Japan — Day 5

Posted on by

Today we explore fascinating and frenetic Tokyo.  We stop by the Meiji Shrine. Emperor Meiji came into power in the 19th century when the shogunate powers fell. Under his leadership, Japan adopted modern customs and became a serious world power.

This afternoon we learn about sumo wrestling when we visited a restaurant that is owned by a former wrestler. We learn about a sumo wrestler’s past experience as a wrestler and to discover sumo traditions. I tried to push one of these guys but he never moved an inch. Not to often you see a Power Point presentation from a sumo wrestler.

 

 

 

Japan —Day 4

Posted on by

Today we experience the serene splendors of the Kiyosumi Gardens. The highlight of this garden is it’s decorative stones, which are highly valuable in Japan. Most notable are the stepping stones, called isowatari, that seemingly float on the surface of the garden’s pond.

IMG_0107 (1)IMG_0121IMG_0109IMG_0111 (1)IMG_0121 (1)IMG_0109 (1)

Next stop was at the Edo-Tokyo Museum where we can trace 400 years of history.

Philosophical Fridays

Posted on by

 

IMG_0584

Photo Credit — Danny James

                        Clambering up the Cold Mountain path,
                        The Cold Mountain trail goes on and on:
                         The long gorge choked with scree and boulders,
                         The wide creek, the mist-blurred grass.
                         The moss is slippery, though there’s been no rain.
                         The pine sings, but there’s no wind.
                         Who can leap the world’s ties
                         And sit with me among the white clouds.

 

 

Han-Shan