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Brian Bowden | profile | all galleries >> Family and Other Misc Stuff >> Japan - October 2007 tree view | thumbnails | slideshow

Japan - October 2007

Aki, Keith, Yoshio, Ono (Ryo), Sari, Wakana, Yuko - we solidified existing great friendships and made many wonderful new ones on our trip. Japan was wonderful, but the people were TRULY beautiful. What a blast we had!!!
10/17 - We had a LONG wait at LAX. Got there at 5:45am (YAWN!) for our 8:45 flight and breezed through security. EXCITED!
10/17 - We had a LONG wait at LAX. Got there at 5:45am (YAWN!) for our 8:45 flight and breezed through security. EXCITED!		 Couldn't wait, although Bec was anxious about the flight. Sat on the runway for a friggin hour thanks to weather in San Fran.
Couldn't wait, although Bec was anxious about the flight. Sat on the runway for a friggin hour thanks to weather in San Fran.		 Wish I could have slept like this on the way there, ha ha. It was 5pm on 10-18 when we arrived!
Wish I could have slept like this on the way there, ha ha. It was 5pm on 10-18 when we arrived!		 10/19 - Toru Shimizu, first artist purchase. He made the glass insects, knows Vittorio Costantini, but hasn't studied under him.
10/19 - Toru Shimizu, first artist purchase. He made the glass insects, knows Vittorio Costantini, but hasn't studied under him.
Brendon's favorites artist, Take (ta-kay). Take made AWESOME boro pendants, Brendon is wearing his proudly.
Brendon's favorites artist, Take (ta-kay). Take made AWESOME boro pendants, Brendon is wearing his proudly.		 More of Take's cool work.
More of Take's cool work.		 Becky bought the necklace she is wearing, and this gal was SO proud.
Becky bought the necklace she is wearing, and this gal was SO proud.		 Brendon and Wakana Ogura, Aki's studio mate and business partner. She made the very cool ant bead I bought.
Brendon and Wakana Ogura, Aki's studio mate and business partner. She made the very cool ant bead I bought.
Ryo Ono doing a demo. Awesome guy, we got to know him well later in the trip.
Ryo Ono doing a demo. Awesome guy, we got to know him well later in the trip.		 Pulling down some satake cane to use for his peacock feather beads.
Pulling down some satake cane to use for his peacock feather beads.		 Matt Eskuche's (ess-cookie) demo. This guy makes mind blowing encalmo pieces. I bought some cool Japanese glass trash from him.
Matt Eskuche's (ess-cookie) demo. This guy makes mind blowing encalmo pieces. I bought some cool Japanese glass trash from him.		 The finished piece, AMAZING. Encalmo is when you join blown pieces and get those nice color lines as a result.
The finished piece, AMAZING. Encalmo is when you join blown pieces and get those nice color lines as a result.
Bandhu Dunhams amazing marble machine. Almost all glass, with a motor that turns a glass escalator to take the marbles back top.
Bandhu Dunhams amazing marble machine. Almost all glass, with a motor that turns a glass escalator to take the marbles back top.		 Bandhu next to his creation. He sat 2 rows in front of us on the plane there, Aki gave him a ride with us to the hotel.
Bandhu next to his creation. He sat 2 rows in front of us on the plane there, Aki gave him a ride with us to the hotel.		 Paul Stephan's demo, making a marble.
Paul Stephan's demo, making a marble.		 Brendon, artist Josh Sable, girlfriend Melissa and Bec, a little break from the show floor.
Brendon, artist Josh Sable, girlfriend Melissa and Bec, a little break from the show floor.
Let's get me in the pic....
Let's get me in the pic....		 Aki's dad - Yasuhiro Ohkama, a veterinarian who began making beads about 6 years before Aki, and eventually taught Aki
Aki's dad - Yasuhiro Ohkama, a veterinarian who began making beads about 6 years before Aki, and eventually taught Aki		 Friday night collabs. Akihiro Ohkama and Shane Ferro worked together on a cool piece.
Friday night collabs. Akihiro Ohkama and Shane Ferro worked together on a cool piece.		 Aki's marble before he eventually stretched and twisted it.
Aki's marble before he eventually stretched and twisted it.
Robert Mickelsen and Suellen Fowler worked together on a 'Bird in Hand'. Suellen sat 2 seats over from me on the plane ride.
Robert Mickelsen and Suellen Fowler worked together on a 'Bird in Hand'. Suellen sat 2 seats over from me on the plane ride.		 Mickelsen at work, working on tubing.
Mickelsen at work, working on tubing.		 Devin Somerville and Paul Stephan (old roommates) made a 'Pimp Cane' together, which Aki later bought at auction.
Devin Somerville and Paul Stephan (old roommates) made a 'Pimp Cane' together, which Aki later bought at auction.		 Hot cobalt glass! Pulling and twisting a section of the cane.
Hot cobalt glass! Pulling and twisting a section of the cane.
Matt worked with a Japanese artist I didn't know.
Matt worked with a Japanese artist I didn't know.		 And I don't know what they made either, DOH!
And I don't know what they made either, DOH!		 Bandhu and Brad Pearson worked together, and a couple of American beadmakers made a piece as well.
Bandhu and Brad Pearson worked together, and a couple of American beadmakers made a piece as well.		 Bandhu made a glass rack for 3 of Brad's big beads, one of which he is making here.
Bandhu made a glass rack for 3 of Brad's big beads, one of which he is making here.
10/20 - Not sure, but hopefully Melissa is sad because I got sick today with the flu. SON OF A! Missed the whole day of demos.
10/20 - Not sure, but hopefully Melissa is sad because I got sick today with the flu. SON OF A! Missed the whole day of demos.		 Try and Treat, ha haa! Well, at least they tried....
"Try and Treat", ha haa! Well, at least they tried....		 I didn't want to miss the Sat night party Aki had arranged for us to be at, so I dragged my sick butt there, didn't eat much.
I didn't want to miss the Sat night party Aki had arranged for us to be at, so I dragged my sick butt there, didn't eat much.		 In Japan, it is polite to wear a mask when you are sick so as not to infect others. Hated it, it was hot.
In Japan, it is polite to wear a mask when you are sick so as not to infect others. Hated it, it was hot.
Charlie's Angels - Melissa, Jamie and Becky. OK, really Josh's, Paul's and Brian's angels, ha.
Charlie's Angels - Melissa, Jamie and Becky. OK, really Josh's, Paul's and Brian's angels, ha.		 Late party antics - Aki, Josh, our new friend Yoshio, and Paul.
Late party antics - Aki, Josh, our new friend Yoshio, and Paul.		 Becky: sign model.
Becky: sign model.		 A bridge outside our hotel, Brendon playing (I left the party after a half hour or so, made some paper airplanes for B first).
A bridge outside our hotel, Brendon playing (I left the party after a half hour or so, made some paper airplanes for B first).
How come we don't get 'gourmet' Pringles in the US?!?!?
How come we don't get 'gourmet' Pringles in the US?!?!?		 10/21 - View of Kobe harbor from our room balcony.
10/21 - View of Kobe harbor from our room balcony.		 View of some of Kobe from our room.
View of some of Kobe from our room.		 Artist Ayako Hattori - she had LOTS of awesome marbles and beads. I bought just a few marbles.....
Artist Ayako Hattori - she had LOTS of awesome marbles and beads. I bought just a few marbles.....
Artist Atusi Ono - I bought the most awesome pendant ever from him for Craig, a spider on its web.
Artist Atusi Ono - I bought the most awesome pendant ever from him for Craig, a spider on its web.		 Aki, me and Keith Bryan. Aki, Keith, Wakana, Ryo Ono, Emiko, Yuka and Yasuhiro all shared a group of tables.
Aki, me and Keith Bryan. Aki, Keith, Wakana, Ryo Ono, Emiko, Yuka and Yasuhiro all shared a group of tables.		 Artist Brad Pearson - he had a really nice selection of marbles and beads on Sunday.
Artist Brad Pearson - he had a really nice selection of marbles and beads on Sunday.		 Marshall on the torch, Brendon's new friend. Marshall is Paul Trautman's son, who was an early boro pioneer, founded Northstar.
Marshall on the torch, Brendon's new friend. Marshall is Paul Trautman's son, who was an early boro pioneer, founded Northstar.
View of the show floor from the 2nd level.There were about 10 floors of shops in this complex, which our hotel was attached to.
View of the show floor from the 2nd level.There were about 10 floors of shops in this complex, which our hotel was attached to.		 Paul, Matt, Devin and I. Yeah, Matt looks stoned, but Paul looked stoned in the 2nd try, heh heh.
Paul, Matt, Devin and I. Yeah, Matt looks stoned, but Paul looked stoned in the 2nd try, heh heh.		 Artist Lewis Wilson - I got a cool totem pole from him. Never goes anywhere without his cane and tophat.
Artist Lewis Wilson - I got a cool totem pole from him. Never goes anywhere without his cane and tophat.		 Melissa and Brendon with his ever present Nintendo DS. Heading to dinner, late....
Melissa and Brendon with his ever present Nintendo DS. Heading to dinner, late....
Wandering downtown Kobe, looking for our restaurant. I really enjoyed that.
Wandering downtown Kobe, looking for our restaurant. I really enjoyed that.		 Brendon liked it too, especially with the prospect of food ahead...
Brendon liked it too, especially with the prospect of food ahead...		 Everybody drinks beer in Japan, and Brendon now too. NOT. EVERYBODY smokes in Japan, it was amazing.
Everybody drinks beer in Japan, and Brendon now too. NOT. EVERYBODY smokes in Japan, it was amazing.		 Mizu and Yoshio clowning....
Mizu and Yoshio clowning....
Korean BBQ style dinner, Keith helping to cook. LOVED this meal, yummy chicken skin!
Korean BBQ style dinner, Keith helping to cook. LOVED this meal, yummy chicken skin!		 Brendon tried some raw tongue. Actually, I think he was joking, but I tried a piece. Bizarre.
Brendon tried some raw tongue. Actually, I think he was joking, but I tried a piece. Bizarre.		 By the end of the trip, Brendon was proficient with chopsticks! But our friends kept making him cheater sticks....
By the end of the trip, Brendon was proficient with chopsticks! But our friends kept making him cheater sticks....		 FIRE soup. Holy cow, this stuff was hot, even though it was supposedly a '3' on a spicy scale of 1 to 21.
FIRE soup. Holy cow, this stuff was hot, even though it was supposedly a '3' on a spicy scale of 1 to 21.
Too hot for Aki - so why'd you order it like that?!
Too hot for Aki - so why'd you order it like that?!		 Mizu had to apply a wet rag to tongue, heh. Speaking of - every restaurant hands out either a wet rag or napkin prior to meals.
Mizu had to apply a wet rag to tongue, heh. Speaking of - every restaurant hands out either a wet rag or napkin prior to meals.		 The goofy gang!
The goofy gang!		 Man, we had a blast.
Man, we had a blast.
Not doing such a good job holding Yoshio for the group pic!
Not doing such a good job holding Yoshio for the group pic!		 Better with Ono.....
Better with Ono.....		 Heading back to the train station. We took a train from the hotel to downtown Kobe, it was fun.
Heading back to the train station. We took a train from the hotel to downtown Kobe, it was fun.		 Brendon and Keith - Pretend Engineers
Brendon and Keith - Pretend Engineers
Yoshio became Brendon's 'DS Buddy' for our entire time there. We were thankful Yoshio took such good care of Brendon.
Yoshio became Brendon's 'DS Buddy' for our entire time there. We were thankful Yoshio took such good care of Brendon.		 Melissa and Josh - I love catching funky faces!
Melissa and Josh - I love catching funky faces!		 10/22 - Universal Studios in Osaka! We packed up from the Kobe hotel and headed to Universal, 15 of us total.
10/22 - Universal Studios in Osaka! We packed up from the Kobe hotel and headed to Universal, 15 of us total.		 We were there before the gates opened, headed to Spiderman first, STILL had a long wait.
We were there before the gates opened, headed to Spiderman first, STILL had a long wait.
It was a SWEET 3-D ride, lot of fun. Wakana, Emiko and Yuko model the eyewear.
It was a SWEET 3-D ride, lot of fun. Wakana, Emiko and Yuko model the eyewear.		 Brendon prepares for the Jurassic Park ride after insisting I buy him a poncho.
Brendon prepares for the Jurassic Park ride after insisting I buy him a poncho.		 Wakana is ready! See Brendon in front of her, ha.
Wakana is ready! See Brendon in front of her, ha.		 Ono and Yuko model the Dino Hats.
Ono and Yuko model the Dino Hats.
NOTHING like huge turkey legs for a morning snack when you're starved. They make good light sabres also.
NOTHING like huge turkey legs for a morning snack when you're starved. They make good light sabres also.		 There's was a cool Halloween show with acrobats and rollerbladers, etc.
There's was a cool Halloween show with acrobats and rollerbladers, etc.		 Little Pumpkin popped out of Big Pumpkin, ha.
Little Pumpkin popped out of Big Pumpkin, ha.		 The show....
The show....
Aki got a clam chowder bowl AND a MASSIVE burger. That boy could eat!
Aki got a clam chowder bowl AND a MASSIVE burger. That boy could eat!		 No way Emiko's mouth is big enough. I decided to try a burger with my clam chowder also.Tasted different, but came with egg,yum!
No way Emiko's mouth is big enough. I decided to try a burger with my clam chowder also.Tasted different, but came with egg,yum!		 Keith kept making us wait while he pinched one, so we all tried to squeeze one in his honor.
Keith kept making us wait while he pinched one, so we all tried to squeeze one in his honor.		 Couldn't pass up a Hello Kitty Dream Car pic....
Couldn't pass up a Hello Kitty Dream Car pic....
Aki, aka Spider Goof, ha ha.
Aki, aka Spider Goof, ha ha.		 Brendon's Jaws souvenir. They had a full-on Jaws ride at this park.
Brendon's Jaws souvenir. They had a full-on Jaws ride at this park.		 Ah yes, the perfect Photo Spot.
Ah yes, the perfect Photo Spot.		 Lots of silly hats to go around - Yuko and Bec.
Lots of silly hats to go around - Yuko and Bec.
Spiderboy!
Spiderboy!		 Yoshio's dream car, the DeLorean.
Yoshio's dream car, the DeLorean.		 Couldn't take just one pic....
Couldn't take just one pic....		 But hey - it's handicapped accessible!
But hey - it's handicapped accessible!
Aki worked to try and fit ALL 15 of us in these 2 cars, with luggage.They had Brendon on CherryBoys lap for a while (blk jacket)
Aki worked to try and fit ALL 15 of us in these 2 cars, with luggage.They had Brendon on CherryBoys lap for a while (blk jacket)		 Uuuh yeah - not gonna happen. Several eventually took the train. Steering wheels are on the wrong side in Japan!
Uuuh yeah - not gonna happen. Several eventually took the train. Steering wheels are on the wrong side in Japan!		 Aaaaw - a Boy and his Shark, how sweet. First night at our little hotel in Nara, favorite hotel of the 3.
Aaaaw - a Boy and his Shark, how sweet. First night at our little hotel in Nara, favorite hotel of the 3.		 10/23 - Took the train to Aki's studio, which was right next to the station, walked a short distance there.
10/23 - Took the train to Aki's studio, which was right next to the station, walked a short distance there.
Bec takes a shot of his studio, located in beautiful Nara, over the mountain (actually through the tunnel) from Osaka.
Bec takes a shot of his studio, located in beautiful Nara, over the mountain (actually through the tunnel) from Osaka.		 Vessel by Happy Harold, displayed in Aki's window
Vessel by Happy Harold, displayed in Aki's window		 Aaaaah, what is it?!? It's Mothra!!! Or maybe some small freakish moth sitting on the ground....
Aaaaah, what is it?!? It's Mothra!!! Or maybe some small freakish moth sitting on the ground....		 Ate lunch at a little noodle shop in Aki's little shop complex. Our first noodle meal.
Ate lunch at a little noodle shop in Aki's little shop complex. Our first noodle meal.
Looking down at the row of shops.
Looking down at the row of shops.		 Nice little scene in front of Aki's shop, with the tracks beyond.
Nice little scene in front of Aki's shop, with the tracks beyond.		 Nutha' shot of Aki's shop, my turn.
Nutha' shot of Aki's shop, my turn.		 Brendon helps them learn English. Actually, Yoshio spoke VERY well, lived in Oregon for 8 years. Aki does OK also.
Brendon helps them learn English. Actually, Yoshio spoke VERY well, lived in Oregon for 8 years. Aki does OK also.
A little temple, a stone's throw away from Aki's studio/shop.
A little temple, a stone's throw away from Aki's studio/shop.		 Looking down from the front of the temple.
Looking down from the front of the temple.		 You will always see one guardian with mouth open, and the other mouth closed - Mmmmmm, Aaaaaaa.
You will always see one guardian with mouth open, and the other mouth closed - Mmmmmm, Aaaaaaa.		 This poor chap isn't allowed to smile.
This poor chap isn't allowed to smile.
A familiar scene in Japan - beverage vending machines! They were EVERYWHERE, with loads of drink choices.Yes, we pertook often.
A familiar scene in Japan - beverage vending machines! They were EVERYWHERE, with loads of drink choices.Yes, we pertook often.		 From the little temple to the big temple - Toshodai-ji Temple, one of Nara's most famous and historical spots.
From the little temple to the big temple - Toshodai-ji Temple, one of Nara's most famous and historical spots.		 This bell used to warn the surrounding villagers of various things. Different ways of striking communicated various things.
This bell used to warn the surrounding villagers of various things. Different ways of striking communicated various things.		 One of the many buildings in the complex. The main temple was under a metal structure being renovated.
One of the many buildings in the complex. The main temple was under a metal structure being renovated.
Lots of cool heads on the roof corners...
Lots of cool heads on the roof corners...		 These were really old buildings.
These were really old buildings.		 This fish head style was fairly popular.
This fish head style was fairly popular.		 It was a beautiful complex.
It was a beautiful complex.
Not sure what this building was...
Not sure what this building was...		 The armory and treasury, where all the important 'stuff' was kept and guarded.
The armory and treasury, where all the important 'stuff' was kept and guarded.		 Various exhibits were in the different buildings. A budha was in this one, with monks actively working.
Various exhibits were in the different buildings. A budha was in this one, with monks actively working.		 The lotus plant, not in flowering season. The Japanese buddha always sits on a lotus flower.
The lotus plant, not in flowering season. The Japanese buddha always sits on a lotus flower.
Walking to our next temple.
Walking to our next temple.		 Typical home in Nara, and a persimmon tree - they LOVE persimmons there, I have no idea why.
Typical home in Nara, and a persimmon tree - they LOVE persimmons there, I have no idea why.		 This was a TWO-lane road in Nara, and actually much wider than some. Crazy driving, but I never saw an accident.
This was a TWO-lane road in Nara, and actually much wider than some. Crazy driving, but I never saw an accident.		 Doh, got to our next temple too late, doors closed 5 minutes before we got there.
Doh, got to our next temple too late, doors closed 5 minutes before we got there.
You could even buy beer from the vending machines! But supposedly they don't dispense after 11pm.
You could even buy beer from the vending machines! But supposedly they don't dispense after 11pm.		 Walking back to the studio, it was a good day...
Walking back to the studio, it was a good day...		 A couple of these HUGE wasps were flying around these bushes. Aki said they were poisonous, not sure if he was joking....
A couple of these HUGE wasps were flying around these bushes. Aki said they were poisonous, not sure if he was joking....		 Inside Aki's studio, shop is behind me.
Inside Aki's studio, shop is behind me.
Aki at work on a Japanese torch, using very soft satake glass to make a bead. Look, you can't even see the flame...
Aki at work on a Japanese torch, using very soft satake glass to make a bead. Look, you can't even see the flame...		 Group shot! From back - Aki, Yuko, Yuko's friend, Sari, Melissa, Wakana, Jamie, Paul, Becky, Josh, Brendon & Yoshio
Group shot! From back - Aki, Yuko, Yuko's friend, Sari, Melissa, Wakana, Jamie, Paul, Becky, Josh, Brendon & Yoshio		 Nothing like a couple of Japanese chicks hanging on a 10-year-old's arms.
Nothing like a couple of Japanese chicks hanging on a 10-year-old's arms.		 That night we went to a natural hot springs spa, men/women separate, cheap $5 entry, then had dinner there afterwards. Awesome.
That night we went to a natural hot springs spa, men/women separate, cheap $5 entry, then had dinner there afterwards. Awesome.
From the other end....
From the other end....		 Aaaah, ancient Japanese secret! Actually, it's a new secret boro tech that Devin demo'd for us. Not tellin'.
Aaaah, ancient Japanese secret! Actually, it's a new secret boro tech that Devin demo'd for us. Not tellin'.		 Aki and Devin at work on the boro torches.
Aki and Devin at work on the boro torches.		 10/24 - Van load of people, narrow Nara roads, Aki driving like a madman to our next Nara destinations.
10/24 - Van load of people, narrow Nara roads, Aki driving like a madman to our next Nara destinations.
Walking from near Aki's other new shop to some more temples/museums.
Walking from near Aki's other new shop to some more temples/museums.		 Japanese turtles. They breathe fire and can kick Godzilla's butt.
Japanese turtles. They breathe fire and can kick Godzilla's butt.		 The gang, comin' up the steps. My back already hurts.
The gang, comin' up the steps. My back already hurts.		 There seemed to be a tall skinny temple like this near all the main temples. Didn't learn the significance.
There seemed to be a tall skinny temple like this near all the main temples. Didn't learn the significance.
Large wooden poles used to be on every one of these concrete spots.
Large wooden poles used to be on every one of these concrete spots.		 There was a ninja in the window, so Brendon struck the pose - Cool Japan!!
There was a ninja in the window, so Brendon struck the pose - Cool Japan!!		 Nara is FAMOUS for its deer. They're EVERYWHERE in this big park and around the temple, and vendors sell cookies to feed them.
Nara is FAMOUS for its deer. They're EVERYWHERE in this big park and around the temple, and vendors sell cookies to feed them.		 They will literally chase you and bite your rump if they think you have food for them. Yeah, I got nailed, thanks to Aki!
They will literally chase you and bite your rump if they think you have food for them. Yeah, I got nailed, thanks to Aki!
Monument for the Todai-ji Temple.
Monument for the Todai-ji Temple.		 There was one of these massive dudes on either side of the huge entrance. Always two, one mouth open, one closed.
There was one of these massive dudes on either side of the huge entrance. Always two, one mouth open, one closed.		 Brendon found a little buddy, awwwww. CHOMP!!!
Brendon found a little buddy, awwwww. CHOMP!!!		 Looking back at the entrance. Watch where you step....
Looking back at the entrance. Watch where you step....
Todai-ji, the world's largest wooden structure, housing the world's largest Buddha.
Todai-ji, the world's largest wooden structure, housing the world's largest Buddha.		 Postcard shot!
Postcard shot!		 Becky feeds a cookie to one of the local wildlife. Errrr, I mean Devin....
Becky feeds a cookie to one of the local wildlife. Errrr, I mean Devin....		 Showing the sheer size of it....
Showing the sheer size of it....
World's biggest Buddha.
World's biggest Buddha.		 A 'little' Buddha on the side of Big Boy.
A 'little' Buddha on the side of Big Boy.		 I think he's air typing...
I think he's air typing...		 Seriously steep stairs to....nowhere I think.
Seriously steep stairs to....nowhere I think.
Another mean guard, who will apparently write your name on a scroll if you get out of line.
Another mean guard, who will apparently write your name on a scroll if you get out of line.		 The original coloring and enamel on these statues was extraordinary, it's a shame we've lost that today.
The original coloring and enamel on these statues was extraordinary, it's a shame we've lost that today.		 One of the wooden poles had a hole the size of Buddha's nostril. Legend has it that if you can fit through, you're blessed.
One of the wooden poles had a hole the size of Buddha's nostril. Legend has it that if you can fit through, you're blessed.		 6' 5 Paul made it, tall and slender, and Melissa made it no problem.
6' 5" Paul made it, tall and slender, and Melissa made it no problem.
Uuuuh, YEAH. Not gonna happen. Couldn't even remotely get my shoulders into the hole. Bad luck a-comin'....
Uuuuh, YEAH. Not gonna happen. Couldn't even remotely get my shoulders into the hole. Bad luck a-comin'....		 Will Becky make it......????
Will Becky make it......????		 Suuuure, no problem for my skinny chick!
Suuuure, no problem for my skinny chick!		 How about Brendon? Oooooh yeaaaah! Took us a minute to talk him into it, ha.
How about Brendon? Oooooh yeaaaah! Took us a minute to talk him into it, ha.
Didn't know if Yoshio would make it, but.....heck yeah! I'm the only beast.
Didn't know if Yoshio would make it, but.....heck yeah! I'm the only beast.		 Aki bought a tile for us all to sign to support the ongoing maintenance of the temple, etc. It will be installed later.
Aki bought a tile for us all to sign to support the ongoing maintenance of the temple, etc. It will be installed later.		 Downtown Osaka, watching live thumping of the mochi. It was fun to watch them fly with those hammers, and more fun to eat!
Downtown Osaka, watching live thumping of the mochi. It was fun to watch them fly with those hammers, and more fun to eat!		 We had a BBQ that Wed night, and Aki's family came over as well. Brendon got to play with his 2 boys, 6 and 8.
We had a BBQ that Wed night, and Aki's family came over as well. Brendon got to play with his 2 boys, 6 and 8.
Aki, master grill chef, trying to get those coals going. That's his wife Hiromi in the background, with his energetic youngest.
Aki, master grill chef, trying to get those coals going. That's his wife Hiromi in the background, with his energetic youngest.		 Aki bought and cooked an awesome array of meats for us, along with various veggies as well. YUM!!
Aki bought and cooked an awesome array of meats for us, along with various veggies as well. YUM!!		 10/25 - A couple of frogs at the entrance to Aki's favorite temple in Nara, Shin-Yakushiji. Don't know what they're their for...
10/25 - A couple of frogs at the entrance to Aki's favorite temple in Nara, Shin-Yakushiji. Don't know what they're their for...		 Not the fanciest temple, but it had some amazing old statues inside, a group of 12 representing each Chinese year, plus Buddha.
Not the fanciest temple, but it had some amazing old statues inside, a group of 12 representing each Chinese year, plus Buddha.
These are exoskeletons that a couple of cicada bugs shed. We used to find these in Wisconsin, and are LOUD in their season.
These are exoskeletons that a couple of cicada bugs shed. We used to find these in Wisconsin, and are LOUD in their season.		 Like most temples/museums with old statues, we couldn't take pics inside, but outside was fine. Pretty gardens surrounded.
Like most temples/museums with old statues, we couldn't take pics inside, but outside was fine. Pretty gardens surrounded.		 This looked sort of like an old cemetery.
This looked sort of like an old cemetery.		 Apparently, bad fortunes are tied in a place like this in order to ward them off.
Apparently, bad fortunes are tied in a place like this in order to ward them off.
There were LOTS of cool spiders around, like this nice colorful one.
There were LOTS of cool spiders around, like this nice colorful one.		 I think this is where the monks/priests live, it was open so we could peak in.
I think this is where the monks/priests live, it was open so we could peak in.		 A small courtyard by their dweeling.
A small courtyard by their dweeling.		 Next stop was Osaka Castle and Museum. Which one is Aki and which is Yoshio?
Next stop was Osaka Castle and Museum. Which one is Aki and which is Yoshio?
Bad little boys get tossed in the moat. Did I just call Brendon little?
Bad little boys get tossed in the moat. Did I just call Brendon little?		 Heading up to the castle...
Heading up to the castle...		 Fun pic - we did YMCA in our next pic....read the next pic for a description.
Fun pic - we did YMCA in our next pic....read the next pic for a description.		 That is one BIG stone that was rolled a LONG ways.
That is one BIG stone that was rolled a LONG ways.
One of several entrances we walked through.
One of several entrances we walked through.		 This place was REALLY fortified in its day....
This place was REALLY fortified in its day....		 These flowers were all over the place, ready to burst in blooom, but only this one had started. Couple more weeks and WOW.
These flowers were all over the place, ready to burst in blooom, but only this one had started. Couple more weeks and WOW.		 NICE.
NICE.
I found this Time Capsule really interesting, enjoyed reading about it.
I found this Time Capsule really interesting, enjoyed reading about it.		 This is the Takoyaki Super Family!
This is the Takoyaki Super Family!		 Takoyaki Josh and Melissa! Mmmm, takoyaki, one of my fav' Japanese foods!
Takoyaki Josh and Melissa! Mmmm, takoyaki, one of my fav' Japanese foods!		 Yoshio's face KILLS me in this pic...
Yoshio's face KILLS me in this pic...
They look just like the real thing, huh!
They look just like the real thing, huh!		 This is takoyaki, which Brendon and I loved. Taco = octopus, yaki = fried. Little stands all over Japan whip up these balls.
This is takoyaki, which Brendon and I loved. Taco = octopus, yaki = fried. Little stands all over Japan whip up these balls.		 Full on shot of the castle, while the trees are being trimmed.
Full on shot of the castle, while the trees are being trimmed.		 Still looks awesome. I was hoping that some of the insides were original castle and contents, but it was many levels of museum.
Still looks awesome. I was hoping that some of the insides were original castle and contents, but it was many levels of museum.
Melissa and giggling boys and field trip.
Melissa and giggling boys and field trip.		 For only 300 yen!! Brendon could pick a hat and robe and become a ninja in time.
For only 300 yen!! Brendon could pick a hat and robe and become a ninja in time.		 Sweet shot, look at that tiger, ha!
Sweet shot, look at that tiger, ha!		 Brendon takes his ninja duties seriously!
Brendon takes his ninja duties seriously!
I take the point of a ninja sword seriously....
I take the point of a ninja sword seriously....		 The view from the top level of the castle, looking down on one of the moats that surrounded it.
The view from the top level of the castle, looking down on one of the moats that surrounded it.		 The golden fishhead with the city of Osaka beyond.
The golden fishhead with the city of Osaka beyond.		 Other fish, other side, more city surrounding this oasis.
Other fish, other side, more city surrounding this oasis.
Looking from moat to gleaming new skyscrapers.
Looking from moat to gleaming new skyscrapers.		 Were the only ones here, where'd the rest of Japan go?!?
Were the only ones here, where'd the rest of Japan go?!?		 Days are busy with Aki. Next was a trip up the Osaka tower.
Days are busy with Aki. Next was a trip up the Osaka tower.		 The gang at the top.
The gang at the top.
Looking out over Osaka, stretching for miles.
Looking out over Osaka, stretching for miles.		 Looking down on an old grave.
Looking down on an old grave.		 Becky and new friend Sari up top.
Becky and new friend Sari up top.		 The sun starts to set over Osaka....
The sun starts to set over Osaka....
The family and the tower. All Japanese LOVE giving the peace sign during picture taking.
The family and the tower. All Japanese LOVE giving the peace sign during picture taking.		 Next stop - downtown Osaka Pachinko halls are HUGE in Japan, music blaring, steel balls bouncing, cigarette smoke billowing.
Next stop - downtown Osaka Pachinko halls are HUGE in Japan, music blaring, steel balls bouncing, cigarette smoke billowing.		 All part of electric/neon lane, with restaurants, shops and entertainment galore.
All part of electric/neon lane, with restaurants, shops and entertainment galore.		 Brendon and I bought fresh crab being grilled on the street from this place.
Brendon and I bought fresh crab being grilled on the street from this place.
This guy is a famous landmark, drumming away for years, representing this market.
This guy is a famous landmark, drumming away for years, representing this market.		 Yoshio knee the correct way to pose in front of it....
Yoshio knee the correct way to pose in front of it....		 Sort of reminded me of Universal City Walk in Hollywood, with larger than life signs and lights.
Sort of reminded me of Universal City Walk in Hollywood, with larger than life signs and lights.		 This was one seriously large wall of light and advertisement!
This was one seriously large wall of light and advertisement!
Yeah we hit a Sega arcade.Brendon loved games like this one which dispense a character card which can then be used in game play.
Yeah we hit a Sega arcade.Brendon loved games like this one which dispense a character card which can then be used in game play.		 Becky and Melissa had fun on a drum game which taught rhythm.
Becky and Melissa had fun on a drum game which taught rhythm.		 Signs of the city.
Signs of the city.		 It was a LONG avenue, actually two of them, with LOTS of people and things.
It was a LONG avenue, actually two of them, with LOTS of people and things.
Funny that we saw a big puffer fish here...
Funny that we saw a big puffer fish here...		 ...because we ate puffer fish, both raw and cooked, at the sushi restaurant Aki took us to that night.This was the first course.
...because we ate puffer fish, both raw and cooked, at the sushi restaurant Aki took us to that night.This was the first course.		 Aki gives the American sign, I give the Japanese one (using chopsticks of course).
Aki gives the American sign, I give the Japanese one (using chopsticks of course).		 Yoshio and Sari, enjoying one of about 15 rounds of various sashimi, sushi and soup. I can't imagine EVER having better sushi.
Yoshio and Sari, enjoying one of about 15 rounds of various sashimi, sushi and soup. I can't imagine EVER having better sushi.
Is Becky going to try some sushi actually?? Well, maybe not salmon, but she DID try some puffer fish and eel!
Is Becky going to try some sushi actually?? Well, maybe not salmon, but she DID try some puffer fish and eel!		 Josh and Melissa - Josh couldn't stop eating for a pic....
Josh and Melissa - Josh couldn't stop eating for a pic....		 The chef and owner was a friend of Aki's through glass. When we were done, he asked Brendon if he wanted to make some sushi!
The chef and owner was a friend of Aki's through glass. When we were done, he asked Brendon if he wanted to make some sushi!		 The teacher looks on as Brendon forms the rice, after cutting some tuna.
The teacher looks on as Brendon forms the rice, after cutting some tuna.
Aki demonstrates how to apply the wasabi.
Aki demonstrates how to apply the wasabi.		 Hands-on instruction....
Hands-on instruction....		 Watching the master.
Watching the master.		 Voila! Sushi, wooohooo!
Voila! Sushi, wooohooo!
Brendon's cheesy grin after he quickly took a bite from his just-made sushi.
Brendon's cheesy grin after he quickly took a bite from his just-made sushi.		 And then he had to make a second one for Aki to try!
And then he had to make a second one for Aki to try!		 It was a small place, we took it over with our group. Aki's friend was awesome, gave us some of his glass beads as well!
It was a small place, we took it over with our group. Aki's friend was awesome, gave us some of his glass beads as well!		 10/26 - At the train station, time to head to Tokyo for the remainder of our trip. Becky made Aki cry.
10/26 - At the train station, time to head to Tokyo for the remainder of our trip. Becky made Aki cry.
On the bullet train! Guess what Brendon and Yoshio are playing...
On the bullet train! Guess what Brendon and Yoshio are playing...		 Buds for life. We were so thankful for Yoshio's friendship to us and Brendon.
Buds for life. We were so thankful for Yoshio's friendship to us and Brendon.		 One last picture, almost to Tokyo, at speeds of almost 200 mph.
One last picture, almost to Tokyo, at speeds of almost 200 mph.		 Keith, wife Hiromi, and Ono met us at the station and then took us to 'old Tokyo'. Rickshaw, rickshaw, need ride?
Keith, wife Hiromi, and Ono met us at the station and then took us to 'old Tokyo'. Rickshaw, rickshaw, need ride?
The big lantern, entrance to shopping and temple.
The big lantern, entrance to shopping and temple.		 It started raining as we walked to the temple - Ono ran back to the car for umbrellas.
It started raining as we walked to the temple - Ono ran back to the car for umbrellas.		 Another one of those skinny tall structures.
Another one of those skinny tall structures.		 Looking from the temple back towards the entrance.
Looking from the temple back towards the entrance.
Brendon made use of his umbrella under this downpour.
Brendon made use of his umbrella under this downpour.		 The shrine inside this more ornate temple, not as ancient as others we'd seen down south.
The shrine inside this more ornate temple, not as ancient as others we'd seen down south.		 Brendon paid a hundred yen (less than a buck) for a fortune - he got a good one.
Brendon paid a hundred yen (less than a buck) for a fortune - he got a good one.		 This LONG row of souvenir shops led to the temple. I was surprised at the amount of commercialism around each of the temples.
This LONG row of souvenir shops led to the temple. I was surprised at the amount of commercialism around each of the temples.
We got soft serve on the walk back.
We got soft serve on the walk back.		 YUM!! There were like 30 (or was it 31?) flavors to choose from, VERY tasty. I got melon, and Bec put me to sleep w/ choc/van.
YUM!! There were like 30 (or was it 31?) flavors to choose from, VERY tasty. I got melon, and Bec put me to sleep w/ choc/van.		 Keith took us to dinner that night at a restaurant in his old stomping ground where he knew the owner. Scrumptious!
Keith took us to dinner that night at a restaurant in his old stomping ground where he knew the owner. Scrumptious!		 10/27 - One of the ways Becky got her coffee fix in our hotel - brew cups they provided, along with a hot water machine.
10/27 - One of the ways Becky got her coffee fix in our hotel - brew cups they provided, along with a hot water machine.
We stayed at the 'Oriental Hotel Tokyo Bay', very close to Disneyland, with Disney shops. I brought The Office Season 3 DVD's.
We stayed at the 'Oriental Hotel Tokyo Bay', very close to Disneyland, with Disney shops. I brought The Office Season 3 DVD's.		 Inside the Tokyo Museum. It rained all day Saturday, a perfect museum day after sleeping in, put off the gardens until Monday.
Inside the Tokyo Museum. It rained all day Saturday, a perfect museum day after sleeping in, put off the gardens until Monday.		 If Brendon were a prince, he'd have been carried around in one of these.
If Brendon were a prince, he'd have been carried around in one of these.		 A stage setup, showing a Geisha ceremony.
A stage setup, showing a Geisha ceremony.
A life-size re-creation of how a VIP would be carried into town.
A life-size re-creation of how a VIP would be carried into town.		 A miniaturized version of the procession, with Keith explaining it all to Becky on the other side.
A miniaturized version of the procession, with Keith explaining it all to Becky on the other side.		 Their early bikes were similar to ours. Speaking of bikes, a LOT of Japanese ride them, with large bike racks everywhere.
Their early bikes were similar to ours. Speaking of bikes, a LOT of Japanese ride them, with large bike racks everywhere.		 The lucky lucky happy smile lucky doll fortune lucky....thingie out in the lobby of the museum.
The lucky lucky happy smile lucky doll fortune lucky....thingie out in the lobby of the museum.
We drove through 'new Tokyo' that night, lots of people out with their umbrellas.
We drove through 'new Tokyo' that night, lots of people out with their umbrellas.		 This is the famous Ginza district, with every upscale shop you can imagine, and real estate costing $100,000/sq meter.
This is the famous Ginza district, with every upscale shop you can imagine, and real estate costing $100,000/sq meter.		 A driving shot of the lit up Tokyo Tower which we would visit on Monday.
A driving shot of the lit up Tokyo Tower which we would visit on Monday.		 Playing with exposure while driving...
Playing with exposure while driving...
A street corner crowded with umbrella'd shoppers.
A street corner crowded with umbrella'd shoppers.		 This is a famous view of Tokyo seen in many movies. Well, not with a car's taillights like this...
This is a famous view of Tokyo seen in many movies. Well, not with a car's taillights like this...		 We'd heard of 'Japanese pancake houses' and requested that. Keith took us a to a yummy place where we had very different 'cakes.
We'd heard of 'Japanese pancake houses' and requested that. Keith took us a to a yummy place where we had very different 'cakes.		 10/28 - A day at Disney Sea, a separate park from Disney Land, beautifully done.
10/28 - A day at Disney Sea, a separate park from Disney Land, beautifully done.
It was themed with water cities and attractions, very fun place.
It was themed with water cities and attractions, very fun place.		 The Tower of Terror behind us, and you can see the real ocean from higher vantage points.
The Tower of Terror behind us, and you can see the real ocean from higher vantage points.		 Sari accompanied us and we had a blast with our great new friend. She speaks English after a stay in the US.
Sari accompanied us and we had a blast with our great new friend. She speaks English after a stay in the US.		 Neat the 'Journey to the Center of the Earth' ride, our favorite by far.
Neat the 'Journey to the Center of the Earth' ride, our favorite by far.
Curse the beautiful weather - the place was PACKED! I'd hoped for rain. Seriously.
Curse the beautiful weather - the place was PACKED! I'd hoped for rain. Seriously.		 The sun sets behind an 'American' lighthouse, with Mt Fuji in the background.
The sun sets behind an 'American' lighthouse, with Mt Fuji in the background.		 The fireworks from DisneyLand as we left exhausted, feet aching.
The fireworks from DisneyLand as we left exhausted, feet aching.		 Our last pic with Sari in front of the hotel.
Our last pic with Sari in front of the hotel.
10/29 - Japanese McDonalds for lunch in the park, errr, gardens, where we sat and enjoyed a 300-year-old bonzai tree.
10/29 - Japanese McDonalds for lunch in the park, errr, gardens, where we sat and enjoyed a 300-year-old bonzai tree.		 It's like Central Park, but way more beautiful, surrounded by huge buildings.
It's like Central Park, but way more beautiful, surrounded by huge buildings.		 A little lake/pond could be seen.
A little lake/pond could be seen.		 The contrast was very cool and interesting.
The contrast was very cool and interesting.
It is a LOT of work to keep all of these trees looking like this.
It is a LOT of work to keep all of these trees looking like this.		 There was a second, larger body of water to enjoy.
There was a second, larger body of water to enjoy.		 Read this if you're wondering about the straw tied around the trunks of the trees...
Read this if you're wondering about the straw tied around the trunks of the trees...		 The gang on the bridge....
The gang on the bridge....
What the bridge really looks like when I figure out how to use my camera correctly....
What the bridge really looks like when I figure out how to use my camera correctly....		 We enjoyed some authentic green tea and bean paste pastry at a quaint tea house, complinents of Ono.
We enjoyed some authentic green tea and bean paste pastry at a quaint tea house, complinents of Ono.		 There is a traditional way of drinking the tea, which Ono
There is a traditional way of drinking the tea, which Ono		 Yoshio didn't care for it, heh heh.
Yoshio didn't care for it, heh heh.
The tea house from a the walk way over the water.
The tea house from a the walk way over the water.		 The tea house from across the lake. What a shot, huh?
The tea house from across the lake. What a shot, huh?		 We were the only ones here. I wish.
We were the only ones here. I wish.		 I couldn't get over this place in the middle of the city.
I couldn't get over this place in the middle of the city.
The happy family (but my back was KILLING me, almost skipped this day).
The happy family (but my back was KILLING me, almost skipped this day).		 I thought this looked like a place to spy on birds. Ono read the sign, and sure enough, they used these to spot birds.
I thought this looked like a place to spy on birds. Ono read the sign, and sure enough, they used these to spot birds.		 But then they would throw nets over them as they floated down the water way....
But then they would throw nets over them as they floated down the water way....		 More trees, painstakingly manicured.
More trees, painstakingly manicured.
I like this shot.
I like this shot.		 Becky demonstrates 'bird calling' with a blade of grass.
Becky demonstrates 'bird calling' with a blade of grass.		 Some of the tree keepers hard at work. Each branch and tuft is individually trimmed by hand with one small clipper.
Some of the tree keepers hard at work. Each branch and tuft is individually trimmed by hand with one small clipper.		 Next, on to the Tokyo Tower!! It was modeled after the Eiffel Tower.
Next, on to the Tokyo Tower!! It was modeled after the Eiffel Tower.
This was the first viewing level, looking down an another old cemetery.
This was the first viewing level, looking down an another old cemetery.		 It was fun to look out on a sprawling city like this.
It was fun to look out on a sprawling city like this.		 Buildings for miles and miles in every direction.
Buildings for miles and miles in every direction.		 We paid a 2nd fee to go from 250 meters up to 450 meters, the highest public viewing level.
We paid a 2nd fee to go from 250 meters up to 450 meters, the highest public viewing level.
Now you could REALLY see the city, including the gardens we'd just been at.
Now you could REALLY see the city, including the gardens we'd just been at.		 Look at all those buildings!
Look at all those buildings!		 Little ants at play.
Little ants at play.		 Aaaah yes - more buildings.
Aaaah yes - more buildings.
The sun sets over Tokyo.
The sun sets over Tokyo.		 Looking down a busy street which would look really cool a short while later.
Looking down a busy street which would look really cool a short while later.		 We noticed the sun was setting right next to Mt Fuji.
We noticed the sun was setting right next to Mt Fuji.		 Zooming in for a closer look...
Zooming in for a closer look...
Zooming even closer for a really cool shot. Next trip we hope to visit Mt Fuji.
Zooming even closer for a really cool shot. Next trip we hope to visit Mt Fuji.		 Back on the 1st viewing level, there was a window you could look straight down through.
Back on the 1st viewing level, there was a window you could look straight down through.		 The lights start to flicker on as the sun goes down....
The lights start to flicker on as the sun goes down....		 The same street we saw earlier, now coming to life with lights...
The same street we saw earlier, now coming to life with lights...
A colorful ferris wheel in the distance, which we didn't get to ride, doh!
A colorful ferris wheel in the distance, which we didn't get to ride, doh!		 Now that street is REALLY poppin'!
Now that street is REALLY poppin'!		 Zooming in closer on that ferris wheel as the city goes dark.
Zooming in closer on that ferris wheel as the city goes dark.		 It looked darker than this, but the exposure brightened the sky.
It looked darker than this, but the exposure brightened the sky.
Cool shot, huh!
Cool shot, huh!		 A little fun with longer exposure....
A little fun with longer exposure....		 And more fun, woohoo!
And more fun, woohoo!		 The tower at night - better shot than I got the other night, ha.
The tower at night - better shot than I got the other night, ha.
Tokyo, along with Chicago and 5 other cities, is bidding to host the Olympics in 2016.
Tokyo, along with Chicago and 5 other cities, is bidding to host the Olympics in 2016.		 Yoshio, Ono and Brendon, who had to have a plushie toy of the Tokyo Tower mascot, ha ha.
Yoshio, Ono and Brendon, who had to have a plushie toy of the Tokyo Tower mascot, ha ha.		 Yoshio got a great shot of Brendon and I with the lit tower looming behind.
Yoshio got a great shot of Brendon and I with the lit tower looming behind.		 Our last shot with Ono and Yoshio in front of the hotel, after hitting the electronics district in Tokyo.
Our last shot with Ono and Yoshio in front of the hotel, after hitting the electronics district in Tokyo.
10/30 - The hotel rooms in Japan all had doorbells like this. And the first 2 hotels used old-fashioned keys. Huh?
10/30 - The hotel rooms in Japan all had doorbells like this. And the first 2 hotels used old-fashioned keys. Huh?		 My back was a WRECK by the end of the trip, DOH!!
My back was a WRECK by the end of the trip, DOH!!		 Family sadness - none of us wanted to go back home....last pic in the hotel....
Family sadness - none of us wanted to go back home....last pic in the hotel....

comment | share
Susan Rikimaru 14-Nov-2007 03:31
It looks like you all had an excellent vacation!
Thanks for sharing these pictures with us - very inspiring for us to make it to Japan someday.
Alicia Webb 12-Nov-2007 17:57
Thanks for sharing your memories (now you have to scrapbook them Becky!). Looks like you had a wonderful time, and we are happy for you!
Guest 11-Nov-2007 18:06
LOVE THE PICS-THANKS FOR SHARING
MOTHRA WAS VERY COOL...LOL
Guest 11-Nov-2007 17:21
Incredible pics Brian, glad you were able to have the whole family go and not just you (like originally planned) Brendan will cherish the memories from it!

Trina Rufo
Sil 05-Nov-2007 21:27
Way awesome pics you guys. Looks like you had a blast!!
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