Friday Morning Folly

Friday Morning Folly

On November 10, 2017

Dave and I discovered a couple months ago that our PASMO Card (train card) could be used to pay for purchases at certain stores. The most important places it can be used is at the numerous convenience stores. Like Family Mart. This is a picture of the Family Mart I probably frequent the most. It is in Zushi and about a block from the train station. This is where our Friday Morning Folly occurred.

Let me back up a second and set the stage. Today is an American Federal Holiday observing Veteran’s Day. Dave needed to go into work because his Japanese employees were working a normal day. However, he didn’t have to be in so early. Instead of a 3:50am reveille, we could snooze until 5:15am with the goal to be running by 6:00am. Easy day.

We grabbed our ID cards and PASMO Card (one required and the other just in case) and headed out for our run at 6:02am. We ran down to Zushi Beach hoping to catch a view of Mt. Fuji. Unfortunately, the morning was not clear enough.

We doubled back and decided to stop at the Family Mart to grab food for lunch. Then we would just take the train home. Here’s where it’s important to remember the PASMO Card can be used at convenience stores. We grabbed our goodies and I whipped out my Passmo to pay. I was a total champion at this point.

Side note: the cheeseburger is for me! It’s one of my lunchtime favorites. If you want, they will even heat it for you.

I tapped my PASMO Card for the ¥1252 purchase.

And then I saw my balance ¥88. Oh, shizzle. It cost ¥130 to train home. Dang it! Well, looks like I’m running home. Dave asked if I had any coins on me. Nope. Take the bag. I’ll see you at the gate.

It was exactly a mile from station to main gate running the most direct route possible. I was hoping to beat the train. I didn’t. Dave was waiting for me at the main gate. The Japanese security guard asked why my husband was already here. Ha! Because I didn’t have enough money on my train card. He laughed, too!

Want to know what’s even funnier? On my run home, as I passed the park, I found ¥100 piece on the road! Nicely beat up from being run over repeatedly. If only I found it a mile earlier!

I’m usually pretty good about having my train card charged. I apparently forgot about my two trips to Tokyo this week! Nonetheless, a valuable lesson was learned without dire consequences. Happy Friday! Kanpie!

Rikugien Garden

By wabisabisole

On November 9, 2017

In Gardens, Japan, Rikugien Garden, Tokyo

Thursday was another beautiful Autumn day that warranted getting out for a little leaf peeping. I caught a morning train to the Bunkyo area on the north side of Tokyo. Once again, I arrived with an onigiri and was able to eat lunch at the garden. Simultaneously, thanks to modern technology, I could chat on my phone untethered to wifi and for free with my friend Sara in the U.S. all while sitting on a bench in a Tokyo garden. It was great catching up with you, my friend!!

Now, back to the beautiful garden. The Rikugien Garden is a traditional Japanese garden. The garden highlighted the natural landscape of the area and incorporated water elements. This small section of water was actually part of a very large pond.

Bridges over the water are also important elements of a Japanese garden.

Here is the pond from another angle. From this picture, you can see the large size of the pond.

Another part of a traditional Japanese garden pond, is the presence of koi. Check out the giant orange koi and group of dark ones on the left side of this picture!

I spent about an hour and a half wandering through the many paths within the garden. One path took me up a small hill. The view from the top was beautiful. I was a little early to see the peak Autumn foliage. Instead I only had a peek.

Another path took me along the back of the pond. It was so quiet and serene.

The island is also an important part of the traditional Japanese garden. Typically, entry to the island is not permitted. The large island in Rikugien is made of weathered rocks with a single pine tree. This island represents Mount Horai, the legendary home of the Eight Immortals.

I took a close up picture of the bridge to access the island. The Obana (Japanese pompas grass) is one of my favorite signs of Autumn in Japan.

Stone lanterns are also significant in a traditional Japanese garden. Originally, they were used to line the path to a shrine. Within the garden, they are decorations used to remind visitors of the passing of time.

I truly enjoyed my afternoon. Please don’t get mad at me for saying this, I’m starting to get into the Christmas spirit! I know, it’s not Thanksgiving yet. However, the Japanese don’t observe Thanksgiving. Instead, it’s straight to Christmas and Christmas decorations. Christmas decorations are starting to appear everywhere and I just can’t help but get excited when I see this Christmas tree!

Japanese Pumpkin

By wabisabisole

On November 8, 2017

In Japan, Japanese Pumpkin

As I was shopping for our sushi dinner at the Japanese grocery store this morning, I walked through the produce section and was reminded of a phone conversation I had with my friend Jennifer a couple weeks ago. Some how we were talking about gourds or was it soup? Anyways, I mentioned that I really like Japanese pumpkin tempura style and should make a soup out of it. It’s totally different and yet the same as American pumpkin. Let me explain.

First, a Japanese pumpkin is green on the outside and a little flatter than a round American pumpkin.

In our conversation, Jen asked if I was talking about acorn squash. No, these are definitely different, I insisted. Pictured below is acorn squash for sale only at the Commissary on base. The Japanese pumpkin is only for sale in the Japanese grocery store.

The most common way Japanese pumpkin is sold is in quarters.

While I was shopping, I noticed a package of some sort of pumpkin sauce for ¥100 or about $1.00.

Using my best deductive Japanese reading strategies (Google Translate) and the pictures, I decided to purchase a quarter of pumpkin and a package of sauce. The picture on the top center of the package is a pumpkin with 1/4 written over it.

The seeds appear to be the same as American pumpkin seeds. The guts have a denser and less stringy consistency.

From the directions on the back, I scooped out the seeds and microwaved it for about 5 minutes.

When the pumpkin was done cooking, I added the sauce and cilantro. Just like the picture.

It actually tasted pretty good. I ate it for my lunch today. The pumpkin had the consistency of a sweet potato and tasted like pumpkin. I will definitely consider incorporating it into a meal in the future. I think Dave would like it. Mainly, because it is served with cilantro – his favorite! In the meantime, if you have a recipe for pumpkin soup, please share it with me! I’m up for the challenge now that it feels and looks more like Autumn!

Koishikawa Korakuen Gardens – Fall Edition

By wabisabisole

On November 7, 2017

In Autumn, Gardens, Japan, Koishikawa Korakuen Gardens, Onigiri, Tokyo

I went to visit the Koishikawa Korakuen Gardens in June. This garden made the list of five gardens to experience wabi-sabi in Japan. I recently read an article published on savvytokyo.com, identifying eight places to visit in and around Tokyo to see beautiful Autumn foliage. To my surprise and joy, Koishikawa Korakuen Gardens was listed in the article! I took that as a sign to go and visit the garden again! It was beautiful. I arrived around lunchtime and enjoyed a tuna onigiri with green tea while sitting on a bench in the shade enjoying this view.

After my lunch, I took a stroll around the garden. So much fall color!

Up close, the vermilion bridge stood out in the still very green tree undergrowth.

From further away, the bridge was almost swallowed in the upper layer of slowly changing leaves.

The view across the pond might have been my favorite. Just to be clear, those are Japanese maple leaves. ???

From the other side of the pond, the view was lovely as well. The pond was so still.

Part of the reason I love this Garden is the serenity it provides in the middle of Tokyo. The other reason is the beautiful plants, ponds, and paths. It’s a perfect spot to enjoy a picnic lunch followed by an afternoon stroll. What do you think about my new exploring shoes? Kawaii!

Perhaps, this will become the Garden I stalk and visit at some point each season! My attempt to capture its year round beauty.

Hookah Lounge

By wabisabisole

On November 3, 2017

In Honcho, Japan

After dinner on Friday, I had the opportunity to smoke at a Hookah Lounge with a couple Japanese friends. It sounds and looks much more incriminating than reality.

Although we shared the pipe, we each had our own mouthpiece. This helped us keep our kooties to ourselves.

Yuka and Yuko ordered us peach flavored tobacco to smoke. The flavored tobacco had a very pleasant taste and odor.

As we smoked and finished our drinks, the ladies helped me with my Japanese phrases. My new favorite expression is “shoganai”. Pronounced show-ga-nigh. Shoganai means “oh, well” or “c’est la vie”. We also worked on a conversation to ask a person if their food is delicious.

“Oishi des ka” – is your food delicious?

“Hai, oishi des” – yes, this is delicious.

“Yokata” – I’m happy for you.

Who needs Rosetta Stone? A couple more Friday’s at the Hookah Lounge and I’ll be proficient in Japanese!

Enoshima Sea Candles

By wabisabisole

On November 2, 2017

In Enoshima Island, Enoshima Sea Candle, Gardens, Google Map, Japan, Mt. Fuji, Sea Candle, Shopping, Shrine, Train

Last week, I went out to Enoshima Island and during my visit, I saw an advertisement for a candle illumination display. Wednesday evening was the perfect opportunity for me to revisit the Enoshima Garden, Sea Candle, and candle illumination. I arrived a little before sunset and was very happy I did! I was able to capture a few pictures of the sunset and Mt. Fuji.

I purchased my ticket and quickly went up into the Sea Candle before the sunset was complete. I wanted a few more pictures!

I returned to ground level and I tilted my phone to capture Mt. Fuji and the Sea Candle. A very gorgeous evening!

After watching sunset, I returned to the candle illumination. The path leading to the Sea Candle was illuminated with white votives.

The candles were placed with great care throughout the garden.

The Shrine seemed majestic with the red votives lining the path.

The candles were beautiful and it was so quiet. It wasn’t very crowded, but still a good number of people snapping pictures from every angle. As couples spoke, they whispered. The silence truly set a peaceful tone for the evening.

This is my fourth visit to Enoshima Island. It is moving up on my list of favorite places near where we live. Even though it takes a little while to get there, the train ride is nice along the coast. Also, there are a lot of shops leading up to the Shrine that can be fun to explore. The Shrine is beautiful and there are a lot of stairs! On a clear day, the island provides a fantastic view of Mt. Fuji. It is worth a visit during cool (remember- lots of stairs!) and clear weather. One last picture of Mt. Fuji as I walked back to the train station.

One more funny story about the Enoshima Sea Candle. In America, we would refer to this structure as a lighthouse. I call it the Enoshima Sea Candle because those are the English words written on the signs on the island. Even Google Maps refers to it as the Enoshima Sea Candle.

The funny thing is, I have told both of my English classes about my visits to Enoshima Island and the Enoshima Sea Candle and they respond with confusion. They will say to me, “you call it Sea Candle?” Clearly, confused by the silly American who isn’t familiar with lighthouses. I try to explain I call it that because that’s what the sign says- in English. Normally, I would call it a lighthouse. “Oh, yes, lighthouse. Yes, very beautiful.” Yes, very beautiful. For now on, I will always giggle when I see a lighthouse aka Sea Candle.

Gingko Goodness

By wabisabisole

On October 31, 2017

In Autumn, Gingko Trees, Japan, Tokyo

Happy Halloween!

I went leaf chasing today. I am so ready for fall weather and changing leaves. I think I might have a head start, but I just couldn’t help myself. I set out for a cute tucked away street in the middle of Tokyo. It is famous for the many Gingko Trees lining the street.

The Gingko Trees are slowly starting to change to the beautiful yellow. Each side of the street has a large sidewalk with benches.

I enjoyed my onigiri lunch on this bench. It was peaceful and serene.

Walking through the trees had its own meditative powers. I think I walked up and down each side twice! It was so relaxing and peaceful.

One last thought about the experience of living in Japan on “American” holidays like Halloween. There are some decorations at shops and restaurants. And many decorated homes on base. Trick or Treating only occurs on base, not out in town. Japan doesn’t give off quite the same “Halloween” vibe I’m accustomed to experiencing in the U.S. As I was getting dressed this morning, I gave a second thought about wearing my favorite Halloween scarf. I thought I might stand out too much. Then I remembered, I live in Japan! Standing out is what I do best. So, I wore my cute scarf. It makes me happy and so did the nice lady who offered to take my picture with the Gingko Trees.

As I was leaving the Gingko Tree Street, I passed this guy. I realized my scarf was nothing compared his ensemble!! Haha! I guess a little Halloween spirit lives in us all.

Happy Halloween!

Hello Autumn

By wabisabisole

On October 30, 2017

In Japan, Mt. Fuji, Zushi

The storm cleared out last night and sunrise greeted us with an amazing view of Mt. Fuji. It looks like the little bit of snow cap on Mt. Fuji already melted. I have no doubt it will return very soon!

The rest of my day was filled with errands. When I finally made it back home, the crisp temperature and leftover breezes from the storm made me want to bake up some fall treats! I made the always delicious pumpkin cinnamon rolls.

Along with tasty, these rolls deserve the prize of messy!

I had a little helper as I baked. This little guy came to my screen door and chatted with me. I decided to name him Groucho. Because, eyebrows!

Just so we are clear, I did not feed him. Nor did I coax him to my house. And I am NOT adopting him. I just thought it was cute he followed me home. He left as quietly as he came, once he realized I wasn’t going to give him snacks.

I will bake the beautiful pumpkin rolls in the morning and send them into work with Dave. Happy Halloween to SRF. All treats – no tricks!

Typhoon Saola

By wabisabisole

On October 29, 2017

In Japan, Typhoon, Yokosuka, Zushi

This weekend’s weather was brought to us by Typhoon Saola.

The base only set TCCOR Stormwatch. Mainly meaning a lot of rain and tropical storm winds.

The storm is not as strong as Typhoon Lan nor did is get as close to Japan.

None the less, we received plenty of rain.

I know I said it already, but one more time, we received so much rain. We are safe and sound. I’m looking forward to a new weather pattern. This is the third rainy weekend in a row!

Beautiful Day

By wabisabisole

On October 26, 2017

In Beach, Enoshima Island, Japan, Kamakura, Mt. Fuji, Sea Candle, Sea Cave, Shonan Beach, Shopping, Train, Zushi

Today was beautiful. It warranted a get out and go attitude. I decided to venture over to Enoshima Island. I’ve been a couple times, both with Dave and Dina. It provides a spectacular vantage point for viewing Mt. Fuji (on a clear day). I knew today would be a great day for a trip to Enoshima because I snapped this picture earlier in the morning from Zushi Beach while enjoying a U.S. phone conversation with my girl, Jules. Enoshima Island is the island slightly off center and in front of Mt. Fuji.

One part of the island I haven’t had the opportunity to explore are the rocks and sea cave. It is some what of a trek out to the island. It requires three trains and a good bit of walking. Here was my route.

As I walked across the bridge to the island, I was giddy seeing Mt. Fuji with a snow cap. Signs of cooler weather!

I decided to walk the stairs on the island vice taking the pay escalators. I figured the steps would do my rainy day lazy legs a favor! I was huffing and puffing by the time I reached the top. But, that view!

Before descending down the other side to the sea cave, I decided to stop for a quick visit at the Sea Candle. I love the gardens and the Sea Candle and I knew the view would be amazing. I purchased my ¥500 ticket from the machine like a boss and entered the garden. I was greeted by thousands of unlit luminaries.

I saw the flier with relevant information and have already made plans to return next week in the evening to see them illuminated! I think it will be so enchanting.

As I approached the Sea Candle entrance, an advertisement for the caves caught my attention. I looked it over and then proceeded to the ticket taker at the entrance. He nicely informed me the sea caves were closed. Oh? Hai! Because typhoon caused damage. Oh! Arigatōgozaimas! I was so thankful he told me before I walked down the other side of the mountain! He also told me he wasn’t sure when it would reopen.

The views of Mt. Fuji from the Sea Candle were as beautiful as I hoped!

I walked around and enjoyed the 360 degree view of Shonan Beach. The bridge pictured is the one I walked over to access the island.

As I was returning to the elevator to go back down, I observed a man taking the stairs. I decided to follow and ignore the sign written in Japanese. Again with the great views!

The spiral staircase took me down to the Terrace level. As I came to the end of the staircase, I realized my error. Don’t tell anyone, but I don’t think I was supposed to use the stairs.