Justin in Japanhttp://justinjapan.blog.co.uk/en-UKhourly82000-01-01T12:00+00:00Justin in Japanhttp://justinjapan.blog.co.uk/http://data5.blog.de/design/preview/a7/e2a76c59363fd4499974e0bb7f23e7_160x200.jpgEpiloguehttp://justinjapan.blog.co.uk/2005/12/27/epilogue~419976/2005-12-27T18:10:52+01:00 <p>I suffered a bit of reverse culture shock having returned from Japan. I got off the plane at my transfer in Copenhagen and, upon entering the airport, my first thoughts were how tall everyone looked and how ‘strange’ they all looked. For the first week of my return I would wake up at 5am regardless of what time I’d gone to bed, not just wake up, but completely awake to the point that I just had to get up and do something. I’d also fall asleep at all times of the afternoon and evening, and it took me over a week to get into a remotely normal sleeping pattern. As I tried to reflect on the last three months, I began to feel like I’d been abducted by aliens for a long happy dream and then dropped back down to earth, where I was left wandering around a bit aimlessly. My aikido quota has dropped from 3 times a day to 3 times a week, which hasn’t yet hit me as hard as I thought it would, but I think that’s partly because I’m not sure if this isn’t the alien abduction and Japan was the reality. The imminence of Christmas added to the surreality of my surroundings, and things are now just beginning to come into focus. Although I miss the frequency of practice, I feel very refreshed and clear of mind, and looking forward to starting my new job in a couple of weeks’ time, with all the changes that will bring.</p> <p> <small> <a href="http://justinjapan.blog.co.uk/2005/12/27/epilogue~419976/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>I suffered a bit of reverse culture shock having returned from Japan. I got off the plane at my transfer in Copenhagen and, upon entering the airport, my first thoughts were how tall everyone looked and how ‘strange’ they all looked. For the first week of my return I would wake up at 5am regardless of what time I’d gone to bed, not just wake up, but completely awake to the point that I just had to get up and do something. I’d also fall asleep at all times of the afternoon and evening, and it took me over a week to get into a remotely normal sleeping pattern. As I tried to reflect on the last three months, I began to feel like I’d been abducted by aliens for a long happy dream and then dropped back down to earth, where I was left wandering around a bit aimlessly. My aikido quota has dropped from 3 times a day to 3 times a week, which hasn’t yet hit me as hard as I thought it would, but I think that’s partly because I’m not sure if this isn’t the alien abduction and Japan was the reality. The imminence of Christmas added to the surreality of my surroundings, and things are now just beginning to come into focus. Although I miss the frequency of practice, I feel very refreshed and clear of mind, and looking forward to starting my new job in a couple of weeks’ time, with all the changes that will bring.

Comments

]]>Reflectionshttp://justinjapan.blog.co.uk/2005/12/27/reflections~419971/2005-12-27T18:10:30+01:00 <p>During my last few days in Japan, I wrote a piece for the Kobayashi Dojos Newsletter to try and sum up my experiences as an Uchideshi (included this below). There is so much I could have written and so many memories I will take with me, but the thing that really made the whole experience so enjoyable for me (on and off the mat), is the people I met, who were so welcoming, kind and friendly.<br> I will miss a lot of things about Japan; the opportunity to practice endless aikido, day in day out, with great Uke’s and Senseis is an obvious one, but also the shop and restaurant staff singing out their welcomes, the 100 yen shops, great food, hyper efficient transport system,.. (the train ticketing particularly), hot baths, really convenient convenience stores, laundrettes with massage chairs, space age toilets, ‘Book off’, drink and food dispensers ‘everywhere’, tins of hot chocolate from the drink dispensers, endless electronic gadget and shoe shops (all my christmasses come at once), a general lack of cars compared to London and the priority of the bicycle, a city of 10 million people who get up at 5am to sweep outside their houses, go to bed late and all fall asleep on the train, the whole ‘community’ culture, the overall efficiency, quirkiness, and general ‘Japaneseness’ of everything.<br> Most of all I will miss the people, and I look forward to seeing my new friends again, either when they visit the UK, or in a couple of years when I hope to return to Japan.</p> <p>Justins Deshi Experience<br> Having spoken many times with Jeff Mills about his experience as an Uchideshi, my main preconception of Uchideshi life was that it would involve a lot of cleaning and early mornings. </p> <p>My heavy workload, right up to the point of departure from the UK, meant that I was unable to do much preparation for my trip, so apart from buying my flight, insurance, Japanese yen and language books, it was a leap of faith. I knew that it would be a complete and sudden change of everything in my life, so my best approach was to try and keep an open mind and make the most of every experience.</p> <p>It wasn’t until I reached the gates of the airport departure lounge that I realised quite the step I’d taken. For a brief moment I thought ‘what have I let myself in for’, after which the excitement of the impending adventure took over.</p> <p>I have experienced so much during my 3 months in Japan, there is so much to describe, the Aikido practice, the change in cultural environment, the change in lifestyle, not to mention all the places I have visited, and most importantly, the people I have met.</p> <p>In terms of aikido practice, I am used to training hard aerobically, so I could cope with the hours of Keiko, but the biggest (and unanticipated) effect on me initially was that of the long days and short nights, leaving me with a feeling of permanent sleep depravation. The Keiko timetable looks like there should be time to rest, relax and recover, but once you’ve allowed for Dojo cleaning before class, tea and extra Keiko after class, not to mention folding 3000 Kobayashi Dojo Shinbun, shrink wrapping 100 DVD’s or making breakfast for 10 Sensei’s you find yourself very busy, with little time to yourself. Even on our day off, we were up by 7.30am to clean the dojo.</p> <p>The dojo becomes your life for the time that you are an uchideshi. You quickly realise that your duty is first to the Dojo, Sensei and club members, and lastly to yourself. </p> <p>There is however, something very satisfying about the devotion of self to the service of others, and in no way do I begrudge the lack of sleep or control over my own life that the uchideshi lifestyle resulted in. On the contrary, feeling a part of something that is providing happiness to so many people has been very fulfilling, and ultimately, it is these people’s kindness and friendliness that have made my stay here so enjoyable. </p> <p>Kobayashi Sensei and Hiroaki sensei have been the ultimate hosts, ensuring that my timetable has been packed with highly enjoyable training, and fun and interesting things to do. No two weeks have been alike. Kasahara has made sure that my stay has been as comfortable as possible, looking after my everyday needs. And then there are all the Sensei’s, fellow uchideshis and dojo members that I’ve had the opportunity to practice with, not only at Tokorozawa and Kodaira dojos, but also on the IWAI camp, in Tsumagoi, Hashimoto, Kurobe, Fuchu, Tanashi, Tachikawa, Soka, and Itabashi to name but a few. Everywhere I’ve been I feel that I have made new friends, on and off the mat, the Keiko has been fun and I have learnt lots. </p> <p>The dojo life is a unique experience, and I feel very privileged to have lived it for these past months. I feel that I’ve seen a ‘real’ side of Japanese life and culture that most other westerners living here do not. </p> <p>I am writing this on my last day in Japan, and I feel very at home here after 3 months, so I anticipate a bit of `reverse culture shock` when I get back to the UK. I have a few weeks holiday before starting a new job, so my world is still `all change`, but suffice to say that if I did not have a job to return for, I would be very happy to spend longer in Japan.</p> <p>I will miss the Aikido Keiko, Japanese food, hot baths, trains running on time, machines that dispense hot tins of cocoa, riding bicycle with an umbrella, the very polite shop staff, and of course all my new friends. Hopefully it will not be too long before I return, and I intend to keep up my Japanese lessons in anticipation of seeing everyone again.</p> <p> <small> <a href="http://justinjapan.blog.co.uk/2005/12/27/reflections~419971/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>During my last few days in Japan, I wrote a piece for the Kobayashi Dojos Newsletter to try and sum up my experiences as an Uchideshi (included this below). There is so much I could have written and so many memories I will take with me, but the thing that really made the whole experience so enjoyable for me (on and off the mat), is the people I met, who were so welcoming, kind and friendly.
I will miss a lot of things about Japan; the opportunity to practice endless aikido, day in day out, with great Uke’s and Senseis is an obvious one, but also the shop and restaurant staff singing out their welcomes, the 100 yen shops, great food, hyper efficient transport system,.. (the train ticketing particularly), hot baths, really convenient convenience stores, laundrettes with massage chairs, space age toilets, ‘Book off’, drink and food dispensers ‘everywhere’, tins of hot chocolate from the drink dispensers, endless electronic gadget and shoe shops (all my christmasses come at once), a general lack of cars compared to London and the priority of the bicycle, a city of 10 million people who get up at 5am to sweep outside their houses, go to bed late and all fall asleep on the train, the whole ‘community’ culture, the overall efficiency, quirkiness, and general ‘Japaneseness’ of everything.
Most of all I will miss the people, and I look forward to seeing my new friends again, either when they visit the UK, or in a couple of years when I hope to return to Japan.

Justins Deshi Experience
Having spoken many times with Jeff Mills about his experience as an Uchideshi, my main preconception of Uchideshi life was that it would involve a lot of cleaning and early mornings.

My heavy workload, right up to the point of departure from the UK, meant that I was unable to do much preparation for my trip, so apart from buying my flight, insurance, Japanese yen and language books, it was a leap of faith. I knew that it would be a complete and sudden change of everything in my life, so my best approach was to try and keep an open mind and make the most of every experience.

It wasn’t until I reached the gates of the airport departure lounge that I realised quite the step I’d taken. For a brief moment I thought ‘what have I let myself in for’, after which the excitement of the impending adventure took over.

I have experienced so much during my 3 months in Japan, there is so much to describe, the Aikido practice, the change in cultural environment, the change in lifestyle, not to mention all the places I have visited, and most importantly, the people I have met.

In terms of aikido practice, I am used to training hard aerobically, so I could cope with the hours of Keiko, but the biggest (and unanticipated) effect on me initially was that of the long days and short nights, leaving me with a feeling of permanent sleep depravation. The Keiko timetable looks like there should be time to rest, relax and recover, but once you’ve allowed for Dojo cleaning before class, tea and extra Keiko after class, not to mention folding 3000 Kobayashi Dojo Shinbun, shrink wrapping 100 DVD’s or making breakfast for 10 Sensei’s you find yourself very busy, with little time to yourself. Even on our day off, we were up by 7.30am to clean the dojo.

The dojo becomes your life for the time that you are an uchideshi. You quickly realise that your duty is first to the Dojo, Sensei and club members, and lastly to yourself.

There is however, something very satisfying about the devotion of self to the service of others, and in no way do I begrudge the lack of sleep or control over my own life that the uchideshi lifestyle resulted in. On the contrary, feeling a part of something that is providing happiness to so many people has been very fulfilling, and ultimately, it is these people’s kindness and friendliness that have made my stay here so enjoyable.

Kobayashi Sensei and Hiroaki sensei have been the ultimate hosts, ensuring that my timetable has been packed with highly enjoyable training, and fun and interesting things to do. No two weeks have been alike. Kasahara has made sure that my stay has been as comfortable as possible, looking after my everyday needs. And then there are all the Sensei’s, fellow uchideshis and dojo members that I’ve had the opportunity to practice with, not only at Tokorozawa and Kodaira dojos, but also on the IWAI camp, in Tsumagoi, Hashimoto, Kurobe, Fuchu, Tanashi, Tachikawa, Soka, and Itabashi to name but a few. Everywhere I’ve been I feel that I have made new friends, on and off the mat, the Keiko has been fun and I have learnt lots.

The dojo life is a unique experience, and I feel very privileged to have lived it for these past months. I feel that I’ve seen a ‘real’ side of Japanese life and culture that most other westerners living here do not.

I am writing this on my last day in Japan, and I feel very at home here after 3 months, so I anticipate a bit of `reverse culture shock` when I get back to the UK. I have a few weeks holiday before starting a new job, so my world is still `all change`, but suffice to say that if I did not have a job to return for, I would be very happy to spend longer in Japan.

I will miss the Aikido Keiko, Japanese food, hot baths, trains running on time, machines that dispense hot tins of cocoa, riding bicycle with an umbrella, the very polite shop staff, and of course all my new friends. Hopefully it will not be too long before I return, and I intend to keep up my Japanese lessons in anticipation of seeing everyone again.

Comments

]]>Leaving Tokyohttp://justinjapan.blog.co.uk/2005/12/27/leaving_tokyo~419968/2005-12-27T18:09:50+01:00 <p>On my last day, I rose at 5am and Hiroaki sensei drove me and my baggage to Tokorozawa station, where I took the 6:10am bus to Narita airport.</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Last-Sunrise.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Last-Sunrise_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> Here is a photo of my last view of the rising sun in the land of the rising sun….. until next time</p> <p> <small> <a href="http://justinjapan.blog.co.uk/2005/12/27/leaving_tokyo~419968/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>On my last day, I rose at 5am and Hiroaki sensei drove me and my baggage to Tokorozawa station, where I took the 6:10am bus to Narita airport.


Here is a photo of my last view of the rising sun in the land of the rising sun….. until next time

Comments

]]>title-419963http://justinjapan.blog.co.uk/2005/12/27/title~419963/2005-12-27T18:08:37+01:00 <p>My last day:<br> My last Tuesday night was to be my farewell party, but unfortunately a migraine struck, before my last class (but after we’d finished cleaning curiously), and I spent the whole evening sleeping upstairs on the third floor of the Dojo. So no party, but worse still, I was unable to say goodbye to a number of my friends . Luckily the migraine was not too powerful, and no vomiting (great!), so I was able to get up at 5:30 for morning practice on my last day.</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Last-Morning-1.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Last-Morning-1_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> Last Morning Practice</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Last-Morning-2.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Last-Morning-2_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> Kasahara and Justin in Thumb war</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Last-Morning-3.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Last-Morning-3_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> Justin and Uchino San</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Last-Morning-4.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Last-Morning-4_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> Justin and Obayashi San</p> <p>After Morning practice we went to Kodaira Dojo for Suizen kai and the Suizen Kai bonen kai.</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Suz-Kai-1.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Suz-Kai-1_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a></p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Suz-Kai-2.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Suz-Kai-2_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a></p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Suz-Kai-3.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Suz-Kai-3_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a></p> <p>With a couple of hours then free in the afternoon, Ukai and I went back to Kanda Sensei’s house, where they showed my pictures of their visits to England and Wales, including Windsor (just down the road from my last house in Maidenhead) and Chepstow (near my parents house, and where my sister in law runs her hairdressers). It is a small world. We were also kindly fed with some fantastic home grown fruit (from Mrs Kandas farm), European style brown bread (my first taste in 3 months), and home made jam and marmalade. I was given a jar of the delicious rhubarb jam to bring home, but unfortunately left it in the Tokorozawa dojo during my 5:30am dash to pack and get the 6am bus to the airport. I hope Ukai is enjoying it!</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Mr-Mrs-Kanda.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Mr-Mrs-Kanda_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> Justin with Mr&Mrs Kanda</p> <p>That afternoon, I attended my last Kodaira kids class…..<br> <a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/LstKodKids.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/LstKodKids_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a></p> <p>….. and finally my last class in Japan for this visit. I forgot to get a group photo after class, so took some of the post training tea party.</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/LstKodClass-1.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/LstKodClass-1_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a></p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/LstKodClass-2.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/LstKodClass-2_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a></p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/LstKodClass-3.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/LstKodClass-3_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a></p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/LstKodClass-4.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/LstKodClass-4_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> I finally said goodbye to Kodaira dojo,….. for this visit at least….</p> <p> <small> <a href="http://justinjapan.blog.co.uk/2005/12/27/title~419963/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>My last day:
My last Tuesday night was to be my farewell party, but unfortunately a migraine struck, before my last class (but after we’d finished cleaning curiously), and I spent the whole evening sleeping upstairs on the third floor of the Dojo. So no party, but worse still, I was unable to say goodbye to a number of my friends . Luckily the migraine was not too powerful, and no vomiting (great!), so I was able to get up at 5:30 for morning practice on my last day.


Last Morning Practice


Kasahara and Justin in Thumb war


Justin and Uchino San


Justin and Obayashi San

After Morning practice we went to Kodaira Dojo for Suizen kai and the Suizen Kai bonen kai.

With a couple of hours then free in the afternoon, Ukai and I went back to Kanda Sensei’s house, where they showed my pictures of their visits to England and Wales, including Windsor (just down the road from my last house in Maidenhead) and Chepstow (near my parents house, and where my sister in law runs her hairdressers). It is a small world. We were also kindly fed with some fantastic home grown fruit (from Mrs Kandas farm), European style brown bread (my first taste in 3 months), and home made jam and marmalade. I was given a jar of the delicious rhubarb jam to bring home, but unfortunately left it in the Tokorozawa dojo during my 5:30am dash to pack and get the 6am bus to the airport. I hope Ukai is enjoying it!


Justin with Mr&Mrs Kanda

That afternoon, I attended my last Kodaira kids class…..

….. and finally my last class in Japan for this visit. I forgot to get a group photo after class, so took some of the post training tea party.


I finally said goodbye to Kodaira dojo,….. for this visit at least….

Comments

]]>Gloves on wallhttp://justinjapan.blog.co.uk/2005/12/27/gloves_on_wall~419925/2005-12-27T17:58:54+01:00 <p>During my final days, I saw this, which exemplified Japan for me. Someone has found a lost glove and not ignored it, binned it, kicked it around, nicked it, or even placed it on a nearby wall, but placed it in a plastic bag to protect it, and tied it in a highly visible position at the side of the street, should it’s owner come looking for it.</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Glove-1.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Glove-1_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a></p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Glove-2.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Glove-2_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a> </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://justinjapan.blog.co.uk/2005/12/27/gloves_on_wall~419925/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>During my final days, I saw this, which exemplified Japan for me. Someone has found a lost glove and not ignored it, binned it, kicked it around, nicked it, or even placed it on a nearby wall, but placed it in a plastic bag to protect it, and tied it in a highly visible position at the side of the street, should it’s owner come looking for it.

Comments

]]>Last language classhttp://justinjapan.blog.co.uk/2005/12/27/last_language_class~419920/2005-12-27T17:57:23+01:00 <p>I took Japanese lessons once a week during my stay in Japan. These were in Higashi Murayama at a class with volunteer teaching staff. We had one on one tutoring for two hours, with a 20 min break for tea, biscuits and sometimes Japanese cultural activities. All for 300 yen a month!!<br> The picture below is my last class, with Suzuki san (my teacher) to my left, and fellow Englanders Sonya (to my right), Jaynie (standing) and Will (at back).</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Lang-1.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Lang-1_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> Goodbye Justin </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://justinjapan.blog.co.uk/2005/12/27/last_language_class~419920/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>I took Japanese lessons once a week during my stay in Japan. These were in Higashi Murayama at a class with volunteer teaching staff. We had one on one tutoring for two hours, with a 20 min break for tea, biscuits and sometimes Japanese cultural activities. All for 300 yen a month!!
The picture below is my last class, with Suzuki san (my teacher) to my left, and fellow Englanders Sonya (to my right), Jaynie (standing) and Will (at back).


Goodbye Justin

Comments

]]>Itabashi return on the trainhttp://justinjapan.blog.co.uk/2005/12/27/itabashi_return_on_the_train~419915/2005-12-27T17:55:51+01:00 <p>On my last Monday, I visited Itabashi Dojo and went for Dinner with Ed Yoshioka, Kasahara and Takako. Here are a few photos from the train ride back.</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Itaba-1.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Itaba-1_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> This is obviously a very common injury in Japan</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Itaba-2.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Itaba-2_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> Kasahara demonstrating just how dangerous train travel can be</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Itaba-4.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Itaba-4_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> A crowded Tokyo train home</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Itaba-5.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Itaba-5_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> Nice chocolate lollies</p> <p> <small> <a href="http://justinjapan.blog.co.uk/2005/12/27/itabashi_return_on_the_train~419915/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>On my last Monday, I visited Itabashi Dojo and went for Dinner with Ed Yoshioka, Kasahara and Takako. Here are a few photos from the train ride back.


This is obviously a very common injury in Japan


Kasahara demonstrating just how dangerous train travel can be


A crowded Tokyo train home


Nice chocolate lollies

Comments

]]>title-419903http://justinjapan.blog.co.uk/2005/12/27/title~419903/2005-12-27T17:51:40+01:00 <p>Soka bonen kai<br> On my last Sunday, I went to Soka Dojo (one of Masuda Senseis dojos) with Kobayashi Sensei for a seminar and Bonen kai (New year party). All the dojos like to hold a Bonen kai, with a seminar by Kobayashi Sensei, so they have to start early in December in order to fit them all in.<br> This was the first time I’d accompanied Kobayashi Sensei to a dojo by myself, with the full responsibilities of ‘bag carrier’. Normally Kasahara would accompany, and do the bulk of the work with me just assisting him as required, or there would be a multitude of bowed head University Students on hand, getting shouted at (educated?) endlessly while I just looked on. This time it was all on my shoulders…<br> The trip by train to Soka was fairly smooth, but once we reached the dojo I was rushing around like a blue arsed fly, trying to make sure that Kobayashi sensei had everything he needed; shoes bagged up, a towel for the restroom, his Gi, belt and hakama ready, folding his clothes away and taking his bag to the dojo, then realising that I wasn’t changed myself and trying to work out how to get changed in the next 5 seconds, and where I could otherwise have fitted in my change previously?! During the practice, there was nowhere obvious to rest Senseis towel, so I left it at the edge of the mat and would retrieve it between techniques just in case he needed it. Then at the end of class, the reverse procedure, accompanying Sensei to help him get changed, and once he was ready to leave and go to the restaurant, doing the fastest change I’ve ever done myself then dashing down the corridor to catch him up with his shoes.<br> It was quite good fun really, and I kept thinking of Kobayshi Sensei description of his own experiences as a junior Uchideshi for O’ Sensei. So many things to do and remember, and no way to do them all simultaneously!</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Soka-1.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Soka-1_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> Masuda Sensei on the receiving end of a surprise attack</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Soka-2.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Soka-2_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> Soka Dojo Members Bonen Kai</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Soka-3.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Soka-3_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> More Soka Dojo Members at Bonen Kai</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Soka-4.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Soka-4_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> Even More Soka Dojo Members at Bonen Kai</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Soka-5.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Soka-5_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> Soka Dojo Bonen Kai</p> <p> <small> <a href="http://justinjapan.blog.co.uk/2005/12/27/title~419903/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>Soka bonen kai
On my last Sunday, I went to Soka Dojo (one of Masuda Senseis dojos) with Kobayashi Sensei for a seminar and Bonen kai (New year party). All the dojos like to hold a Bonen kai, with a seminar by Kobayashi Sensei, so they have to start early in December in order to fit them all in.
This was the first time I’d accompanied Kobayashi Sensei to a dojo by myself, with the full responsibilities of ‘bag carrier’. Normally Kasahara would accompany, and do the bulk of the work with me just assisting him as required, or there would be a multitude of bowed head University Students on hand, getting shouted at (educated?) endlessly while I just looked on. This time it was all on my shoulders…
The trip by train to Soka was fairly smooth, but once we reached the dojo I was rushing around like a blue arsed fly, trying to make sure that Kobayashi sensei had everything he needed; shoes bagged up, a towel for the restroom, his Gi, belt and hakama ready, folding his clothes away and taking his bag to the dojo, then realising that I wasn’t changed myself and trying to work out how to get changed in the next 5 seconds, and where I could otherwise have fitted in my change previously?! During the practice, there was nowhere obvious to rest Senseis towel, so I left it at the edge of the mat and would retrieve it between techniques just in case he needed it. Then at the end of class, the reverse procedure, accompanying Sensei to help him get changed, and once he was ready to leave and go to the restaurant, doing the fastest change I’ve ever done myself then dashing down the corridor to catch him up with his shoes.
It was quite good fun really, and I kept thinking of Kobayshi Sensei description of his own experiences as a junior Uchideshi for O’ Sensei. So many things to do and remember, and no way to do them all simultaneously!


Masuda Sensei on the receiving end of a surprise attack


Soka Dojo Members Bonen Kai


More Soka Dojo Members at Bonen Kai


Even More Soka Dojo Members at Bonen Kai


Soka Dojo Bonen Kai

Comments

]]>Kodaira dojo - The offending treehttp://justinjapan.blog.co.uk/2005/12/27/kodaira_dojo_the_offending_tree~419887/2005-12-27T17:47:35+01:00 <p>Both the Kodaira and Tokorozawa Dojos are on streets largely free of trees apart from the ones outside the dojos. Sweeping up the leaves is a practically endless task on a windy autumn day. Jeff, this photo is a small reminder for the two of us…..</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/KodairaTree.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/KodairaTree_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a> </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://justinjapan.blog.co.uk/2005/12/27/kodaira_dojo_the_offending_tree~419887/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>Both the Kodaira and Tokorozawa Dojos are on streets largely free of trees apart from the ones outside the dojos. Sweeping up the leaves is a practically endless task on a windy autumn day. Jeff, this photo is a small reminder for the two of us…..

Comments

]]>Saturday language school demohttp://justinjapan.blog.co.uk/2005/12/27/saturday_language_school_demo~419879/2005-12-27T17:45:24+01:00 <p>On my last Saturday, I went with Hafid and Takako to Shin Tokorozawa (15 mins walk) to do an Aikido demonstration for Hafids Japanese language class New Year Party. There were other people from the group doing demonstrations of Tai Chi, Iado, Kendo and Hawaiian dancing.</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/LngSklDem1.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/LngSklDem1_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> Justin and Hafid</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/LngSklDem2.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/LngSklDem2_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> Hafid and Takako</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/LngSklDem3.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/LngSklDem3_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> Tai Chi </p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/LngSklDem4.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/LngSklDem4_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> Iado </p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/LngSklDem5.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/LngSklDem5_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> Kendo</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/LngSklDem6.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/LngSklDem6_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> Aikido </p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/LngSklDem7.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/LngSklDem7_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> Hawaiian Dancing…. Who’s that at the back?</p> <p> <small> <a href="http://justinjapan.blog.co.uk/2005/12/27/saturday_language_school_demo~419879/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>On my last Saturday, I went with Hafid and Takako to Shin Tokorozawa (15 mins walk) to do an Aikido demonstration for Hafids Japanese language class New Year Party. There were other people from the group doing demonstrations of Tai Chi, Iado, Kendo and Hawaiian dancing.


Justin and Hafid


Hafid and Takako


Tai Chi


Iado


Kendo


Aikido


Hawaiian Dancing…. Who’s that at the back?

Comments

]]>My Last Saturday Morninghttp://justinjapan.blog.co.uk/2005/12/27/my_last_saturday_morning~419859/2005-12-27T17:40:29+01:00 <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/LSM.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/LSM_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> My last Saturday morning class</p> <p> <small> <a href="http://justinjapan.blog.co.uk/2005/12/27/my_last_saturday_morning~419859/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>
My last Saturday morning class

Comments

]]>My last Friday morning practice & breakfasthttp://justinjapan.blog.co.uk/2005/12/27/my_last_friday_morning_practice_aamp_bre~419856/2005-12-27T17:39:02+01:00 <p>Friday morning is the time when the Kobayashi Dojo instructors have their weekly meeting. The Uchideshi’s privilege is to make breakfast for all the Sensei’s after the morning practice. There is a budget of 500 yen per person, and normally 10 to 12 people. Morning practice finishes at 7:30 and breakfast should be ready by 8:30. The rule is that the Sensei’s are not allowed to complain, whatever you provide them with, though it’s obviously in our interest not to offend them!! For our first breakfast we (Shin and I) were requested to provide ‘salad and toast’. A fairly idiot proof meal that I suspect was a test of our abilities. Over the weeks, with Sasha, Ukai and Geoff, we expanded to include sausages, cold meats and a selection of tofu, eggy and fishy based delights.<br> I think the crowning sensation was the marmite that I’d brought with me from England as a gift for Hiroaki Sensei. The first person to try it was Koyunage Sensei, who spread it on his toast as thickly as chocolate spread! Judging from the look on his face it was not to his liking, but it provided a bit of amusement, and we managed to catch an unsuspecting visitor with it almost every week after that. </p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/LFP-1.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/LFP-1_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> Last Friday practice</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/LFP-2.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/LFP-2_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> Justin with Kobayashi Sensei after last Friday practice</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/LFP-3.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/LFP-3_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> Last Sensei’s Breakfast </p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/LFP-4.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/LFP-4_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> Justin and Ukai washing up</p> <p> <small> <a href="http://justinjapan.blog.co.uk/2005/12/27/my_last_friday_morning_practice_aamp_bre~419856/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>Friday morning is the time when the Kobayashi Dojo instructors have their weekly meeting. The Uchideshi’s privilege is to make breakfast for all the Sensei’s after the morning practice. There is a budget of 500 yen per person, and normally 10 to 12 people. Morning practice finishes at 7:30 and breakfast should be ready by 8:30. The rule is that the Sensei’s are not allowed to complain, whatever you provide them with, though it’s obviously in our interest not to offend them!! For our first breakfast we (Shin and I) were requested to provide ‘salad and toast’. A fairly idiot proof meal that I suspect was a test of our abilities. Over the weeks, with Sasha, Ukai and Geoff, we expanded to include sausages, cold meats and a selection of tofu, eggy and fishy based delights.
I think the crowning sensation was the marmite that I’d brought with me from England as a gift for Hiroaki Sensei. The first person to try it was Koyunage Sensei, who spread it on his toast as thickly as chocolate spread! Judging from the look on his face it was not to his liking, but it provided a bit of amusement, and we managed to catch an unsuspecting visitor with it almost every week after that.


Last Friday practice


Justin with Kobayashi Sensei after last Friday practice


Last Sensei’s Breakfast


Justin and Ukai washing up

Comments

]]>My Kurobe Visithttp://justinjapan.blog.co.uk/2005/12/27/title~419789/2005-12-27T17:16:11+01:00 <p>During my three months as an Uchideshi in Kobayashi Dojos, I left Tokorozawa to spend four days in Kurobe with Hirobe Sensei. In the week before leaving, every time Kurobe was mentioned, Kobayashi Sensei would shiver, shake his head and say ‘Kurobe,…very cold, very cold’…. so I took all my warm clothes with me.</p> <p>Kurobe is near Toyama, between the sea and the beautiful mountain scenery of Tateyama. Hirobe Sensei teaches at three dojos; in Kurobe, and nearby Ouzo and Nyuzen. Hirobe Sensei is the chief Buddhist priest of a Temple, and I lived with Hirobe Sensei and his family in their house next to the temple. </p> <p>Temple<br> <a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Kurobe-30_01.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Kurobe-30_01_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> Kurobe Buddhist Temple</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Kurobe-31_01.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Kurobe-31_01_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> The Temple Bell</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Kurobe-32_01.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Kurobe-32_01_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> The Temple Grounds… Imagine sweeping up those leaves</p> <p>My Accomodation<br> <a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Kurobe-20_01.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Kurobe-20_01_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> My room in the Kurobe Temple</p> <p>Every morning at 7am I went to the temple for morning service. Hirobe Sensei was very busy during the time I was staying with him and I asked his students if he was always this busy. They said ‘No, but dead people don’t make appointments!’</p> <p>Aikido practices are in the evenings at the Kurobe Dojos, so Hirobe Sensei, his family and the Dojo members went to great efforts to keep me entertained during the rest of my visit, with trips to areas of local interest and some traditional Japanese cultural experiences.</p> <p>On my first day we visited the local aquarium where there were many examples of local marine life. As we walked around, Hirobe Sensei’s wife and Chikako (a Dojo member) pointed at the various fish saying ‘this one boiled,… delicious’ and ‘this one fried with salt,… delicious’. I began to wonder if we were in an aquarium or a supermarket.</p> <p>Aquarium<br> <a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Kurobe-1_02.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Kurobe-1_02_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> Justin ‘In’ The Aquarium</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Kurobe-2_01.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Kurobe-2_01_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> Mrs Hirobe (right) and Chikako ‘In’ The Aquarium</p> <p>I also visited a deep sea marine research centre and a beautiful area of fossilised woodland, preserved in the earth for the last 4000 years (maybe longer,.. my memory escapes me) and recently excavated. </p> <p>One morning I went exploring and took a 3 hour walk with my camera. Kurobe is on the flats between the mountains and the sea, so the sky looks very ‘broad.’ The mountains are not far, which made for some fantastic views as the sun burst through, pushing the clouds away from the mountain tops. </p> <p>Friday morning walking & scenery</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Kurobe-23_01.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Kurobe-23_01_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> An Eagle (I think)</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Kurobe-24_01.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Kurobe-24_01_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a></p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Kurobe-25_01.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Kurobe-25_01_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a></p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Kurobe-26_01.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Kurobe-26_01_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a></p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Kurobe-27_01.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Kurobe-27_01_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a></p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Kurobe-28_01.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Kurobe-28_01_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a></p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Kurobe-29_01.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Kurobe-29_01_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a></p> <p>Views from Kurobe across to Tateyama</p> <p>My experience of traditional Japanese cultural activities included the practice of some shodo (Japanese calligraphy). Hirobe Sensei wrote the Aikido Kanji and I spent the best part of the morning trying to copy it, with the help of Mrs Hirobe and her daughter. It’s very satisfying when you do a good brush stroke, but the whole ‘aikido’ was probably a bit ambitious for what was practically my first attempt. Mrs Hirobe said she thought I had a Japanese heart, to which I responded ‘and an English hand’.</p> <p>Shodo</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Kurobe-14_01.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Kurobe-14_01_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> My Aikido Shodo</p> <p>Mrs Hirobe arranged for myself and a small group of the Dojo members to visit a Japanese tea (Sado) ceremony, which was very enjoyable. Our ‘hosts’ were very informative and had a good sense of humour. They explained the ceremony and procedures and we followed to the best of our abilities. There are quite a lot of formalities to remember (forget?), and we managed most of them, though perhaps not always in quite the right order. We were told that there are five main schools of tea ceremony, with many off-shoots, so if I’m ever in the position of having to remember the rituals at a tea ceremony and get it wrong, I will insist that I was schooled in a different system.</p> <p>Tea ceremony </p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Kurobe-19_01.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Kurobe-19_01_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> Tea Preparation</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Kurobe-18_01.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Kurobe-18_01_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> Passing the biscuits </p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Kurobe-17_01.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Kurobe-17_01_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> Slurp slurp</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Kurobe-16_01.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Kurobe-16_01_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> The Tea Group</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Kurobe-15_01.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Kurobe-15_01_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> The amazing gardens behind the tea room</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Kurobe-11_01.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Kurobe-11_01_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> My flowery gifts.</p> <p>I had excellent Aikido practices in both the Kurobe and Nyuzen Dojos. We practiced some variations and I trained with Hirobe Sensei some of the time, which was great. The Dojo members were extremely welcoming and enjoyable to train with. After training each day, we went to a restaurant for a party, and on the Saturday this was followed by a second party back at Hirobe Sensei’s house, where we stayed up until about 2am watching Aikido DVD’s. </p> <p>Friday practice & Patti<br> <a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Kurobe-3_01.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Kurobe-3_01_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> Front row, Justin,Tamba, Chikako. Back row, Asakura, Kato, Yukari, Hirobe Sensei</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Kurobe-4_01.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Kurobe-4_01_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> After practice party</p> <p>Saturday practice & Patti<br> <a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Kurobe-6_01.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Kurobe-6_01_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> Front row: Kowakami Sensei, Nosaka, Justin, Hirobe Sensei, Ikeda. Back row: Ayako, Asakura, Hitoshi, Chikako.</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Kurobe-7_01.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Kurobe-7_01_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> After practice party</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Kurobe-8_01.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Kurobe-8_01_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> After practice party</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Kurobe-9_01.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Kurobe-9_01_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> Asakura is a funny guy</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Kurobe-10_01.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Kurobe-10_01_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> The After, after party, party</p> <p>An unexpected surprise was the interest that a local cable TV company had taken in ‘the foreign Aikido Uchideshi, come to stay in the Kurobe temple’. They came to film and interview at my first aikido practice in Kurobe, and returned to film at the Sunday morning ceremony in the temple, and also at a traditional Japanese tea ceremony.</p> <p>Although I was only in Kurobe for 4 days, I feel like I made some very good friends in Hirobe sensei, his family and the Dojo members, particularly Ayako and Chikako who were my star translators, and Hitoshi, who also accompanied us to the tea ceremony. I very much hope to see them all again next time I visit Japan. </p> <p>Goodbye<br> <a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Kurobe-12_01.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Kurobe-12_01_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> Justin with Ayako & Chikako. New friends and star translators.</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Kurobe-13_01.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Kurobe-13_01_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> Justin with Hirobe Sensei, Mrs Hirobe and Ryo. Their son Shotaro had already left for the library. </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://justinjapan.blog.co.uk/2005/12/27/title~419789/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>During my three months as an Uchideshi in Kobayashi Dojos, I left Tokorozawa to spend four days in Kurobe with Hirobe Sensei. In the week before leaving, every time Kurobe was mentioned, Kobayashi Sensei would shiver, shake his head and say ‘Kurobe,…very cold, very cold’…. so I took all my warm clothes with me.

Kurobe is near Toyama, between the sea and the beautiful mountain scenery of Tateyama. Hirobe Sensei teaches at three dojos; in Kurobe, and nearby Ouzo and Nyuzen. Hirobe Sensei is the chief Buddhist priest of a Temple, and I lived with Hirobe Sensei and his family in their house next to the temple.

Temple

Kurobe Buddhist Temple


The Temple Bell


The Temple Grounds… Imagine sweeping up those leaves

My Accomodation

My room in the Kurobe Temple

Every morning at 7am I went to the temple for morning service. Hirobe Sensei was very busy during the time I was staying with him and I asked his students if he was always this busy. They said ‘No, but dead people don’t make appointments!’

Aikido practices are in the evenings at the Kurobe Dojos, so Hirobe Sensei, his family and the Dojo members went to great efforts to keep me entertained during the rest of my visit, with trips to areas of local interest and some traditional Japanese cultural experiences.

On my first day we visited the local aquarium where there were many examples of local marine life. As we walked around, Hirobe Sensei’s wife and Chikako (a Dojo member) pointed at the various fish saying ‘this one boiled,… delicious’ and ‘this one fried with salt,… delicious’. I began to wonder if we were in an aquarium or a supermarket.

Aquarium

Justin ‘In’ The Aquarium


Mrs Hirobe (right) and Chikako ‘In’ The Aquarium

I also visited a deep sea marine research centre and a beautiful area of fossilised woodland, preserved in the earth for the last 4000 years (maybe longer,.. my memory escapes me) and recently excavated.

One morning I went exploring and took a 3 hour walk with my camera. Kurobe is on the flats between the mountains and the sea, so the sky looks very ‘broad.’ The mountains are not far, which made for some fantastic views as the sun burst through, pushing the clouds away from the mountain tops.

Friday morning walking & scenery


An Eagle (I think)

Views from Kurobe across to Tateyama

My experience of traditional Japanese cultural activities included the practice of some shodo (Japanese calligraphy). Hirobe Sensei wrote the Aikido Kanji and I spent the best part of the morning trying to copy it, with the help of Mrs Hirobe and her daughter. It’s very satisfying when you do a good brush stroke, but the whole ‘aikido’ was probably a bit ambitious for what was practically my first attempt. Mrs Hirobe said she thought I had a Japanese heart, to which I responded ‘and an English hand’.

Shodo


My Aikido Shodo

Mrs Hirobe arranged for myself and a small group of the Dojo members to visit a Japanese tea (Sado) ceremony, which was very enjoyable. Our ‘hosts’ were very informative and had a good sense of humour. They explained the ceremony and procedures and we followed to the best of our abilities. There are quite a lot of formalities to remember (forget?), and we managed most of them, though perhaps not always in quite the right order. We were told that there are five main schools of tea ceremony, with many off-shoots, so if I’m ever in the position of having to remember the rituals at a tea ceremony and get it wrong, I will insist that I was schooled in a different system.

Tea ceremony


Tea Preparation


Passing the biscuits


Slurp slurp


The Tea Group


The amazing gardens behind the tea room


My flowery gifts.

I had excellent Aikido practices in both the Kurobe and Nyuzen Dojos. We practiced some variations and I trained with Hirobe Sensei some of the time, which was great. The Dojo members were extremely welcoming and enjoyable to train with. After training each day, we went to a restaurant for a party, and on the Saturday this was followed by a second party back at Hirobe Sensei’s house, where we stayed up until about 2am watching Aikido DVD’s.

Friday practice & Patti

Front row, Justin,Tamba, Chikako. Back row, Asakura, Kato, Yukari, Hirobe Sensei


After practice party

Saturday practice & Patti

Front row: Kowakami Sensei, Nosaka, Justin, Hirobe Sensei, Ikeda. Back row: Ayako, Asakura, Hitoshi, Chikako.


After practice party


After practice party


Asakura is a funny guy


The After, after party, party

An unexpected surprise was the interest that a local cable TV company had taken in ‘the foreign Aikido Uchideshi, come to stay in the Kurobe temple’. They came to film and interview at my first aikido practice in Kurobe, and returned to film at the Sunday morning ceremony in the temple, and also at a traditional Japanese tea ceremony.

Although I was only in Kurobe for 4 days, I feel like I made some very good friends in Hirobe sensei, his family and the Dojo members, particularly Ayako and Chikako who were my star translators, and Hitoshi, who also accompanied us to the tea ceremony. I very much hope to see them all again next time I visit Japan.

Goodbye

Justin with Ayako & Chikako. New friends and star translators.


Justin with Hirobe Sensei, Mrs Hirobe and Ryo. Their son Shotaro had already left for the library.

Comments

]]>title-419701http://justinjapan.blog.co.uk/2005/12/27/title~419701/2005-12-27T16:43:47+01:00 <p>Plastic Food<br> A lot of the restaurants in Japan provide menus complete with pictures, so that ordering is mostly a case of pointing to one of these and two of those. If you’re really lucky, you can also find these delicious looking plastic examples in the front window.</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Plasticfood-1.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Plasticfood-1_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> Plastic food collection</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Plasticfood-2.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Plasticfood-2_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> Plastic food close up. Is it a doughnut being sick? </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://justinjapan.blog.co.uk/2005/12/27/title~419701/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>Plastic Food
A lot of the restaurants in Japan provide menus complete with pictures, so that ordering is mostly a case of pointing to one of these and two of those. If you’re really lucky, you can also find these delicious looking plastic examples in the front window.


Plastic food collection


Plastic food close up. Is it a doughnut being sick?

Comments

]]>Shinjuku cityhttp://justinjapan.blog.co.uk/2005/12/27/shinjuku_city~419692/2005-12-27T16:40:00+01:00 <p>Wednesday was a bank holiday, so I met up with Ed Yoshioka in Shinjuku for some lunch. We went up one of the city government buildings, from which you get a good view out over Tokyo. The building itself has a ‘hollow core’ and feels a bit like the death star or something from the matrix once you’re inside</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/SJC1.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/SJC1_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> Looking up</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/SJC2.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/SJC2_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> Looking across on the umpteenth floor</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/SJC3.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/SJC3_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> Looking out across Shinjuku and Tokyo </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://justinjapan.blog.co.uk/2005/12/27/shinjuku_city~419692/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>Wednesday was a bank holiday, so I met up with Ed Yoshioka in Shinjuku for some lunch. We went up one of the city government buildings, from which you get a good view out over Tokyo. The building itself has a ‘hollow core’ and feels a bit like the death star or something from the matrix once you’re inside


Looking up


Looking across on the umpteenth floor


Looking out across Shinjuku and Tokyo

Comments

]]>Closing Stages Updatehttp://justinjapan.blog.co.uk/2005/11/23/closing_stages_update~330744/2005-11-23T10:47:28+01:00 <p>So, below I've added some of my activities over the last few weeks. Time flies when you're having fun, I can't believe I only have another couple of weeks.</p> <p>Tonight I will take the overnight bus to Kurobe, in the mountains on the North coast of Japan. I will stay there for a few days and practise at some different dojos. The Sensei at Kurobe is Chief Monk at a Buddhist Temple and I will be staying in the Temple while I'm there, which will be interesting!!</p> <p>There is some beautiful scenery up there (check out Kurobe and Toyama on the net), and it will be cold! But apart from that I have no idea what the trip holds for me,.. or if any of the people I'm staying with speak any English,.. So it will be an experience.....<br> More to follow next week ... </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://justinjapan.blog.co.uk/2005/11/23/closing_stages_update~330744/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>So, below I've added some of my activities over the last few weeks. Time flies when you're having fun, I can't believe I only have another couple of weeks.

Tonight I will take the overnight bus to Kurobe, in the mountains on the North coast of Japan. I will stay there for a few days and practise at some different dojos. The Sensei at Kurobe is Chief Monk at a Buddhist Temple and I will be staying in the Temple while I'm there, which will be interesting!!

There is some beautiful scenery up there (check out Kurobe and Toyama on the net), and it will be cold! But apart from that I have no idea what the trip holds for me,.. or if any of the people I'm staying with speak any English,.. So it will be an experience.....
More to follow next week ...

Comments

]]>Engrishhttp://justinjapan.blog.co.uk/2005/11/23/engrish~330697/2005-11-23T10:21:30+01:00 <p>A small section just for those amusingly named foodstuffs etc…</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Funny-food.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Funny-food_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a></p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Funny-food-2.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Funny-food-2_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a></p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Funny-stuff.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Funny-stuff_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a></p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Funny-stuff-2.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Funny-stuff-2_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> It’s official!! The Police, Whitesnake and Bon Jovi are in the AOR section!!</p> <p> <small> <a href="http://justinjapan.blog.co.uk/2005/11/23/engrish~330697/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>A small section just for those amusingly named foodstuffs etc…


It’s official!! The Police, Whitesnake and Bon Jovi are in the AOR section!!

Comments

]]>Jazzhttp://justinjapan.blog.co.uk/2005/11/23/jazz~330685/2005-11-23T10:16:45+01:00 <p>After the Hombu Gradings and after party, we went on to the after after party at a Whisky bar in Tokorozawa to see Ken play Jazz percussion, with another American guy playing a traditional Japanese wind instrument.</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Jazz-1.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Jazz-1_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> That’s Jazz....... Nice!</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Jazz-2.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Jazz-2_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> The tools of Kens trade… Great!</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Jazz-3.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Jazz-3_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> Tokorozawa Dojo residents club. Hiroaki Sensei rear, Jeff, Ukai & Justin centre, Kasaharah at front</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Jazz-4.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Jazz-4_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> Uchi deshis in full effect!!</p> <p> <small> <a href="http://justinjapan.blog.co.uk/2005/11/23/jazz~330685/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>After the Hombu Gradings and after party, we went on to the after after party at a Whisky bar in Tokorozawa to see Ken play Jazz percussion, with another American guy playing a traditional Japanese wind instrument.


That’s Jazz....... Nice!


The tools of Kens trade… Great!


Tokorozawa Dojo residents club. Hiroaki Sensei rear, Jeff, Ukai & Justin centre, Kasaharah at front


Uchi deshis in full effect!!

Comments

]]>Hombu Dojo Gradingshttp://justinjapan.blog.co.uk/2005/11/23/hombu_dojo_gradings~330673/2005-11-23T10:10:57+01:00 <p>On Sunday 20th November, Kobayashi dojos held gradings at the Hombu dojo in Shinjuku. Justin & Jeff both took tests.</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Hombu-1.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Hombu-1_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a></p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Hombu-2.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Hombu-2_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> Post graduation exhiliration for Justin & Jeff, in the 3rd floor dojo.</p> <p> <small> <a href="http://justinjapan.blog.co.uk/2005/11/23/hombu_dojo_gradings~330673/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>On Sunday 20th November, Kobayashi dojos held gradings at the Hombu dojo in Shinjuku. Justin & Jeff both took tests.


Post graduation exhiliration for Justin & Jeff, in the 3rd floor dojo.

Comments

]]>Fuchu Dojo - Road Trip and Mealhttp://justinjapan.blog.co.uk/2005/11/23/fuchu_dojo_road_trip_and_meal~330671/2005-11-23T10:08:02+01:00 <p>On Saturday evening (19th November), Jeff, myself and visiting New Yorker (aikidoka and Jazz percussionist) Ken Yamizake visited Fuchu dojo, about an hour away, with Hiroaki Sensei. We went for food after practice with some of the dojo members.</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Fuche-meal.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Fuche-meal_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> Meal with fuchu dojo members</p> <p> <small> <a href="http://justinjapan.blog.co.uk/2005/11/23/fuchu_dojo_road_trip_and_meal~330671/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>On Saturday evening (19th November), Jeff, myself and visiting New Yorker (aikidoka and Jazz percussionist) Ken Yamizake visited Fuchu dojo, about an hour away, with Hiroaki Sensei. We went for food after practice with some of the dojo members.


Meal with fuchu dojo members

Comments

]]>Road Tripping – Jeff & Justins big day outhttp://justinjapan.blog.co.uk/2005/11/23/road_tripping_jeff_aamp_justins_big_day_~330663/2005-11-23T10:05:49+01:00 <p>On the 13th Nov we accompanied Kobayashi Sensei and Kasahara to some dojos on the edge of Tokyo. The second practice was followed by some parties,.. starting at a sushi restaurant…… </p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/RT1.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/RT1_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> Kasahara, which tastes best? Sake, Schochu, Red Wine or Beer?</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/RT2.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/RT2_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> I don’t drink alchohol</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/RT3.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/RT3_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> Party People</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/RT4.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/RT4_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> No, really,.. I don’t drink alchohol!!</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/RT6.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/RT6_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> OK,… When in Japan, do as the Romans do… Just a little sake.</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/RT7.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/RT7_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> Jeff, you feel any different?</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/RT8.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/RT8_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> Kasaharah mouse??</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/RT9.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/RT9_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> Time to grab a few second rest in the lift…</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/RT12.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/RT12_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> Second party</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/RT14.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/RT14_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> Late night Shinjuku: Why God Why?!!?… Damn all Youse!!!</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/RT16.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/RT16_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> More new friends on the night train..</p> <p> <small> <a href="http://justinjapan.blog.co.uk/2005/11/23/road_tripping_jeff_aamp_justins_big_day_~330663/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>On the 13th Nov we accompanied Kobayashi Sensei and Kasahara to some dojos on the edge of Tokyo. The second practice was followed by some parties,.. starting at a sushi restaurant……


Kasahara, which tastes best? Sake, Schochu, Red Wine or Beer?


I don’t drink alchohol


Party People


No, really,.. I don’t drink alchohol!!


OK,… When in Japan, do as the Romans do… Just a little sake.


Jeff, you feel any different?


Kasaharah mouse??


Time to grab a few second rest in the lift…


Second party


Late night Shinjuku: Why God Why?!!?… Damn all Youse!!!


More new friends on the night train..

Comments

]]>Sleep!!!http://justinjapan.blog.co.uk/2005/11/23/sleep~330633/2005-11-23T09:51:45+01:00 <p>Sleep and/or lack of it seems to be core to the Japanese way of life…..</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Slep1.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Slep1_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> Uchi deshis mid afternoon on a long day!</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Slep2.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Slep2_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> Ukai taking the opportunity to help combat his cold..</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Dribbling-Sleeper.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Dribbling-Sleeper_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> I am particularly pleased with this photo, taken on a packed Saturday morning train. A perfect example of the nodding dog, with the added bonus of some lip dribble,.. not seen so often,... less often photographed.. </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://justinjapan.blog.co.uk/2005/11/23/sleep~330633/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>Sleep and/or lack of it seems to be core to the Japanese way of life…..


Uchi deshis mid afternoon on a long day!


Ukai taking the opportunity to help combat his cold..


I am particularly pleased with this photo, taken on a packed Saturday morning train. A perfect example of the nodding dog, with the added bonus of some lip dribble,.. not seen so often,... less often photographed..

Comments

]]>Jeffs visit in brief:http://justinjapan.blog.co.uk/2005/11/23/jeffs_visit_in_brief~330616/2005-11-23T09:47:23+01:00 <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Jef-Tired.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Jef-Tired_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> Welcome Jeff, how’s the jetlag?</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Jeff-in-Pain.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Jeff-in-Pain_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> Jeff, how are you coping with the Suwari waza, Kodaira dojo mats and new and interesting muscle strains??</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Jef-Sleep.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Jef-Sleep_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> A week in Jeff, how’s the jetlag? Or has it just merged with the general sleep depravation? Jeff,…. JEFF??</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Jef-byebye.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Jef-byebye_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> Looking forward to a hot bath in a hotel prior to the return flight??</p> <p> <small> <a href="http://justinjapan.blog.co.uk/2005/11/23/jeffs_visit_in_brief~330616/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>
Welcome Jeff, how’s the jetlag?


Jeff, how are you coping with the Suwari waza, Kodaira dojo mats and new and interesting muscle strains??


A week in Jeff, how’s the jetlag? Or has it just merged with the general sleep depravation? Jeff,…. JEFF??


Looking forward to a hot bath in a hotel prior to the return flight??

Comments

]]>Jeff arrives and Swedes visit Tokorozawahttp://justinjapan.blog.co.uk/2005/11/23/jeff_arrives_and_swedes_visit_tokorozawa~330600/2005-11-23T09:41:45+01:00 <p>Jeff Mills from ‘Igris no Bristol’ (doko desu ka?) arrived on the 7th for 2 weeks, and the Swedish ex-uchideshis, Mikael & Stefan, came to practice on the 8th, so there was an after practice party at the Isekaya down the road:</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Jef2.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Jef2_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> ‘The Party’</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Jef3.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Jef3_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> Jeff centre stage and Stefan on the left</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Jef4.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Jef4_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> Mikael on the right, with Obayashi San.... rabbit in headlights?</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Jef5.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Jef5_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> Justin & Ukai.... lavvit in headlights?</p> <p> <small> <a href="http://justinjapan.blog.co.uk/2005/11/23/jeff_arrives_and_swedes_visit_tokorozawa~330600/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>Jeff Mills from ‘Igris no Bristol’ (doko desu ka?) arrived on the 7th for 2 weeks, and the Swedish ex-uchideshis, Mikael & Stefan, came to practice on the 8th, so there was an after practice party at the Isekaya down the road:


‘The Party’


Jeff centre stage and Stefan on the left


Mikael on the right, with Obayashi San.... rabbit in headlights?


Justin & Ukai.... lavvit in headlights?

Comments

]]>Mushashi Murayama - Grand Day Outhttp://justinjapan.blog.co.uk/2005/11/23/mushashi_murayama_grand_day_out~330322/2005-11-23T02:56:45+01:00 <p>On the 6th November, Ukai and I went with Kobayashi Sensei and Uchino San to do a demonstration at Mushashi Murayama. Uchino drove us there, I slept most of the way. The demo was the usual state of affairs, not being quite sure what was expected of us, the plan changing even as we stepped onto the tatami. The after demo party was good as ever, with lots of speeches! </p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Mush2.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Mush2_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a></p> <p>Then Kobayashi Sensei and Uchino san left, leaving us to continue in their absence. As the party wrapped up, we started to think about getting home, prompting the question from Ukai: ‘Koko wa,…. Doko desu ka?’… Literally: ‘This is,…. Where is this?? We had no idea, except that the Meiji students had paid a fortune in cab fares to get there from the nearest station. Fortunately, the club members were as hospitable as ever, and drove us all the way to a station on the right line to get home! The end to another fun day…</p> <p> <small> <a href="http://justinjapan.blog.co.uk/2005/11/23/mushashi_murayama_grand_day_out~330322/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>On the 6th November, Ukai and I went with Kobayashi Sensei and Uchino San to do a demonstration at Mushashi Murayama. Uchino drove us there, I slept most of the way. The demo was the usual state of affairs, not being quite sure what was expected of us, the plan changing even as we stepped onto the tatami. The after demo party was good as ever, with lots of speeches!

Then Kobayashi Sensei and Uchino san left, leaving us to continue in their absence. As the party wrapped up, we started to think about getting home, prompting the question from Ukai: ‘Koko wa,…. Doko desu ka?’… Literally: ‘This is,…. Where is this?? We had no idea, except that the Meiji students had paid a fortune in cab fares to get there from the nearest station. Fortunately, the club members were as hospitable as ever, and drove us all the way to a station on the right line to get home! The end to another fun day…

Comments

]]>Saitama University - Grand Day Outhttp://justinjapan.blog.co.uk/2005/11/23/saitama_university_grand_day_out~330318/2005-11-23T02:54:56+01:00 <p>On Saturday the 5th November, I went to do a demonstration at Saitama University. The demo was part of a day of events, with the University central boulevard full of market stalls selling international foods, bars set up with drinks from around the world, and music rooms with live bands, as well as an outdoor display area for martial arts, dancing (traditional, street & breakdancing etc.) and male voice choirs!</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Sait1.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Sait1_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> Saitama University Aikido Club</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Sait2.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Sait2_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> The outdoor demo area.... missing medallion?</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Sait3.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Sait3_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> Students Kumi Jo Demonstration</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Sait4.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Sait4_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> You have to feel sorry for this guy! The trials of being a lower year student!!</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Sait6.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Sait6_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> Street dancers demonstration</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Sait7.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Sait7_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> Post demo walk through the market stalls.... Conspicuous,.. me?</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Sait8.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Sait8_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> Saitama University Students Union!!</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Sait9.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Sait9_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> Live music</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Sait10.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Sait10_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> More live music</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Sait11.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Sait11_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> Myself and my 'minder' for the day Yuki Miyamoto. We found kebabs!!.....</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Sait12.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Sait12_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> …. and Japanese style French Tarts!</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Sait13.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Sait13_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> Sayonara Saitama Students….</p> <p> <small> <a href="http://justinjapan.blog.co.uk/2005/11/23/saitama_university_grand_day_out~330318/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>On Saturday the 5th November, I went to do a demonstration at Saitama University. The demo was part of a day of events, with the University central boulevard full of market stalls selling international foods, bars set up with drinks from around the world, and music rooms with live bands, as well as an outdoor display area for martial arts, dancing (traditional, street & breakdancing etc.) and male voice choirs!


Saitama University Aikido Club


The outdoor demo area.... missing medallion?


Students Kumi Jo Demonstration


You have to feel sorry for this guy! The trials of being a lower year student!!


Street dancers demonstration


Post demo walk through the market stalls.... Conspicuous,.. me?


Saitama University Students Union!!


Live music


More live music


Myself and my 'minder' for the day Yuki Miyamoto. We found kebabs!!.....


…. and Japanese style French Tarts!


Sayonara Saitama Students….

Comments

]]>Chichibu National Park - Grand Day Outhttp://justinjapan.blog.co.uk/2005/11/23/chichibu_national_park_grand_day_out~330304/2005-11-23T02:41:18+01:00 <p>The 3rd November was a public holiday so Dojos were closed and I went to Chichibu National park for the day. Chichibu is about an hour and a half by train, to the North West of Tokyo. There are some nice walks listed in the Lonely Planet guide book, including a 2 day trek up into the mountains and down the other side to the next town, but with limited equipment and time, this was a flying visit, played by ear.</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/chi1.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/chi1_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> Here’s the scene of a nasty shop fitting accident in Chichibu (all too common in this part of Japan)</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Chi2.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Chi2_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> A view back across Chichibu from the edge of town</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Chi3.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Chi3_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> The river bordering one edge of Chichibu town is crossed by bridge. </p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Chi4.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Chi4_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> Crossing the bridge, you get a good view back across Chichibu and the surrounding mountains.</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Chi5.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Chi5_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> This is the mountain I would have climbed if I’d had the time!</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Chi6.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Chi6_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> A stick insect I encountered on route up the mountain</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Chi7_01.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Chi7_01_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> This should have been the perfect time of year to see the tree covered hillsides of Chichibu changing colour, but this is pretty much the only tree I saw that wasn’t green. There was a lot of haze in the air anyway, so the views were altogether not as good as anticipated.</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Chi9.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Chi9_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> Having avoided the roads up the mountain, taking the footpaths instead, at the top I found car parks, cycle routes, a golf driving range, play park and the highlight, this fantastic amusement arcade filled warehouse!!</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Chi8_01.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Chi8_01_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> There was also a bike hire centre. As I took this shot, the owner looked at me as if I’d never seen a panda shaped, four wheel tandem before!!</p> <p> <small> <a href="http://justinjapan.blog.co.uk/2005/11/23/chichibu_national_park_grand_day_out~330304/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>The 3rd November was a public holiday so Dojos were closed and I went to Chichibu National park for the day. Chichibu is about an hour and a half by train, to the North West of Tokyo. There are some nice walks listed in the Lonely Planet guide book, including a 2 day trek up into the mountains and down the other side to the next town, but with limited equipment and time, this was a flying visit, played by ear.


Here’s the scene of a nasty shop fitting accident in Chichibu (all too common in this part of Japan)


A view back across Chichibu from the edge of town


The river bordering one edge of Chichibu town is crossed by bridge.


Crossing the bridge, you get a good view back across Chichibu and the surrounding mountains.


This is the mountain I would have climbed if I’d had the time!


A stick insect I encountered on route up the mountain


This should have been the perfect time of year to see the tree covered hillsides of Chichibu changing colour, but this is pretty much the only tree I saw that wasn’t green. There was a lot of haze in the air anyway, so the views were altogether not as good as anticipated.


Having avoided the roads up the mountain, taking the footpaths instead, at the top I found car parks, cycle routes, a golf driving range, play park and the highlight, this fantastic amusement arcade filled warehouse!!


There was also a bike hire centre. As I took this shot, the owner looked at me as if I’d never seen a panda shaped, four wheel tandem before!!

Comments

]]>Toilets in Japan....http://justinjapan.blog.co.uk/2005/11/07/toilets_in_japan~288544/2005-11-07T06:35:20+01:00 <p>Japan has an impressive variety of toilets. Traditionally, the French style hole in the ground is quite popular, often providing something of an IQ test in terms of how to approach it,… at least without dropping all your belongings out of your pockets down the hole in the process.</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Toilet3.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Toilet3_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> Traditional bog</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Toilet2.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Toilet2_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> At the other end of the scale, is the western style, with the fully automatic washing and drying system, with power and temperature control. This is a standard ‘western’ toilet with multifunction seat. </p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Toilet1.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Toilet1_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> The controls are usually on the ‘arm’, but sometimes remote.</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Toilet4.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Toilet4_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> This toilet is only equipped with a heated seat, but a second popular feature (seen here) is that the cistern fills via a tap and small basin, a kind of eco-friendly built in grey water system. </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://justinjapan.blog.co.uk/2005/11/07/toilets_in_japan~288544/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>Japan has an impressive variety of toilets. Traditionally, the French style hole in the ground is quite popular, often providing something of an IQ test in terms of how to approach it,… at least without dropping all your belongings out of your pockets down the hole in the process.


Traditional bog


At the other end of the scale, is the western style, with the fully automatic washing and drying system, with power and temperature control. This is a standard ‘western’ toilet with multifunction seat.


The controls are usually on the ‘arm’, but sometimes remote.


This toilet is only equipped with a heated seat, but a second popular feature (seen here) is that the cistern fills via a tap and small basin, a kind of eco-friendly built in grey water system.

Comments

]]>Ueno Koenhttp://justinjapan.blog.co.uk/2005/11/07/ueno_koen~288541/2005-11-07T06:32:14+01:00 <p>Last Monday (31st October) I took myself off into Tokyo to Akihabara and Ueno. It felt like the first time in two months that I’d actually stepped outside the Uchi deshi life. Away from the dojo and out without other Uchi deshi. </p> <p>Ueno park has some historical interest, being the site of the last ditch defence of the Tokugawa shogunate in 1868, following which the Meiji government decreed it the first of Tokyos public parks. It is also home to a zoo and a number of museums and art galleries, which are all closed on Mondays, so I can’t tell you what any of them are like…</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Ueno1.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Ueno1_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> A plaza in Ueno park</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Ueno2.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Ueno2_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> A tree in Ueno park</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Ueno3.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Ueno3_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> An old building in Ueno park</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Ueno4.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Ueno4_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> A new building in Ueno park</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Ueno5.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Ueno5_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> The park keepers hut in Ueno park</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Ueno6.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Ueno6_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> The entrance to the zoo I couldn’t visit in Ueno park</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Ueno7.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Ueno7_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> A shrine that I could visit in Ueno park,.. Don’t these people have a day of rest??</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Ueno8.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Ueno8_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> Ueno Park has a few large lakes, jam packed with lotuses (flowers not cars)</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Ueno9.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Ueno9_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> View across the lakes</p> <p>On my way back to Ueno station I spotted a side market street and lost myself for about the next hour, wandering through the stalls and shops selling everything from of fresh fish, clothes, shops with all your gothic jewellery needs, and shoes,.. lots and lots of shooooooooes…..</p> <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Ueno10.JPG" title=""><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/j/justinjapan/img/Ueno10_small.jpg" border="0" alt=""></a><br> Ueno Market </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://justinjapan.blog.co.uk/2005/11/07/ueno_koen~288541/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>Last Monday (31st October) I took myself off into Tokyo to Akihabara and Ueno. It felt like the first time in two months that I’d actually stepped outside the Uchi deshi life. Away from the dojo and out without other Uchi deshi.

Ueno park has some historical interest, being the site of the last ditch defence of the Tokugawa shogunate in 1868, following which the Meiji government decreed it the first of Tokyos public parks. It is also home to a zoo and a number of museums and art galleries, which are all closed on Mondays, so I can’t tell you what any of them are like…


A plaza in Ueno park


A tree in Ueno park


An old building in Ueno park


A new building in Ueno park


The park keepers hut in Ueno park


The entrance to the zoo I couldn’t visit in Ueno park


A shrine that I could visit in Ueno park,.. Don’t these people have a day of rest??


Ueno Park has a few large lakes, jam packed with lotuses (flowers not cars)


View across the lakes

On my way back to Ueno station I spotted a side market street and lost myself for about the next hour, wandering through the stalls and shops selling everything from of fresh fish, clothes, shops with all your gothic jewellery needs, and shoes,.. lots and lots of shooooooooes…..


Ueno Market

Comments

]]>Sleep Cycles and Body Reparationhttp://justinjapan.blog.co.uk/2005/11/07/sleep_cycles_and_body_reparation~288535/2005-11-07T06:24:11+01:00 <p>I figure that I have averaged around 5 hours sleep a night over the course of the last few weeks. Most of the time I am busy and feel pretty good on this, although I can quite happily fall asleep within seconds on the train, in a car or if I lie down on the tatami. I feel most tired around mid afternoons, when I have a brief break from ‘working’ and this is worst of all if I’m in kids class and not particularly active. At the end of the day, around 10:30pm, I should feel ready to crash, but I’m usually OK for a few more hours.<br> Stuart, I think I said before, I think this life could make an interesting study for you,.. particularly with respect to performance after sleep depravation.</p> <p>The other thing I’ve found is that my body is not only healing faster, but doing some retrospective repair of old injuries. I have found this before when I’ve been in heavy training, but it’s difficult to pin down whether it’s a result of the increased workload on the body, reduced stress, different food, or other factors?</p> <p>For about a month (or longer) before leaving for Japan, I had a small lump on the underside of the tip of my tongue. It would grow and shrink over the course of a week and wasn’t particularly painful, but didn’t show any sign pf going away. Cancer is the first concern, but it’s generally only found in over 40’s with smoking and drinking being major contributory factors. A visit to the specialist is normal and they will normally cut it away under local anaesthetic. What fun! As there wasn’t time for me to make an appointment with a specialist before leaving, the doctor recommended that I get it seen once I arrived in Japan.<br> I arrived in Japan and it practically disappeared within a week, apart from a small area of redness, all traces disappeared within two weeks.</p> <p>I also have (had) a spot of hard skin (a kind of wart?) on my left thumb (nice this bit isn’t it), which has been there for at least the last two or three years. Over the last few weeks this has decided to ‘subside’ and has now almost completely disappeared!</p> <p> <small> <a href="http://justinjapan.blog.co.uk/2005/11/07/sleep_cycles_and_body_reparation~288535/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>I figure that I have averaged around 5 hours sleep a night over the course of the last few weeks. Most of the time I am busy and feel pretty good on this, although I can quite happily fall asleep within seconds on the train, in a car or if I lie down on the tatami. I feel most tired around mid afternoons, when I have a brief break from ‘working’ and this is worst of all if I’m in kids class and not particularly active. At the end of the day, around 10:30pm, I should feel ready to crash, but I’m usually OK for a few more hours.
Stuart, I think I said before, I think this life could make an interesting study for you,.. particularly with respect to performance after sleep depravation.

The other thing I’ve found is that my body is not only healing faster, but doing some retrospective repair of old injuries. I have found this before when I’ve been in heavy training, but it’s difficult to pin down whether it’s a result of the increased workload on the body, reduced stress, different food, or other factors?

For about a month (or longer) before leaving for Japan, I had a small lump on the underside of the tip of my tongue. It would grow and shrink over the course of a week and wasn’t particularly painful, but didn’t show any sign pf going away. Cancer is the first concern, but it’s generally only found in over 40’s with smoking and drinking being major contributory factors. A visit to the specialist is normal and they will normally cut it away under local anaesthetic. What fun! As there wasn’t time for me to make an appointment with a specialist before leaving, the doctor recommended that I get it seen once I arrived in Japan.
I arrived in Japan and it practically disappeared within a week, apart from a small area of redness, all traces disappeared within two weeks.

I also have (had) a spot of hard skin (a kind of wart?) on my left thumb (nice this bit isn’t it), which has been there for at least the last two or three years. Over the last few weeks this has decided to ‘subside’ and has now almost completely disappeared!

Comments

]]>