Japan

Hello Everyone,
It's been a while, I know...I know....

Right now I am in Hiroshima, Japan. It's the place where the world's first atom bomb was dropped. I've got to say, its pretty sombre (as it should be) - but amazingly, after only a few decades, this city is flourishing in a way one would not expect. It is refreshing and alive!

There is one area left which has been kept in it's original (semi-destroyed) condition to remind people of the devastation, and the need for peace and understanding between peoples. Very powerful. So, let's back up a bit...say.....two weeks.

Wow! I can't believe I've been here two weeks! Big difference from China in exactly the ways I expected. Rigidity, rules, sterility, expensive prices....however, it turns out that things are not as they may seem at first. The veneer is important, in terms of what people will think of you.  You can, however,  find reasonably priced items if you know where to look. (and what time of day)

I hardly believe how busy I've become. I am invited constantly for short homestays with families and friends of the English teachers here as a guest. Many times they ask me to come to their classes as a guest speaker and "chat." It's more interesting for both the students and instructor, plus its good for me because I meet so many new people.

As most of you know, I am interested in studying Iaido here sometime in the future when my knee heals up - the grandfather of one of the English students is an Iaido instructor, - that's great! They are trying to arrange for an introduction as we speak.

And if at all possible, I would be deeply honoured to have a chance to meet with and train with Oshita Sensei.

I've also visited several dojos in the Osaka area, mainly Kendo, Karate, and Judo. It's interesting, most Japanese have never even heard of Iaido. They know kendo, but not Iai - very few people actually know what it is, so the fact that one of the student's grandfather is a teacher is really amazing. i am very fortunate.

I've gone to Nara and fed deer. They actually roam around on the streets and are treated a bit like the cows in India, everyone dotes on them and pretty much lets them do as they please. They are very cute, but you know, there is only so much "cute" one can take before they try to take a lick of your ice cream!

I've also been to Miyajima (Japan's most famous Tori is there - you've seen it in all the pictures) however, it was badly damaged by the typhoon two day sago.

During the typhoon I was at Kansai airport trying to exchange money....(note to those who want to come to Japan ...only US cash and don't expect to use your visa card for cash advance - the systems don't read you card) This little surprise can throw a wrench in your travels  - hence the reason I had to go all the way back to the airport.

I kept a strong pace at all the temple's, shrines, castles, hiking, mountains, moats, museums etc. I've seen in the last two weeks. It makes me think of China....it was nothing but go go go.....non-stop. I was going to rest the first week in Japan...but alas, 'twas not to be my fate.  But that's ok. It's a spectacular part of the world and there are so many places to see and things to do.

Yesterday I experienced three earthquakes, two at night, and another several hours later in the early morning. I had to get up and keep the shelves in the room from falling over, it was about a 7 on the Richter Scale, which is actually quite big. The typhoon was interesting too....remember the typhoon scene in Karate Kid III (or was it II?) well, it was very much like that.

Umbrellas were useless, they were ripped right out of your hand. People were holding on to whatever they could to walk down the street. Most of the trains were cancelled and I had to start speaking Japanese to get directions back to the Church where I am staying. Thank goodness I've been taking lessons...growing up in a dojo helped too...I understand intermediate level Japanese - boy was I ever grateful for this at various times in furing my trip.

I am learning quite a bit more of the language since I have to practice a lot, which is great, but I am nowhere near proficient. When I return, I'll take more lessons.

The first week I was savagely attacked by mosquitos, ants and spiders, I looked like I had measles it was so bad. But I seem to have built up an immunity now, plus, after the typhoon, the bugs seem to have abated with their biting.

I've met some amazing folks at the church. Though I have a sneaking suspicion that part of the reason they are so nice is because they pity me and think I am destined to burn in Hell. I feel their intentions are positive and honourable and  honestly, they are actually really wonderful people.

Tomorrow I am headed back to meet a friend in Kobe. Then on Saturday I am meeting another friend in Kyoto for a day of traditional Japan sightseeing. Much fun to be had! There is a place in Kyoto where you can pay to be made up like a traditional Maiko (Geisha in training) full kimono, make up and hair. I am considering it. Besides, when was the last time you saw a six foot Geisha with blue eyes?
great qi to everyone,
Yvette