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There is magic in Tokyo, and it is not the decorations which are popping up all over for the Christmas season. Around the corner from our place is the Suntory Hall. During our last stay, we never had the time to grab an event. This time we scored tickets for a Jose Carreras recital, first balcony, front row. The hall itself is small by most standards, a gem with great acoustics. Since it was a recital there was just him and his piano player. On he strode, a legend and a voice. Initially I started to be somewhat disappointed. He looked old, although he is my age and his voice appeared somewhat weak. But what do I know. As the evening progressed he showed the merit of his reputation, the Hall became magic as he appeared to be transformed into the younger version of himself. As expected, the recital ended and we were in awe. But he kept coming on stage and performed one encore after the other. Women rushed the stage with flowers and gifts after each encore. His arms were always full as he strode off stage, and the women, who seemed to fill the hall, were jumping up and clapping with strength and enthusiasm. The encores lasted almost as long as the performance. We then left the jewel of the concert hall onto the plaza decorated for the coming season. There was magic in Tokyo last night.
Last weekend we returned from a week on the isle of Shikoku, the smallest of the main islands of Japan. Our friend, Tomomi, was wonderful and generous as he introduced us to the highlights, both well known and secret. We shall try to touch on the highlights. I will let Piki choose her favourites. Here are a couple of mine.
We stayed overnight at Kotohira. There is this shrine which is at the top of 1378 steps.
Without the power of our morning espresso, we decided to cheat and took a taxi to a half way point at the side of the climb. There was no doubt that Piki would make it but, yes, I kept pace. Who needs the club when this regime is available. Needless to say, the shrine and the view from its gardens were breath-taking. No, it was not the climb which knocked me out. We then started the climb down the 1378 steps. At first I felt good as I noticed a couple of people who used the carry service. Yes, there are these guys who, for a fee, put you into a palanquin and carried you up the stairs. Then we met the pilgrims. Here is the youngster going up the 1378 steps. I do need more exercise.
In this town we stayed at a Ryokan, a Japanese country inn. The weather was not far from that of Montreal but no snow. The main room was heated but the toilet and shower were not. There lies a true conflict of emotions.
I will leave you on this entry with a Japan story. We were invited by a local business man to lunch after he showed us around the garden off his home (400 years old). There we sat feeding ourselves and the world shook, yes shook. Of course, Piki and I were the only ones who noticed anything. Earthquakes seem like the occasional rain shower to those around the table.
Tonight, I am invited for a reprise of last year's LBS alumni presentation. The crowd appears to be smaller, but no matter, I am one year smarter. Stay tuned for more from Japan.
For those who forgot, Sarah and Hideki will be officially married on December 28.
Best to all,
Marcel
The title is somewhat of an overstatement. Our plan for this trip was to be wherever we can and enjoy the moment.
Well there we were, wandering around some of the best shopping in this city. We stopped for gioza and said "let us go up to the Meiji-shrine" a place which we just never got to in 2 months of our previous visit. The shrine is a shlep from the entrance but the walk is beautiful and the temple a magnificent destination. Getting there was somewhat confusing as the place was crowded with security, dignitaries, and monks rushing around . What gives? The answer to the question is in the photo above. The king of Bhutan was dropping by for a visit. Initially the best photo op I could find was behind a few heads. We got lucky in that the royal tour was a circle around the temple. As a result, those at the back found themselves at the front. What you see is not a zoom, I could just about reach out and shake hands. However, as you can see from his posture, it would have been awkward. It does prove the old photo adage, always have the camera ready.
We are back in our old apartment in Tokyo, surrounded by the same friendly and hospitable crowd. To my surprise, they did remember us. Being here was much like returning home, the warmth was there.
For those who are curious the effects of the earthquake. We did ask many and looked around to see if there was any changes. The glass building next to our apartment did not have a crack. Every one commented about the shaking building, but Tokyo suffered no visible damage. I am uncertain as to where the electricity comes from but the lights are now shining brightly as ever. The one noticeable effect was a sharp increase in marriages. We shall check-in on the number of births at the appropriate time.
The first week was a pleasure as we connected with many of our friends. More to come as we move on to Shikoku.
Now to Piki,
Best wishes
Marcel
This is Piki: Just to add that seeing the king of Bhutan in Japan is significant, considering the fact that both Bhutan and Japan are probably our favourite travel destinations. Both countries, that seem so different, share a long history of seclusion and isolation. From our experience, in both country there is now a desire to learn about the "other" while at the same time old time traditions are being kept. It is therefore meaningful that we met the Handsome king of Bhutan and his entourage, while he was praying in a very important Japanese shrine.
Until the next posting,
Piki
Yes, Piki and I are back on the road once again. Here we are at the start of another adventure, Day 1. When we last left Tokyo, I had little inclination that we would be back so soon. However, the wonderful fortune of Sarah's upcoming marriage
to Hideki brings us home. Our flight from Toronto landed on time, right into a major friday afternoon traffic jam into Tokyo. We are here and welcome all of you to join us on this wonderful period as once again we go around the world.
For many of you there may be a curiosity about what our second home looks like. Well, in truth, the flat is too small for any photos but the view from our terrace is awesome, particularly on this beautiful fall day. This is day 1, a bit quiet but more to come.
