Seven Lucky Gods of Japan

On November 4, 2016

In Customs, Japan, Seven Lucky Gods, Yokosuka

In our travels around this beautiful country, Dave and I have seen several different portrayals of the Seven Lucky Gods of Japan. I have been intrigued and curious about them. The first time I saw them was when we went to the Mashiko Kyohan Pottery factory. I thought they were so cute that I was tempted to purchase. But, I didn’t and of course regretted it! The next time I saw them was in the stationary store in Yokosuka. Again, I didn’t purchase because although they were very cute, I thought they were too expensive and didn’t want one more thing to have to put on a table or counter.

¥7,500 ($75) seems like a lot for a knick-knack

The third time I saw them, was on the trip to Kappabashi. This time, the Seven Lucky Gods of Japan were displayed on a plaque that could easily hang on the wall. Perfect!

My Lucky Seven

Here is a little background on these adorable and Lucky Gods. Starting on the left and going down.

Ebisu

Ebisu is the God of Fishing, Shipping and Commerce and is the only one to have his origins in Japan. Ebisu represents prosperity and wealth in business. He is the patron of fisherman and Sailors. He is often presented with a fishing rod in his right hand and a large red fish under his left arm. The virtue he represents is Honesty.

Jurōjin

Jurōjin is the God of Wisdom. He is depicted as an old man wearing a hat with a long white beard holding a walking staff with a scroll tied to it. He is often confused with Fukurokuju, as both are presented in a very similar way. Frequently, Jurōjin is accompanied by a black deer as symbol of longevity. Jurōjin is the protector of politicians, teachers, scientists, philosophers and mathematicians. The virtue he represents is Wisdom.

Daikoku

Originally, he was a Hindu warrior and once introduced in Japan he became the God of Wealth and Prosperity. He is the patron of farmers and bankers. He is well known for his happy-looking smile and is often presented with a bag on this shoulder filled with money and a golden mallet. The virtue he represents is Fortune.

Bishamon

He originates from Indian Buddhism and is the God of Warriors (not war). He is also a God of Defense Against Evil. He is typically dressed in armor with a fierce look on his face. In one hand he has a weapon to fight against evil influences and suppress the enemies. On the other hand he holds a treasure pagoda. He is the patron of missionaries, priests, soldiers and doctors. The virtue he represents is Dignity.

On the right and going down.

Hotei

Hotei originates from Chinese beliefs and is the God of Happiness and Abundance. He is the only one of the seven who is supposedly based on an actual person, a Chinese hermit Budaishi (d. 917). He is depicted as a Buddhist monk with a smiling face and a prominent belly. He holds a sack and wooden staff. Outside Japan, he is known as “Laughing Buddha”. The virtue he represents is Happiness.

Benton

Benton is the only female and is originally the Hindu goddess of water. In Japanese representation, she is the Goddess of Arts and Knowledge. Her common form is a beautiful woman dressed in a flowing Chinese-style dress. Her attributes include: talent, beauty and music. The instrument she is playing the Japanese biwa. The virtue she represents is Joy.

Fukurokuju

Fukurokuju originates from China’s Taoist-Buddhist traditions. Fukurokuju is the God of Wealth, Happiness, and Longevity. He typically is depicted with an elongated forehead and long mustache. He is wearing typical clothes of a Chinese scholar and carries a walking stick with a scroll attached. He is the only one from the seven that has the ability to revive the dead. His attributes also include: luck, wealth and happiness. The virtue he represents is Longevity.

I love the portrayal of the Seven Lucky Gods I found. They make me happy and help me feel a little more settled in Japan. At Dave’s suggestion, I’m doing everything to “embrace the experience” of living in Japan!

Red Leaf Trail

By wabisabisole

On November 3, 2016

In Hiking, Japan, Kamakura, Mt. Fuji, Temple

The Kamakura Red Leaf Trail or the Kamakura Ten-en Hiking Course is located near the Kita-Kamakura train station. It was about a 25 minute train ride/ walk to the trail head from where we live. From what I read, on a clear day, you can see Mt. Fuji. Let’s hope today is clear enough! Fortunately, before leaving the train station, I snapped a quick picture of the route.

We were entering through the neighborhood and it was very useful to have the map for reference as we walked towards the trail head. We were also pretty lucky to have the trail head well marked. Also notice on the sign is the sign for a Buddhist temple. It looks like a reverse swastika. The first time I saw it, I had to do a double take and ask Google for clarification. It is in no way associated with any anti-Semite movement. In fact, completely the opposite. It means, “that which is associated with well being.”

A front yard! Lakewood circle needs some of these bridges!

Another front yard!

The only red leaf tree I saw on the Red Leaf Trail.

A shrine, of course

And another shrine.

We continued on our way and found a cute little neighborhood lending library. Too bad all the books are in Japanese!

A few more signs marking the trail head. Be cautious not to follow the direction of the hiker man!

The roads are so narrow, mirrors are helpful!

This sign was my favorite of the day. The Japanese don’t like to tell you NO or NOT to do something. Sometimes it is absolutely necessary. For example, “Don’t Litter.” So, when they do, it is said so nicely and with rainbows.

Finally, at the trail head and up we go…

Yokohama in the background

Obviously, the Red Leaf Trail is not living up to its name. I will need to return in a few more weeks to capture the foliage.

We made it to the top and went out onto the overlook. After a minute of getting our bearings, we saw Mt. Fuji!! And a Japanese sea hawk!!

Every time I have a chance to see Mt. Fuji, I get very excited. Often the clouds are blocking it. Having the opportunity to catch a partial glimpse is spectacular.

After viewing Mt. Fuji from the lookout, we headed down a lot of stairs to a temple.

Steps going down to the Temple

Pray cards

Another glimpse of Fuji

Even in Japan Pokémon isn’t appreciated everywhere.

Steps going back up

Once back on the trail, we finished the hike at another… Temple!

The temples might be an unexpected aspect about Japan I truly appreciate. The temples are welcoming to all visitors regardless of faith. They encourage you to visit and ask nothing in return other than kindness. Honestly, the world could use a little more kindness. The Gardens of temples are meticulously maintained and provided great care. When you visit, I hope to share with you a few of my favorites.

Continuing on our way through Kamakura to the train station, we passed through another temple. Fortunately for us, it is the Japanese holiday, “Culture Day.” It is a day the Japanese nationals spend appreciating and teaching the youth about Japanese culture. We saw several kids dressed in kimonos.

And a wedding!!

This trail and walk through Kamakura will definitely be on Julia’s tour list. Hope you can join us!

PS. Go, Cubbies!!

Kappabashi – Kitchen Town

By wabisabisole

On November 1, 2016

In Japan

Tokyo has every kind of town imaginable. Including of course, kitchen town or Kappabashi. My neighbor invited me to join her and a few other ladies for a field trip to the north side of Tokyo to explore Kappabashi. We took a very indirect route on the way there and it took almost 2 hours. Coming home was a lot smoother and only took about an hour and 15 minutes. Here is a screen shot from our route home. I learned a lot today. One thing, besides the blanket statement of the trains in Japan can be confusing if you don’t speak Japanese, is that there are many train lines going in many directions. At one point we were on the “Tokyo Subway”. That is why our route is in pink. Anyways, I figure the more I use the trains the more comfortable I will become.

Finally making it to Kappabashi. Of course, it’s raining.

At the entrance of Kappabashi! Notice the huge chef & teacup balconies!

I must make a quick note about the rain in Japan. Because it rains so frequently, one must have an umbrella or be ready to buy one for ¥300 at the closest convenience store. Also, rain boots are a must. Before leaving Chicago, I spent way too much time laboring over the perfect rain boot. Boy, am I glad I did! You can’t even tell I’m wearing them! They are ankle high and fit easily under my jeans. I also bought a pair of higher ones which seem too make me hot! These are perfect.

Back to Kappabashi. Kappabashi is a street filled with shops selling any and every kitchen gadget, accessory, appliance, etc. that you could possibly want or need. From plates, cups, bowls, chopsticks (in a variety of lengths) to chopstick rests, skillets, knives, big red lanterns, curtains for door coverings and saki sets.

Plates

Saki sets

Teapots

Bowls & plates

More plates & Saki sets

The other thing I was schooled about today was the red lanterns. I just assumed the writing was the same on all of them. Silly, American. The kanji has a meaning! Duh! Dave requested a red lantern and honestly, I felt this was a decision we needed to make together. Should it say beer, open, tavern, welcome or maybe ramen. So many choices! I mean the Saki bottle is amazing!!

Japanese knives are a big deal. This was again part of my research. I’m not making that decision without Dave. My neighbor, picked out her Christmas present.

I almost forgot to mention the most bazaar and my most favorite accessory. Fake food. Yep, the fake food restaurants use as displays in their windows are available for sale!!

Bento Boxes!

Looks good enough to eat!

¥13000 for the pie!

Sushi boat!

Can you see the big burger

Ramen

At this point, I know you must be ready to know what I purchased.

Cooking chopsticks, metal chopsticks, cat chopstick rests and wooden utensils with smiley faces. The cooking chopsticks were Dave’s request.

Two cute small accessory bowls.

This cute sign of the seven lucky Gods. I will tell you more about these Gods in a later post.

And my guilty pleasure. Faux Ramen! It was silly expensive. I just couldn’t resist. It is just so KAWAII!!

For my cooking loving friends, when you visit we will go to Kappabashi. Hopefully on the most direct train route possible!

Halloween in Japan

By wabisabisole

On October 31, 2016

In Japan

It was barely September first and Halloween stuff could be found in The stores. That is obviously very similar to the U.S. What is also similar is how little Japanese influence there is on decorations. Everything is in English and at times, a very funny translation.

Not to confuse you, hotdogs are sold on a stick in Japan.

Costumes don’t have the “sexy” appeal.

And if you notice, the costumes show a lot of leg – no cleavage. Exposing cleavage is not acceptable by the Japanese, even on Halloween! There apparently a limit to the spectacle you are permitted to be.

Sumo masks – of course!

I made Dave check my head for lice after trying this on!!

Octopus head?

Makeup

What is different? Well, to start, the Japanese do not go “trick or treating.” Because of this, it is a special treat for Japanese to be escorted onto both the main base and here in Ikego housing. An American can escort up to 10 Japanese nationals instead of the usual six. Trick or treating lasts from 4:30-8:00. To prepare for the madness, I spent about $40 on candy. Roughly, 500 pieces. My neighbor adviced me to give out one piece at a time. She said last year she went through over $100 of candy in two hours. After about three hours, I was a bit chilly and ready to call it a night. I definitely did NOT run out of candy and started giving away 2-3 pieces to get rid of the extra!

Two highlights from the evening. One was asking to have my picture taken with Japanese trick or treaters. Since they asked, I asked them to take one with my phone as well!

The other highlight was after a group of about 25 Japanese came to the house, a young girl gave me a small package. She said, “Happy Halloween. We have present for you.” So sweet.

Overall, it was a pretty fun evening!

Next year, Dave and I discussed going to Shibuya station and informally parading around the crosswalks dressed in costumes with the locals. If you remember, when I went to the kimono fitting, we crossed Shibuya intersection. It is one of the busiest intersections in Tokyo. On Halloween, people come dressed in costumes and walk around the intersection. This activity shuts down traffic and draws out the police to ensure there is good order and discipline during the festivities. The thought of there being a need for police kind of makes me laugh. The Japanese are so orderly, I honestly can’t imagine things getting out of control. None the less, have 364 days to come up with our costumes!

Nishizawa Ravine

By wabisabisole

On October 30, 2016

In Japan

Dave and I woke early on Sunday morning in order to meet the ITT bus for a day trip to Nishizawa Ravine. Included in our tour was an 8 mile hike and winery visit.

Here is a map of our route to the area where we hiked.

The almost three hour drive provided us a chance to snooze.

The hike was amazing. Here is a picture of our route.

The fall foliage was breathtaking. The waterfalls were gorgeous. I couldn’t take enough pictures! The hike going up was rocky and a bit treacherous. The trail was meticulously maintained and had ample support rails to help in difficult areas. The trail coming down was smooth and an easy descent. Warning: lots of pictures!

Hello Fall

Shrine at the end

The brown area on the bottom of the map is Mt Fuji

After the hike, we stopped at a winery. Chateau Katsunuma. All of the wines were disappointing. The Gardens were beautiful!

It was a really fun and beautiful hike. I hope my pictures transport you and don’t overwhelm you!!

Funny Story

By wabisabisole

On October 29, 2016

In Japan

I’ll do must best to convey(or) the humor of this experience.

Rewind back to my birthday in August. Dave and I went to the Sushi-go-Round or “Sushi Ro” near the base. I posted a video of the sushi passing on the conveyor belt. When we were there, we assumed it was a free for all and just grab whatever you thought looked yummy. I learned the error of our ways this week.

After going to Glass Beach, Dina asked if I was hungry. Clearly, she doesn’t know me well – I responded, “always.” She suggested we stop at the sushi-go-round. Wait for it… NEAR OUR HOUSE?!? Say what? Yes, please. Teach me.

So, we went. We drove there. The restaurant has a spot in the front to wash your hands. Because, we are in Japan and cleanliness is paramount. I wash my hands and Dina goes to the bathroom. She returns to our table and was surprised I hadn’t ordered anything. I was waiting for you was my reply. She then proceeds to use the table side POS device to order her favorite dishes. My first thought, “what’s going on?” She then proceeds to school me that if you want a specific dish, order it. Hmmm “what happens if you just grab whatever looks good when it passes you?” She starts laughing. “Then you are taking someone’s order!” Oh, my. Hilarious. Anything in a bowl, or what looks like a fancy ashtray is a special order food. Anything on a plain plate, is open for the taking. Basically, back in August, we were eating everyone’s food! On the plus side, you’re only charged based on the plates at your table. So they could order again. I now understand why karma was pissed at me for a little bit. I ate other people’s food!! Hilarious.

French fries “fried potatoes” in the dish are special order. Don’t take!

Plain dish- grab away

I told Dave about the experience with Dina and we had a good laugh. Simultaneously, I was so excited to have a Sushi-Ro near us. Today we took the train and worked our way around. Before and eating sushi.

I explained to Dave that we are given a kanji sign in a specific color. Anything you order will have the sign. Followed by a cute song.

The song alerts you that your order is arriving.

My melon sorbet.

The melon sorbet was a perfect finish after a salty meal.

Obviously, I realized after our meal I should have been taking more pictures. Sorry, I was hungry. When you visit, we will go to the sushi-ro. And check out two temples on the way home. Seriously. So much beauty in the middle of a city.

Temple & Car.

Do you see the frog?

Keep It Real

By wabisabisole

On October 28, 2016

In Japan

Not every day is filled with amazing views. Some are filled with amazing accomplishments. Today, I went to the Japanese grocery store. The name of the grocery store is Yorkmart and it is a 7-10 minute drive from the house depending on how many trains you encounter. I usually go weekly. For the most part, I’m familiar with the store. My mission was to purchase the items for the rice dish I made last week at my Japanese cooking lesson – Takikomi Gohan.

Armed with my list from the recipe and the pictures I took that day, I ventured to Yorkmart- solo.

I was so proud of myself for finding the Dashi & Mirin.

The Dashi was simple because the picture I had matched the bottle. For the Mirin, I had to ask the clerk. In Japanese. Sumimasen – excuse me. And then I pointed to the picture on my phone. Ok, maybe I cheated a little. But, I was in the right aisle. The remainder of the ingredients were pretty easy to find.

Shiitake mushrooms

Shimeji mushrooms

Burdock root

Bamboo shoot

Chicken

(And carrots – had them already)

I was so proud of myself, I felt like skipping out of the store. It may seem like a pathetic accomplishment- grocery shopping. Please, come visit and I will take you on the most overwhelming experience of your life!! A trip to the Japanese grocery store!! Happy Friday!

Glass Beach

By wabisabisole

On October 27, 2016

In Japan

Today was a glorious day. Crisp fall temperature with low humidity, a breeze and few clouds in the sky. Towards the end of our run today, I commented to my friend Dina how glorious it was and I needed to find something to do outside. She asked if I would be interested in going to Glass Beach with her. She needed to go by the main base briefly and then we could continue on the way south to Glass Beach. Yes, please!!

Here is the route if we were to leave from our housing area.

I was in love the minute I stepped out of the car. There was ample parking and there were only a few other visitors.

We started on the sea glass side and walked around toward the other side that had pottery pieces!! The seaweed created a strong brine smell. It made me think of Rhode Island. And it made me realize what I was always missing in Great Lakes – salty air!!

There was so much sea glass!! It wasn’t hard to find and the pieces were huge. I couldn’t believe this little gem of a beach is so close to our house! I see beach chairs in our future.

My favorite picture of the day!

It was pretty breezy on the point. Check out our hair!

The pottery side.

At the top of the point is a small Japanese lighthouse.

And of course some sort of shrine.

A few more pictures of the amazing view.

And finally a picture of my bounty.

This will definitely be on the Julia tour schedule. It was breathtaking.

Ps. Did you catch the part where I mentioned I have a new running friend!! I haven’t ditched my favorite running partner, Dave. Just adding a few runs a week with Dina for social time. Run Happy!

Mt. Ogusu

By wabisabisole

On October 25, 2016

In Japan

I invited my friend, Laila, to go for a hike with me today. I had originally planned to go on a bit of a road trip for this hike. Upon further inspection of Google Map, (while waiting for her to come down to my car) I realized where I wanted to go required a ferry ride across the bay. Hmmmm… not sure I was ready for that adventure. Plus, it was close to ¥10,000 or $100. Free hikes for me, please. Instead we opted for Plan B. Mt. Ogusu. It was about a 25 minute drive from the base and a beautiful hike! *warning – lots of pictures!*

Surprisingly, we easily found parking and were on our way. As with most hikes, it is not uncommon to pass a shrine.

We started along a small stream known as “The Promenade.” It was lovely. The rocks served as stepping stones. Absolutely, adorable!

Once we exited The Promenade, we started and upward climb. With lots and lots of steps.

Once we finally made it to the top, we were able to go up a lookout tower. Unfortunately, it was cloudy so of course we couldn’t see Mt. Fuji.

Selfie at the top – me squatting, Laila on her tip toes! Haha

The hike was about two hours. The steps were nice for the climb up. By the time we came down, we both had shaky legs!

Monday Monkeys

By wabisabisole

On October 24, 2016

In Japan

Mondays are kind of slower with respect to Dave’s work because the rest of the Navy is still enjoying Sunday. It is a great opportunity for him to get a head start in the week and enjoy lunch with me! I had a pretty serious craving for a chicken Caesar salad and so, I met him on base and we went to the CPO club. The salad hit the spot. While at lunch, I told him my plans of hiking around Zushi to find the monkeys. Seriously. The monkeys. He thought I was being silly (we have a running joke of the loud noises we hear in the forest by our house being howler monkeys) and told me I had a better chance of seeing a snake. From there we discussed the Japanese Viper. One was recently seen in the campground near our house. I looked it up online, it is a brown venomous snake with diamond markings. He also asked me if I knew what to dial for an emergency on and off base. Yes, love. Off base – 119. On base – 911.

We finished our lunch and I headed back home. I parked the car by the train station and rode the train one stop to Zushi. From there, I walked about 1.5 miles to the unmarked trail head. A neighbor told me about the trail and I was following her verbal guidance. Turn right after the shrine / temple and keep going up. Once you get to Hiroyama Park, you will see the monkeys & Mt. Fuji, on a clear day.

Shrine / Temple

View looking back at Zushi Beach

From here it was one flight of stairs after another.

Once I made it to the top, I was treated to a nice view of Zushi Beach.

By this point, I was a little warm and ready for a beverage. No worries. In Japan a vending machine (or four) is always close by!

Walking around Hiroyama Park, I found peacocks, bunnies, guinea pigs, ducks and chickens.

After a quick shot of the view, I saw the monkeys.

Honestly, the monkeys were a little weird. Kind of made me a little sad. They seemed so lethargic. They had a large area in which they were contained. Although, it had no vegetation.

I walked down to enjoy the view from a different angle and when I came back to the monkeys, they were running around and playing. That made me feel a little better.

I also climbed the observation tower.

This map helped a lot. The clouds prevented me from getting a good Mt. Fuji sighting. However, if you look beyond the island with the tower, you can kind of make out a mountain, maybe?

Mt. Fuji beyond the island

I found this map, showing me the way to Ōsaki Park – 15 minute walk. I mean I’m here, might as well.

The Gardens walking there were lovely. Just as impressive was the beautifully manicured neighborhood with gigantic houses!

Ōsaki Park didn’t disappoint. Here I think I actually could see Mt. Fuji.

I’m not really sure what I’m looking at in this picture. I see the little peak sticking out above the island tower. However, I also see a peak floating half way up the picture. Is that Mt. Fuji? Just because I have climbed it, doesn’t mean I know what it looks like!! More research is required, on a clear day.

In the park was also a rabbit shrine and cool walkway.

The view from the other direction highlighted Zushi Beach.

The road on the left of this picture is where we run. The buildings along the beach are where we had dinner Sunday night!

My return trip took me back through the fancy neighborhood, past a shrine and down all the stairs. This time I also saw a small waterfall.

My favorite part of the hike was finding / taking this picture. The sunlight shining through the clouds lighting the peace sign was beautiful.

This move has been challenging at times and I find myself struggling with peace. Finding this huge peace sign at the top of the overlook really spoke to me. It served as a reminder to find peace in this journey and always. Peace, friends!

Finding Beauty with Imperfection

Category: Japan Page 44 of 52