAAAAAa8/hp75YMwC-9Q/Orientation%252520Trip%252520106_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="667" height="512"></a></p> <p>We had a nice group photo taken in front. Can you find me?</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-PkIVfu3vTfU/To67HHiVWAI/AAAAAAAAAbA/g4zCqZ5WPwg/s1600-h/JTW%252520Group%2525202011-2012%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="JTW Group 2011-2012" border="0" alt="JTW Group 2011-2012" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-hIkLQqfEFvg/To67HviQ-7I/AAAAAAAAAbE/Hh319dXjPeE/JTW%252520Group%2525202011-2012_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="695" height="533"></a></p> <p>And finally, something quirky, because I just can’t post a blog update without something silly in it somewhere. I thoroughly enjoyed this beverage vending machine. Once selecting your drink it was available through the mechanically opened door under the selection buttons. My favourite choices were melon soda and the “Blendy” coffee selection. I did not sample either, but I’m sure they were equally delicious. I really should have tried that Oreo drink. Too bad.</p> <p> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-SwdSY5n57GM/To67IbWx_jI/AAAAAAAAAbI/Xhmc54x-CtU/s1600-h/Orientation%252520Trip%252520116%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Orientation Trip 116" border="0" alt="Orientation Trip 116" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-s8FsRGPvHgM/To67JDLisGI/AAAAAAAAAbM/iNemde1yv3Q/Orientation%252520Trip%252520116_thumb%25255B5%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="568" height="731"></a> </p> <p>And this concludes our orientation trip! </p> <p>I have some photos of other random things to post, and will get around to it eventually. But at this moment in time I am hungry so off I go to prepare dinner. I have finally purchased a kettle (no pots/pans or knives just yet) so my dinners now consist mainly of instant miso soup and cup noodles. I promise to broaden my eating horizons as soon as I get around to purchasing something more substantial to cook with. Call it laziness, or perhaps cheapness…hah.</p> <p>Hope everyone is doing well, and take care!</p> <p>xoxoxo</p> kunobothttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15513489268165917619noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2076932335039963964.post-10289259612670944992011-10-05T19:03:00.001+09:002011-10-05T19:11:57.023+09:00Orientation Trip: Day One<p>We made it! We have officially become JTW students by finishing with our orientation trip to various amazing places around Fukuoka. The group was taken on a bus for a two day sightseeing and orientation trip into the mountains. I assure you, it was quite the adventure! </p> <p>I found two curious things about Japanese tour buses that I wish to share with you. One: there are handy fold out seats down the entire middle row so you get a bunch of extra seats for the riders! Two: they have the same horribly tacky seat covers that every tour bus in the universe has. Is there some seat cover distributor that sells this fabric to every tour bus company on the planet? Seriously. <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-DSo7qWZZLnA/Towp9JImtOI/AAAAAAAAASo/WqbvhIZlMk8/s1600-h/Orientation%252520Trip%252520001%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Orientation Trip 001" border="0" alt="Orientation Trip 001" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-FgTRcJMv0G8/Towp90eb_oI/AAAAAAAAASs/dQhSYH9s2RI/Orientation%252520Trip%252520001_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="436" height="564"></a></p> <p>Now, our adventure begins. There were several stops along the trip at local shops, including this steamed bun stall. Since I am being a stingy student I was trying to watch my money and did not sample these snacks, but they did smell delicious! The items on the far left somewhat resemble hot dogs….I am unsure if I want to attempt them. I ate something similar in China, and well, let’s just say it was not my favourite. I’ll update you if I become brave enough to sample them. </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-LHqY-F6wc_k/Towp-YvGpyI/AAAAAAAAASw/QGYYZO15S5o/s1600-h/Orientation%252520Trip%252520002%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Orientation Trip 002" border="0" alt="Orientation Trip 002" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-e_QEwMoxSiM/Towp-9LHN5I/AAAAAAAAAS0/pNlnUyq96Qo/Orientation%252520Trip%252520002_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="551" height="423"></a> </p> <p>We spent most of our traveling hours in the country side, and for this Canadian lady that comes from the land of flat farmland, it was breathtaking! Surrounded by mountains and rice fields, traditional Japanese farms and homes…what more could a girl ask for? </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-fgS9NtMcM2I/Towp_j-lMMI/AAAAAAAAAS4/xk6BsVC7fcA/s1600-h/Orientation%252520Trip%252520010%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Orientation Trip 010" border="0" alt="Orientation Trip 010" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-ZNrk5j8Td0E/TowqANrIpuI/AAAAAAAAAS8/fB59Q66K-gk/Orientation%252520Trip%252520010_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="596" height="457"></a></p> <p>Please pardon the window reflection, had to be fast to catch some of these…</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-bxgb32p3x_M/TowqBLkTZRI/AAAAAAAAATA/CgyLdaEzpYE/s1600-h/Orientation%252520Trip%252520011%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Orientation Trip 011" border="0" alt="Orientation Trip 011" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-LmHU9AmlSgw/TowqBwW2DzI/AAAAAAAAATE/mtGoU7oRN4k/Orientation%252520Trip%252520011_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="592" height="458"></a></p> <p>Our first stop was at Ryumon Falls, where we enjoyed a pleasant nature walk to the waterfall, and then lunch made my some lovely Japanese ladies. </p> <p> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-JhpaD9WHubU/TowqCm48QnI/AAAAAAAAATI/mqveDZ9C8Jo/s1600-h/Orientation%252520Trip%252520015%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Orientation Trip 015" border="0" alt="Orientation Trip 015" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-VlX17enqipM/TowqDs6ouWI/AAAAAAAAATM/0wli4nkUQLM/Orientation%252520Trip%252520015_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="417" height="544"></a></p> <p>The waterfall… <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-F8Luq_7xVq0/TowqE4qrVqI/AAAAAAAAATQ/H_k3TSQJuvw/s1600-h/Orientation%252520Trip%252520016%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Orientation Trip 016" border="0" alt="Orientation Trip 016" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-07O7ViL7qnk/TowqF1dSCfI/AAAAAAAAATU/mv5QLd5FKfU/Orientation%252520Trip%252520016_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="589" height="452"></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-33BUIbjhw7w/TowqGyYKNvI/AAAAAAAAATY/nhfmpKklBj8/s1600-h/Orientation%252520Trip%252520018%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Orientation Trip 018" border="0" alt="Orientation Trip 018" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-J3rQDqwc9bo/TowqHxDiUhI/AAAAAAAAATc/Wxf0QuU8tCo/Orientation%252520Trip%252520018_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="586" height="453"></a></p> <p>We then headed back to have lunch nearby. There were a couple small <em>omiyage</em> (souvenir) shops outside the restaurant. <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-WD-7A7HOjz4/TowqI5yGbgI/AAAAAAAAATg/p5DB1pHsj2I/s1600-h/Orientation%252520Trip%252520023%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Orientation Trip 023" border="0" alt="Orientation Trip 023" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-zhe5Ch1QbJQ/TowqJy5z8-I/AAAAAAAAATk/AIMdMukE_f8/Orientation%252520Trip%252520023_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="597" height="462"></a></p> <p>As we were dining on the <em>tatami</em> floor, we were asked to remove shoes. <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-G0OWgR9QfTk/TowqK_hLi9I/AAAAAAAAATo/vP4RXVJKI-Y/s1600-h/Orientation%252520Trip%252520027%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Orientation Trip 027" border="0" alt="Orientation Trip 027" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-J0e4-EkA_p4/TowqL5j3gCI/AAAAAAAAATs/nI5p7P4D5Y0/Orientation%252520Trip%252520027_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="599" height="463"></a></p> <p>Our dining tables. </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-swGzexjH1uE/TowqMbJp52I/AAAAAAAAATw/kkEazfuvEMs/s1600-h/Orientation%252520Trip%252520032%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Orientation Trip 032" border="0" alt="Orientation Trip 032" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-WPYxUlRL470/TowqNbYquZI/AAAAAAAAAT0/4syczoCqxtM/Orientation%252520Trip%252520032_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="417" height="544"></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-5ZDo9SRRMEA/TowqNyb7qAI/AAAAAAAAAT4/P6Cmmt8AdOA/s1600-h/Orientation%252520Trip%252520025%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Orientation Trip 025" border="0" alt="Orientation Trip 025" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-PkPMVukbuCk/TowqOfL5YAI/AAAAAAAAAT8/xzC-0scpA1I/Orientation%252520Trip%252520025_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="413" height="529"></a> </p> <p>The meal…my favourite was the spicy pickled squash salad (top right).</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-tyfbaMou0P8/TowqO7xEypI/AAAAAAAAAUA/zjcPoOb6Z10/s1600-h/Orientation%252520Trip%252520030%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Orientation Trip 030" border="0" alt="Orientation Trip 030" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-r1xInlCzUxU/TowqPaEUdlI/AAAAAAAAAUE/TVT2JF3FGwE/Orientation%252520Trip%252520030_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="594" height="456"></a></p> <p>The next stop on our journey was <em>Kokonoe Yume Ootsuribashi. </em>This gigantic suspension bridge is known to carry the <em>yume</em> (dreams) of the people of Kokonoe town. It is a walking bridge that is 390 meters long, and 173 meters above the Naruko-gawa Gorge (777 meters above sea level).</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-LX-uGRSHg5w/TowqP9bvCWI/AAAAAAAAAUI/RFdH86eis3s/s1600-h/Orientation%252520Trip%252520044%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Orientation Trip 044" border="0" alt="Orientation Trip 044" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-ieklQHjzixg/TowqQc2NyUI/AAAAAAAAAUM/kYzT9Gs5Ex8/Orientation%252520Trip%252520044_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="645" height="498"></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-5P8tZxxbQSE/TowqQ-FsQlI/AAAAAAAAAUQ/U_TQmfOOYCI/s1600-h/Orientation%252520Trip%252520036%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Orientation Trip 036" border="0" alt="Orientation Trip 036" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-5SVzGnw7-t0/TowqRTkpylI/AAAAAAAAAUU/cwh73DKJUUk/Orientation%252520Trip%252520036_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="492" height="636"></a></p> <p>I managed to walk about half way out onto the bridge to get a nice shot of the gorge below, but then due to the heavy swaying I chickened out and headed back to safe ground. I was told it is about a 15 minute walk across the bridge. Scary! </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/--GXzdSfqIFk/TowqSAQ4UzI/AAAAAAAAAUY/WPtsBHxrT7c/s1600-h/Orientation%252520Trip%252520040%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Orientation Trip 040" border="0" alt="Orientation Trip 040" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-1eI7EstJp2c/TowqSjyyslI/AAAAAAAAAUc/--33zKC2OT0/Orientation%252520Trip%252520040_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="467" height="603"></a> </p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p>While waiting for my other classmates to finish being brave, I stumbled upon this very dapper fellow whom I couldn’t resist taking a photo of. He came over and chatted with me for a while, telling me of his friends that live in Toronto and Las Vegas. So far, being Canadian has been a positive thing in Japan and makes for good conversation. /thumbs up</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-zJwgttjORMs/TowqTBmFxUI/AAAAAAAAAUg/X_AOcO8-yjo/s1600-h/Orientation%252520Trip%252520045%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Orientation Trip 045" border="0" alt="Orientation Trip 045" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Y1aSJxN5tqk/TowqT5bhlFI/AAAAAAAAAUk/nrs0GZJz5Kk/Orientation%252520Trip%252520045_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="599" height="463"></a></p> <p>We then loaded back onto the bus for the final trek to our destination: The Kuju Training Center for National Universities. As you can see, the girls (far outnumbering the boys) were housed almost entirely in the same room, sleeping on futons we so nicely positioned on the floor. I was a suck and used an extra comforter to make my bed somewhat softer. I am unsure if I will perfect the Japanese sleeping-on-a-futon-on-the-floor skill by the time I leave. I will keep trying though. </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Xcba4HhayuE/TowqUQNmJNI/AAAAAAAAAUo/qhpT-TqAgKs/s1600-h/Orientation%252520Trip%252520052%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Orientation Trip 052" border="0" alt="Orientation Trip 052" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-jUDYYmQNEP0/TowqU0Tq2bI/AAAAAAAAAUs/5QH31VZ-nwY/Orientation%252520Trip%252520052_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="559" height="429"></a></p> <p>This training center was also the home of an <em>onsen</em> (hot spring). We were able to view the water outside, so I grabbed a few photos but they don’t really give you the full picture of how incredible this was. There was billowing steam rising from the mountain side, and you could hear the water boiling and bubbling all around. Oh, and yes, there was that unforgettable sulfur smell….mmmmm rotting eggs. Delightful. </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-8c6ZH2rEaU8/TowqVRvnRdI/AAAAAAAAAUw/aIWudkW_LD0/s1600-h/Orientation%252520Trip%252520063%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Orientation Trip 063" border="0" alt="Orientation Trip 063" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-dJ0tHbojr2E/Towqo5SpUlI/AAAAAAAAAU0/biZSib3zwLU/Orientation%252520Trip%252520063_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="492" height="641"></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/--eH6KO3dN4E/TowqpbWojPI/AAAAAAAAAU4/JHP6Z7U5hVc/s1600-h/Orientation%252520Trip%252520057%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Orientation Trip 057" border="0" alt="Orientation Trip 057" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-M8pFP5d-fHI/TowqqN3qmwI/AAAAAAAAAU8/q8ekQZFL5D4/Orientation%252520Trip%252520057_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="613" height="470"></a></p> <p>I tried to capture an image of the naturally boiling water, but it was difficult to get one that turned out well. Even more impressive was the <strong>sound</strong> of the boiling water all around us. </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-5woPkoQ29X0/TowqqsDg49I/AAAAAAAAAVA/Jqf_96C5i-g/s1600-h/Orientation%252520Trip%252520058%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Orientation Trip 058" border="0" alt="Orientation Trip 058" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Re-bX4rHCZI/TowqrIEHN6I/AAAAAAAAAVE/5N0ZOK-2vik/Orientation%252520Trip%252520058_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="660" height="506"></a></p> <p>After this, we ventured inside to take part in the orientation portion of the trip, followed by dinner. Of course, a dinner photo. </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-8cYtgKCGL6U/TowrUtDPQhI/AAAAAAAAAVI/nxXUjTOBErA/s1600-h/Orientation%252520Trip%252520068%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Orientation Trip 068" border="0" alt="Orientation Trip 068" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-2tjMNRAQ5GU/TowrVGd0oPI/AAAAAAAAAVM/CgnOZOm2psM/Orientation%252520Trip%252520068_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="588" height="451"></a></p> <p>The best part was the pasta salad, which included long macaroni, cucumber, carrots, and apple slices! Considering the price of apples in Japan, I feel special it was included in our dinner.</p> <p>After dinner the group took on the gym for some games and exercise. Basketball, volleyball, ping pong, badminton, and dance club. Very fun! <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-huhJ_CQOw1w/TowrV74EDkI/AAAAAAAAAVQ/jz1h1vT_jY8/s1600-h/Orientation%252520Trip%252520069%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Orientation Trip 069" border="0" alt="Orientation Trip 069" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/--O5xnIg8m9w/TowrWazx5pI/AAAAAAAAAVU/2YUrpajR0ns/Orientation%252520Trip%252520069_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="536" height="411"></a></p> <p>After we worked up a good sweat it was time for the <em>onsen</em>. For those who may not know, <em>onsen</em> is a traditional form of group bathing in the hot springs that is taken quite seriously in Japan. There are many rules to be followed, such as: showering beforehand, as you may not enter dirty or with makeup, not washing yourself in the <em>onsen </em>as it is to be kept pure and free of contaminants, you must enter completely naked (no swimsuits, folks), and finally, people with tattoos are not allowed to enter. Well, this threw in a potential curve ball for me, but I was given the OK since we were in a location that is somewhat more lenient, and was told that, well, I’m a foreigner and can sort of get away with a few things from time to time if I don’t make a fuss. Although, I was also told that I may not be able to take part at more strict locations, but time will tell if this will be a problem. </p> <p>And now for a couple extra photos, things I couldn’t resist including.</p> <p>The first being the toilet slippers. Once entering the facility, we were to wear slippers or socks around the entire place. To ensure cleanliness, there were also designated toilet slippers that you changed into when using the washrooms. Why is there a bride and groom on them, you ask? Well, I certainly have no idea…but cute nonetheless.<a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-qW99icLx7bI/TowrW0tVzRI/AAAAAAAAAVY/zoyJ4RhJqr8/s1600-h/Orientation%252520Trip%252520070%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Orientation Trip 070" border="0" alt="Orientation Trip 070" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-ZAYCKUHVWL4/TowrXUq8GVI/AAAAAAAAAVc/H_Rj6elyqQQ/Orientation%252520Trip%252520070_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="533" height="409"></a></p> <p>And my favourite snack of the trip…panda flavoured Pocky. Just kidding, it was cookies and cream. But I wonder what panda flavoured Pocky would taste like….ew. The selection of cute things in Japan is indescribable. </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-PJPVD7OWqV0/TowrX_TRajI/AAAAAAAAAVg/OMLsFPqUJNg/s1600-h/Orientation%252520Trip%252520072%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Orientation Trip 072" border="0" alt="Orientation Trip 072" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-C2HqpDUBNn8/TowrYUC1EII/AAAAAAAAAVk/3ijTSb01ckk/Orientation%252520Trip%252520072_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="362" height="471"></a> </p> <p>This concludes day one of our adventure. Yet to come in Day Two, an interesting breakfast, more breathtaking scenery, a brief stop at a mountain, a fantastic lunch, silliness with friends, and a castle. I will post Day Two in the coming days.</p> <p>In other news, classes started today. My life may become busier, but I will continue to update you as often as possible! I also purchased a bike today (and managed to survive my first ride home from school in the rain) so I will now have better ease in exploring the area. Hopefully this will mean more silly stories and photos for you.</p> <p>Until then, take care everyone! <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p>xoxoxo</p> <p>PS: I now have more mosquito bites than I have had in my entire 28 years, so if anyone knows the trick to not being eaten alive while sleeping, please share in the comments! At this point, I am pretty sure the local mosquito community is trying to slowly suck out all my blood until I can’t walk anymore…or so it seems anyway. /tear</p></p> kunobothttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15513489268165917619noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2076932335039963964.post-17739336228566510252011-10-01T20:48:00.004+09:002011-10-01T21:07:06.884+09:00The Adventure Continues…in Tenjin<p>(Be prepared for a long post with lots of photos. Or come back later when you have time.)</p> <p>Today a few of us decided to head into one of the big downtown areas called <em>Tenjin</em>. We decided to be adventurous and take the subway. The following are photos I took along the walk to the station near our dorm, and of the train heading into <em>Tenjin</em>.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-wdzLOoKNtuU/Tob9AjJtevI/AAAAAAAAAMQ/MRXLwafegzw/s1600-h/Tenjin%252520Adventure%252520001%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="Tenjin Adventure 001" border="0" alt="Tenjin Adventure 001" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-oB4J4Efs9zk/Tob9BVKfpSI/AAAAAAAAAMU/qScaWlbV4wM/Tenjin%252520Adventure%252520001_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="534" height="414"></a> </p> <p>I am unsure if this was functional or artistic. Neat nonetheless. <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-gbMDBSkFhXs/Tob9B-XZd1I/AAAAAAAAAMY/eWWNs9QiNTA/s1600-h/Tenjin%252520Adventure%252520002%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="Tenjin Adventure 002" border="0" alt="Tenjin Adventure 002" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-6EGgrT9jFxg/Tob9Cdp1E5I/AAAAAAAAAMc/byjXsxaCCzI/Tenjin%252520Adventure%252520002_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="534" height="413"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-vvwkJeGHwts/Tob9C-BFOMI/AAAAAAAAAMg/xluAUybnUro/s1600-h/Tenjin%252520Adventure%252520003%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="Tenjin Adventure 003" border="0" alt="Tenjin Adventure 003" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-U3lDqlTZnSI/Tob9Dnq0O4I/AAAAAAAAAMk/4GX8KCOhAz4/Tenjin%252520Adventure%252520003_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="530" height="407"></a></p> <p>Green space just before the station.<a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-3DuYaENDkAs/Tob9EDbR7JI/AAAAAAAAAMo/rd6vn8f0WDY/s1600-h/Tenjin%252520Adventure%252520005%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="Tenjin Adventure 005" border="0" alt="Tenjin Adventure 005" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-gsv8aiiG90E/Tob9Ej7F3WI/AAAAAAAAAMs/c4qUtED9ito/Tenjin%252520Adventure%252520005_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="532" height="415"></a></p> <p>The front of <em>Chihaya</em> Station, our closest subway and JR rail line. It’s a pretty massive place.<a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-ZlptTQKlhsY/Tob9FAemPtI/AAAAAAAAAMw/4eqP3rKpIGk/s1600-h/Tenjin%252520Adventure%252520008%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="Tenjin Adventure 008" border="0" alt="Tenjin Adventure 008" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-J5CwC4lUUKI/Tob9F15KOGI/AAAAAAAAAM0/nCz6v3vn8b8/Tenjin%252520Adventure%252520008_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="532" height="408"></a></p> <p>Perhaps this is a friendly fiesta? Friesta? Or just a convenience store…you decide.<a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-0I-VPupQ3Rw/Tob9GYAJExI/AAAAAAAAAM4/-PMTaiMkyos/s1600-h/Tenjin%252520Adventure%252520009%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="Tenjin Adventure 009" border="0" alt="Tenjin Adventure 009" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-xlhdjFGSUEo/Tob9HG29FBI/AAAAAAAAAM8/2Gn3Fw6qZyQ/Tenjin%252520Adventure%252520009_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="531" height="407"></a> </p> <p>Subway entrance.<a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-yADjyTqsta0/Tob9Hnz93cI/AAAAAAAAANA/5pO0JVcqhwE/s1600-h/Tenjin%252520Adventure%252520010%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="Tenjin Adventure 010" border="0" alt="Tenjin Adventure 010" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-2v1aklzWGqM/Tob9ID62HlI/AAAAAAAAANE/l87cnT4fWII/Tenjin%252520Adventure%252520010_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="531" height="407"></a></p> <p>Buying subway tickets. No English, by the way. <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-bHKzN5LGUBc/Tob9Iia1l8I/AAAAAAAAANI/G9K1KR88U2I/s1600-h/Tenjin%252520Adventure%252520011%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="Tenjin Adventure 011" border="0" alt="Tenjin Adventure 011" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-O7B5dhfbbNU/Tob9JNct-pI/AAAAAAAAANM/f7iapMcqQXI/Tenjin%252520Adventure%252520011_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="437" height="565"></a></p> <p>To get to the trains you actually go upstairs from the main station. A definite change for me. As well, the platforms are marked where the doors will align, and they actually do end up there. This says <em>doa</em>, which is door. <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-u6Ykke3JMJU/Tob9O6DtisI/AAAAAAAAANQ/KYtZua_Hl0s/s1600-h/Tenjin%252520Adventure%252520014%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="Tenjin Adventure 014" border="0" alt="Tenjin Adventure 014" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-IIQmvau93D8/Tob9PnDTgCI/AAAAAAAAANU/pkdNFMnHWrQ/Tenjin%252520Adventure%252520014_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="517" height="397"></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-JmRdFBgtVsw/Tob9QGdDR9I/AAAAAAAAANY/D-W6EsBID0k/s1600-h/Tenjin%252520Adventure%252520015%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="Tenjin Adventure 015" border="0" alt="Tenjin Adventure 015" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-_iwUKA80Qcw/Tob9Ql0m46I/AAAAAAAAANc/ecLtlf498Q8/Tenjin%252520Adventure%252520015_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="511" height="392"></a> </p> <p>This guy might actually be my new hero. It’s hard to tell in this photo, but his boots were dark silver. Very handsome.<a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-AEN3aEaiFdo/Tob9RGP_FPI/AAAAAAAAANg/CuLB6BUV8do/s1600-h/Tenjin%252520Adventure%252520018%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="Tenjin Adventure 018" border="0" alt="Tenjin Adventure 018" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-4ou4cFP67lw/Tob9Ru0DrTI/AAAAAAAAANk/Wvt1-Q6r44c/Tenjin%252520Adventure%252520018_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="531"></a></p> <p>Upon coming out of the subway station. <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-9KxrH_o2am0/Tob9SMPxDUI/AAAAAAAAANo/B2mHewjZR_M/s1600-h/Tenjin%252520Adventure%252520021%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="Tenjin Adventure 021" border="0" alt="Tenjin Adventure 021" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-PXdIJQ3tD1s/Tob9Sj_Go_I/AAAAAAAAANs/2mDFwsdmzRA/Tenjin%252520Adventure%252520021_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="406" height="529"></a> </p> <p>This was directly across the street stuck between towering financial and commercial buildings. We decided to investigate…<a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-pcDw5sXB1N4/Tob9TcA3egI/AAAAAAAAANw/PuKq7x3QbvM/s1600-h/Tenjin%252520Adventure%252520022%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="Tenjin Adventure 022" border="0" alt="Tenjin Adventure 022" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-sM0Wqj6JRPs/Tob9Tyktc9I/AAAAAAAAAN0/QdY32cNghkY/Tenjin%252520Adventure%252520022_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="530" height="407"></a></p> <p>It was beautiful…<a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-5Imb_LVRZ6k/Tob9UiQ1W1I/AAAAAAAAAN4/cFBx7sH9TCQ/s1600-h/Tenjin%252520Adventure%252520026%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="Tenjin Adventure 026" border="0" alt="Tenjin Adventure 026" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-N_wFyKGGe4Y/Tob9VDMzLxI/AAAAAAAAAN8/4T6NH2mRKWk/Tenjin%252520Adventure%252520026_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="530" height="407"></a></p> <p>And inside there was a couple having wedding photos taken.<a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-DSUXiGcrF0A/Tob9Vk8zyII/AAAAAAAAAOA/36wPYTeWkD8/s1600-h/Tenjin%252520Adventure%252520041%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="Tenjin Adventure 041" border="0" alt="Tenjin Adventure 041" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-qXQYtjpnnE0/Tob9WHINEhI/AAAAAAAAAOE/8DVrKm9aznQ/Tenjin%252520Adventure%252520041_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="416" height="542"></a> </p> <p>Absolutely stunning.<a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-QLHvf54ofRM/Tob9WuNFh2I/AAAAAAAAAOI/ZhfCJ2KywJU/s1600-h/Tenjin%252520Adventure%252520024%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="Tenjin Adventure 024" border="0" alt="Tenjin Adventure 024" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-yUnaZnPWw6M/Tob9XL43kNI/AAAAAAAAAOM/XlhpuYt5AW0/Tenjin%252520Adventure%252520024_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="421" height="549"></a> </p> <p>Next it was time to find something delicious to eat. We ventured down a small alley that had various food shops. <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-vbMozkDiuR4/Tob9XxvSLFI/AAAAAAAAAOQ/CQM7U2uH8xQ/s1600-h/Tenjin%252520Adventure%252520025%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="Tenjin Adventure 025" border="0" alt="Tenjin Adventure 025" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-XC9NX0oJMSA/Tob9YSLJ95I/AAAAAAAAAOU/harYJNmeE6g/Tenjin%252520Adventure%252520025_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="419" height="546"></a> </p> <p>Deciding on a ramen shop, we were seated at traditional Japanese style dining tables. Very neat. Thankfully they had a gap underneath so you didn’t have to sit cross legged. <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-9ZjzDefgBQs/Tob9Y_waDPI/AAAAAAAAAOY/R0L1s_ipAoE/s1600-h/Tenjin%252520Adventure%252520028%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="Tenjin Adventure 028" border="0" alt="Tenjin Adventure 028" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-xNBzif-YKw8/Tob9ZYoDb6I/AAAAAAAAAOc/RyU18AlQyV8/Tenjin%252520Adventure%252520028_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="530" height="407"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-EMEglPXH-gM/Tob9aILclMI/AAAAAAAAAOg/FPcF-JnHRKA/s1600-h/Tenjin%252520Adventure%252520030%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="Tenjin Adventure 030" border="0" alt="Tenjin Adventure 030" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-8XCdO4YDjII/Tob9av8qIRI/AAAAAAAAAOk/xs16S_aG0ew/Tenjin%252520Adventure%252520030_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="531" height="407"></a> </p> <p>The menu was posted on the wall.<a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-K0T1iVPfUUY/Tob9bh3LEcI/AAAAAAAAAOo/et-dMl0Iick/s1600-h/Tenjin%252520Adventure%252520033%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="Tenjin Adventure 033" border="0" alt="Tenjin Adventure 033" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-5t-ec4v1kyw/Tob9dG0IfRI/AAAAAAAAAOs/hs6o8p2fV3s/Tenjin%252520Adventure%252520033_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="531" height="407"></a> </p> <p>And on the table…<a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-NTYRlC47Pbc/Tob9doZtPJI/AAAAAAAAAOw/h3-hBtlPbZo/s1600-h/Tenjin%252520Adventure%252520034%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="Tenjin Adventure 034" border="0" alt="Tenjin Adventure 034" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-wrTtCqd0mRA/Tob9eDC39OI/AAAAAAAAAO0/jS4herSk_ig/Tenjin%252520Adventure%252520034_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="525" height="406"></a></p> <p>We all chose the <em>moshi</em> ramen, which consisted of delicious broth, soft noodles, pork slices and a variety of sprouts and another veggie that I have had many times but do not know the name of. Apparently at this shop on Saturdays you can also have a second helping of noodles if you keep your broth. One helping was enough for me. <em>Totemo</em> <em>oishii</em>. Very delicious!<a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-83S0sgFQmcs/Tob9eiGSaPI/AAAAAAAAAO4/VfdN7DDNya4/s1600-h/Tenjin%252520Adventure%252520038%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="Tenjin Adventure 038" border="0" alt="Tenjin Adventure 038" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-CYETpV1a8As/Tob9fYl_2lI/AAAAAAAAAO8/KXyfP2NJ_As/Tenjin%252520Adventure%252520038_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="524" height="402"></a> </p> <p>They also brought us a scoop of vanilla ice cream, complimentary after the meal. It was excellent!<a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-UlOcXNiom7Y/Tob9f60fnwI/AAAAAAAAAPA/sHIUrgdtbtY/s1600-h/Tenjin%252520Adventure%252520040%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="Tenjin Adventure 040" border="0" alt="Tenjin Adventure 040" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-soLl6qZeY6M/Tob9gVSLHYI/AAAAAAAAAPE/SW787xBKHK0/Tenjin%252520Adventure%252520040_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="518" height="398"></a> </p> <p>Back to walking…In the downtown core there are many, many, many, many, <strong>many</strong> bike parking areas. This photo doesn’t accurately show the enormous line of bikes, two or three deep, parked alongside a street. </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-QytwHl5Q6Og/Tob9iAXFgZI/AAAAAAAAAPI/S1UN-bKoaMk/s1600-h/Tenjin%252520Adventure%252520043%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="Tenjin Adventure 043" border="0" alt="Tenjin Adventure 043" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-IEQ0x9KGDXI/Tob9i8xnRWI/AAAAAAAAAPM/nhTzrutkrpA/Tenjin%252520Adventure%252520043_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="544" height="421"></a> </p> <p>In Fukuoka you can taxi in style…<a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-S3RXZmfJU4E/Tob9jmGwsLI/AAAAAAAAAPQ/nJptAgcHxLQ/s1600-h/Tenjin%252520Adventure%252520044%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="Tenjin Adventure 044" border="0" alt="Tenjin Adventure 044" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-GdRZrtP0qEQ/Tob9kKIlC_I/AAAAAAAAAPU/OEKtKL2PNxA/Tenjin%252520Adventure%252520044_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="535" height="411"></a></p> <p>We then came upon this shopping area. <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-VN5qHYnyhnY/Tob9kqkJfvI/AAAAAAAAAPY/py3VfKjBGL4/s1600-h/Tenjin%252520Adventure%252520045%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="Tenjin Adventure 045" border="0" alt="Tenjin Adventure 045" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-5cZAUQyzPvg/Tob9lDdQ3kI/AAAAAAAAAPc/JBWUa3jbvtw/Tenjin%252520Adventure%252520045_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="420" height="534"></a></p> <p>Along the way there…<a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-jm60Dd9aOcY/Tob9lnHGZeI/AAAAAAAAAPg/Lq32Eglgbs8/s1600-h/Tenjin%252520Adventure%252520047%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="Tenjin Adventure 047" border="0" alt="Tenjin Adventure 047" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-g1QAA5LslW0/Tob9mPICtaI/AAAAAAAAAPk/SsHvNYOH1Nc/Tenjin%252520Adventure%252520047_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="534"></a> </p> <p>A sculpture upon entering the area. <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-5Q2nggoCNB8/Tob9nOEaUEI/AAAAAAAAAPo/OKOTtOjIFYw/s1600-h/Tenjin%252520Adventure%252520051%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="Tenjin Adventure 051" border="0" alt="Tenjin Adventure 051" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-3K0WmI-9t9M/Tob9nis5icI/AAAAAAAAAPs/KdPf5AS4zpA/Tenjin%252520Adventure%252520051_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="404" height="526"></a> </p> <p>There were quite a few cafes and restaurants also.<a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-GySOWAMOikY/Tob9oIfBgTI/AAAAAAAAAPw/XKldE6DhaVc/s1600-h/Tenjin%252520Adventure%252520052%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="Tenjin Adventure 052" border="0" alt="Tenjin Adventure 052" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-i3f0875zSHs/Tob9ojbbX_I/AAAAAAAAAP0/rWzPCzemOwQ/Tenjin%252520Adventure%252520052_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="519" height="398"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-LtxNQ8EFxbs/Tob9pD_P7_I/AAAAAAAAAP4/yAVtoqm2Aq0/s1600-h/Tenjin%252520Adventure%252520055%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="Tenjin Adventure 055" border="0" alt="Tenjin Adventure 055" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-38BIYUcPXDc/Tob9ph-UR0I/AAAAAAAAAP8/CeK0AfuXx7c/Tenjin%252520Adventure%252520055_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="364" height="474"></a></p> <p>Not entirely sure what these were…or what was inside them. Decoration? Props? Giant hollow plastic bears with plastic beads inside?<a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-eiWTqFtIY_A/Tob9qJ9LTJI/AAAAAAAAAQA/NI6Msp5O_OU/s1600-h/Tenjin%252520Adventure%252520053%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="Tenjin Adventure 053" border="0" alt="Tenjin Adventure 053" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-k9KeTvwuSb8/Tob9q46XhNI/AAAAAAAAAQE/bwOB7k4NKDA/Tenjin%252520Adventure%252520053_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="522" height="401"></a> </p> <p>There was a music festival going on across the street. Perhaps these are the Japanese Beach Boys? A little too young I suppose…<a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-7L8mBgRFCfQ/Tob9rZqyomI/AAAAAAAAAQI/LnBnN0I04xA/s1600-h/Tenjin%252520Adventure%252520054%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="Tenjin Adventure 054" border="0" alt="Tenjin Adventure 054" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-ZdV8bYboOgg/Tob9r7P7CyI/AAAAAAAAAQM/asN2W3FDJ3o/Tenjin%252520Adventure%252520054_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="520" height="399"></a> </p> <p>We then headed to another shopping area, catching a lot of amazing sights along the way.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-GNqYNAx6IDg/Tob9spOFsqI/AAAAAAAAAQQ/5id9fdr-1LE/s1600-h/Tenjin%252520Adventure%252520056%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="Tenjin Adventure 056" border="0" alt="Tenjin Adventure 056" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-k4LYBz6rxfc/Tob9tL9bGyI/AAAAAAAAAQU/curSMMXZbGs/Tenjin%252520Adventure%252520056_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="434" height="565"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-HaBmr4Abd94/Tob9uB0W2wI/AAAAAAAAAQY/lnwiVvMSn0w/s1600-h/Tenjin%252520Adventure%252520057%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="Tenjin Adventure 057" border="0" alt="Tenjin Adventure 057" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-_hmCry0PFxo/Tob9urIpr6I/AAAAAAAAAQc/fj-wgX5P9KU/Tenjin%252520Adventure%252520057_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="531" height="407"></a> </p> <p>Our destination:<a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-6rS0pgL2vwM/Tob9vRDDGeI/AAAAAAAAAQg/YYSqq2aN9Zw/s1600-h/Tenjin%252520Adventure%252520058%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="Tenjin Adventure 058" border="0" alt="Tenjin Adventure 058" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-tx7MJI3-vCM/Tob9vyZFwkI/AAAAAAAAAQk/LgH05ZxTN3s/Tenjin%252520Adventure%252520058_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="530" height="407"></a> </p> <p><strong>Loft</strong> is a 7 storey mega-store that offers a variety of goods from accessories, travel items, electronics, house wares, furniture, Halloween decorations, toys, kids items, and stationary. We spent a good hour wandering the floors being extremely entertained by many of the “interesting” things we came across. Including these…<a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-WYvC2jRjvIA/Tob9wRBsgxI/AAAAAAAAAQo/2Flh0o9fEEU/s1600-h/Tenjin%252520Adventure%252520059%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="Tenjin Adventure 059" border="0" alt="Tenjin Adventure 059" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-O91otDPi2PU/Tob9xMFCnNI/AAAAAAAAAQs/npgf6qqdFLo/Tenjin%252520Adventure%252520059_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="530" height="407"></a> </p> <p>So far it appears that Japan puts a lot of importance on keeping a trim figure, including your limbs and face, and achieving it by rolling your body with various colourful instruments. They have face, neck, arm, foot, leg, and body rollers. I believe the one top center in the photo is even for your bottom. </p> <p>Moving to another department…I could not pass up taking a shot of these adorable chair socks. Not only do they keep your chair legs from scuffing your floor, they keep the chair legs warm and stylish also! Personally I would go with the argyle… <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-jGLxFZVyxe4/Tob9xpe3wiI/AAAAAAAAAQw/QftUiu7FQoM/s1600-h/Tenjin%252520Adventure%252520061%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="Tenjin Adventure 061" border="0" alt="Tenjin Adventure 061" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-KK8nGQDQMD4/Tob9yRRLXTI/AAAAAAAAAQ0/RmRIJbQNu0Y/Tenjin%252520Adventure%252520061_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="530" height="407"></a></p> <p>The next section in the store had various electronics, clocks, and these interesting stuffed animal speakers that play your music while moving around to the beat. I was more curious about the packaging. In case you are unable to read it clearly, it says:</p> <blockquote> <p align="justify"><em>He says to me, “Why don’t you run?” “Cause I can see, you have no gun.” I say to him, “That’s a good idea.” “Now let’s get going, get me out of here!” I began to run away from there, But right behind me was that bear. And on the path ahead of me I saw a tree, Oh glory be.</em></p></blockquote> <p align="left">I am going to guess they chose this particular passage due to the use of the word <strong>bear</strong>. Or perhaps it was selected because it really shouts “gold bear speaker toy.” But what do I know.</p> <p align="left"> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-ARdcD_cqlNQ/Tob9y-_XUCI/AAAAAAAAAQ4/rtNkmu6moKw/s1600-h/Tenjin%252520Adventure%252520063%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="Tenjin Adventure 063" border="0" alt="Tenjin Adventure 063" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-uEJ71cFgRv4/Tob9zaek5OI/AAAAAAAAAQ8/KorKS9eKEnk/Tenjin%252520Adventure%252520063_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="441" height="567"></a></p> <p>We then stumbled upon my favourite section of the store, the Halloween department. I am modeling a couple items that I might just decide to pick up for my Halloween costume this year. The first being a toilet hat, and yes, it includes a fresh swirl of poop. I probably wouldn’t have even considered this costume idea if it didn’t include the poop, so that was a wise marketing decision in my opinion. <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-P-MfM9KBkSQ/Tob9z7Tj0CI/AAAAAAAAARA/3jEmoY3J5Rc/s1600-h/Tenjin%252520Adventure%252520067%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="Tenjin Adventure 067" border="0" alt="Tenjin Adventure 067" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-NmR4lXvOmvo/Tob90Qy_E4I/AAAAAAAAARE/F5AnHhSQTnw/Tenjin%252520Adventure%252520067_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="425" height="549"></a></p> <p>I could even pair it with this poop wand and go out as the Canadian Poop Fairy, or something equally ridiculous. <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-q8UkhVuwqqA/Tob90-ElPUI/AAAAAAAAARI/V7DzhfHoI0I/s1600-h/Tenjin%252520Adventure%252520068%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="Tenjin Adventure 068" border="0" alt="Tenjin Adventure 068" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-C0ZMJm6Dy1o/Tob91kEJMsI/AAAAAAAAARM/WoNqCig1azU/Tenjin%252520Adventure%252520068_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="423" height="547"></a></p> <p>I also liked this poop swirl fascinator. I really can’t decide which is the better choice, perhaps suggestions would help in the decision making process… <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-0O47Ynqpj7M/Tob91xegI0I/AAAAAAAAARQ/weGFnnG1EJc/s1600-h/Tenjin%252520Adventure%252520069%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="Tenjin Adventure 069" border="0" alt="Tenjin Adventure 069" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/--m4rpNPqKNQ/Tob92exKrPI/AAAAAAAAARU/TRZ5tTGRtok/Tenjin%252520Adventure%252520069_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="421" height="543"></a></p> <p>The array of costumes…<a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-6s1OoDulRBM/Tob93GF-O3I/AAAAAAAAARY/mx3K8c-fNkA/s1600-h/Tenjin%252520Adventure%252520070%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="Tenjin Adventure 070" border="0" alt="Tenjin Adventure 070" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-8bc7x_2FTLg/Tob933eyyQI/AAAAAAAAARc/JnG6OhzN9ZU/Tenjin%252520Adventure%252520070_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="559" height="429"></a></p> <p>Another potential costume idea…<a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-4S-TxRarwSw/Tob94Zizg7I/AAAAAAAAARg/LAr6Nt4LAPk/s1600-h/Tenjin%252520Adventure%252520071%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="Tenjin Adventure 071" border="0" alt="Tenjin Adventure 071" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-jxLkpsQ8FjM/Tob95MShhqI/AAAAAAAAARk/wm-1wG0i9jA/Tenjin%252520Adventure%252520071_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="540" height="414"></a></p> <p>Or perhaps I could try one of these…<a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-S5PoJF1osPI/Tob956uvu7I/AAAAAAAAARo/t8xoiatX2ao/s1600-h/Tenjin%252520Adventure%252520072%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="Tenjin Adventure 072" border="0" alt="Tenjin Adventure 072" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-DOmAR5KmGzQ/Tob96TknkJI/AAAAAAAAARs/9Vkjs1EnoaA/Tenjin%252520Adventure%252520072_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="576" height="442"></a> </p> <p>I now present you with what I found to be the most confusing part of the day. The Crunched-Over-Crying-Man Section. I have no clue what the significance of the crunched-over-crying-man is…but apparently you can decorate your place with various articles that display his pathetic weeping pose. Stickers, magnets, posters, note pads, you name it.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-zAl3v2c0jj8/Tob96zjjUaI/AAAAAAAAARw/ognYEhi_tGo/s1600-h/Tenjin%252520Adventure%252520073%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="Tenjin Adventure 073" border="0" alt="Tenjin Adventure 073" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-cPE9XCEQQEw/Tob97hRxU0I/AAAAAAAAAR0/v5uCN_huNH8/Tenjin%252520Adventure%252520073_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="463" height="604"></a></p> <p>He comes half naked of fully clothed… <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-8DrP3lSOuZo/Tob98IzTDmI/AAAAAAAAAR4/xSsW6iMR9x4/s1600-h/Tenjin%252520Adventure%252520075%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="Tenjin Adventure 075" border="0" alt="Tenjin Adventure 075" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-A11_kG61v50/Tob98obr0gI/AAAAAAAAAR8/g4elDNtZIcs/Tenjin%252520Adventure%252520075_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="440" height="573"></a> </p> <p>In pillow form…<a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Hb9A5cWaeH8/Tob99Pd0oeI/AAAAAAAAASA/K3Z1pT-WkKE/s1600-h/Tenjin%252520Adventure%252520076%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="Tenjin Adventure 076" border="0" alt="Tenjin Adventure 076" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-SxF2FoPcTlQ/Tob99qH2_EI/AAAAAAAAASE/O3NE8rwCzZg/Tenjin%252520Adventure%252520076_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="437" height="570"></a></p> <p>Or perhaps something small for your desk…<a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-oIs5vROfOcU/Tob9-ECy_HI/AAAAAAAAASI/WQXnYaXTk2E/s1600-h/Tenjin%252520Adventure%252520077%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="Tenjin Adventure 077" border="0" alt="Tenjin Adventure 077" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-scB2e-FRrJ0/Tob9-tfrSHI/AAAAAAAAASM/0MgGHTKuADg/Tenjin%252520Adventure%252520077_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="553" height="424"></a></p> <p>I also had no clue what these were, but found them extremely creepy, which of course meant that I needed to share them with you! Vegetable people with frightening faces. Yikes.</p> <p> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-lWS5bOsnw2Q/Tob9_K9HGsI/AAAAAAAAASQ/Wk2v-Fr79gw/s1600-h/Tenjin%252520Adventure%252520078%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="Tenjin Adventure 078" border="0" alt="Tenjin Adventure 078" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Wagk03xFiNM/Tob9_3HIuuI/AAAAAAAAASU/69ocA_37Ews/Tenjin%252520Adventure%252520078_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="430" height="560"></a></p> <p>Finally, after some very good laughs, we ended our adventure at Loft and headed back to the station to go home. Along the way we were given beauty samples by giant blue bow and go-go boot wearing ladies. <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-VVPDFHBFJlo/Tob-AV4_6qI/AAAAAAAAASY/-wb5p9GecXk/s1600-h/Tenjin%252520Adventure%252520080%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="Tenjin Adventure 080" border="0" alt="Tenjin Adventure 080" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-r41mdhpeIk0/Tob-AyH8hDI/AAAAAAAAASc/D0lZq0ttFgI/Tenjin%252520Adventure%252520080_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="407" height="530"></a> </p> <p>And serenaded by this happy fellow singing and playing some advertisement for something unknown. I’m sure it was a bargain…</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-0zfZll6Koug/Tob-BeIXhOI/AAAAAAAAASg/NJ_wayVdXp8/s1600-h/Tenjin%252520Adventure%252520082%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="Tenjin Adventure 082" border="0" alt="Tenjin Adventure 082" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-EPaTH_P-mp0/Tob-CKIQy0I/AAAAAAAAASk/FmYfNHPEnd4/Tenjin%252520Adventure%252520082_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="424" height="552"></a> </p> <p>Now exhausted and at home, I am about to pack my bag for our overnight trip to the mountain. We leave Sunday morning and are back Monday night. I purchased rechargeable batteries today so I am sure to bring home some fantastic photos. We have been told we will be visiting some amazing places, and I can’t wait to share them with you!</p> <p>Until then, take care folks…</p> <p>xoxoxo</p> kunobothttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15513489268165917619noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2076932335039963964.post-1585372294769918572011-09-30T17:55:00.001+09:002011-09-30T18:10:27.042+09:00Nom, nom, nom… Part One<p>The first installment of what I hope to be many food blogs. </p> <p>The day after arriving I was treated to a welcome lunch by my bestest Japanese friend, Nagi. The mall behind my residence has a variety of establishments, and you better believe that we chose the restaurant with the smiling pancakes. Yes, <strong>smiling </strong>pancakes…</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-yTyfNw93rZE/ToWD4PcLTeI/AAAAAAAAAMI/67WJPORfor0/s1600-h/Lunch%252520Date%252520002%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Lunch Date 002" border="0" alt="Lunch Date 002" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-B7FA_sPHi9A/ToWD45cX5HI/AAAAAAAAAMM/zwvhT_c8wvw/Lunch%252520Date%252520002_thumb%25255B5%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="535" height="425"></a> </p> <p>The array of delectable goodies to be had…And for those of you who may not know, these are all fake creations to entice potential customers to dine. No real food was harmed in the making of this window display.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Pt8q5cGxAnY/ToWD5boW06I/AAAAAAAAALg/oFWEBo6xRJM/s1600-h/Lunch%252520Date%252520003%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Lunch Date 003" border="0" alt="Lunch Date 003" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Ptf89AYjNuI/ToWD6J1F4II/AAAAAAAAALk/jkafps8bEwE/Lunch%252520Date%252520003_thumb%25255B5%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="516" height="653"></a> </p> <p>Below is a shot of the bell that you ring when you would like your server to come over. The server then uses a hand-held electronic pad to key in your order. Very neat. Did I mention the supermarkets have digital displays for prices. Also very neat. I’ll try and grab a photo at a later date. Back to the bell…I do wish we had this type of service in Canada, for those of us who like to take our time.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-rJt4yiNU18M/ToWD6hgSD3I/AAAAAAAAALo/uHOUzEOpOsI/s1600-h/Lunch%252520Date%252520004%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Lunch Date 004" border="0" alt="Lunch Date 004" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-3dcQD-ggS7o/ToWD7FoVlkI/AAAAAAAAALs/pXiGQHxh1fU/Lunch%252520Date%252520004_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="582" height="451"></a> </p> <p>Now on to my first selection of snack food, currently kept in my tiny fridge. Breakfast-friendly yogurts, apple juice, tiny slices of ham, and Kraft cheese slices! The best part about the cheese slices is that they taste like the cheese on Subway subs, which for some reason I have a severe weakness for. Tastes kind of like traditional American cheese. YUM. Definitely can’t be healthy. </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-gHAq2H_2uHw/ToWD7vw8EbI/AAAAAAAAALw/ZLp3o8pEHE8/s1600-h/Food%2525201%252520001%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Food 1 001" border="0" alt="Food 1 001" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-3buiM4nRUtA/ToWD8V52b8I/AAAAAAAAAL0/U3H1HQM0wUE/Food%2525201%252520001_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="533" height="685"></a></p> <p> My new favourite snack: <em>tsuna mayoneizu onigiri</em>. Tuna mayo rice balls. Amazing. I would like to thank Nagi for this recommendation. They have saved my life for three consecutive days thus far. I have yet to branch out to the various other flavours, but will eventually become more adventurous upon getting bored of tuna, I presume. A bonus is that they are usually between 68 to100 yen. Cheap and yummy, excellent combination!</p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-dMwwOHnN3XU/ToWD80Q4dOI/AAAAAAAAAL4/19kx6SDPwH8/s1600-h/Food%2525201%252520004%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Food 1 004" border="0" alt="Food 1 004" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-QKg1atyQKg4/ToWD9WHCAQI/AAAAAAAAAL8/7phHTaPhL-Y/Food%2525201%252520004_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="536" height="411"></a> </p> <p>In only two grocery shopping trips, I have found that Japanese supermarkets have an incredible amount of prepared dishes. From small salads in single servings to full dinners. Most prices are very reasonable, although the salads are a bit more but nothing much different from what you would pay for deli salads in Canada. The variety of prepared snacks is astounding. Hopefully I will be able to sneak in some photos at some point. But for now I decided to take home this dish, consisting of a chicken breast with tartar sauce, tiny spec of spaghetti noodles, carrots, corn and rice. This was 399 yen. I recently had a dinner almost identical at the food court in the mall for 299 yen. This is dinner tonight, and will therefore find out later how it compares to the fresh food court version.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-V3pao2_GQkI/ToWD908lGQI/AAAAAAAAAMA/m6zxfHEEhyY/s1600-h/Food%2525201%252520005%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Food 1 005" border="0" alt="Food 1 005" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/--ErSo8I9hPM/ToWD-eNi6RI/AAAAAAAAAME/Aeb0NwTvek4/Food%2525201%252520005_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="654" height="505"></a> </p> <p>Well, preparing this blog has made me quite hungry. That and it’s dinner time. As I head to heat my first supermarket <em>chikin</em> dinner, I say, toodles!</p> <p>Hope everyone at home is doing well, and keep in touch!</p> <p>xoxoxo</p> kunobothttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15513489268165917619noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2076932335039963964.post-43180475087077993282011-09-28T14:53:00.001+09:002011-09-28T14:53:52.929+09:00The Dormitory…Continued.<p>Well, it’s official…I live in a dormitory once again. Actually, it’s nothing like Canada, meaning it’s pretty nice! It feels more like small apartments than dorm rooms to me. The fact that you can’t party after 10pm makes this old lady happy. I promise I will attempt to curb my hermit-like behaviour while I am here.</p> <p>Let’s get to it!</p> <p>Upon arriving…</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-7tEEKhArI04/ToK2D7kJjWI/AAAAAAAAAIo/kkcCuWNk8fU/s1600-h/September%25252028%2525202011%252520013%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="September 28 2011 013" border="0" alt="September 28 2011 013" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-85aNoEb7mzo/ToK2EVXwZyI/AAAAAAAAAIs/VewcyAmhd0Y/September%25252028%2525202011%252520013_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="345" height="450"></a> </p> <p>My tiny yet fabulous bathroom! (I decided to post a photo before it became covered in my various cleaning, scrubbing, and buffing products.)<a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-8x7hE21JaAs/ToK2EyHoNfI/AAAAAAAAAIw/OhrhuvVKM9g/s1600-h/September%25252028%2525202011%252520014%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="September 28 2011 014" border="0" alt="September 28 2011 014" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Ztsxk8MjcJI/ToK2FbZ9lOI/AAAAAAAAAI0/buJYvxYjaRQ/September%25252028%2525202011%252520014_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="345" height="449"></a> </p> <p>Curtains up, main room.<a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-ZYZcP74IxTI/ToK2F0QNclI/AAAAAAAAAI4/QW88CwtPk6s/s1600-h/September%25252028%2525202011%252520015%25255B23%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="September 28 2011 015" border="0" alt="September 28 2011 015" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-M0WF5gZIkX8/ToK2GY3AUyI/AAAAAAAAAI8/S9frii4nYb8/September%25252028%2525202011%252520015_thumb%25255B21%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="407" height="505"></a> </p> <p>Lots of storage space.<a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-pwYuX0PpNLM/ToK2G7ZjSLI/AAAAAAAAAJA/0xnYzCc1zus/s1600-h/September%25252028%2525202011%252520016%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="September 28 2011 016" border="0" alt="September 28 2011 016" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-gScnRaVr1zk/ToK2HR9rGfI/AAAAAAAAAJE/aZMlX75e6Eo/September%25252028%2525202011%252520016_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="462" height="355"></a> </p> <p>My pre-made bed.<a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-KSSo1ZNhBhQ/ToK2H376lXI/AAAAAAAAAJI/-SMob3L1Vcw/s1600-h/September%25252028%2525202011%252520017%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="September 28 2011 017" border="0" alt="September 28 2011 017" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-OGlkUG6NGW0/ToK2IfTeyqI/AAAAAAAAAJM/FiEDfUa1gvI/September%25252028%2525202011%252520017_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="467" height="358"></a> </p> <p>And the finished product…mind you now that Hugh isn’t with me every day, this may be the last time this sucker is made so nicely. Eh heh heh! <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-3ld_bl7NVA0/ToK2JJjqluI/AAAAAAAAAJQ/unynyRGxlRo/s1600-h/IMG_1998%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_1998" border="0" alt="IMG_1998" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-uAs1aK8unoE/ToK2JtVFaTI/AAAAAAAAAJU/e7ucKwAquUM/IMG_1998_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="466" height="358"></a> </p> <p>Now to explore the grounds. Including the view from my netted balcony…<a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-13aLrO79V7U/ToK2KHwGI0I/AAAAAAAAAJY/Wxm7FMX9EhA/s1600-h/Around%252520the%252520Dorm%252520001%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Around the Dorm 001" border="0" alt="Around the Dorm 001" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-fYIqU_JxLLo/ToK2KsEwVmI/AAAAAAAAAJc/vcuGJ86CHA8/Around%252520the%252520Dorm%252520001_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="462" height="360"></a> </p> <p>Mountain, mountains, mountains!<a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-qJHykpf8Ijk/ToK2LCvsrPI/AAAAAAAAAJg/d8uOXSVN_7E/s1600-h/Around%252520the%252520Dorm%252520016%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Around the Dorm 016" border="0" alt="Around the Dorm 016" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-t5mxctom0oU/ToK2L3x6OkI/AAAAAAAAAJk/UnklZliY-pw/Around%252520the%252520Dorm%252520016_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="467" height="358"></a> </p> <p></p> <p>Shared kitchen.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Uzs2g__T2xI/ToK2MhE9adI/AAAAAAAAAJo/KMoWL6h7ij0/s1600-h/Around%252520the%252520Dorm%252520002%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Around the Dorm 002" border="0" alt="Around the Dorm 002" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Z5zRypB9tS8/ToK2ND302zI/AAAAAAAAAJs/Q-laP1FpLG4/Around%252520the%252520Dorm%252520002_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="309" height="402"></a> </p> <p>View looking out the bank of the dorm.<a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-A6KD92cdpM8/ToK2N6OkBUI/AAAAAAAAAJw/Hk8sjDndo_M/s1600-h/Around%252520the%252520Dorm%252520003%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Around the Dorm 003" border="0" alt="Around the Dorm 003" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-qBZHrtfKBKA/ToK2OjvXMGI/AAAAAAAAAJ0/ecryzV09594/Around%252520the%252520Dorm%252520003_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="499" height="392"></a> </p> <p>Laundry room. This could be fun.<a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-kOxlnWj8dwQ/ToK2POXJWUI/AAAAAAAAAJ4/Wyzyz-CCP64/s1600-h/Around%252520the%252520Dorm%252520004%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Around the Dorm 004" border="0" alt="Around the Dorm 004" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-wur5Br9DFu0/ToK2PRB-vhI/AAAAAAAAAJ8/eKurYOgb4D8/Around%252520the%252520Dorm%252520004_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="500" height="392"></a></p> <p>Stairs up to my floor. <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-fCoTG1IOcgQ/ToK2P32AA5I/AAAAAAAAAKA/jc-BmLWsroU/s1600-h/Around%252520the%252520Dorm%252520005%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Around the Dorm 005" border="0" alt="Around the Dorm 005" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-lAlA_PsZHBU/ToK2QSJWgmI/AAAAAAAAAKE/pIK-BxoZkxk/Around%252520the%252520Dorm%252520005_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="401" height="517"></a></p> <p>View from the stairs looking out. <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-aGbvelwbTfY/ToK2RHw7l-I/AAAAAAAAAKI/gjE9HC66BNo/s1600-h/Around%252520the%252520Dorm%252520006%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Around the Dorm 006" border="0" alt="Around the Dorm 006" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-UhkMhsRqhSM/ToK2R0kapLI/AAAAAAAAAKM/YPu-DCu2bg4/Around%252520the%252520Dorm%252520006_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="449" height="345"></a> </p> <p>Park next to my building.<a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-W2AUqcYvgtw/ToK2SSzvibI/AAAAAAAAAKQ/lw1muOl3NOM/s1600-h/Around%252520the%252520Dorm%252520007%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Around the Dorm 007" border="0" alt="Around the Dorm 007" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-aOyloxArPwk/ToK2TCFtk-I/AAAAAAAAAKU/NL46WpyUFcg/Around%252520the%252520Dorm%252520007_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="564" height="437"></a> </p> <p>Bike parking….I’ll take the photo now as it is still a novelty. <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-S8FytoWFiPU/ToK2Try1zFI/AAAAAAAAAKY/fuKw6y7rewI/s1600-h/Around%252520the%252520Dorm%252520008%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Around the Dorm 008" border="0" alt="Around the Dorm 008" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-spbznZMdSmY/ToK2UJ6n3-I/AAAAAAAAAKc/6snwomVlk5M/Around%252520the%252520Dorm%252520008_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="535" height="415"></a></p> <p>Some busy road with a walkway going over it….leads to the mall. <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-wF_KL6QhFdQ/ToK2UpcG7jI/AAAAAAAAAKg/58ZWw5d_C90/s1600-h/Around%252520the%252520Dorm%252520009%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Around the Dorm 009" border="0" alt="Around the Dorm 009" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-NVm2H_BDuSs/ToK2VE0v8oI/AAAAAAAAAKk/Jad_dGOrMSU/Around%252520the%252520Dorm%252520009_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="541" height="420"></a></p> <p>Shopping mall behind the dorm. It’s so close! <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-tGNonz3i5HA/ToK2VsmeUNI/AAAAAAAAAKo/IvHp99W4l3c/s1600-h/Around%252520the%252520Dorm%252520010%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Around the Dorm 010" border="0" alt="Around the Dorm 010" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-gMlgbr0zEhA/ToK2WFaAjQI/AAAAAAAAAKs/Fwsu3JwG72c/Around%252520the%252520Dorm%252520010_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="452" height="350"></a></p> <p>View of the water. Note: a) how close I live to it, and b) the palm trees. Yes, palm trees. <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-o9JOXNj1fKQ/ToK2WsSlA9I/AAAAAAAAAKw/poNjNCdU5dI/s1600-h/Around%252520the%252520Dorm%252520011%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Around the Dorm 011" border="0" alt="Around the Dorm 011" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-D7hEgm6M4I8/ToK2XEbRKnI/AAAAAAAAAK0/LfR9xevEsCY/Around%252520the%252520Dorm%252520011_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="484" height="375"></a> </p> <p>Had to get a zoomed in shot of the ferris wheel.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-W8_-8kl5-RM/ToK2Xu9opUI/AAAAAAAAAK4/-Vvcl673tNA/s1600-h/Around%252520the%252520Dorm%252520012%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Around the Dorm 012" border="0" alt="Around the Dorm 012" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-MGcaNTlVO7I/ToK2Yc3pb-I/AAAAAAAAAK8/8gbck2Fbmtg/Around%252520the%252520Dorm%252520012_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="467" height="369"></a> </p> <p>In case I am in need of any toys…</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-jyuPSq-Oa5Q/ToK2Y8qptOI/AAAAAAAAALA/5CRiforKVZ4/s1600-h/Around%252520the%252520Dorm%252520013%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Around the Dorm 013" border="0" alt="Around the Dorm 013" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-5i2L13swPAc/ToK2ZcaxLtI/AAAAAAAAALE/eTPCKpKV040/Around%252520the%252520Dorm%252520013_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="467" height="358"></a></p> <p> Mountains in view!<a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-6xCKAGHlhl8/ToK2Z8vPHcI/AAAAAAAAALI/G1UTCUZ4NA4/s1600-h/Around%252520the%252520Dorm%252520014%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Around the Dorm 014" border="0" alt="Around the Dorm 014" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-4kEueiNqpf4/ToK2aomjhSI/AAAAAAAAALM/KxeeiOyxcxA/Around%252520the%252520Dorm%252520014_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="515" height="395"></a> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-5GRzDesjyDc/ToK2bISkUHI/AAAAAAAAALQ/w6_DYR_qfPw/s1600-h/Around%252520the%252520Dorm%252520015%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Around the Dorm 015" border="0" alt="Around the Dorm 015" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-KtUUpE5mTHI/ToK2bx6nf8I/AAAAAAAAALU/kHfyshTS2MQ/Around%252520the%252520Dorm%252520015_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="496" height="381"></a> </p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p>Well, after my first mini exploration trip, the verdict: Wow. The weather is beautiful today (only 50% humidity) and boy is it hot in the sun, but it is gorgeous! I am going to enjoy looking at palm trees as opposed to snow flakes for the next 10 months, boy oh boy.</p> <p>I have also completed my mile long list of items I need to procure quickly to ensure survival. This includes a non-beany pillow for my bed, and toilet paper. The list is much longer than that, but really those are the vital items. I GUESS I could make it without the rest. Pfft, who needs hand soap anyway!</p> <p>In an effort to keep your attention for next time, I will end this here. I’d say I miss you Canada, but that hasn’t kicked in yet, and I’m going to fend it off as long as possible as to keep from becoming a miserable old lady hermit. :)</p> <p>Toodles, folks!</p> <p>xoxo</p> kunobothttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15513489268165917619noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2076932335039963964.post-73651994547992534002011-09-28T11:12:00.001+09:002011-09-28T11:12:50.230+09:00I have arrived!<p> </p> <p>I successfully survived the trip, and I’m tired. So here’s some photos instead!</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-lFWzB7maFYs/ToKCj4-MNKI/AAAAAAAAAIA/dvdxBcaeFb0/s1600-h/September%25252028%2525202011%252520006%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="September 28 2011 006" border="0" alt="September 28 2011 006" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Vo4JvBuvT_k/ToKCkRrZPKI/AAAAAAAAAIE/y_VEV6USE5c/September%25252028%2525202011%252520006_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="465" height="361"></a> </p> <p>The fancy Toronto airport art.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-xU5z8lVK-Ww/ToKCk-PNB6I/AAAAAAAAAII/dh7bRWsGW10/s1600-h/September%25252028%2525202011%252520008%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="September 28 2011 008" border="0" alt="September 28 2011 008" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-PeUPSVjzmqI/ToKClD5p5bI/AAAAAAAAAIM/5WkS8VQHVY8/September%25252028%2525202011%252520008_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="473" height="371"></a> </p> <p>Waiting to board…</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-lwmZf3IRjo8/ToKClhPIgKI/AAAAAAAAAIQ/gUn8SfKrgcs/s1600-h/September%25252028%2525202011%252520010%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="September 28 2011 010" border="0" alt="September 28 2011 010" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-lB9NBe1EkN0/ToKCmIH0eKI/AAAAAAAAAIU/u-3AZtmtpJc/September%25252028%2525202011%252520010_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="486" height="383"></a> </p> <p></p> <p>Dinner, Air Canada style.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Z7Mw186696g/ToKCmgrKxGI/AAAAAAAAAIY/UUZcizpmerA/s1600-h/September%25252028%2525202011%252520011%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="September 28 2011 011" border="0" alt="September 28 2011 011" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-qRqMbIDiNjQ/ToKCnD1tEBI/AAAAAAAAAIc/_fbYKu5yMvg/September%25252028%2525202011%252520011_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="501" height="394"></a> </p> <p>Breakfast.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-QxQVMD7hhNg/ToKCnqHg5sI/AAAAAAAAAIg/-L2ush7KHQ8/s1600-h/September%25252028%2525202011%252520012%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="September 28 2011 012" border="0" alt="September 28 2011 012" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-atk-XJz3AGE/ToKCoaK7h-I/AAAAAAAAAIk/N_OihnYZpvw/September%25252028%2525202011%252520012_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="375" height="483"></a> </p> <p>The first of what is sure to be many Japanese toilet photos.</p> <p>To come…the dormitory!</p> kunobothttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15513489268165917619noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2076932335039963964.post-90127484747449569222011-08-25T01:52:00.003+09:002011-08-25T04:45:19.445+09:00DormitorySo, I have it on good authority that the dorm looks like this...<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1RJQK092yyk/TlUpSMC1MpI/AAAAAAAAAHQ/CelHE45oXho/s1600/Balconies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1RJQK092yyk/TlUpSMC1MpI/AAAAAAAAAHQ/CelHE45oXho/s320/Balconies.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yyvOP9YBrUs/TlUpXOFGcNI/AAAAAAAAAHU/4izssYSGMAE/s1600/Dorm+Outside.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yyvOP9YBrUs/TlUpXOFGcNI/AAAAAAAAAHU/4izssYSGMAE/s320/Dorm+Outside.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-W2-vMLkBK3M/TlUpbGWQuKI/AAAAAAAAAHY/nx-LI9zoeeA/s1600/Dorm+stairs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-W2-vMLkBK3M/TlUpbGWQuKI/AAAAAAAAAHY/nx-LI9zoeeA/s320/Dorm+stairs.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />
The buildings remind me so much of my apartment in China. It will be nice to feel a bit of nostalgia, I suppose. The dorm rooms appear to be much nicer (and more spacious!) than when I went to college...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iCYzgXnVmn8/TlUpxzHHFSI/AAAAAAAAAHg/O0rlR2ETdag/s1600/Dorm+room+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iCYzgXnVmn8/TlUpxzHHFSI/AAAAAAAAAHg/O0rlR2ETdag/s320/Dorm+room+2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--0wKAMb3qe0/TlUpuah477I/AAAAAAAAAHc/TlIZs6jEtZU/s1600/Dorm+room.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--0wKAMb3qe0/TlUpuah477I/AAAAAAAAAHc/TlIZs6jEtZU/s320/Dorm+room.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>And finally, the best part of the entire deal..... we get our own bathrooms!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7n5w_I8sHXk/TlUp3NrDrVI/AAAAAAAAAHk/HEfkICAQt1c/s1600/Bathroom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7n5w_I8sHXk/TlUp3NrDrVI/AAAAAAAAAHk/HEfkICAQt1c/s320/Bathroom.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />
This is definitely a step up from the co-ed shared bathroom I dealt with in college. Huzzah!<br />
<br />
I will take my own photos when I arrive and see how they compare.<br />
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<b>Oh, and uh.....I leave in 6 weeks!</b>kunobothttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15513489268165917619noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2076932335039963964.post-69578007880691023572011-05-31T20:57:00.000+09:002011-05-31T20:57:36.453+09:00I suppose this blog will just sit until I actually make my way to the other side of the world. Preparations are under way. Until then, folks!kunobothttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15513489268165917619noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2076932335039963964.post-14710605863456410012011-05-15T04:14:00.000+09:002011-05-15T04:15:12.610+09:00Ready, set, JP!<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I will be posting updates as well as photographs from my journey in Japan. Stay tuned!</div>kunobothttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15513489268165917619noreply@blogger.com0