Magic in Tokyo

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