Wabi-Sabi Sole

Finding Beauty with Imperfection

Category: Kamakura Page 4 of 5

Tall and Small

By

On February 16, 2017

In Cherry Blossoms, Google Map, Japan, Kamakura, Ramen, Sakura

Dina and I went to Kamakura to do a little shopping. After walking down Komachi Dori for a little bit, we were ready for lunch and decided to enjoy a bowl of ramen. The first place we found was closed. I did a quick “ramen near me” search on Google Maps.

 Google Maps led us to Hirano. 

Turns out, Hirano is the Japan’s smallest ramen joint. The sign out front was hysterical. 


As we were reading the sign, we thought we should first check to see if there was room for us before determining our order. As luck would have it, when we opened the door, three people came out. Therefore, plenty of room! 


There were actually two more seats available. Seven seats total. (Can you see all 4 customers? Plus me taking the picture.) 

Our chef in the kitchen. 


Ironically, the smallest ramen joint in Japan still serves ginormous bowls of ramen. 


I ordered the #4 special ramen. Miso base with a little spice. It was good. It made the top five of my favorite ramen joints mainly because of the restaurant itself. 


Seriously, could this place be any funnier!?!


Perhaps, when Dina poses for me! 

Kamakura is full of so many bizarre and unique experiences. I truly can’t wait to take you there when you visit! 

Here are my finds from our shopping. Can you tell it is Sakura Season? A couple bowls, plates, chopstick rests and adorable cats. Kawaii!! 

Taya Cavern

By

On January 25, 2017

In Cherry Blossoms, Google Map, Japan, Kamakura, Ofuna, Plum Blossoms, Shrine, Temple

“Do not go where the path may lead; go instead where there is no path and leave a trail.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson

I received a very nice compliment today. I took Dina to a temple she had yet to visit and to one she had never even heard about after living here for almost two years. She applauded my efforts for setting out and blazing a trail. She gave me the Emerson quote and I have never felt more honored. However, I can’t take too much credit. Because…

Google Maps is pretty amazing. I have become a very confident explorer now that I have learned many of “hidden” (obvious) features. Like the blue arrow that points in the direction you are headed, or the way you can drop a pin on a location and find directions, hours and reviews. This is how I found the Taya Cavern. Seriously. I was just goofing around with Google Maps looking for stuff to do and I found the Taya Cavern which is part of the Josenji-Temple. The pilgrimage to Taya Caverns/Josenji-Temple required a train ride to Ofuna and then a 30-minute urban hike. It was another beautiful day with clear blue skies. Dina still needed to visit The White Lady of Ofuna and it was pretty much on the way. We decided to do both… after lunch!

Lunch! A salad pizza. I might add this to my favorite “pizza” in Japan. I have learned to set expectations low with respect to familiar foods because they just don’t taste the same. This pizza was different and delicious!

A few pictures of one of my favorite temples. You can read more about The White Lady of Ofuna here.

While we were walking around, we discussed how spectacular these Cherry Blossoms will be in a couple months.

After visiting the White Lady, we were off for a 30-minute urban hike to Josenji-Temple. It was tucked away off the side of the road. However, Google Maps led me straight to the entrance without fail!

A pleasant surprise, Ume Blossoms (plum blossoms) were just beginning to bloom.

At the temple, there was a shrine dedicated hundreds of Jizo statues. I needed to research the Jizo a little more. While visiting the shrine, we were left with the impression it was dedicated to children who had passed away. My research informed me the Jizo is a bodhisattva revered among Japanese Buddhists, and the protector of travelers, expectant mothers, and children. This explains the additions to many of the statues within the shrine.

Next, we walked across a small path to the entrance of the caverns. According to the information provided by the Temple, the caverns date back to 1192 and took 500 years to reach the capacity they are today. The caverns were originally 1000m in length however, only 300m are available to visitors. The caverns were hand carved by Buddhist monks seeking enlightenment. “To attain enlightenment, disciples entered the cave. They performed 21-day fasts, sitting in religious meditation, and digging the caves by hand.”

Understanding the caverns were hand carved, we can look past how height challenged Dina and I felt throughout our walk.

Upon entering, we lit our candle and used it to guide us through our passage. No worries, there are also several LED lights along the way!

We were also provided a holder for our candle. It was an amazing experience to walk throughout the tunnels with our candle. I will be honest. We relied on each other several time to relight because candles do not like to move quickly!

One of the MANY carvings. A fish, no a bird, no a dragon!

This is a picture of the ceiling at one of the 17 circle areas designed for worship.

One of many alters throughout the caverns.

Fortunately, the only bat we saw in the cave!

And of course, a Cock!

Several Buddhist sitting upon a lotus flower

At one point while we were walking through the caverns, it became really warm and moist. It was definitely not what one would expect when walking through caves in the winter. I attempted to take a picture of the walls. They were covered in moisture. I told Dina I felt as though I was walking through someone’s mouth it was that humid and damp. It was a little gross.

More carvings…

A couple more pictures to give to an idea of how much we had to duck! And our cool candle holders!

Perhaps my favorite picture. A Buddha carving appearing to hold my candle.

More carvings and a shrine.

At one point, we heard what seemed like a massive amount of flowing water. It was the small drainage pipe hidden behind the faux pine bough. According to my research, splashing water from this “noiseless stream” on a part of your body that causes pain, will heal it. Too bad I didn’t read this before we went for our visit!

It was a very special day. I was excited to take my Japan-savvy friend somewhere she had yet to go and together experience something off the beaten path.

Inamuragasaki Beach

By

On January 24, 2017

In Beach, Enoshima Island, Inamuragasaki Beach, Japan, Kamakura, Mt. Fuji, The Beach, Train

A friend told me about Inamuragasaki Beach. She described it as a beautiful black sand beach with an amazing view of Mt. Fuji (on a clear day). Inamuragasaki Beach is located in Kamakura and accessible by the Enoshima electric train line. Here was my route today. It took about 10 minutes longer to get there than it did to come home. It’s all about train timing!


After I arrived in Inamuragasaki, it was a quick walk to the beach to see this view! Enoshima Island is the foreground of the picture.

A small video to help you enjoy the beach!

​
Despite the chilly sea breeze, I enjoyed my walk along the beach. Nothing brings me more peace than walking along a beach listening to waves crash. There were a couple bridges to cover where streams connected with Sagami Bay. Another reason to love Japan. They build bridges at the beach where drainage may cause your feet to get wet! Inamuragasaki Park is in the distance.


As I continued my walk along the beach to Inamuragasaki Park, I couldn’t resist turning around and snapping another picture of Mt. Fuji. It was such a beautiful day. Simultaneously, as I walked the black sand was strangely beautiful and mesmerizing with the crashing waves.


Even on a winter day, the park was lovely.  Besides the views, there was a small daffodil garden.


The park had multiple levels. Each connected with stairs, of course!


With each level, the view became even more magnificent! The first picture I am standing in front of the statue. The caption wasn’t in English so, I am not sure of the meaning.

Interesting statue on the lowest level of the park.


The view from above the daffodil garden…

I took this picture from the middle level. The trees framed Mt. Fuji nicely.

Finally, the view from the top!

We can definitely stop to walk the beach and through the park when you visit. There are a couple restaurants I’m interested in visiting as well!

Ikebana New Year Luncheon

By

On January 18, 2017

In 2017, Ikebana International, Japan, Kamakura, New Year, Palace Hotel Tokyo, Tokyo, Travel

Ikebana International celebrated the New Year with a special luncheon in Tokyo. The luncheon was held at the Palace Hotel Tokyo.

The following Ikebana Chapters were represented and brought an arrangement to display:

Tokyo Founding Chapter

Kyoto Chapter

Kobe Chapter

Shinano Chapter

Okinawa Chapter

Sapporo Chapter

Kamakura Chapter (The one I am a member of.)

Fukuoka

Nagoya Chapter

Osaka Chapter

Shinano Chapter

Saitama Chapter

Hiroshima Chapter

Besides lunch, the event included three Ikebana demonstrations by renowned Ikebana headmasters. Pictures were not permitted during the demonstrations. You will have to take my word for it, watching them make the arrangements was mesmerizing. Evergreens, bamboo, and plum blossoms were the focus of the three arrangements. In the picture below, the three Ikebana headmasters who made arrangements are in the center. Mr. Akihiro Kasuy is wearing the gray kimono, Mrs. Senko Ikenobo is wearing the yellow kimono, and Mr. Hirooki Ohara is the youngest gentleman in the gray suit.

The arrangement pictured below was completed by Mrs. Senko Ikenobo.

The arrangement pictured below was completed by Mr. Hiroki Ohara who become an Ikebana Headmaster at the age of 6. Yes, 6.

Mr. Akihiro Kasuya completed the arrangement pictured below.


I had to take a couple pictures of the crowds and chaos after the demonstrations were complete. Everyone wanted pictures!


So much going on – gotta take a selfie!


After the Ikebana demonstrations, lunch was served. A four-course lunch with a glass of champagne.

Course 1: quinoa and seafood salad with spinach mousse and spicy cauliflower coulis.

What looks like an egg on top was actually the spinach mousse. It was delicious.

Course 2: Clam soup with thyme. It was served without the broth. The waiters then came around and filled the soup with broth.

Soup with broth.

Course 3: Sous vide beef tenderloin with truffle sauce and seasonal vegetables.

Course 4: Dessert – Cremet d’Anjou with berries and a side of raspberry sherbert.

The appetizer and dessert were my favorite! The seafood salad with spinach mousse was delicious. The raspberry sherbert and fresh berries were a delightful and satisfying treat at the end of the meal.

A group shot of the Americans from the Ikebana International Kamakura Chapter members.


Before leaving, Dina and I were able to get a picture with Mori-san. Mori-san is the president of the Japan side of the Ikebana Kamakura Chapter. She is very kind and is always willing to give us hugs and appreciation for us joining Ikebana.

As I have said several times in my previous discussions about Ikebana International, it is such a fun way to experience Japanese culture. The underlying theme to bring peace and friendship through flowers enhances the experience.

Sasuke Inari Shrine

By

On January 17, 2017

In Google Map, Hiking, Japan, Kamakura, Shrine

The Sasuke Inari Shrine is known as the “White Fox Shrine.” The Shrine is located in Kamakura and very well hidden. My neighbor invited me to go this morning with two other spouses. We drove because the temple is off the beaten path and not convenient to a train station. I put a gold ⭐️ on the location of Shrine. I know this area well and if you are interested visiting during your stay, we can incorporate stopping during one of our Kamakura hikes. It is very close to the Zeniarai Benzaiten Shrine, the money washing shrine I went to with Dina last month.

According to legend, an Inari (white fox) came to the first Shogun of Kamakura, Minamoto Yoritomo, in a dream and advised him when to attack his enemies. He followed the advice of the Inari and was victorious over his enemies. To show his gratitude, Minamoto Yoritomo built the Sasuke Inari Shrine in the 12th century.

The steps leading to the shrine are flanked with Tori gates.

Climbing the steps to the temple was like traveling back into a different era.

Being located on top of a steep hill made the Shrine easier to defend against attacks. When you reach the top of the stairs, you are transported to a fox loving world.

A hand drawn map of the Shrine peaked my curiosity. It appeared to identify small shrines within the shrine.

I walked around the main building and more stairs led me to a shrine on the hill. So many foxes!

Walking around and down the side steps revealed another miniature shrine.

As I continued down, I came across a super cute fox village. The moss covered stone houses were captivating.

Heading down the steps through the Torii gates transported us back to modern times.

And back to my friend’s car where a local Japanese resident had taped a piece of paper with “no parking” written on it to the window. Guess I will definitely walk next time!!

Ikebana New Year

By

On January 15, 2017

In 2017, Customs, Ikebana International, Japan, Kamakura, Kimono, Sake, Temple

The January meeting of Ikebana was held at the residence of Mrs. Sato’s at the Great Buddha of Kamakura. This is the same location as the first Ikebana meeting I attended in September.

The January meeting was held on a Saturday enabling family members to attend. Lucky for Dave, he was my plus one!

Julia, Dina, Dave and Brent (Dina’s plus one)

Even luckier for him the meeting included a kabuki makeup demonstration, a Nihon Buyo performance, Mochi pounding and Sake tasting! Kanpie!

The Sake was served with our lunch in traditional a traditional Sake box. The Sake box is made of cedar. The cedar enhances the flavor of the Sake.


The guest performer was Minosuke Nishikawa. He has a detailed resume with extensive training, international performances, and notable awards in theater and dance. He began by introducing himself without makeup and giving simple demonstrations of Nihon Buyo.


Following his introduction, he applied kabuki makeup. He started by wrapping his hair and applying a sticky paste to help the makeup adhere to his skin and stay flawless during the performance.


Next, he applied the white face makeup.


And then he drew eyebrows.


Once his face was prepared, he donned the kimono he would wear during his performance. He had an assistant to assist him with tying his obi.


The top kimono was elaborate and required additional attention from his assistant. In the picture, his assistant is ensuring the obi and kimono are secure!


The final pieces to his costume included yellow socks, sideburns, and a hat.


He was now ready to perform the Nihon Buyo. Nihon Buyo is a traditional Japanese dance dating back to the 18th century. The dance was originally deeply rooted in worship and religion. Over time, it developed into a more creative and theatrical performance. In the performance we observed, Minosuke Nishikawa imitated a stringed marionette doll. His assistant was the puppeteer. It was impressive, unique and very entertaining.

I was able to download a few pictures from the Ikebana Facebook page of the preparation and performance.


After the performance, we had the opportunity to enjoy different flavors of Mochi and Mochi pounding. Black sesame seed, red bean, and ginger.

After letting the guests take turns, Mr. Tago Yuji, showed us all how to get the job done!


All of this entertainment and we still had lunch to enjoy! A bento box and Sake!

Another fun cultural experience made even better because I was able to share the day with Dave and friends!

Coming of Age Day

By

On January 9, 2017

In 2017, Coming of Age Day, Customs, Japan, Kamakura, Kimono, Shrine, Tsuragaoka Hachimangū

The second Monday in January is known as Coming of Age Day. The day celebrates when a Japanese young person reaches adulthood. This occurs at the age of 20 because, 20 is the age of maturity in the Japanese culture. It comes with expanded rights and responsibilities of adulthood. The day of celebration dates back to 714 when a young prince was permitted to wear new robes and had his hair cut marking his passage into adulthood. It was made into a Japanese National holiday in 1948.

Interestingly, the cut off date for the celebration is March 31st. So, any Japanese person turning 20 between April 1st, 2016 and March 31st, 2017 will participate in the ceremony. The ceremony is typically held in the morning at local government offices. After the ceremony, the participants will go out with their friends and family to celebrate often stopping by the local temple or shrine for prayers and good wishes.

Women often wear traditional formal kimonos. Some men choose to wear a kimono as well, although it is more common for men to wear dark suits. I went to Kamakura this afternoon to the Tsuragaoka Hachimangū Shrine hoping to catch sight of a few new adults dressed in kimonos. I saw many women dressed in kimonos and I was able to snap a few photos. The women seemed to happily have their pictures taken and EVERYONE was snapping pictures. It was like the “coming of age” paparazzi. Honestly, whom could blame them. The girls looked stunning in their formal dress kimonos.

Kimonos & Rickshaws

Notice the length of her sleeve. The long length indicates she is single.

Kimono selfie! Again, notice the sleeve length.

Kimono with the fur…

So pretty on the bridge

My favorite shot from today

Beautiful


Coming of Age Day reminds me of a sweet sixteen party mixed with your 21st birthday. Although the day is a celebration, it is also meant to serve as a time for reflection on responsibility and privileges associated with becoming and adult. 

Three Temples. Three Stamps.

By

On December 20, 2016

In Japan, Kamakura, Temple

In my first temple book I had three remaining pages. I felt the need to bring closure to my first book, especially since I started my second this weekend. I decided to head back to Kamakura and revisit two temples that I had explored before and didn’t have the opportunity to have my book stamped. The third temple was one I hadn’t explored before.

The first one I returned to was the Engaku-ji Temple. I went to this temple for the November Ikebana meeting. The leaves are beginning to fade, but it was still very lovely.

Engaku-ji Temple is one of the five important Zen Temples in Kamakura. The temple was founded in 1282 by a Chinese monk. The ruler of Japan at the time, Tokimune, requested the temple be built. Tokimune had a long-standing commitment to Zen and the temple was intended to honour those of both sides who died in the war, as well as serving as a center from which the influence of Zen could be spread.

The bamboo! I didn’t realize it didn’t lose its leaves in the winter. In fact, it almost appears greener!

Inside the main hall of the temple, there is a beautiful statue of Buddha sitting upon a lotus flower.



After collecting my stamp, I headed out to the Jōchi-ji Temple. I was able to briefly visit this temple when I went for a hike with Tiffany a few weeks ago. This is the temple with the happy Buddha statue.


I took more time to walk around and enjoy the gardens. There was such a variety of colors from the different plants representing three different seasons.

Fall


Winter


Spring


The main hall of the temple also had three statues of Buddha. These statues represented happiness in the past, present and future.


Another path through a bamboo forest.


Finally, after walking through the gardens, I was ready to have my book stamped. This became yet another opportunity to “be bold.”

There was no doorbell. I couldn’t read the signs and Google translate was giving me garbage. I guess there is only one thing to do…. slide the door to the right and walk in. Oh, geez. And so, I did. When I crossed the threshold, a chime sounded and a nice lady came running to stamp my book. Whew.



My third temple of the day was Meigetsu-in Temple. Also known as the “Hydrangea Temple” – (I can’t wait for spring!!)


The temple also had a cute rabbit & turtle display. Rabbits are symbols of peace & luck. Turtles are symbols of longevity.


The temple was completed in 1383 by Uesugi Norikata and believed to hold the grave of Hōjō Tokiyori’s, a warrior monk.


The temple also has a lovely bamboo forest.


One of the Ten Wells of Kamakura.


A zen rock garden.


Someone has a sense of humor. Do you see the frog in the first picture?

Here are two of the paths in the gardens. Notice the sticks on either side. Those are the hydrangeas. Like I mentioned, I will look forward to going back in May/June.


My final stamp in Temple Book 1.


22 stamps. 

The book does not have a spine down the back enabling it to be used in reverse. By flipping the protective cover, the opposite sides of the pages can be used.


However, Dina gave me a great idea to order a picture of each temple and place on the back. This way, I can not only remember where I went, I can also easily share the memories of each temple. Off to order pictures!

PS. I received the BEST NEWS EVER this morning. A friend of ours from Chicago, Beth, has connections with people in the running community and was able to secure me a spot in the Tokyo Marathon. I just registered! Dave and I are going to run Tokyo Marathon in 2017! I could not be more excited! Seriously, I’m busting with excitement to run 26.2 miles with my husband! HA! Beth, thank you so very much for giving me a chance to run happy in Tokyo Marathon 2017! XOXO

English Class 

By

On December 16, 2016

In Customs, English, Japan, Kamakura, Train

My new English teaching job is from 12:30-2:00 on Friday afternoons. The Japanese teacher of the class is Yasuko (pronounced Yas-Ko). She and I co-teach the class. The students consist of 4-6 Japanese ladies, all grandmothers. The class is a conversational English class. Each students prepares a story, in English, about an event in their life. They read me their story and I help them by correcting their word choice and grammar. Once we have created a smooth story, I ask them questions about their experience. Usually, about half way through, we take a break and have a snack.

The class is held in Kamakura at a women’s and children’s center.


I take the 11:55 train from the Jimmuji station – the station outside our housing area – to the Shin-Zushi station (1-stop). It is a 3 minute train ride. Once I’m in Zushi, I walk about 5 minutes to the Zushi station and catch the 12:12 train to Kamakura (1-stop) about 6 minutes. Once arriving in Kamakura, I walk about 5 minutes to the school. I arrive at approximately 12:23. In keeping with Japanese culture, my promptness is appreciated.


When the previous teacher invited me to her class and to meet Yasuko, she told me two rules. No jeans. No yawning. Got it. Also, she suggested I bring something to drink. Before class, I stop at a vending machine and purchase a bottle of warm green tea. This was my third time buying the same green tea. I realized yesterday that each class I drink about one more sip than I did the previous class. Obviously, I don’t really like the tea, but perhaps I’m starting to like it? Or maybe it’s just wet and washes down my snack. I do not being my own snack. I’m still learning the protocol on who brings the snack and when. So far, someone from the class brings a snack and shares with everyone. I anticipate surprising them with sweet treats very soon.

Last week, we went around the table and each lady introduced herself to me. They told me their marriage status (three are “Merry Widows”), kids, grandkids and hobbies. After each one talked, I asked a question or two. All of my grandmothers have a hobby of gardening. And like my grandmothers, they are always quick to compliment me. Whether it is my smile, timeliness to class, handwriting or color of my scarf, they all give me accolades during our time together.

Today, the ladies told me about an event occurring during their week.  We discussed the jazzy and unique holiday sweater Junko knitted and was wearing. Hisako went to a Violin Concert. Kikumi went to Tokyo to visit her daughter. We discussed what they ate for dinner. Finally, Keiko told us why she missed class last Friday. Her husband wasn’t feeling well and they went to the hospital. In the end, he was fine and they were able to still attend the opera that evening in Tokyo!

After class, Yasuko took me to the room next door and gave me an envelope with my paycheck for two classes and a Christmas present! So very sweet and unexpected. I definitely wasn’t prepared for a gift exchange!

A side note about gift giving in Japan. The Japanese love to give little gifts to each other. The custom is when you receive a gift, to give a little bigger gift in return. You can see how this can get out of hand, similar to their customer of bowing. The school is on break until 1/13/2017, giving me plenty of time to select the perfect gift in return. The gift Yasuko gave me was a small drawstring bag made by her sister. The wrapping was adorable. She placed the bag into a plastic sleeve and then into the gift bag. Stapled the top and added a bow. Kawaii!!


I couldn’t pass up the chance to take a picture of my “lesson plan book” – haha what I use to take notes and write down questions to ask. And my ¥10,000 bill handed to me in an envelope, of course and with my name spelled wrong. This is my first ¥10,000 bill! It looks like so much money. With the dollar so strong right now, it is only about $83.00. Regardless, it is money towards my next plane ticket! Also, my green tea, blah.

At the end of class today, we had a little extra time. Yasuko told me to ask each lady a question. I started with “what will you do during break?” Next I asked, “what is happening in the news?” This was a big one! They wanted to talk about Trump! Oh, boy. The general consensus was they like America and are concerned Trump will change current policy and affect existing relations. To quote directly, “America is our friends. We concern Trump not let us remain allies.”

Rainy Day = Cat Cafe

By

On December 14, 2016

In Cat cafe, Japan, Kamakura, Maneki Neko

What better place to spend a rainy day than a cat cafe? My friend, Laila, and I went to the Cat Cafe in Kamakura. The building is easy to spot, although, I didn’t realize it was a cat cafe until a couple of weeks ago. The train the cat is holding is the Enoshima Electric train that takes you from Kamakura to the small island of Enoshima. One of the stops along this train line is the Great Buddha. 


This cafe was a little bit different than the one we visited a couple months ago. For starters, they served food. Yes, food. The thought of eating at a cat cafe grossed me out. Especially, when all that was served was curry. The pictures alone are unappetizing and the thought of a cat hair in my food. Blah. Gross. 


On the third floor was the cat cafe and on the second floor was the gift shop. We went to the cat cafe first. You don’t have to order food, you can just order a drink. I ordered a green tea latte. I was pleased it came with a lid and it tasted alright. 

There were fewer cats at this cafe. They were however, more playful than the cats at the other cafe. I think there were six total cats. 

The cats had no boundaries. Once we saw them climbing on the tables, we were happy we decided not to eat. 


One of the other customers bought a bag of kitty treats. They all came running when she opened them. 


This picture makes me laugh – she’s taking a picture with her flip phone. Notice the charms dangling!! 


A couple of the cats were bold and would come over for pets.  


Or to clean their butt. On the table. Yeah, definitely glad I’m not trying to eat food.


None the less, it was fun to get a little cat love and spend some time relaxing. 


After we left the cafe, we went to the gift shop. There were all types of cat souvenirs. Including a GIANT cat. 


A huge Zen cat and of course lots of maneki-neko. 


When you visit and you fancy a trip to a cat cafe, I will suggest we go to the one in Yokohama. Despite being a little further away, I like the atmosphere and the larger space and more cats. Plus, as I mentioned, the food factor was pretty gross. 

Page 4 of 5

Previous

Next

Powered by WordPress & Theme by Anders Norén