Wabi-Sabi Sole

Finding Beauty with Imperfection

Author: wabisabisole Page 14 of 58

Yozakura

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On March 29, 2018

In Gumyoji, Japan, Sakura, Train

Wednesday evening, I met Katie and her daughter, Virginia, at the Kanazawa Hakkei train station. We took the train from here to Gumyoji. We wanted to see the Sakura at night with the lanterns. The Japanese term for nighttime Sakura viewing is Yozakura. We arrived around 1730. The lanterns were illuminated at 1800. We took a few dusk pictures while we waited.

Tonight was my turn to tell the flowers how much we appreciated them blooming for us. Katie gave her appreciation on Monday. I’m still giggling.

When the lights came on, we clapped. I felt like there should have been a count down. The lanterns were so beautiful. Oh, Japan. You continue to steal my heart when I’m not expecting it.

The evening was extraordinary and so enjoyable. We sat at a table and Virginia enjoyed her churros and we enjoyed our beers. After our snacks, we walked along the river a little more.

The rest of the pictures were taken by Katie. Her iPhone 7 out performed my iPhone 6 with respect to night pictures. Thank you, Katie, for sharing your pictures. I’ll look forward to upgrading my phone when we return to the U.S.

Even after four straight days of Sakura chasing, I’m still impressed and amazed with their beauty. I hope you’re not growing tired of them either!

Zushi Sakura

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On March 28, 2018

In Japan, Run, Sakura, Zen, Zushi

This morning I decided to take a different route on my run. The route I took was one Dave and I ran a lot last year when we were training for Tokyo Marathon. It made for a little longer and little hillier run than our normal run to Zushi Beach. I knew the Sakura lined streets would be worth the extra efforts. I didn’t have to go too far to start seeing Sakura trees. They are literally everywhere.

This temple and bridge are on our normal route. I wish you could smell the incense from the temple. Add the sunrise and I found my Zen.

Shortly after I took these pictures, I turned left away from the beach and ran uphill towards Hayama. I went about another mile before turning up an even bigger hill. The view from the top was obstructed by Sakura. Not a bad reason for no view!

I decided to walk down the hill. The sidewalks were brick and very uneven from the Sakura roots. I didn’t want to trip. Plus, I wanted to savor this view.

I took a quick stop at the park to take a few close up pictures of the Sakura and a sunrise Sakura selfie.

I continued down the hill and was completely amazed with the beautiful trees. This street is less than 1.5 miles from the main gate where we live and there was no one around other than cars passing on their way to work. It was such a contrast to my day yesterday. I was happy I decided change my route so I could appreciate their beauty in the early morning.

I continued past the park near our house and took a few close up pictures.

Finally, I made it back home. I crossed the set of railroad tracks near our house and chuckled. Right by our housing complex is a river with Sakura planted along it. It’s like Meguro River, only much smaller and not crowded!

After four days of Sakura chasing, I can completely understand the obsession. I feel like I have a little Sakura crush of my own.

Koishikawa Kōrakuen Gardens – Spring Sakura

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On March 27, 2018

In Japan, Koishikawa Korakuen Gardens, Sakura, Ueno Park

I started out my day helping Dave get to the airport for a quick and unexpected trip to Sasebo. Since I was already on the way to Tokyo, I decided to visit a couple spots known for Sakura blossoms. The first place I went was Ueno Park. Of the various articles I read about where to view Sakura, Ueno Park was always listed in the top five. I should have anticipated the crowds based on the volume of train passengers. Honestly, I never imagined there would be so many people! This was the crowd just to leave the train station.

It wasn’t hard to find the Sakura with a large crowd to follow. The good thing was there was a large area to walk. The walk could accommodate the large crowd.

I walked down the main strip and couldn’t get over how many people where there to see the Sakura. I also couldn’t believe how many foreigners were visiting. I realize I am also a foreigner, but I’m not accustomed to seeing too many others. I was overwhelmed with all the English conversations! However, I’m pretty sure those here to Hanami were locals. Check out their spreads.

Within 45 minutes of my arrival, I was ready to find a Sakura spot off the beaten path. The crowd at Ueno Park was just too much for me. My next stop of the day was at one of my favorite Tokyo gardens, Koishikawa Kōrakuen. This garden is on my wabi-sabi list and continues to appear on “best of Tokyo” list. I’ve visited this park in the summer and fall and during both seasons, the park was beautiful. I was looking forward to seeing the Park blossoming in the spring. I wasn’t disappointed. The Sakura was beautiful and the quiet park serene. It was just what I needed to restore my zen after the crowds at Ueno. As I wandered the path, I had fun taking pictures of this Sakura tree from different angles.

There were definitely more people at the garden compared to my last visit. Nonetheless, I was able to capture pictures of nature’s beauty and solitude.

I took a panoramic photo from the top of the hill. What the Sakura perhaps lacked in numbers, they made up for in beauty.

I continued walking through the garden. The light gave me a faint shadow at the moon bridge.

The path winds around the pond. It provides a peaceful and meditative walk.

Eventually, I made my way back to the entrance of the park. Here I could view the Sakura up close.

I think today Team Blush was the winner.

The one Team Pink tree wasn’t quite in full bloom.

I’ll be honest, the beautiful weather this Sakura season makes me feel like I won the lottery. It truly is a gorgeous time of year.

Tokyo Sakura Chasing

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On March 26, 2018

In Cherry Blossoms, Japan, Meguro River, Sakura, Shinjuku, Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden

On Monday, Katie and I decided to check out a couple spots in Tokyo with beautiful Sakura. The first place we visited was the Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden. We met at the Kanazawa-Hakkei train station. It was about an hour on the train ride to the closest station and then a quick 10 minute walk to the garden. Several articles we read listed Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden as the number one spot in Tokyo for Sakura viewing. It is easy to see why. The trees were magnificent.

We arrived by 10:30 and were glad we did. The garden was already becoming quite crowded. It was another beautiful day and I think many people had the same idea!

The Sakura trees were everywhere throughout the garden. There were a variety of colors. From white to pale pink to the deep pink. I tried to capture all the colors in this photo.

Here are a couple of my favorite photos of the Sakura trees within the park.

Katie pointed out the beautiful contrast between the serene gardens and the city skyscrapers in the background. Ahhh, wabi-sabi indeed.

We had fun trying to hide in the Sakura and take selfies.

Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden is my favorite Sakura spot so far. It was absolutely magical. After visiting Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, we caught the Tokyo Metro to Meguro to see the Sakura along the Meguro River. The blossoms were spectacular.

The pathways along the river stretched out for such a long way. It was serene.

These blossoms were more of the blush color. Team Blush had a strong presence today.

The lanterns created a fun ambiance and great for snapping a few portraits.

I’m so excited to have such wonderful weather this year during Sakura season. I’ve strategically planned out my week to capture different parks and gardens. I hope you enjoy seeing the pictures as much as I do chasing down the Sakura!

Gumyoji Sakura

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On March 25, 2018

In Gumyoji, Japan, Sakura

After much anticipation, Sakura season has finally arrived in the Tokyo area. Simultaneously, so has beautiful spring weather. Today and the rest of this week, temperatures will reach the mid sixties. The 10-day forecast doesn’t show rain at all! Let the Sakura chasing begin!

To kick off Sakura season, Dave and I went to Gumyoji early Sunday afternoon to enjoy the beautiful Sakura trees along the river. I visited this area last year, but I didn’t remember exactly where to go. This was not an issue, we simply followed the crowd!

The trees are not fully bloomed. I would say they are about 70% at this point. By the end of this week, I think they will be in full bloom. Perfect for your visit, Jennifer!

The walk along the river was so relaxing.

As we walked along, we realized the lanterns had electricity. They must be illuminated at night. I will have to get back one evening this week to have a look. I imagine it would be beautiful.

A couple of the smaller trees were in full bloom. We stopped for photo opportunities.

Most of these Sakura are a very pale shade of pink. From a distance, they almost appear white. Up close, you can see the pale pink.

One tree was a brilliant shade of darker pink.

So, we discussed which was our favorite. Team Pink or Team Blush. Either way, my pink capris blend nicely. I might need to wear them all week!

Official Kombucha Tasting

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On March 24, 2018

In Japan, Kombucha

I let the jars ferment in phase two for four days. I wanted to achieve maximum fruit flavor and carbonation. I heeded caution and “burped” the jars every 24-hours to prevent them from exploding from the build up of carbonation. Nonetheless, check out the bubbles that formed in the strawberry pulp.

Yet again, I was intimidated by the process and products. I wasn’t quite sure what to think about these bubbles.

I knew I needed to strain the kombucha before it was ready for tasting. As I strained the kombucha, I found the byproduct of the fermented strawberry pulp intimidating. The strawberry pulp formed a gelatinous film.

The gelatinous film was an unnecessary byproduct I sent happily down the garbage disposal. After straining each jar twice, I allowed them to chill in the fridge. This game me time to build courage for my first tasting. I opted for a shot glass taste – which, I sipped.

It wasn’t terrible. But, it wasn’t delicious either. It was tolerable. In a way, it reminded me of a tart strawberry wine I might buy in Tennessee with a slight fizz. I think I need more experimentation with phase two fermentation. I’m definitely not ready for mass production. Honestly, this is barely ready for consumption. I’ll drink this over the next few days and see if I feel an amazing improvement in my intestinal health. Meanwhile, I’ll do some research in hopes of making the next phase two more successful.

PS. Dave did try it as well. His response was “it’s not THAT bad.” Ha!

Vernal Equinox

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On March 21, 2018

In Anniversary, Japan, Snow, Vernal Equinox

Time zones make the timing of scientific things, like the vernal equinox, occur on different days. In the U.S., the vernal equinox occurred on March 20, 2018. However, with Japan being 13+ hours ahead, the vernal equinox occurred on March 21st. In Japan, the vernal equinox is a national holiday! Here is a graphic shared by the base explaining more about the traditions.

March 21st is also special because it is our anniversary. Our photo order from the Seabee Ball arrived earlier this week. I think it is a great picture of us.

Just like many of you waking up on Wednesday morning, believe it or not, we also had snow on the vernal equinox. Clearly, Mother Nature has a sense of humor! We knew it was supposed to rain today. We had no idea the snow was forecasted!

If it wasn’t so beautiful, it would be annoying. Ahhh, the wabi-sabi of life.

http://wabisabisole.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/img_4176.mov http://wabisabisole.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/img_4180.mov

Fortunately, the temperatures are supposed to warm up in the next 24 hours. This white stuff won’t be around too long. Maybe Mother Nature was just trying to delay the Sakura blossoms a day or two. Good things come to those who wait, patiently.

Kombucha 102

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On March 20, 2018

In Japan, Kombucha, Strawberry

After a week of letting my first batch of Kombucha ferment, it was time to move to phase 2 fermentation. I was a little apprehensive and intimidated by the scoby growing in the jar. I looked up pictures online to verify my scoby was healthy and not moldy. From the imagines I found, I was satisfied my scoby was healthy.

The only thing preventing me from moving on to phase 2 was finding the courage to taste the kombucha. Oh, boy. I was expecting the worst. I summed all my courage and steeled my stomach for a straw size siphon. I was pleasantly surprised. The kombucha actually tasted palatable. It tasted like sweet tea mixed with a little vinegar. The longer the kombucha remains in phase 1 fermentation, the stronger the vinegar taste. I decided to go with a sweeter flavor for my first batch. I prepped my laboratory (kitchen) work space and began the canning process for phase 2 fermentation.

I used frozen strawberries to flavor the kombucha. I mixed the frozen strawberries with a little hot water and then puréed them in the food processor. I added about 2 tablespoons to each mason jar. I saved a mason jar of tea so I could prepare another batch of kombucha phase 1. Meanwhile, I’ll let my four jars of strawberry kombucha set for 2-4 days. After that time, they should be ready to strain, refrigerate, and enjoy.

My fingers are crossed they kombucha is delicious!

Early Spring Blooms

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On March 19, 2018

In Cherry Blossoms, Japan, Kamakura, Plum Blossoms, Sakura, Ume

We enjoyed a relaxing weekend. Saturday, I visited the farmer’s market being held on base. I came away with several treasures, none of them were food! I purchased two antique pieces. One is a chest and the other a tea tansu. I love them and have already incorporated them into our decor.

We also had the opportunity to visit our favorite lunch spot in Kamakura. Barchie’s remains one of our favorites restaurants. We stopped in for lunch on Sunday.

Check out this ingenious idea. I ordered a bbq rib burrito. It was served wrapped in wax paper and sliced in half. As I ate it, I peeled away the wax paper. All the juices dripped out the bottom of the burrito and were collected by the wax paper! Brilliant!

After lunch, we walked around Kamakura. A couple of the white Sakura trees are starting to bloom. Everyone was taking pictures!! We couldn’t resist either!

As you’re reading this, Jennifer, please don’t be alarmed. I took a picture of the pink grove across the pond. This is also where the peony garden is located. The pink Sakura are not blooming yet. They still have about 7-10 days. Plus, there is a lot rain in the forecast this week. The rain will slow down the blooms. I think timing will be perfect for your visit!

In the meantime, please enjoy the early spring blooms. The white Sakura, plum blossoms, and daffodils.

Beautiful Weather

By

On March 14, 2018

In Hiking, Japan, Kamakura

The past few days, the weather has been absolutely amazing. Yesterday, I spent time gardening and refreshing my flower pots on our front porch. Today, I decided it would be best to enjoy a hike. I started in Kamakura at the end of the Red Leaf Trail. Dave and I last hiked it in November. When we did that hike, we came to a fork in the trail and decided to stay on the course of the main trail. My goal today was to hike to the same spot and take “the road less traveled.” Because I was going the opposite way, I was able to gain a different perspective while hiking the trail. Like the steepness of the uphill – normally a downhill!

Soon I made it to the first split.

Did I already mention how beautiful it was today!?! I was dressed in capris and a short sleeve shirt with a fleece. Not too long into the hike, I put the fleece in my backpack!

I made it to the second split in the trail and continued along the path Dave and I traveled before.

It was after reaching the summit, the last picture above, that I veered left instead of right. I knew following the trail to the right would lead me back to Kamakura. The hike continued to be beautiful.

At one point, I passed a huge cemetery.

I also passed numerous other hikers out enjoying the day. We exchanged “Konnichiwa” and a couple times they would engage me in a conversation They would ask, “where from?” My simple reply, “Chicago.” Their response, “Ahh, America.” “Hai, America,” I would agree. I laughed and felt a little bit badly for my Illinois friends. I don’t mean to diss the state, or think Chicago is the only part of the state. It is just easier to say Chicago because Chicago is known internationally. So, yes, I’m from: Chicago, America. I also realize I’m from the United States of America. However, when I say I’m from the U.S., it creates much confusion. So, although there are many Americas, most people I meet think of the United States of America as “America.” Sorry, I digressed on that one, but I’ve had the question from wabisabisole fans as to why I say Chicago and not the U.S.

Back to my beautiful hike. After the cemetery, I pooped out at a rest station where I found a beautiful map. I studied it for no less than 10 minutes. I was still unclear about where I should go. There were three trail heads. One I came from. And the other two were a mystery. So, I just went in a direction that seemed correct according to Google Maps.

More beautiful trails.

Until I found a paper plant. OMG! This part of the trail sparked my vertigo. I had to stop, take a picture, and then put phone away. I was insanely worried I would slip. Thankfully, I didn’t see a snake!! I couldn’t help but wonder if he bamboo had been cleared to prevent people from falling.

I made it through and then quickly descended. Soon, I found myself on a road near where I teach English on Thursdays!! Ha!

I walked a little bit and caught the bus to Matsuura Train Station (one stop away from our stop). From there, I took the train home. (Not a picture of my train, but I love the other colored trains.)

I was home by 3pm. It was a four hour trip from door to door and about 5 miles total with 3.5 miles of actual hiking. Pretty good for a beautiful day. I rewarded myself with a glass of wine on our front patio with one of my new favorite plants. How many kitty cats do you see!?!

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