Life in Japan

カまくら
Kamakura 

Daibutsu statue in Kotokuin Temple

In early September, a few of us fellow traveled south to visit the city of Kamakura.  Some say that this city was the capital of Japan during the Kamakura period (1185-1333).  Nevertheless, this area, surrounding the Segemi Bay, was a centre of political, economical and cultural power.  


We visited the Kotokuin Temple, where we saw the second largest Buddha (11.3 metres-tall bronze statue) in Japan.  We visited the finely manicured grounds of the Hase-Dera Temple.  This temple is known for its magnificent statue of Kannon, goddess of mercy.  The view of the costal city from the observatory platform was breathtaking.  There are 13 temples and 3 shrines in this city in addition to numerous cute little shops and restaurants.

Hase-Dera Temple

Perfect destination for a day trip.














にほんご　の　コース
Japanese Language Course

August 30, 2011 was the last day of our Japanese language course.  Our group successfully completed 100 hours of Japanese language training conducted by Japan International Cooperation Centre (JICE) under the Japanese Language Program of the International Christian University Rotary Peace Centre.  This  intensive program offered language training as well as Japanese cultural lessons and field trips.  Our teachers, Shimoyama Sense and Kondo Sense were absolutely delightful.  They provided us with a sturdy foundation of Japanese language, on which we can continue to build upon.  


Everyday, I am reminded of the extent to which language is an interregnal part of culture.  I am determined to learn the basics of this interesting and complex language so I can improve my everyday interactions. Most Japanese people that I have encountered thus far really appreciate our efforts to speak Japanese.  Although I might sound really silly at times, practicing with the locals is quite amusing.  

Back row - left to right: Adamou Hamadou, Auriel Neimack, Christopher Lindstrom,
Shimoyama Sense, Taylor Stevenson, Jaraunee Jarusruang
Front row - left to right: Kondo Sense, Melissa Toupin Laforge, Allison Kwes

Learning a new language is much more than just understanding and speaking new words.  It's figuring out how to rearrange your sentence structures and patterns of thinking.  It's coping with confusion, frustrations and embarrassment.  That said, I've discover much about myself throughout this journey of learning and will surely continue to push my limitations during these next two years.  








スみだがわ　はなび　たいかい

Sumida River Hanabi (Fireworks)

Watching the fireworks from the street of Tokyo along with
about one million people.

On August 27 we witnessed one of the most infamous firework display in Tokyo.  The origins of this event dates back to the 1700's.  Part of the Obon festivities, a Japanese Buddhist custom, people reunite,  rejoice and celebrates in honor of their deceased ancestors.  There are more than 200 fireworks festival in Japan throughout the month of August.  


The outstanding pyrotechnic display lasted over an hour.  The tricky part was scouting out an ideal place to watch the show.  The streets were closed off, allowing people by the thousands, gather for the event.      


In that moment, I was consumed by the sight and sounds of the multicolored explosions flashing through the sky.  I couldn't help to think about all those who fear for their lives at the sight and sounds of explosions, within the context of war.  If gun power could be used for the sole purpose of creating fireworks, the world would be a much better place...          








サどう　と　カどう
Traditional Japanese Tea Ceremony (Sadõ) & Ikebana Flower Arrangement (Kadõ)

Fellows of Class 10 carefully following the instructions
of our sense.  We are preparing to add the
matcha (powdered tea) into the chawan (tea bowl). 

Sadõ is the art of Japanese tea ceremony which stems from Zen Buddhism.  The first master of sadõ is said to be Rikuu (733-804).  This cultural tradition represents much more than just the act of drinking tea.  This delicate and intricate ceremony represents a form of gathering and of self cultivation.  


We enjoyed the slightly bitter green tea along with a small piece of desert made of rice flower.  Like most foods in Japan, the flavours are delicately refined and certainly do not overpower the taste buds.  


In addition to the Sadõ, our class also had the chance to learn about Kadõ, the traditional Japanese art of flower arrangement, also known as Ikebana.  This disciplined art-form dates back to the 16th century.  There are different styles of Ikebana that have developed over the years, the most modern being "free style".  One uses the flowers and materials in an artistic fashion to convey convey thoughts and emotions of the human spirit.   

The "free style" flower arrangements of the fellow of class 10 along with our ikebana sense. 

あわどりまつり

Awa Odori Matsuri (Dance Festival)

Mrs. Miyazaki, Melissa, Jarunee & Auriel
wearing the traditional Yukata.

On August 20, Mr. and Mrs. Miyazaki kindly invited us to join them in celebrating the annual Awa Dance Festival.  Mrs. Miyazaki lent each of us a Yukata (traditional summer kimono) to wear for the evening.  This city-wide dance festival is also part of Obon.  We joined the crowd of people gathered along the main street of Mitaka-shi, to watch the dance performances.  The air was filled with joy and celebration.  

Fellows of class 10 along with Mr. & Mrs Miyazaki at the Awa Odori Matsui.
This group photo was with taken with Mrs. Keiko Kiyohara, the mayor of Mitaka-shi.

にほんに　わたしの　しょうがい
New Chapter - Life in Japan

Mr. & Mrs. Miyazaki and I enjoying a fantastic
sushi dinner in Kichijoji.  

Countless emotions rushed through my head and heart as I gazed out into the endless sky. The thirteen hours flight from Toronto to Tokyo provided ample time for deep self-reflection and mental preparation for the great unknown that I had been anticipated for so long.  


I landed at the Narita Airport, on Tuesday, July 26 and received a warm welcome from Mr. and Mrs. Miyazaki, Rotarians who kindly volunteered to pick me up at the airport.  Since our first encounter they have been treating me like a member of their family.  Mr. Miyazaki has been involved with the Rotary Peace Fellowship Committee for 5 years.  Together, Mr. & Mrs. Miyazaki have welcomed/mentored more than 25 Peace Fellows.  They are very kind, generous and a real pleasure to be around.  They are helping me understand nuances of the Japanese culture.  I will be forever grateful for everything they have done thus far.  I’m convinced that our friendship will last a lifetime.