tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-96580672024-03-13T21:34:14.322+09:00Mboogiedown: JapanMelissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15976756138771912228noreply@blogger.comBlogger353125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9658067.post-54283242693526417152008-12-23T23:27:00.007+09:002008-12-24T00:07:03.648+09:00National Geographic Traveler's Blog!<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_0UspntJS0QU/SVD2b5V0mQI/AAAAAAAAB-s/93cYeksz6IM/s1600-h/NatGeo+Traveler"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5282993322014841090" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 379px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_0UspntJS0QU/SVD2b5V0mQI/AAAAAAAAB-s/93cYeksz6IM/s400/NatGeo+Traveler%27s+Blog+copy.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />Hisashiburi! It's been quite awhile since my last post. So long, in fact, that I'd be suprised if anyone was still out there...<br /><br />But just in case, I wanted to share what may have been one of the biggest thrills of my lifetime: Seeing the iconic National Geographic header topping a page with <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mboogiedown/2698630187/">one of my photographs</a> on it! I know it's just the <a href="http://blogs.nationalgeographic.com/blogs/intelligenttravel/">NatGeo Traveler's Blog</a>, but it still gave me chills! <br /><br />You may remember the fine people at National Geographic choosing <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mboogiedown/1595790980/in/set-1110259/">one of my images</a> for the <a href="http://intelligenttravel.typepad.com/it/2008/01/global-eye-japa.html">Global Eye</a> feature.<br /><br /><a href="http://blogs.nationalgeographic.com/blogs/intelligenttravel/2008/12/does-globalization-make-travel.html">Check it out</a>, and don't forget to add yout two cents. Share your own experiences in Kyoto, or add your take on the effect globalization has on travel.Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15976756138771912228noreply@blogger.com35tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9658067.post-53546409991019227142008-06-22T17:03:00.008+09:002008-06-23T00:27:53.708+09:00Reese Witherspoon's Tokyo Tea<div align="justify"><a href="http://s17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/?action=view&current=reesetea.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/reesetea.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />Actress Reese Witherspoon enjoys taking part in a traditional Japanese tea ceremony, an activity thought to capture the spirit of healing the mind, body and soul.<br /><br />Hollywood leading lady Reese Witherspoon was recently in Japan promoting breast cancer awareness as an Avon Global Ambassador. While in Tokyo she had the opportunity to participate in an intimate tea ceremony with breast cancer survivors, dressed in an beautiful powder blue kimono by Midori Yogi, who's family has dressed the Imperial Family for weddings since 1952.<br /><br /><a href="http://s17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/?action=view&current=reesekimono.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/reesekimono.jpg" border="0" /></a> </div>I just wanted to share this beautiful kimono with everyone. I think the wistful color and playful design suited her perfectly. <br /><br />As an after thought, isin't it slightly disappointing that even members of the Imperial Family can't dress themselves in kimono?<br /><br />Why does it have to be so difficult? (>.<)<br /><br /><script type='text/javascript' src='http://quimble.com/inpage/index/10717'></script><br /><br /><script language="javascript"><br />var all_polls = document.getElementsByClassName('quimble_poll_div');<br />for (var i = 0; i < all_polls.length; i++) {<br />all_polls[i].style.width = '200px';<br />}<br /></script>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15976756138771912228noreply@blogger.com23tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9658067.post-92019270993521918642008-06-21T02:30:00.005+09:002008-06-21T03:57:27.329+09:00Pontocho Maiko : Spring 2008<div align="justify">Kyoto Rewind : April 6, 2008<br /><br /><a href="http://s17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/?action=view&current=ichiemi-1.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/ichiemi-1.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />Ichiemi, now a high ranking maiko in the Pontocho district, greets the mistress of a teahouse during a small cherry blossom festival along the Takase Canal.<br /><br /><a href="http://s17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/?action=view&current=IMG_8350.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/IMG_8350.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />Ichiemi looks every bit the stylish, sophisticated young woman in this stunning lavender kimono ensemble. Even her adorably child-like cheeks have thinned out.<br /><br /><a href="http://s17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/?action=view&current=IMG_8348.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/IMG_8348.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />Ichiharu<br /><br /><a href="http://s17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/?action=view&current=Shinaju42008.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/Shinaju42008.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />The long, fluttering strands cherry blossoms hanging from Shinaju's <em>hanakanzashi,</em> or flowered hair ornament, testify to her low rank and inexperience as a maiko, appealing instead to her youth and child-like charm. Compare it with Ichiharu's above, who is of a slightly higher rank. </div><div align="justify"><br /><a href="http://s17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/?action=view&current=IMG_8357.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/IMG_8357.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />Hisano, now a geiko, and Ichiemi walk beneath the lacey veil of cherry blossoms along the Takase canal as sunlight falls in playful patterns along the pavement.</div><p align="justify"><br /><a href="http://s17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/?action=view&current=IMG_8355.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/IMG_8355.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />As if Ichiemi's lavendar kimono wasn't enough. Coupled with this remarkable pastel obi, colored with the sweet, pastel pallet of spring, this ensemble quickly became my favorite this season. </p>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15976756138771912228noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9658067.post-68890747909693743802008-06-19T03:18:00.009+09:002008-06-19T05:21:46.322+09:00The 59th Kyo Odori 2008<div align="justify"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_0UspntJS0QU/SFllyuAuiNI/AAAAAAAABZU/cQrnYmVE6jU/s1600-h/opening+scene.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5213309965677005010" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_0UspntJS0QU/SFllyuAuiNI/AAAAAAAABZU/cQrnYmVE6jU/s400/opening+scene.jpg" border="0" /></a>The maiko Satonami performs in the opening scene with the geiko Chiyoe and Kanachisa.<br /><br /><em>With the passing of a winter that was more severe than most, the now-greening mountains and perfumed winds seem particularly glorious. In this refreshing season graced by gentle spring sunlight, we are once again proud to present our annual Kyo Odori.<br /><br />We would like to express our gratitude to all of you who found time in your busy schedules to attend today's performance, which begins with a song-accompanied dance performed by our charming geiko and maiko in a traditional Miyagawa-cho zashiki room. Then performance then goes on to portray in a poetic manner each of the four seasons in Kyoto, with the beauty of the scenes to be found on mountains and in plains depicted through evocative dance.<br /><br />Much assiduous practice and rehersal has gone into this year's event. After having viewed the fruits of our labor, any comments that you might have on our performance would be greatly appreciated...<br /><br />I hereby express, on behalf of everyone at the Miyagawa-cho Kabukai, the sincere hope that you enjoy the wonderful spectacle that is the 59th Kyo Odori.<br /></em><br />(Excerpt from the Kyo Odori Program)<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_0UspntJS0QU/SFll68NuD0I/AAAAAAAABZc/WC31vf85XtU/s1600-h/IMG_8004.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5213310106928549698" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_0UspntJS0QU/SFll68NuD0I/AAAAAAAABZc/WC31vf85XtU/s400/IMG_8004.jpg" border="0" /></a> From left to right, maiko Kimiha, Satonami, and Miyoharu.<br /><br /><a href="http://s17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/?action=view&current=satoaikimono.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/satoaikimono.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />The maiko Satonami.<br /><br /><a href="http://s17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/?action=view&current=kyomai.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/kyomai.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />The maiko Tanewaka performs "A Brilliant Brocade of Chrysanthemums".<br /><br /><a href="http://s17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/?action=view&current=kimiharu.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/kimiharu.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />Kimiharu, little sister to one of Kyoto's most popular and beautiful maiko, Kimika.<br /><br /><a href="http://s17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/?action=view&current=kikuchan.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/kikuchan.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />Kikutsuru performs in Kyo Odori for the first time as a geiko after turning her collar in June of 2007.<br /><br /><a href="http://s17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/?action=view&current=fumimari.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/fumimari.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />In a scene from the Tale of Genji, the geiko Fumimari dances in Heian period robes as Ukifune.<br /><br /><a href="http://s17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/?action=view&current=fumicho.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/fumicho.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />The celebrated dancer Fumicho performs her solo, a constant in the Kyo Odori program.<br /><br /><a href="http://s17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/?action=view&current=chizuru.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/chizuru.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />The geiko Chizuru as an Edo period courtesean in "The Tale of Princess Takiyasha".<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_0UspntJS0QU/SFllhMJDaUI/AAAAAAAABZM/b2XesJG46Gc/s1600-h/finale+3.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5213309664527345986" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_0UspntJS0QU/SFllhMJDaUI/AAAAAAAABZM/b2XesJG46Gc/s400/finale+3.jpg" border="0" /></a> Maiko take center stage in a brilliant display of color, beauty, and grace during the Miyagawa-cho Ondo Song and Dance.</div>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15976756138771912228noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9658067.post-40736756552172454022008-06-04T11:45:00.015+09:002008-06-18T04:04:54.212+09:00Finding the Philosopher's Path<div align="justify">Kyoto Rewind 2008: April 3, 2008<br /><br /></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5207853111383973298" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_0UspntJS0QU/SEYCz_p0XbI/AAAAAAAABWg/VtF59hAWpGg/s400/great+gate.jpg" border="0" /> <p align="justify">A view of the great gate of Nanzen-ji through a lacey veil of cherry blossoms. Nanzen-ji, or the Southern Mountain Temple, is thought to be the most famous and important Zen temple in the world.<br /><br /></p><p align="justify"></p><p align="justify"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_0UspntJS0QU/SEYC_oPnMhI/AAAAAAAABWw/JILgNoNQ13Q/s1600-h/sakura+river.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5207853311258472978" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_0UspntJS0QU/SEYC_oPnMhI/AAAAAAAABWw/JILgNoNQ13Q/s400/sakura+river.jpg" border="0" /></a>Located just outside of Heian Shrine, Okazaki Canal connects the Lake Biwa Canal network with the Kamo River.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_0UspntJS0QU/SEYC_qC-nDI/AAAAAAAABW4/7bC31lGdkwk/s1600-h/sakura+riverboat.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5207853311742352434" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_0UspntJS0QU/SEYC_qC-nDI/AAAAAAAABW4/7bC31lGdkwk/s400/sakura+riverboat.jpg" border="0" /></a>A ride on a the canal is a great way to view the cherry blossoms.<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5207852322759519074" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_0UspntJS0QU/SEYCGFzGK2I/AAAAAAAABVQ/I7hSPrhGkqw/s400/kyo.jpg" border="0" />Walking the streets of Kyoto, somewhere in between the grounds of Nanzen-ji and the Philosopher's Path.<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5207852703691978610" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_0UspntJS0QU/SEYCcQ4eN3I/AAAAAAAABV4/ygzLpOSlXXA/s400/entrance.jpg" border="0" />This stoney, sakura-lined path leads to the gate of a private residence we stumbled upon as we wandered towards the Philosopher's Path.<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5207852335890801986" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_0UspntJS0QU/SEYCG2t1pUI/AAAAAAAABVo/D-ziPc5phQk/s400/estate+2.jpg" border="0" />The entire estate was well hidden, surrounded by a wall offering only a glimpse of gardeners grooming the highest branches of the pine trees, shaded by magnificent clouds of cherry blossoms.<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5207852329337142066" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_0UspntJS0QU/SEYCGeTUuzI/AAAAAAAABVY/aU8aa6SBcsM/s400/estate.jpg" border="0" />Peaking over the low hedges encircling the entrance.<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5207852695575369442" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_0UspntJS0QU/SEYCbypUluI/AAAAAAAABVw/ERZmkJq7EjI/s400/sakura+window.jpg" border="0" /> Bamboo blinds and cherry blossoms provide shade and shelter.</p><p><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_0UspntJS0QU/SEYCzUN29jI/AAAAAAAABWQ/fW5y-obxakE/s1600-h/bro.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5207853099723978290" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_0UspntJS0QU/SEYCzUN29jI/AAAAAAAABWQ/fW5y-obxakE/s400/bro.jpg" border="0" /></a>The philosopher himself!<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_0UspntJS0QU/SEYCz3ParSI/AAAAAAAABWY/uGSbk4kctCw/s1600-h/cheese.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5207853109125754146" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_0UspntJS0QU/SEYCz3ParSI/AAAAAAAABWY/uGSbk4kctCw/s400/cheese.jpg" border="0" /></a> Absolutely one of the best places for hanami I've experienced so far. Highly recommended!<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5207852703700116546" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_0UspntJS0QU/SEYCcQ6aZEI/AAAAAAAABWA/SmdHP5WniDU/s400/tetsugaku+no+michi.jpg" border="0" /> A young girl in kimono smiles beneath the canopy of blossoms covering the path.<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5208983208476185746" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_0UspntJS0QU/SEoGoTYylJI/AAAAAAAABXI/hX1CqOTK4QE/s400/couple.jpg" border="0" />A couple admires the blossoms.<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5208983207246106978" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_0UspntJS0QU/SEoGoOzhEWI/AAAAAAAABXA/GGrqQifaWEs/s400/paradise.jpg" border="0" /></p>The palette of spring paints the Philosopher's Path is subtle shades of pink, green and yellow. Light filters through the intricate lace of cherry blossoms, falling like the brush strokes of an impressionist masterpiece. Is it really any wonder I love Kyoto?Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15976756138771912228noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9658067.post-6467521342939838992008-06-02T03:13:00.010+09:002008-06-04T02:37:11.343+09:00Evening Tayuu Procession<div align="justify">Kyoto Rewind: April 2, 2008<br /><br /><a href="http://s17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/?action=view&current=tayuuteahouse.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/tayuuteahouse.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />Kisaragi Tayuu ducks into a ryotei, a traditional dining establishment, along Kiyamachi-dori.<br /><br />The perfect way to end an incredibly Kyoto-culture packed day of exploring Kiyomizu-dera and hanging out with maiko was with an extremely rare evening procession of Tayuu beneath the cherry blossoms.<br /><br />As <strong>Peter MacIntosh</strong> explains on the <a href="http://www.kyotosightsandnights.com/geisha.html">Kyoto Sights & Nights</a> website:<br /><br /><em>"Since medieval times Japan has always had some form of pleasure quarter offering various forms of entertainment, including, of course, the erotic. However, it was during the Edo period’s sakoku (1639-1854) when Japan cut off all ties with the outside world, that Japanese culture, as it is known today, flourished.<br /><br />It was in these walled-in pleasure quarters such as Kyoto’s Shimabara, Tokyo’s Yoshiwara, and Osaka’s Shinmachi that the chonin (merchants) spent much of their time and money cultivating the arts."</em><br /><br /><a href="http://s17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/?action=view&current=kou.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/kou.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Spurned as the lowest class of citizen in the feudal Japanese heirarchy, merchants were seen as blood-thirsty parasites leeching off the hard work of others. Their wealth could not buy them respect or equaliy, except within the walls of the pleasure quarters, where, for the right price, they would be treated and entertained like kings.<br /><br /><em>"The courtesans of the pleasure quarters were trained in various arts: music, dance and poetry as well as other forms of entertainment that up until that time had been known only to the nobility. As times changed so did the tastes of the customers. The formality and expense involved meant that only the elite were able to patronize the Tayu (the top level courtesans).</em> "<br /><br /><a href="http://s17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/?action=view&current=rikusha.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/rikusha.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />An apprentice Tayuu bundled beneath a bright red blanket as she arrives by riksha.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.lizadalby.com/liza%20dalby.html">Liza Dalby</a> describes the "Great Court Ladies", as Tayuu were known, in legendary proportions:<br /><br /><div align="justify"><em>"These women were dubbed "castle-destroyers" (keisei) because their sex appeal, like the mythical beauties of history, could destroy a man as easily as any army. These courtesans wore layers of ornately decorated kimono and a multitude of lacquer and tortoiseshell combs in their hair. Their wide, brocaded obi were tied in front — not, as some suppose, because it was easier to undress that way, but because that was the practice of married women and a yuujo was, in a sense, a wife for an evening. "</em><br /><br /><a href="http://s17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/?action=view&current=outsideteahouse.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/outsideteahouse.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />Kisaragi's obi is tied in front in the style of a full-fledged Tayuu.<br /><br /><a href="http://s17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/?action=view&current=chaperonbow.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/chaperonbow.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />As an apprentice, her obi is tied in a bow. </div><div align="justify"></div><div align="justify"><br />As times changed, so did the tastes of their patrons. The flashy appearance and antiquated customs of the Tayuu began to loose their allure, and when the first female geisha appeared on the scene in the 1700's, it marked the begining of the end. The last recorded Oiran (as Tayuu were known in Edo) served in 1761. Only in Kyoto do a few women continue to practice and preserve the cultural arts of the Tayuu. </div><div align="justify"><br /><a href="http://s17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/?action=view&current=apprentice.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/apprentice.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />The full regalia of a Tayuu weighs about 30 Kilos.In addition, they also wear tall, black lacquered <em>koma-geta</em> (wooden clogs) with three legs. Even in winter, Tayuu refrain from wearing the white, fitted <em>tabi</em> socks that geiko and maiko wear. This tiny hint of bare flesh peaking out from beneath the many layers of her luxorious silk kimono must have been very appealing to a Tayuu's Edo period patrons.<br /><br /></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5207699746307951282" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_0UspntJS0QU/SEV3U-OTyrI/AAAAAAAABVI/pQYfCCqJRQ4/s400/tayuu+geta.jpg" border="0" /> </div><div align="justify">The towering "three leg" geta of the Tayuu.<br /><br /></div><div align="justify"><a href="http://s17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/?action=view&current=walktayuu.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/walktayuu.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://s17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/?action=view&current=IMG_7156.jpg" target="_blank"></a>As if balancing beneath the burden of their elaborate costume on 12-15 inch platforms is not enough, Tayuu walk in what is often called a "figure eight" fashion, sliding one foot out slowly in an arch away from the other before drawing it back to center. Pausing with her bare foot exposed from beneath her crimson kimono, almost perpendicular to the other, she then points her foot forward and begins again. It takes a great amount of skill, balance, and practice to perfect, and they often hold the hands of their chaperone to help.</div><div align="justify"></div><div align="justify"><br /><a href="http://s17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/?action=view&current=keisei.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/keisei.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />Kisaragi Tayuu holds the hand of her chaperone as she makes her way through the crowd.</div>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15976756138771912228noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9658067.post-7231815110262962422008-05-30T12:38:00.010+09:002008-05-31T03:07:27.317+09:00Will America Survive the Japanese Game Show?<p align="justify"><object height="355" width="425"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/6g8OPvSfB2Y&hl=en"><param name="wmode" value="transparent"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/6g8OPvSfB2Y&hl=en" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="425" height="355"></embed></object><br />When I studied in Osaka, it seemed only right that my first ketai (cell phone) mail address would be hamachan.daisuki! At that time, the comedian's popularity was at an all time high, and he was the first Japanese celebrity I actually came to know by name. He's the one who puts his arm around one of the others, resting his head on his friend's shoulder. Why? Why is he so adorable?<br /><br /></p><div align="justify">When I first decided to study abroad in Japan, I was greeted by a chorus of horrified 'Why?'s. Very few of the people I talked to knew anything about Japan, as evidenced by the many times I had to answer this question: "Do you even speak Chinese?" I actually had to explain, more than once, sadly, that China and Japan were very different countries with very different languages and cultures.<br /><br />Since then, Japanese culture has exploded in popularity, not only in America, but around the world. First it was sushi, then <a href="http://www.spiritedaway.com.au/#">Spirited Away</a>, <a href="http://lastsamurai.warnerbros.com/home.php">Samurai</a> and <a href="http://www.sonypictures.net/movies/memoirsofageisha/">Sayuri</a>. Gwen Stefani found her muse in Harajuku, and before I knew it, Kanye West was singing Japan's praises, even subtitling his <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cZd1Js0QaOI">Stronger</a> theme with <em>katakana</em>. And who could forget the <a href="http://mboogiedown-japan.blogspot.com/2008/05/snl-japanese-original-office.html">Japanese Office</a> skit on <a href="http://www.nbc.com/Saturday_Night_Live/">SNL</a>? </div><div align="justify"></div><p align="justify"><br />Now when I mention that I've recently spent over three years living in Japan, I'm greeted by scores of "No Way! That's so freakin' cool! I've always wanted to go there! Oh my god, I so love sushi. And anime, of course." Everywhere I look I see 'new' fashion trends that were commonplace in Japan when I was in university, and almost everyday Yahoo has a Japan-related story in the headlines.<br /><br />Not suprisingly, Japan continues to weave it's way into mainstream American pop, most recently with ABC's announcement of a brave new reality series: <strong>I Survived a Japanese Game Show!</strong><br /><br /><object height="355" width="425"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/LdgdBOTUSqg&hl=en"><param name="wmode" value="transparent"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/LdgdBOTUSqg&hl=en" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="425" height="355"></embed></object><br />Japanese games shows can be cruel.<br /><br />Anyone who has had the pleasure (or misfortune) of numbing their brain with the wacky and outrageous phenomenon that is Japanese TV may have an inkling of just what these poor suckers are in for. If not, read this excerpt from the show's website:<br /><br />************************************************<br /><em></p><blockquote><p align="justify"></p></blockquote><p align="justify">“<strong>I SURVIVED A JAPANESE GAME SHOW” HAS BEGUN SHOOTING FOR A HYSTERICAL PREMIERE, JUNE 24 ON ABC</strong><br /><br />“I Survived a Japanese Game Show” has begun shooting in Japan and will premiere TUESDAY, JUNE 24 (9:00-10:00 p.m., ET) on ABC. This unscripted reality/game show takes an eye-opening, behind-the-scenes look at 10 Americans – many of whom have never traveled outside the United States -- who are whisked away to Japan and compete in the ultimate Japanese game show… with hilarious results. The final winner will take home $250,000.<br /><br />Guiding the American players through their stay in Japan will be host/interpreter Tony Sano (“Touch Wood,” “Beating Vegas”), an American actor fluent in Japanese; a house mother and resident pot-stirrer, Mamasan; and the witty game show host Rome Kanda (“Pink Panther,” “Saturday Night Live”), who leads the contestants through all of the zany challenges.<br /><br />Some of the games/challenges will include:<br /><br />WHY IS THIS FOOD SO HARD TO EAT? -- Why? Because the food is attached to the head of a teammate who must run in place on a fast-moving treadmill, while the first teammate leans over a platform and tries to eat from the moving dish.<br /><br />CRAZY CRANE FINDS FLUFFY BEAR -- This takes the American arcade game to the next level, as blindfolded teammates must operate a moving crane while another teammate precariously dangles trying to collect as many stuffed animals as he/she can.<br /><br />CHICKEN BUTT SCRAMBLE -- The contestants create their own version of Japanese scrambled eggs as they attempt to smash goo-filled oversized eggs with only their butts… while wearing chicken suits. </p><blockquote><p align="justify"></p></blockquote><p align="justify"></em>************************************************<br /><br />This You Tube hit is being brought to America by FOX. Compared to the others, it's actually pretty tame.<br /><br /><object height="355" width="425"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/xPFZl59_OZ4&hl=en"><param name="wmode" value="transparent"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/xPFZl59_OZ4&hl=en" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="425" height="355"></embed></object><br /><br />And here's one for Abbey's Hurdlingly challenged Kyoto Sensei:<br /><br /><object height="355" width="425"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/edY3HaVRS_Q&hl=en"><param name="wmode" value="transparent"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/edY3HaVRS_Q&hl=en" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="425" height="355"></embed></object></p><br /><br /><script src="http://quimble.com/inpage/index/10261" type="text/javascript"></script><br /><script language="javascript"><br />var all_polls = document.getElementsByClassName('quimble_poll_div');<br />for (var i = 0; i < width =" '200px';"></script>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15976756138771912228noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9658067.post-60623702028984850512008-05-28T09:40:00.020+09:002008-05-30T00:08:57.297+09:00Shirakawa Hanami: Kotoha and Takahiro<div align="justify">Kyoto Rewind: April 2, 2008<br /><br /><a href="http://s17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/?action=view&current=Kotohasmiles.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/Kotohasmiles.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />Kotoha, a senior maiko of Gion Kobu, smiles beneath the cherry blossoms lining the Shirakawa stream.<br /><br />No cultural tour of Kyoto would be complete without a proper maiko sighting, so half-way through our<em> hanami </em>party in Maruyama Park I led my friends down to Gion's Shirakawa district. Shirakawa-Minami-Dori is one of the very few areas of Kyoto where you can really imagine what the old capital must have been like before the twentieth century onslaught of 'modernization'. Lined on one side by magnificent cherry trees and whimsical willows on the other, the carefully paved lane follows the Shirakawa stream through the traditional teahouse district. Across the shallow waters of the Shirakawa, teahouses and restaurants hide behind bamboo blinds, peak through <em>shoji</em> screens, or gaze out through wide glass windows.<br /><br /></div><p align="justify"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5205223993144172322" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_0UspntJS0QU/SDyrpK-y3yI/AAAAAAAABUg/akp23-Lku60/s400/taka+koto+laughter.jpg" border="0" />Kotoha laughs with Takahiro as she smooths her carefully styled coiffure.<br /><br />With this timeless, quintessentially Kyoto backdrop, the city's tourism association had invited two maiko (or apprentice geiko), to make a come out and enjoy the cherry blossoms, giving the many tourists that flock to Kyoto in the spring the perfect photo op. Imagine my excitement when the maiko were two of my all-time favorites: Takahiro and Kotoha. \(^o^)/<br /><br /><a href="http://s17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/?action=view&current=takachan.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/takachan.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />Takahiro takes a rest beneath the cherry blossoms.<br /><br />My enchantment with Kotoha set off a bit of a debate between my friends and I. I couldn'd help but comment on how stunningly beautiful I thought she was, but they were quick to disagree. To them, Kotoha seemed 'cold'. They were much more drawn to Takahiro's sweet expression and dimpled smile. Only Kachi Sensei, my friend and former colleague, and her 11 year old son agreed with me.<br /><br />Takahiro has a certain child-like charm, with warm, friendly features and an adorable dimpled grin. With her long, slender neck and graceful limbs, she is an excellent dancer, and to be honest, I couldn't take my eyes off of her during Miyako Odori.<br /><br />Kotoha, on the other hand, would never be described as child-like. Her features are striking. While Takahiro has "the (Japanese) girl next door" appeal, Kotoha is exotic. Even amongst other geisha, she stands out. Always perfectly poised, she looks noble, dignified, and refined. Her fey expression makes it seem as if she is above the concerns and cares of the ordinary, lost instead in the infinite beauty of the 'flower and willow world'.</p><p align="justify">As different as they are, the truth is that Takahiro and Kotoha are my favorite of all the Gion Kobu maiko. It's their differences that make them stand out, giving them a unique appeal. They are both beautiful, talented young women, and I look forward to seeing them turn their collar and blossom as full-fledge geiko. Ganbatte, girls! I'm cheering for you!</p><p align="justify"><a href="http://s17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/?action=view&current=tatsumibashi.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/tatsumibashi.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />Notice Kotoha's feet. Perfect.<br /><br /><a href="http://s17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/?action=view&current=obicheck.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/obicheck.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />Takahiro adjust Kotoho's dangling darari obi.<br /><br /></p><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_0UspntJS0QU/SDyqPK-y3wI/AAAAAAAABUQ/8TMervGnFac/s1600-h/isamu+memorial+kotoha.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5205222446955945730" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_0UspntJS0QU/SDyqPK-y3wI/AAAAAAAABUQ/8TMervGnFac/s400/isamu+memorial+kotoha.jpg" border="0" /></a>Kotoha stands near the memorial to the poet Yoshii Isamu. Engraved on the rock is one of his most famous verses:<br /><br /><em>"No matter what they say,<br />I love Gion.<br />Even in my sleep<br />The sound of water<br />Flows beneath my pillow."</em>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15976756138771912228noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9658067.post-45902975190083299612008-05-23T10:58:00.023+09:002008-05-26T11:23:18.338+09:00Higashiyama Hanami: Kiyomizu Bound<div align="justify">Kyoto Rewind: April 2, 2008<br /><br /><a href="http://s17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/?action=view&current=CherryBlossomsKiyomizu.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/CherryBlossomsKiyomizu.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />Sanju-no-to, the three story padgoda of Kyoto's Kiyomizu Temple, pierces a powder blue sky through a veil of cherry blossoms.<br /><br />Just as the cherry blossoms began to reach their height in <em>Higashiyama</em>, the scenic eastern mountain distict nestled between the historic Gion district and growing waves of verdant hills climbing slowly to the sky, my friend Abbey, my brother and I were joined by the very lucky Londoner who ascended the Ena ALT throne, along with my favorite JLT (Japanese language teacher) and her adorable son for a bit of <em>hanami</em> and a brief Kyoto Cultural Heritage Tour <em>a la </em>me!<br /><br />Since London P had never been to Kyoto, our first stop, after breaking the fast at Starbucks in Gion, was <em>Kiyomizu-dera</em>, the Temple of Pure Waters. I am a firm believer that it's not the destination, but the journey that matters. Half the fun is getting there! So instead of heading straight for the temple or hopping a bus, I led our little group through Yasaka Shrine to the<em> Ishibei-kouji</em>, or Stone Wall Lane.<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5203388092193627778" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_0UspntJS0QU/SDYl5q-y3oI/AAAAAAAABTE/t4DuGJC75FQ/s400/the+way.jpg" border="0" />The narrow, covered wooden entrance to the <em>Ishibei-kouji </em>is cleverly hidden and hard to find, if you don't know where to look. Most tourists walk right by without giving it a second glance.<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5203393357823532738" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_0UspntJS0QU/SDYqsK-y3sI/AAAAAAAABTk/tkJo-fgIpO4/s400/shadows.jpg" border="0" /> A curious couple snuck a peek up the dimly lit alley way, then turned around a left without exploring its well-kept secret.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_0UspntJS0QU/SDYmHK-y3qI/AAAAAAAABTU/c_-Q7jxySMA/s1600-h/kyoto.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5203388324121861794" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_0UspntJS0QU/SDYmHK-y3qI/AAAAAAAABTU/c_-Q7jxySMA/s400/kyoto.jpg" border="0" /></a>Emerging from the darkened tunnel, you are greeted by wonderfully aged wooden walls and traditional architecture.<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_0UspntJS0QU/SDYmHa-y3rI/AAAAAAAABTc/p22_PBdXBB0/s1600-h/kyoto+2.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5203388328416829106" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_0UspntJS0QU/SDYmHa-y3rI/AAAAAAAABTc/p22_PBdXBB0/s400/kyoto+2.jpg" border="0" /></a>The stone paved path leads through traditional Japanese inns, or <em>ryokan</em>, restaurants and residences. The classic Kyoto atmosphere of the Ishibei-kouji makes it a popular spot for tourists dressed as maiko and geisha to have there photographs taken.<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_0UspntJS0QU/SDYk76-y3gI/AAAAAAAABSE/SlsF4Aj7bOQ/s1600-h/motobike.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5203387031336705538" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_0UspntJS0QU/SDYk76-y3gI/AAAAAAAABSE/SlsF4Aj7bOQ/s400/motobike.jpg" border="0" /></a>Like elsewhere in Kyoto, traditional and modern co-exist.<br /><br /><a href="http://s17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/?action=view&current=sakurakoji.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/sakurakoji.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />The lane leads to <em>Nene no Michi</em>, near Kodaji Temple. This is where the ascent to Kiyomizu begins, along with the <em>hanami</em>.<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5203387920394935906" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_0UspntJS0QU/SDYlvq-y3mI/AAAAAAAABS0/QjDUFZfdMYU/s400/alms.jpg" border="0" />Holding out his bowl with his eyes humbly lowered, a monk from Kiyomizu begs for alms, chanting silently along the ascent to the temple.<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5203387022746770930" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_0UspntJS0QU/SDYk7a-y3fI/AAAAAAAABR8/DHSKNg-AU24/s400/temple+gate.jpg" border="0" />UNESCO World Heritage designated Kiyomizu-dera, the Temple of Pure Waters, is one of Kyoto's most popular tourist destinations.<br /><br /><a href="http://s17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/?action=view&current=kiyomizu-1.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/kiyomizu-1.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />As the main temple of the Hosso sect of Buddhism, it has been destroyed and rebuilt many times in its twelve centuries of history, most recently in 1633.<br /><br />Kiyomizudera is said to have been constructed from 778 by Enchin, a buddhist priest, in honor of the Kannon Bosatsu (Bodhisattva of Mercy and Compassion).<br /><br />According to the legend, Enchin received a vision that said he would find at the source of the Yodo river, a clear source of water. During his search Enchin came across a hermit named Gyoei. Gyoei, an old ascetic priest gave Enchin a piece of wood inhabited by the spirit of Kannon, the lord of compassion and goddess of mercy. Carving it into the likeness of the boddhisatva, Enchin enshired it in a small thatched roofed hut, the humble beginnings of the now impressive temple complex dominating the verdant Eastern hills of Kyoto.<br /><br />The legend says that the hermit disappeared, and when Enchin later discovered his sandals on top of the mountain, he realized that he had actually been speaking with a manifestation of the Kannon.<br /><br /><a href="http://s17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/?action=view&current=justmarried.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/justmarried.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />A young foreign couple poses for wedding pictures beneath the cherry blossoms.<br /><br /><a href="http://s17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/?action=view&current=jizo.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/jizo.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />Hundreds of ancient-looking <em>Jizo</em> statues spring from the lush moss carpeting the slope. One of the most beloved of all Japanese divinities, <em>Jizo </em>intercedes to ease the suffering and shorten the sentence of those serving time in hell. In Japan, <em>Jizo</em> is popularly known as the guardian of unborn, aborted, miscarried, and stillborn babies, as well as patron saint of expectant mothers, children, firemen, travelers, and pilgrims.<br /><br /><a href="http://s17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/?action=view&current=kimonoketais.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/kimonoketais.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />Women in kimono snap photos of one another on their ketai (cell phones).<br /><br /><a href="http://s17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/?action=view&current=kiyomizu.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/kiyomizu.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />Looking up at the cherry blossoms surrounding the three story pagoda.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_0UspntJS0QU/SDYs4q-y3tI/AAAAAAAABTs/mt6UDCON3pI/s1600-h/garbage+man.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5203395771595153106" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_0UspntJS0QU/SDYs4q-y3tI/AAAAAAAABTs/mt6UDCON3pI/s400/garbage+man.jpg" border="0" /></a> Garbage removal the old fashioned way. Sights like this are common elsewhere in Asia, but very rare in Japan.<br /><br /><a href="http://s17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/?action=view&current=pagodame.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/pagodame.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />Nestled in the hills of Higashiyama, Kiyomizu's famous stage offers an excellent view of the city and surrounding green.<br /><br /><a href="http://s17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/?action=view&current=kimonosilhouette.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/kimonosilhouette.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />Enjoying the cherry-blossom-veiled view.<br /><br /><a href="http://s17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/?action=view&current=luckybuddha.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/luckybuddha.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />Visitors often rub icons of the Buddha or other religious figures for good luck or healing powers.<br /><br /><a href="http://s17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/?action=view&current=fountain.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/fountain.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />A young monk happily helps a boy get his taste of the <em>Otowa no Taki</em>, Feather Sound Waterfall, the three streams of which are said to promise love, longevity and wisdom. The visitor must choose one.<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5203388092193627794" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_0UspntJS0QU/SDYl5q-y3pI/AAAAAAAABTM/hluZ-ryAIJ4/s400/togers+vs+dragons.jpg" border="0" />This author of this <em>enma</em>, or wooden prayer plaque, is hoping for a championship showdown between my hometown Hanshin Tigers and Chunichi Dragons.<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5203387649811996226" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_0UspntJS0QU/SDYlf6-y3kI/AAAAAAAABSk/zR95jIROLEQ/s400/niou.jpg" border="0" />I'm wishing that next spring will find me back in Kyoto, surrounded by sakura.<br /><br /><a href="http://s17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/?action=view&current=sakuracloudskiyomizu.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/sakuracloudskiyomizu.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />The pagoda peeks over heavy clouds of <em>sakura</em>, dripping with silken petals which flutter to the surface of the reflective pond, blanketing it like freshly fallen snow.<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5203387224610233890" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_0UspntJS0QU/SDYlHK-y3iI/AAAAAAAABSU/wsmyopcLqok/s400/main+stage+kiyomizu.jpg" border="0" />A view of the main stage of Kiyomizu-dera, floating in clouds of sakura ( and supported by 139 timber pillars). The unique Edo period tradition of jumping off the stage in hopes that one's wishes would come true was attempted by 234 people, each documented in the temples records. Surprisingly, 85.4 percent survived! The Japanese equivalent of the English expression, "to take the plunge", is actually "to jump off the stage of Kiyomizu."<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_0UspntJS0QU/SDYlv6-y3nI/AAAAAAAABS8/I5cngEYkLKg/s1600-h/sakura+kiyomizu.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5203387924689903218" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_0UspntJS0QU/SDYlv6-y3nI/AAAAAAAABS8/I5cngEYkLKg/s400/sakura+kiyomizu.jpg" border="0" /></a> I love Kyoto!<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_0UspntJS0QU/SDYlf6-y3jI/AAAAAAAABSc/mjRgmSmQYik/s1600-h/tres+kimono.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5203387649811996210" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_0UspntJS0QU/SDYlf6-y3jI/AAAAAAAABSc/mjRgmSmQYik/s400/tres+kimono.jpg" border="0" /></a> They love Kyoto!<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_0UspntJS0QU/SDYlG6-y3hI/AAAAAAAABSM/GkjVZILpLeI/s1600-h/panorama.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5203387220315266578" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_0UspntJS0QU/SDYlG6-y3hI/AAAAAAAABSM/GkjVZILpLeI/s400/panorama.jpg" border="0" /></a> Kiyomizu-dera is just one of many reasons why!</div>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15976756138771912228noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9658067.post-82058694914230452932008-05-23T03:52:00.011+09:002008-05-23T10:09:37.276+09:00Sasuga Gion: さすが祇園!<div align="justify">Kyoto Rewind: April 1, 2008<br /><br /><a href="http://s17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/?action=view&current=Mamechika.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/Mamechika.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://mboogiedown-japan.blogspot.com/2005/08/my-favorite-maiko-mamechika.html">Mamemchika</a> strolls past the wooden facades of the <em>machiya</em> (traditional wooden townhouses) that line Gion's well-preserved lanes. It's always so exciting to see her again! She's become such a beautiful geiko. I know it's silly, but I can't help but feel a sort of affection for the girls I've seen blossom from maiko to geiko over the past four years, especially the ones I've had the pleasure of meeting.<br /><br />After attending the opening day performance of <a href="http://mboogiedown-japan.blogspot.com/search/label/miyako%20odori">Miyako Odori</a>, we couldn't help but stumble over maiko and geiko on the way to their evening engagements as we strolled through Gion, no doubt en route to Starbucks. <em>Sasuga Gion</em>! (Just what you would expect from Gion).<br /><br /><a href="http://s17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/?action=view&current=pontochopink.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/pontochopink.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />The young maiko Momiju looked pretty in pink as she fluttered through Pontocho.<br /><br /><a href="http://s17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/?action=view&current=seijin.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/seijin.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />She's no maiko, but she looked beautiful in her long-sleeved <em>furisode</em> kimono! Kawaii!<br /><br /><a href="http://s17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/?action=view&current=mameteru.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/mameteru.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />Where there are maiko, their are photographers. (Mameteru)<br /><br /><a href="http://s17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/?action=view&current=orangeobi.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/orangeobi.jpg" border="0" /></a> </div><em></em>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15976756138771912228noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9658067.post-42926356295202563342008-05-19T04:58:00.014+09:002008-05-23T05:05:39.629+09:00Miyako Odori Kimono and The Art of Gion<div align="justify">Kyoto Rewind: April 1st, 2008<br /><br /><a href="http://s17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/?action=view&current=heisei20.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/heisei20.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />'Uniform' kimono worn by geiko and maiko in the opening <a href="http://mboogiedown-japan.blogspot.com/2007/04/miyako-odori-yoiyasa.html">prelude</a>, <a href="http://mboogiedown-japan.blogspot.com/2007/04/miyako-odori-golden-week-update.html">autumn scene</a>, and <a href="">finale</a> of Gion Kobu's annual spring dance: Miyako Odori.<br /><br />Before the maiko and geiko of Gion Kobu grace the stage to perform Miyako Odori, the Dance of the Old Capital, overly-anxious guests like me try to curb their enthusiasm by browsing the exhibit of artwork done by the maiko and geiko themselves, including paintings, calligraphy, and flower arrangements. A few of the famous "uniform" kimono the dance is famous for are also on display, highlighting different designs and themes used over the years.<br /><br /></div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_0UspntJS0QU/SC8AeCDyC2I/AAAAAAAABPU/b6R5aTpGuWQ/s1600-h/suzuko+art.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5201376610585021282" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_0UspntJS0QU/SC8AeCDyC2I/AAAAAAAABPU/b6R5aTpGuWQ/s400/suzuko+art.jpg" border="0" /> <p align="justify"></a>Oil painting of two geiko wearing the Miyako Odori 'uniform' kimono and <em>hanakanzashi </em>(flowered hair ornaments) by the geiko <strong>Suzuko</strong>.<br /><br /><a href="http://s17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/?action=view&current=hesei5.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/hesei5.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />Kimono design used in the fifth year of <em>Heisei,</em> 1993.<br /><br /><a href="http://s17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/?action=view&current=showa53.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/showa53.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />My personal favorite, worn in the fifty-third year of <em>Showa</em>, 1978.<br /><br /><a href="http://s17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/?action=view&current=showa59.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/showa59.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />This design must have been the height of kimono chic in <em>Showa's fifty-nineth </em>year, 1984.<br /><br /><a href="http://s17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/?action=view&current=silhouette.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/silhouette.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />I loved this simple silhouette which captures the mystique, innocent playfulness and youthful beauty of a maiko. I wish I knew who painted it!<br /><br /><a href="http://s17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/?action=view&current=hanga.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/hanga.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />Another lovely portrait, artist unknown. </p>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15976756138771912228noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9658067.post-2348489311474604302008-05-18T23:29:00.013+09:002008-05-20T14:56:16.976+09:00SNL: Japanese Version of The Office (with Translation)<p align="justify"><object height="355" width="425"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/1bDQl9ueNfg&hl=en"><param name="wmode" value="transparent"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/1bDQl9ueNfg&hl=en" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="425" height="355"></embed></object><br />Most of <strong>The Office</strong>'s fans probably already know that the popular American zitcom is actually a remake of a British comedy. In this hillarious digital short from <strong>Saturday Night Live</strong>, the creator of the original British version, Ricky Gervais, explains how he was inspired by a Japanese TV show. <br /><br /><strong>Translation:</strong><br />***************************************************<br /><br /><strong>Pam</strong>: Hello. Dunder Mifflin. This is Pam.<br /><br /><strong>Micheal</strong>: Pamo Pamo Pamo Pamoooooooo-san.<br /><br /><strong>Pam</strong>: Micheal. What is it?<br /><br /><strong>Micheal</strong>: Just being original.<br /><br /><em>(Bows)</em><br /><br /><strong>Micheal</strong>: I am the funniest boss in Japan. <em>(Coffee cup reads: Funniest boss in the world)</em>.<br /><br /><strong>Jim</strong>:<em> (calling Dwight)</em> Where's the stapler?<br /><br /><strong>Dwight</strong>: <em>(Finding the stapler in a blob of Jello) </em>Fool!<br /><br /><strong>Micheal</strong>: What's going on?<br /><br /><strong>Dwight, Jim, Pam</strong>: <em>(Bowing to Micheal)</em> Please excuse me. Please excuse me. Please excuse me. Please, excuse me.<br /><br /><em>(Princess Tampon commercial)</em><br /><br /><strong>Micheal</strong>: I am the regional manager.<br /><br /><strong>Dwight</strong>: I am the assistant regional manager.<br /><br /><strong>Micheal</strong>: The regional manager's assistant! Why are you up here? Ok! Let's exercise!<br /><br /><strong>Pam</strong>: Everyone really loves when Micheal messes up!<br /><br /><strong>Micheal</strong>: Well, it was a good day. We did a good job. What do you think (to the bobble head)? Yes, yes, yes!<br /><br /><em>(Karaoke)</em><br /><br /><strong>Dwight</strong>: Cheers!<br /><br /><em>(Produced by Souya Sara and Souya Hana)</em></p>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15976756138771912228noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9658067.post-56346429758220536082008-05-17T23:25:00.051+09:002008-05-23T05:28:30.084+09:00Kenniji: Where the Hanamikoji Ends<div align="justify">Kyoto Rewind: April 1, 2008<br /><br /></div><div align="justify"><a href="http://s17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/?action=view&current=godofwind.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/godofwind.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />Raijin, God of Lightening and Thunder, a detail of the "Wind Thunder Gods" folding screen on display at Kenniji.<br /><br />The Hanami-koji, or "Flower-viewing Lane", is for many, the heart of Gion. Marked by the brilliant bengara walls of the Ichiriki Teahouse which sits conspicuously on the corner of the intersection with Shijo, it is lined with ochaya (teahouses, places where geisha entertain), okiya (like boarding houses where geisha and maiko live), traditional restaurants and shops. Tourists flock to the Hanami-kouji hoping to catch a glimpse of the elusive geisha, but at the far end of this bustling traditional entertainment district and tourist hotspot are the sprawling grounds and majestic temple buildings of Kenniji, Kyoto's oldest Zen temple.<br /><br /><p></p><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_0UspntJS0QU/SC8g5yDyDJI/AAAAAAAABRk/ShGwf5K6q08/s1600-h/suit.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5201412271698480274" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_0UspntJS0QU/SC8g5yDyDJI/AAAAAAAABRk/ShGwf5K6q08/s400/suit.jpg" border="0" /> <p align="justify"></a></p><p align="justify"><span style="font-family:georgia;">A man in a moment of silence in the garden of Kyoto's oldest Zen temple, Kenni-ji. Founded in 1202 by the priest Eisai, it was patterned after Bai-zhang-shan, China's first Zen monastary, in accordance with the Song dynasty style of architecture.<br /><br />The garden is done in the "dry mountains and water style" often</span> found in Zen temples. It seeks to achieve the effect of an ocean or lake dotted with mountains without the actual use of water (represented by the raked stones). It also uses the "borrowed scenery" technique, borrowing the large hall behind the garden to enhance the overall view.<br /><br /></p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5201410347553131538" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_0UspntJS0QU/SC8fJyDyDBI/AAAAAAAABQk/sI74o3hL7FM/s400/gods+of+wind+and+thunder.jpg" border="0" />"Wind and Thunder Gods" folding screen by Sotatsu Tawaraya, a national treasure of Japan.<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_0UspntJS0QU/SC8gaiDyDHI/AAAAAAAABRU/vfmr8oWKonU/s1600-h/dragons.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5201411734827568242" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_0UspntJS0QU/SC8gaiDyDHI/AAAAAAAABRU/vfmr8oWKonU/s400/dragons.jpg" border="0" /> <p align="justify"></a></p><p align="justify">This painting commemorated the 800th anniversary of Kenni-ji's founding in 2002. It measures 11.4 meters by 15.7 meters (the size of 108 tatami mats- a common unit of measure in Japan) and is drawn with the finest quality ink on thick traditional Japanese paper. It was created in the gymnasium of an elementary school in Hokkaido and took just under 2 years to complete.<br /><br />Paintings of dragons are often found on the ceilings of Zen temples, as dragons are believed to be protectors of the Buddhist teachings. They are also considered to be gods of water, sending nourishing rain of the teachings of Buddhism down onto its followers.<br /><br />This painting offers a unique and profound alternative to the customary portrayal of a single dragon emerging from a large circle representing the universe .<br /><br /></p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5201410639610907698" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_0UspntJS0QU/SC8fayDyDDI/AAAAAAAABQ0/NHWjrEzB8tA/s400/red+rock.jpg" border="0" /> <p align="justify"><em>Cho On Tei</em>, "the garden of the sound of the tide", a simple garden nestled between two main buildings and surrounded by raised, wooden walkways and corridors. It's <em>san-zon-seki</em>, the central set of three stones representing the Buddha and two Zen monks, are surrounded by z<em>azen-seki</em>, stones used for seated meditation, and maple trees, creating relaxing, beautiful scenes from every direction.<br /><br /></p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5201410789934763074" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_0UspntJS0QU/SC8fjiDyDEI/AAAAAAAABQ8/0DgZfOzUeao/s400/inner+garden.jpg" border="0" /> Two main halls embrace the inner garden with covered wooden corridors of smooth, polished wood. The repetitive, symmetrical use of simple, geometrical shapes and lines in the temple's architecture stands in stark contrast to the lush, seemingly chaotic landscape of the garden.<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5201410523646790690" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_0UspntJS0QU/SC8fUCDyDCI/AAAAAAAABQs/Q7AZiEkhd3g/s400/roka.jpg" border="0" /><br />Even on a gray day, I always enjoy the reverent tranquility and meditative atmosphere of Kenniji. It's so much fun to wander through the dimly lit buildings, slipperlessly sliding slowly down the corridors, feeling every plank and imperfection in the wooden floor boards through my socks, smelling the incense all around me, pretending I've traveled back in time. Sitting in the spacious, open tatami rooms, gazing out onto the inner garden, the brilliant red ribbon of carpet complimenting the garden's verdancy and silvertone stones. I always feel invigorated and refreshed, with just a tinge of sadness, when I leave.<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5201410235883981826" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_0UspntJS0QU/SC8fDSDyDAI/AAAAAAAABQc/JCWUgpjAvV0/s400/me+kenniji.jpg" border="0" /> <p align="justify"> Lucky for me, I step outside and find myself in Kyoto! Not just Kyoto, but Gion, the heart of the Old Capital's cultural traditions. My saddness disappears like dew in the sunshine, no matter how dreary the day. </p></div>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15976756138771912228noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9658067.post-38823774924343326122008-05-15T12:36:00.015+09:002008-06-16T01:57:14.516+09:00Tōdaiji and the Great Buddha of Nara<div align="justify">Spring Rewind: March 31, 2008<br /><br /><a href="http://s17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/?action=view&current=deer.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/deer.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />More tricksy deer work the crowded approach to Todaiji's great gate. Watch out girls, they bite!<br /><br /><a href="http://s17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/?action=view&current=boyfeedingdeer.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/boyfeedingdeer.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />A young boy shares his <em>shika senbei</em> with one of many sacred deer lounging along the tourist-infested main approach to the temple.<br /><br /><a href="http://s17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/?action=view&current=artist.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/artist.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />An artist sketches one of two<em> nio</em>, or "benevolent kings", enshrined in Todaiji's main gate, which is named after them (the <em>nio-mon</em>). <em>Nio</em> gaurd the entrance to most Buddhist temples in Japan in pairs, one with it's mouth open, the other, closed. Together, they represent Alpha and Omega, birth and death, the begining and the end. Created in 1203 AD, Nara's<em> nio</em> are the most famous in all of Japan, standing 26 feet tall.<br /></div><br /><p align="justify"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5199688061372467714" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_0UspntJS0QU/SCkAviDyCgI/AAAAAAAABMc/0CyKfLq9s0I/s400/silhouette.jpg" border="0" />Tourists stop for a <em>sakura</em>-framed souvenier photograph along the corridor leading to the temple's thoroughfare.<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5200007997781314066" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_0UspntJS0QU/SCojuSDyChI/AAAAAAAABMk/GGkFPle962c/s400/Todaiji.jpg" border="0" />Todaiji towers over visitors, dwarfing everything in sight. Certified as a UNESCO World Heritage site, Todaiji is one of Japan's most famous and historically significant temples. Despite the fact that the present reconstruction of the building, undertaken in 1692, is only two-thirds of the original size, Todaiji remains the largest wooden structure on earth, housing the world's largest cast iron Buddha at 57 meters wide, 50 meters deep, and 48 meters tall.<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5200644232761707266" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_0UspntJS0QU/SCxmYCDyCwI/AAAAAAAABOs/cTvJKy0aDw8/s400/to+dai+ji.jpg" border="0" />Sakura, silhouettes and stormy skies surround the home of Daibutsu-san, the Great Buddha of Nara. When the original construction had concluded in in 798, it was recorded that 50,000 carpenters, 370,000 metal workers, and 2.18 million laborers worked on its construction and furnishings, nearly bringing the nation to the brink of bankruptcy.<br /><br /><a href="http://s17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/?action=view&current=tourists.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/tourists.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />The Great Buddha of Nara is the world's largest cast iron Buddha, sitting at a staggering 14.98 meters and weighing 500 metric tonnes.<br /><br /><a href="http://s17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/?action=view&current=frame.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/frame.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />Framed by the temple's decorative woodwork and massive timber pillars.<br /><br /><a href="http://s17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/?action=view&current=buddha.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/buddha.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />The Great Buddha's left hand raised in the <em>abhaya mudra,</em> imparting fearlessness and reassurance.<br /><br /><a href="http://s17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/?action=view&current=gaurdian.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/gaurdian.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />Another temple gaudian, in full battle gear, glares ominously down at visitors.<br /><br /><a href="http://s17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/?action=view&current=ketais.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/ketais.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />A couple joins the crowd in snapping a few shots on their cell phones.<br /><br /><a href="http://s17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/?action=view&current=bodhi.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/bodhi.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />Like the buddha, this boddhisatva's left hand <em>mudra</em> offers reassurance. It's right hand depicts the <em>Varada mudra</em>, lowered with the palm facing outward, the gesture of bestowing blessings or of giving charity.<br /><br /></p>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15976756138771912228noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9658067.post-39352499421606087832008-05-13T11:39:00.027+09:002008-05-16T03:59:22.173+09:00The "En" in Nara : 縁<div align="justify">Spring Rewind: March 31, 2008<br /><br /><a href="http://s17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/?action=view&current=abandInara.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/abandInara.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />Abbey and I beneath the weeping cherries and watchful eye of Himuro Shrine's <em>Shishi</em>. A shishi, which can be translated as "lion", often refers to a mythical creature with magical power to repel evil spirits..<br /><br />Abbey's first day in Kyoto had been gray and rainy, but the next morning found us seated outside Starbucks, one of the many guilty pleasure we indulge in outside of Ena, enjoying sunshine mixed soy chai. As usual, we weren't exactly sure where the day would lead us, but since we were so close to the station, I suggested we head for Nara. Abbey had never been there, and in the interest of packing as much Kansai punch into her three day Kyoto foray as possible, she agreed.<br /><br /></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5199687013400447378" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_0UspntJS0QU/SCj_yiDyCZI/AAAAAAAABLk/ZeWUNcT50vE/s400/feeding+deer.jpg" border="0" /> <p align="justify">A family struggles to satisfy the impatient hunger of Nara's tourist-chasing deer.<br /><br />Within an hour we were walking the deer-infested streets of Nara, dodging their senbei-sniffing noses and side-stepping the plentiful pellets of deer droppings splattered on the surface of the sidewalk. One thing you'll never find in Japan is the desperate hordes of destitute, poverty-stricken children or tourist dependent adults begging and badgering you for money. Instead, they have sacred deer, free from harm, free to roam, and free from the burden of finding food for themselves. Tourists excitedly buy shika senbei, or deer rice crackers, to feed to the ravenous hordes.<br /><br /></p><p></p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5200423308233935570" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_0UspntJS0QU/SCudciDyCtI/AAAAAAAABOU/WVjbGJaNO2g/s400/escape.jpg" border="0" /> <p align="justify">Once the deer started to surround me, I made a break for it, hoping to escape unscathed.<br /><br />I have been to Nara at least five times, but I had never tried or wanted to try feeding those freakin' deer. I knew better. But during my last trip to Japan, I was persuaded by a friend to give it a try. "It's not like they bite!" He laughed at my feigned excitement. Little did he know...<br /></p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5200423303938968258" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_0UspntJS0QU/SCudcSDyCsI/AAAAAAAABOM/jrkN6j3Jrkk/s400/juicy.jpg" border="0" /><br /><p align="justify">That's me getting attacked from both ends. The deer in front over-bit, planting a lovely slop of saliva on my fingers, while his buddy bit my bum from behind. I may look like I was pleasantly suprised, but I assure you that it felt anything but pleasant.<br /></p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5200423312528902882" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_0UspntJS0QU/SCudcyDyCuI/AAAAAAAABOc/MAVXlb_Tnt0/s400/dont+look+at+me.jpg" border="0" /><br /><p align="justify">It's a hold up! Having unloaded all of his <em>shika sembei</em> on an unsuspecting victim (me), my friend escaped unscathed instead. To tell the truth, I'm suprised. Those deer don't look particularly pleased.<br /><br /><a href="http://s17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/?action=view&current=ketaikids.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/ketaikids.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />Elementary school children try to capture the craziness of Nara's infamous deer with their ketai, or cell phone, camera.<br /><br /><a href="http://s17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/?action=view&current=pagoda.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/pagoda.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />The five story pagoda of Kofukuji.<br /><br />As we wandered through public parks and temple grounds, absent-mindedly admiring the anceint architecture and ethereal cherry blossoms, we stumbled upon a young American man traveling with his father who had seen us in Starbucks the day before. An exchange student spending a gap year studying in a Japanese High School, he had recognized me from my blog (something that, strangely enough, only happens in Kyoto). Before they knew it, we had high-jacked their peaceful father-son afternoon, insisting that they join us for our slow and study trek in the general direction of Todaiji, the Great Eastern Temple.<br /></p><p align="justify"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5199687618990836194" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_0UspntJS0QU/SCkAVyDyCeI/AAAAAAAABMM/MneSblWupyM/s400/shidare+nara.jpg" border="0" />The great weeping cherry shading Himuro Shrine's gate.<br /><br />Along the way we noticed a modest shrine on the main road overflowing with cherry blossoms in full bloom. They spilled over the brilliant tangerine <em>torii</em>, or spiritual gate, covering the graveled pathway like Anne's White Way of Delight. Sunshine spilled like watery jewels, dripping through the leaves, filtered by the velvety petals into clouds of playful light.<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5200434002702502642" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_0UspntJS0QU/SCunLCDyCvI/AAAAAAAABOk/NBLtUmSNHwM/s400/new+friends.jpg" border="0" />Our new friends flooded in sakura-filtered sunlight. (Snaps to Abbey for the shot).<br /><br /><a href="http://s17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/?action=view&current=sakura-1.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/sakura-1.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />Towering tendrils of blossom-burdened branches tumbling down....<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5199687610400901570" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_0UspntJS0QU/SCkAVSDyCcI/AAAAAAAABL8/jy158Q1qfEE/s400/roof.jpg" border="0" /></p><p align="justify"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5199687004810512754" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_0UspntJS0QU/SCj_yCDyCXI/AAAAAAAABLU/p99_gmX39P8/s400/barrier+free.jpg" border="0" /></p><p align="justify">Unfortunately, most shrines are not barrier-free.<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_0UspntJS0QU/SCtCICDyCrI/AAAAAAAABOE/BEc5OY4ayVM/s1600-h/new+friends.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5200322900488489650" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_0UspntJS0QU/SCtCICDyCrI/AAAAAAAABOE/BEc5OY4ayVM/s400/new+friends.jpg" border="0" /></a> More about Todaiji tomorrow....<br /></p>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15976756138771912228noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9658067.post-79470906605915239802008-05-10T23:46:00.015+09:002008-05-15T04:20:56.343+09:00We Met Takahina!<div align="justify">Kyoto Rewind: March 29th, 2008<br /><br /></div><div align="justify"><a href="http://s17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/?action=view&current=IMG_6020_2.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/IMG_6020_2.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />Takahina, Gion's youngest maiko (as of March 29th, 2008) makes her entrance.</div><div align="justify"></div><div align="justify"><br /></div><div align="justify">Before Takahina entered the traditional, <em>tatami </em>mat room, we took our seat at low, black laquered tables set in a U formation along three walls. The<em> Okami-san</em>, proprietess and manager of the <em>okiya</em> where Takahina lives, called Takahina to join us. Even before she made her entrance, we could hear the hushed rustling of silk and a soft, tinkling chime, perhaps from the dangling metal strips of her hair ornament.</div><div align="justify"></div><div align="justify"><br />When she finally appeared, emerging from a long dark corridor, everyone gasped, our breath stolen by the sheer spectacle of it all: Her breathtakingly beautiful kimono, the glittering gold thread of her obi, the stark white veil of her makeup beneath a halo of laquered black hair crowned with colorful slik flowers and shimmering silver tassles. Even apart from the exotic extravagance of her regalia, her sweet, subtle grin, delicate features and slender neck, all highlighted by her hair, makeup and dress, made quite a pleasant impression. Introducing herself in a charmingly child-like, high pitched voice, she bowed low, on her knees with her head almost to the ground, asking us for our favor.<em> Yoroshuu otanomooshimasu</em>!<br /><br /></div><div align="justify"></div><div align="justify"><a href="http://s17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/?action=view&current=Takahinaskimono.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/Takahinaskimono.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />Showing off the elaborate <em><strong>yuzen</strong></em> design of her luxurious, long-sleeved silk kimono, subtly shaded in the sweet pallet of early spring. <strong><em>Yuzen</em></strong> is a textile process that combines a mixture of freehand paste resist and painting, which may also include stencil and shibori work. The decorative flexibility possible with this combination of techniques is unsurpassed. Designs are initially outlined in paste resist, and dyes are then applied to give subtle gradations of tone. Both delicacy and lavishness are characteristic of yuzen, as are traditional themes and decorative designs. Embroidery and gold leaf are sometimes elements of yuzen composition.<br /><br /><a href="http://s17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/?action=view&current=obi.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/obi.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />Her hair, drawn up in the fashion of young maiko, known as the <em>wareshinobu</em>, compliments her long, slender neck, painted in white save for a fork of bare skin leading down to the risque plunge of her kimono collar.<br /><br /><a href="http://s17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/?action=view&current=Takahinasittingpretty.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/Takahinasittingpretty.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><em>Ningyou-ke?</em> Is she a doll? (^-^) Have I ever told the story of the child seeing a maiko for the first time as she walked down Shijo with her mother? "Mama, look! Is that a doll?" She squealed excitedly. "That's a maiko-san", her mother giggled. "She does look like a doll, doesn't she. Isin't she cute?"<br /><br /></div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_0UspntJS0QU/SChblSDyCPI/AAAAAAAABKU/A-WPDWmhzk0/s1600-h/takacha.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5199506465860225266" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_0UspntJS0QU/SChblSDyCPI/AAAAAAAABKU/A-WPDWmhzk0/s400/takacha.jpg" border="0" /></a>Takahina was accompanied by her Okami-san, who quickly noticed my brother and I. "Well, well, Takahina-san, we have some foreign guests who were kind enough to come and see us. Now's your chance to practice your English. Do you remember anything?"<br /><br />"Umm..." She thought for a moment.With and irresistible shyness, she slowly formed the words, carefully pronouncing each sound. "Wheea aa you from?" she asked, smiling nervously. As she raised the intonation at the end of the question, a point that is often stressed in junior high school English classes, she tilted her head to one side, the fluttering strands of her <em>hana-kanzashi</em> (flowered hair ornament) resting on her cheek.<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_0UspntJS0QU/SChcFSDyCQI/AAAAAAAABKc/gWSYYrjATBQ/s1600-h/laugh.jpg"></a><a href="http://s17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/?action=view&current=nape.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/nape.jpg" border="0" /></a> <div align="justify">Keeping everyone entertained, making us all feel special!</div><div align="justify"></div><div align="justify"><br />Of course Takahina danced for us, but I was too caught up in the experience of it all to worry about taking pictures. Sorry!<br /><br /></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5198815765567806994" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_0UspntJS0QU/SCXnZO9enhI/AAAAAAAABKM/nRWBfYHFt0A/s400/Takahina+and+us.jpg" border="0" /> Takahina, my brother and I.<br /><br /><a href="http://s17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/?action=view&current=laughter-1.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/laughter-1.jpg" border="0" /></a>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15976756138771912228noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9658067.post-74984200802959440362008-05-09T00:00:00.030+09:002008-05-15T03:28:07.638+09:00Kyoto 2008 Rewind: Let the Hanami Begin!<div align="justify">March 29th: My First Day Back in Kyoto<br /><br /></div><p align="justify"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5198027082926983826" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_0UspntJS0QU/SCMaF3K5CpI/AAAAAAAABG8/lg3k7SaxESc/s400/hana-me.jpg" border="0" />Sleepiness is no excuse to stay in bed when there is <em>sakura</em> to be seen!<br /><br />As I've said a million times before, Kyoto is my happy place. I could go there any time, in any season, for absolutely no reason, with nothing to do, and I would be happy just <em>being </em>there. But Kyoto in the spring is a different beast altogether.<br /><br /><p align="justify">Experiencing Kyoto in the spring is hard to put into words. It's as if the city itself is a <em>geiko</em>, veiling herself with snow white sakura and soft, subtle shades of pink cherry blossoms, accented with brilliant crimson camelias, adorning herself in all the riches of spring for her biggest engagement of the year.<br /><br /></p><p align="justify"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5198022465837140466" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_0UspntJS0QU/SCMV5HK5CfI/AAAAAAAABFs/HMN_PqPuSho/s400/Kamogawa+sakura.jpg" border="0" />Cherry blossoms line the Kamogawa River, leading the way into the heart of Kyoto.<br /><br /><p align="justify"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5198024488766736978" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_0UspntJS0QU/SCMXu3K5ClI/AAAAAAAABGc/MXAlLsgiLl0/s400/biking+hanami.jpg" border="0" />A bike ride beneath the cherry blossoms gracing the banks of the Kamogawa River and Kawaramachi-Dori.<br /><br />One of the reasons I love Kyoto is because of it's walkability. Most of the time I spend there, I spend walking. I usually don't have much of a plan. I just go wherever the day leads me. Since we had just arrived in Kyoto <a href="http://mboogiedown-japan.blogspot.com/2008/03/back-in-kyoto.html">the night before</a>, we couldn't wait to get out and see how far along the blossoms had bloomed, and revisit all our favorite spots. </p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5198025356350130786" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_0UspntJS0QU/SCMYhXK5CmI/AAAAAAAABGk/_wVEX5Y5Ha0/s400/hanami+peas.jpg" border="0" />Taking a rest to listen to the sounds of the Kamogawa beneath a lovely shidare-zakura (weeping cherry).<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5198025369235032706" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_0UspntJS0QU/SCMYiHK5CoI/AAAAAAAABG0/-2g32uVYbcc/s400/yasaka+gate.jpg" border="0" /> <p></p>A couple debates which way to go outside the newly renovated gate to Yasaka Shrine, also known as Gion-san.<br /><br /><a href="http://s17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/?action=view&current=kimono.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/kimono.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />Two young women in colorful kimono on the steps leading to the gate. The girl on the left is unmarried, which is why she continues to wear the long sleeved furisode kimono. The short sleeves of the young lady on the right signify that she is indeed off the market.<br /><br /><a href="http://s17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/?action=view&current=IMG_5857.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/IMG_5857.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />Married women chat inside the temple grounds. Behind them, hundreds of poor fortunes were tied to ropes in a hope that the visitors might be able to leave there bad luck behind. <p></p><p align="justify"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5198068147109300914" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_0UspntJS0QU/SCM_cHK5CrI/AAAAAAAABHM/JUgADM5LWsg/s400/hanami-kuji.jpg" border="0" />An unlucky fortune tied amongst the cherries inside the shrine.<br /><a href="http://s17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/?action=view&current=shrine.jpg" target="_blank"></a><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5198490812637158738" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_0UspntJS0QU/SCS_2e9enVI/AAAAAAAABIs/CGP0aDqPyHc/s400/chochin.jpg" border="0" />Special lanterns hung in Gion announcing the up-coming <a href="http://mboogiedown-japan.blogspot.com/search/label/miyako%20odori">Miyako Odori</a>, the annual spring dance of the Gion Kobu Geisha district.<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5198025364940065394" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_0UspntJS0QU/SCMYh3K5CnI/AAAAAAAABGs/_aSiHGswtWk/s400/maruyama+koen.jpg" border="0" />A popular <a href="http://mboogiedown-japan.blogspot.com/2006/04/sakura_13.html"><em>hanami </em></a>spot in Maruyama <em>Koen</em> (Park).<br /><br /><a href="http://s17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/?action=view&current=hanami2shot.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/hanami2shot.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />Two ladies try to get a shot infront of a beautiful weeping cherry.<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5198023101492300306" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_0UspntJS0QU/SCMWeHK5ChI/AAAAAAAABF8/Mp5cyBUEW_M/s400/kyodai+hanami+kyoto.jpg" border="0" /> My brother and I on Tatsumi Bashi (Bridge) over the Shirakawa stream in Gion.<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5198024475881835058" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_0UspntJS0QU/SCMXuHK5CjI/AAAAAAAABGM/-xxnwHkxLZc/s400/amigos.jpg" border="0" />When my brother tried to get a picture of me on the bridge, a small group of Japanese tourists gathered around to snap a few, too. These guys even asked if they could get a picture <strong>with</strong> me, first with their cameras and then with their cell phones. "Bijin da ne!" (You're a beauty, aren't you!) Um, not exactly boys, but <em>arigatou</em>! Did I mention I love Kyoto?<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5198024480176802370" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_0UspntJS0QU/SCMXuXK5CkI/AAAAAAAABGU/CmdIZU-9lUg/s400/ketai+kimono.jpg" border="0" />Many people dress in Kimono for cherry blossom viewing, especially in Kyoto. Ketai are the camera of choice!</p><p align="justify"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5198490804047224130" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_0UspntJS0QU/SCS_1-9enUI/AAAAAAAABIk/H7GY-mOV_VY/s400/nisemono.jpg" border="0" />If you're going to wear kimono, you may as well go all the way! Many tourists dress up as maiko or geisha to sightsee and have souvenier pictures taken. Most of the "geisha" people see during day are actually just tourists playing dress up!<br /></p><p></p><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_0UspntJS0QU/SCNJJ3K5C0I/AAAAAAAABIU/dd-4zJ9AzJE/s1600-h/learning+to+get+the+sakura+shot.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5198078828692966210" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_0UspntJS0QU/SCNJJ3K5C0I/AAAAAAAABIU/dd-4zJ9AzJE/s400/learning+to+get+the+sakura+shot.jpg" border="0" /></a> A young girl tries to get the perfect sakura shot with the help of her mother and older sister. I read somewhere that during a lifetime, the average Japanese person takes approximately 7,312 pictures of cherry blossoms.<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5198023088607398402" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_0UspntJS0QU/SCMWdXK5CgI/AAAAAAAABF0/alrld-uNyYs/s400/cameraman.jpg" border="0" />It's also true that the size of a Japanese person's camera seems to increase proportionatly according to their age. Here a bunch of <em>ojiisans </em>(old men) snap away at the sakura.<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5198078485095582514" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_0UspntJS0QU/SCNI13K5CzI/AAAAAAAABIM/ejPxQwEN_ts/s400/kimono+hanami.jpg" border="0" />Kimono-clad <em>hanami </em>along the Shirakawa.<br /><br /><p></p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5198077995469310722" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_0UspntJS0QU/SCNIZXK5CwI/AAAAAAAABH0/iAxkCxU8ZZI/s400/kani+kaku+me.jpg" border="0" /> The monument in rememberance of Yoshii Isamu, the poet and fellow Gion-ophile whose poem is engraved on the rock: <em>No matter what they say, I love Gion. Even in my sleep, the sound of water flows beneath my pillow.</em><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5198068147109300898" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_0UspntJS0QU/SCM_cHK5CqI/AAAAAAAABHE/J8-RJYsIBd4/s400/kimono+clad+hanami.jpg" border="0" /> More coming soon!<em></em>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15976756138771912228noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9658067.post-82204130059238461902008-04-24T22:40:00.006+09:002008-04-24T23:36:46.280+09:00My First Misedashi or The Death of My Camera Lens<div align="justify"><a href="http://s17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/?action=view&current=misedashimaiko.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/misedashimaiko.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Today Miyagawa-cho welcomed Kyoto's two newest maiko into their ranks, bringing Kyoto's maiko count to a grand total of 102, the highest in over 40 years!<br /><br />I wasn't quite sure my poor camera lens was up to the task, after the beating it's taken lately. The final straw was a fatal fall after I fell victim to a sneek-up tickle-and-run attack by a little girl in Miyagawa-cho. She caught me off my gaurd, holding my camera as I almost never do: by the strap, lens dangling down to ground.<br /><br /><em>Anyone </em>that knows me <strong>knows </strong>I am <em><strong>extremely ticklish</strong></em>. My poor lens never stood a chance. The instant that little <em>gucha-gucha</em> girl got her fingers on me it was out of my hands, quite literally.<br /><br />By all appearances it survived unscathed, and for the rest of the day it fought like a trooper. By the next day it stubbournly refused to zoom out. Since then I've been stuck between 50 and 105mm (way up from the usual 24-105 range). I still had some wiggle room, so I I've been trying to make the best of it.<br /><br /><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">The <em>Misedashi</em>: My Camera Lens' Last Stand</span></strong></div><div align="justify"> </div><div align="justify"><br />Then just before the <em>misedashi</em>, I realized it was stuck at 105mm. As if it wasn't bad enough that it was pouring rain. I kept my cool, thinking "at least I can still take pictures, right? Yay! My first <em>misedashi</em>!"<br /><br />Take pictures I did! Trust me for that (^_<) My little lens hung in there until the very last. When it was over I headed to the Sanjo Starbucks in Pontocho to recharge. The second I sat down my lens just came undone. Long story short, it looks like I'll be headed to the nearest Canon service station tomorrow if I plan on taking any more pictures this trip! It wouldn't be that bad, but I spoke to a semi-pro photographer today who said it will probably be a few days and a few hundred dollars. And by few, I mean five. Five hundred dollars! <strong><em>Nande yanen</em></strong>!<br /><br /></div><div align="justify">So anyone who wants to chip in to help save my camera lens, Mboogiedown is accepting donations at PayPal (^_<) </div>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15976756138771912228noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9658067.post-18650418590149026772008-04-06T09:23:00.002+09:002008-05-03T10:53:45.999+09:00Maiko + Sakura = (^_^)<div align="justify"><a href="http://s17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/?action=view&current=Shinajusakurame.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/Shinajusakurame.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />Someone looks happy! Clouds of cherry blossoms and a cute young maiko named Ichiharu make for one memorable hanami pre-game festivity... More on that later (^_<)/</div>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15976756138771912228noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9658067.post-28421973352943406882008-04-01T11:02:00.009+09:002008-05-17T04:57:33.402+09:00Miyako Odori : Opening Day Update!<div align="justify"><a href="http://s17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/?action=view&current=temae.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/temae.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />The geiko Mari peforming the role of <em>temae</em>,preparing the tea slowly, mindfully, with utmost grace.<br /><br />The good news is that Miyako Odori began today, and that I was there to see it! The bad news is that spectators are no longer permitted to photograph the performance without a special, <em><strong>expensive </strong></em>license. (ioi) </div><div align="justify"><br />At least we can still take a few pictures during the tea ceremony (^_<) </div><div align="justify"></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5201065083722140434" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_0UspntJS0QU/SC3lIyDyCxI/AAAAAAAABO0/XHvaadXP-WQ/s400/IMG_6647.jpg" border="0" />As Mari finishes preparing a cup of tea, Katsuyuki brings another.<br /><br /><a href="http://s17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/?action=view&current=hikae.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/hikae.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />The maiko Katsuyuki in the role of <em>ohikae</em>.Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15976756138771912228noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9658067.post-25976191835055008182008-03-29T00:21:00.007+09:002008-04-03T11:28:22.863+09:00Back In Kyoto!<a href="http://s17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/?action=view&current=takahiro.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/takahiro.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />Takahiro! Hisashiburi! It's been a long time.<br /><br /><br /><p align="justify"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5182813364158011074" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_0UspntJS0QU/R-0NS4PJFsI/AAAAAAAABE0/aDlkjAhhjZ4/s400/Miyagawa+me.jpg" border="0" />Peace from lantern-lit Miyagawa-cho! (*^_^*)v </p><p align="justify">Just checking in to let everyone know that after a few excellent days in Ena, we've finally arrived in Kyoto! Despite what these images might imply, we did not spend our first evening here chasing geisha, but we couldn't help running into them everywhere we went! The cherry blossoms are blooming, and hanami season, Gion's busiest, is in full swing.</p><p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5182813574611408610" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_0UspntJS0QU/R-0NfIPJFuI/AAAAAAAABFE/RhmjOWLPwpY/s400/geisha+smile.jpg" border="0" /><br /><a href="http://s17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/?action=view&current=maikopink.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/maikopink.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />Ichiwaka, one of the 13 new maiko that have made their debut so far this spring.<br /><br /><a href="http://s17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/?action=view&current=takahiroochaya.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/takahiroochaya.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />Takahiro, could you be any cuter?<br /><br /><a href="http://s17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/?action=view&current=mamechiho.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/mamechiho.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />Mamechiho<a href="http://s17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/?action=view&current=Konomi.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/Konomi.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />Konomi: Kawaii!</p>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15976756138771912228noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9658067.post-15430702741398940822008-03-17T10:48:00.010+09:002008-03-18T10:10:20.146+09:00ALTS Can Make a Difference!A Letter From A Student<br /><a href="http://s17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/?action=view&current=sakuragrads.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/sakuragrads.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br />I recently received this email from one of my old students who graduated from junior high on March 11th. <br /><br /><blockquote></blockquote><br />Dear Melissa,<br /> <br />Hello,Melissa!¡¡How are you?¡¡Of course I'm fine!<br />Tank you for giving a e-mail. I was very glad!<br /> <br />I graduated from Kita Chuu,but I'll nevre forget a lot of things that I learnd from you.<br /><br />I came to like learning English since you came to Kita Chuu. It is very interesteing for me to read, listen, and speak English.<br /><br />You were always cheeful and kind. You always talked me kindly. I was glad to talked with you. And you tought me a lot. About songs, foods, places, and world problems... All was interesting for me. I always looked forward your English class. You came to Kita Chuu as ALT, so I was interested in International Relations. You gave me an oppotunity that I want to know many more things.<br /> <br />I don't have specal talent(*_*;) But I want to know a lot, so I studied hard.Only this.<br /><br />Through studying English,I learned language. But I learned much more. <br />If I use only Japanese, I can't communicate wiht English-Speaking people. Now I can speak English a little, so I can communicate with many more people. I'm glad of it! So I want to study foreign language and culture more. <br /> <br />I'll enter Chukyo high school's International course. I can study English more. And I can go to Canada to study. I look forward to it very much! <br />My dream is to help people who suffer from war, hunger and ill... Therefore I must study more. I do my best for my dream!<br /> <br /> <br />May I send an e-mail again? You are my best teacher! I want you to teach me many things! And I want to teach you recent situation(^^)<br /> <br />Thank you for reading. See you again!<br /> <br />Love,<br />Mari <blockquote></blockquote><br />See! ALT's can make a difference!Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15976756138771912228noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9658067.post-25838175816584367092008-03-15T07:29:00.007+09:002008-04-17T16:18:36.678+09:00Kyo Odori 2008 : Posters<a href="http://s17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/?action=view&current=No59-JIC.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/No59-JIC.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />CORRECTION: Satonami and Kimiharu.<br /><br /><a href="http://s17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/?action=view&current=No59-SAGA.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b98/kyoto_ben/No59-SAGA.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div align="justify">One of my favorites, Fukunao (purple), with Kikune (blue) and Fumisono.</div><div align="justify"></div><div align="justify"><br />This year's theme is "<em>Hana Miyako Meijo no Ruiju</em>" or "<strong>Collection of Famous Places of the Flower Capital</strong>."<br /><br />I can't tell you how much I am looking forward to it! </div>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15976756138771912228noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9658067.post-66997238942515827422008-03-11T22:21:00.014+09:002008-03-11T23:51:01.602+09:00Sakura Forecast 2008<div align="justify"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_0UspntJS0QU/R9aHXwPd5aI/AAAAAAAABD0/peuxAygg3Bo/s1600-h/sakura_en_20080305.png"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5176473663865480610" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_0UspntJS0QU/R9aHXwPd5aI/AAAAAAAABD0/peuxAygg3Bo/s400/sakura_en_20080305.png" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://www.jma.go.jp/jma/en/News/sakura.html">Japan's Meterological Agency</a> just released it's predictions for the upcoming <a href="http://mboogiedown-japan.blogspot.com/2006/04/sakura_13.html"><em>Hanami</em></a> season!<br /><br />According to their website:<br /><br /><blockquote></blockquote>JMA's prediction of cherry blossom blooming dates is conducted by applying the relationships between temperatures and blooming dates in previous years to the temperatures observed since last fall and those predicted in weekly, monthly and three-monthly forecasts.<br /><blockquote></blockquote></div><br /><div align="justify">After the crazy Cleveland winter I've been 'enjoying', I'm really looking forward to some good old <em>hanami</em>! Can I get an amen?<br /><br /></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5176495241781175762" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_0UspntJS0QU/R9aa_wPd5dI/AAAAAAAABEM/CtQCQJVELzI/s400/snow+mobile..jpg" border="0" /> Ah, the joys of winter in Cleveland.<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5176493644053341634" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_0UspntJS0QU/R9aZiwPd5cI/AAAAAAAABEE/hAjAAi9JNEE/s400/sakura+3.jpg" border="0" />Ah, the joys of being the lucky JET who gets to visit the Beautiful Mountain School in spring.Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15976756138771912228noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9658067.post-57458024175365917042008-03-09T03:08:00.009+09:002008-03-13T05:33:52.110+09:00Sharin No Uta : English Translation : Bump of Chicken<div align="justify"><object width="425" height="355"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/s0zPahfi7ls"></param><param name="wmode" value="transparent"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/s0zPahfi7ls" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="425" height="355"></embed></object><br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"><strong>Sharin No Uta : The Wheel Song</strong><br /></span><br />The rusty wheels make a shriek<br />Carrying our bodies to the station at dawn<br /><br />As I peddle<br />The thing you transmit as you lean against my back<br />Is definite warmth<br /><br />Up the hill along the train tracks<br />“A little more, just a bit further”<br />From behind your voice sounds like you’re having fun<br /><br />The town is way too quiet<br />“It’s like we’re the only people in the world” you grumble softly<br />At the moment we reached the top of the hill<br />We were at a loss for words<br />The sunrise that welcomed us was way too beautiful<br /><br />Then I think you laughed behind me<br />I couldn’t look back because I was crying<br /><br />I don’t really know the town<br />The most expensive ticket on<br />First end of the ticket machine goes to<br /><br />The cheapest of all, the platform ticket<br />Even though I’d use it immediately<br />I carefully put it away<br /><br />The big bag you bought<br />The day before yesterday<br />Caught on the wicket and,<br />Unable to pass through, you looked at me<br /><br />I nodded without meeting your eyes<br />And my hand freed the bag’s stubbornly caught cord<br /><br />The resounding bell announces the end<br />The door opens only for you<br />Having stepped forward,<br />One step with more distance than many thousands, you say<br /><br />"I promise! We’ll definitely meet again some day!"<br />Unable to answer, with my eyes cast down, I waved my hand<br /><br />You... You weren't wrong that time...<br /><br />Down the hill along the train tracks,I fly<br />Faster than the wind<br />I catch up with you and<br />The rusty wheel shrieks<br />With all my might, I line up with the train but<br />It slowly gets further away<br /><br />You were crying, weren’t you<br />On the other side of the door<br />Even though I didn’t see your face, <br />I knew because your voice was shaking<br /><br />I promise. We’ll definitely meet again someday<br />As you got further away,<br />I made a big wave with my hand so that you could see<br /><br />The town was bustling but<br />“It’s like I’m the only person in the world” I grumbled softly<br /><br />The rusty wheels shriek<br />Left behind, I’m carried along<br />A faint warmth</div><div align="justify"> </div><div align="justify"> </div>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15976756138771912228noreply@blogger.com2