Sunday, March 27, 2016
Untitled
Why are we so elite? From other beings, like we serve a greater purpose. Like we would actually outlive them all (yeah right). How did we become so disconnected? As if we can't feel her pain, as she weeps softly. Sometimes loudly; thunderous clouds, tsunamis and great storms, fires that consume the old and the new. Beautiful chaos, a cleansing. She is vast and wise beyond our comprehension. We are lowly and so young, so stupid. So much to learn about her and the encompassing universe. Her playground, her home, her space amongst the celestial gods; it a space we meekly fill, a tiny speck within an infinite, everlasting womb. We are so lucky to experience it all. If only that understanding reigned within all humans. Let go of your pitiful selfish thoughts and behaviors. Before it's too late. Is it too late? Have we reached the point of no return, the floodgates are destined to open? I hope not. That would be terribly sad.
love vs. greed, a thought
All we have is love, a pivotal emotion, to bring us true joy. Can greed be deemed as a moment of true joy? All a matter of perspective, I suppose. It doesn't feel right, the righteous would think. Greed can bring pain and hatred, seemingly terrible states of being. The moment you feel love, is... like floating, like the smell of spring, fresh rain and a baby's skin. All those precious pieces of time, experiences that we hold onto in our minds, stow them away in the memory banks of our mortal brains.
Greed seems to end in heartbreak, in death, often alone. Does it not take more effort to be sharing and giving, then to hoard and be greedy? Take more of ourselves, our spirits? It's easy to keep everything to yourself, to be alone and pretend to not need. It's far more challenging to let people in, to be open to love, compassion, and to give these in return, to share with others. Yes?
Greed seems to end in heartbreak, in death, often alone. Does it not take more effort to be sharing and giving, then to hoard and be greedy? Take more of ourselves, our spirits? It's easy to keep everything to yourself, to be alone and pretend to not need. It's far more challenging to let people in, to be open to love, compassion, and to give these in return, to share with others. Yes?
Japan - Day 7 and My Top Favorite Things About Nippon
My last day in Tokyo was eventful, bittersweet at moments. I arose early to get to the Tokyo Skytree first thing; though it was cloudy, still totally worth it. It was fun to meander around the different levels and grab souvenirs for people (some at random). The rain was still a light mist, so it wasn't a terrible day for exploration.
After the Skytree, I headed to Nezu for an art exhibit at the Yayoi Museum. They featured a manga artist, Kazuo Kamimura (famous for Lady Snowblood), with pieces from the '60s and later; it was gorgeous. But I'd like to backtrack a bit to travelling to Yayoi Museum. Initially, I'd set out with my raincoat, and decided I'd purchase an umbrella somewhere along the way. It wasn't until I'd left the Skytree that it really begun to rain, a very steady rain.
The whole trip to Nezu pretty much involved me being underground. So, when I reached my destination, I just said screw it and walked the ten minutes, hood over my head, phone in hand, as I navigated to Yayoi. It was fantastic. I was drenched by the time I got to the museum, but those kind ladies lent me a towel and even took my coat and backpack while I walked freely through the exhibit.
Nezu has been added to some of my favorite places in Tokyo. The town is quaint, with lots of intricate homes and buildings. It was quiet, unlike busy Shinjuku or Nihonbashi areas. And did I mention that the Japanese people (in general) are impeccably polite? As I put on my coat and backpack to leave Yayoi, those two women stopped me, and held out an umbrella. I couldn't have been more grateful.
My check out time was 1pm, so I basically headed back to the hotel and made my way to the airport. It took close to an hour to get there by train(s), but I didn't want to miss the experience and take a taxi (which still only knocked off about 20 minutes). So there I was, hauling my luggage up and down a few stairwells, mildly regretting my choice. Fortunately, it didn't take too long to get to the train (A/KK line) which runs all the way to Haneda airport. Very efficient those Japanese. I had a few whispers from fellow passengers, and a couple stares, but not bad overall.
When I got to the airport, and reached the check-in counter, I was informed that I'd missed my flight. Apparently, when it says 12:00 am Sunday, it means....midnight Sunday (or in more clear terms, you better get your dumb ass to the airport on Friday night or you miss your flight). Yeah...that happened. It only took a couple hours on the phone with Expedia, of which no resolve was found, and the helpful ladies of ANA ticket counter to help me get on the next flight to LAX free of charge. I'd had to book a new flight, and pay, to get to Vegas from there. I'll take it!
I've never missed a flight in my adult life. This was certainly a learning experience. Also, Expedia sucks. Just saying. Don't book a person six nights at a groovy hotel with free breakfast and not expect them to stay six (whole) nights. Alas, after several hours of meandering and attempts of sleep in the airport terminal, I finally made my way home.
This whole experience for me meant life changes. I know what I need to do, and I know it's time to move forward, with big girl steps...no more baby steps. It felt like a part of my soul had been brought back to life, it made me appreciate human beings more. It made me realize that people can be awesome. I can't wait to explore so much more of this wonderful planet.
At that, I'd like to list my favorite things about Japan (so far..):
Vending machines, vending machine beer, food, all the food, sweets, macha, shrines, nice people, cute Japanese women, classy outfits, bidets, toilets with SO many buttons, Sonic the hedgehog, tiny people like me, tiny doorways and rooms so that Austin has to duck/crouch, sushi, sake, did I mention food in general?, art museums, sakura trees, and all sakura things really, foxes, hot springs, rituals and traditions, the lady that cleaned my hotel room, the lady that gave me an umbrella, the lady from ANA who helped me get home, the random guy who told us about the onsen, and all the other things. And Japan.
I hope you all enjoyed this adventure with me. And that my descriptions did some justice (though probably not, you should all go see for yourselves). Get out there and explore your universe. Life is far too short. Love you all,
~HB~
Saturday, March 26, 2016
Japan - Day 6
My last two days in Japan were bittersweet. I'd had such a wonderful time, and sharing in new experiences with these beautiful people...
We said our goodbyes and they were off for more adventure, while I would plot out my final hours. I'd decided to visit the National Museum of Modern Art, and would go from there to find shopping. The weather was beginning to turn, mostly just a breeze, but I knew rain was coming.
The MOMAT was amazing. Absolutely all that I had expected and then some. It's been so very long since I've had the pleasure of enjoying a real art museum. The pieces ranged from early 1900s-on. My favorite, and the most moving experience, was a collection of works from around WWII. I can't really describe the feeling, observing from their perspective. It was incredible. There was one piece that struck me in particular and sadly, I can't remember the artist's name or name of the piece (and no, I didn't take pictures). If I ever find it, I'll post it here. Everyone should experience something like this, being in the same room with something that old, absorbing some of the energy from the artist, putting yourself in that position, just for a moment even. It's the best.
And even better, on my nearly final day in Japan, I found the golden egg I'd been waiting for....a sakura that was still in (full) bloom.
I still have to translate the sign that was nearby (I snagged a photo), but I believe there is something special about this tree.
After wandering for a bit, I decided to see Akihabara (recommended for potential gift purchasing). It was very interesting and, though I didn't end up buying anything in this area, it was groovy to see.
Somehow, when I arrived in the Akihabara, I'd managed to find the one West coast, valley girl sounding Japanese girl at a small gift shop in a business building pretending to be a mall. It had some places to eat, and apparently a few stores, but she assured me that the souvenirs I was looking for were not to be found very close by (unless I was buying for a bunch of anime nerds, which sadly, no).
I wandered for a bit, in attempts to find the two stores she recommended, but the wind was a bit much for such a midget like myself (not that I was the smallest person in Japan, 'cause I wasn't!). And it felt good to get back to my hotel and relax.
I had a lovely morning in store, especially for my last day. However, I had no idea that I was about to make a rookie travel mistake......
Side Note: The restaurant we visited regularly that has delicious pancakes is called the Kohikan, not the Kiokhan (or whatever I had called it in Day 2). Oops.
We said our goodbyes and they were off for more adventure, while I would plot out my final hours. I'd decided to visit the National Museum of Modern Art, and would go from there to find shopping. The weather was beginning to turn, mostly just a breeze, but I knew rain was coming.
The MOMAT was amazing. Absolutely all that I had expected and then some. It's been so very long since I've had the pleasure of enjoying a real art museum. The pieces ranged from early 1900s-on. My favorite, and the most moving experience, was a collection of works from around WWII. I can't really describe the feeling, observing from their perspective. It was incredible. There was one piece that struck me in particular and sadly, I can't remember the artist's name or name of the piece (and no, I didn't take pictures). If I ever find it, I'll post it here. Everyone should experience something like this, being in the same room with something that old, absorbing some of the energy from the artist, putting yourself in that position, just for a moment even. It's the best.
And even better, on my nearly final day in Japan, I found the golden egg I'd been waiting for....a sakura that was still in (full) bloom.
I still have to translate the sign that was nearby (I snagged a photo), but I believe there is something special about this tree.
After wandering for a bit, I decided to see Akihabara (recommended for potential gift purchasing). It was very interesting and, though I didn't end up buying anything in this area, it was groovy to see.
Somehow, when I arrived in the Akihabara, I'd managed to find the one West coast, valley girl sounding Japanese girl at a small gift shop in a business building pretending to be a mall. It had some places to eat, and apparently a few stores, but she assured me that the souvenirs I was looking for were not to be found very close by (unless I was buying for a bunch of anime nerds, which sadly, no).
I wandered for a bit, in attempts to find the two stores she recommended, but the wind was a bit much for such a midget like myself (not that I was the smallest person in Japan, 'cause I wasn't!). And it felt good to get back to my hotel and relax.
I had a lovely morning in store, especially for my last day. However, I had no idea that I was about to make a rookie travel mistake......
Side Note: The restaurant we visited regularly that has delicious pancakes is called the Kohikan, not the Kiokhan (or whatever I had called it in Day 2). Oops.
Wednesday, March 23, 2016
Japan - Day 5
My fifth day in Japan included a visit to Fox Village, located about 5 hours north of Tokyo in the Miyagi Prefecture. We got to take the bullet train (shinkansen) which goes roughly 200 mph at it's top speed. Crazy. The view was breathtaking. As we left the city and moved further into the country, there were more and more traditional style homes, snow capped mountains and fields, trees, and the like. It was incredible. This day made me decide that I must come back, and I must explore more of this beautiful country.
The shinkansen took us only a couple hours to get to Shiroishi and then a cab ride of about 20-30 minutes, brought us to Fox Village, which is located up in the mountains. The ride was quite spectacular, and thank you to the drivers who took us (as we had to split two cabs btw 5 people). They gave us a ride to and from, communicating with one another to ensure we got to the village with no problem. Language barriers. I give many thanks to all those Japanese people that were so pleasant and helpful through our travels.
Anyways, Fox Village was adorable - and on some level a little sad, much like any zoo or other structure built to preserve other animals, there's always some feeling of guilt. The foxes, however, didn't seem to mind as they were all quite fluffy and large. We all made friends and even got to hold one.
How freakin' cute is that. I mean really, come on. I wanted so much to lay down with a group of them and take a nap. But that was a big no, no. There's a specified feeding area, where you can toss treats to suspecting foxes. That was special. And mostly where the guilt kicked in as some foxes had a challenging time getting their treats, and that's where some of the fights broke out. Oops.
When we were ready to leave, we all made our way outside. Only to be beckoned back by one of the staff, as she found us sitting on a bench and motioned, 'Wait for taxi inside,' or something to that effect. It was lovely. Like forced hospitality. Love it. And so, we waited by the stove, kept warm and waited for the taxi to take us back to town.
It took him roughly 20 minutes, and then we were off again. The ride back was even more fun, as we got to see more of the town (I think he took a long way). He dropped us at the train station, and then we decided to wander. Food was needed, and found, and oh so delicious. Everyone enjoyed varying meats on sticks from a vendor outside the grocery store. The grocery store itself was full of lovely looking produce, everything so fresh and clean.
After some thought, it was decided that we needed to visit a local onsen. It wasn't far from our current location and we'd heard about it from a groovy gentlemen at the Fox Village. Thanks mister, whoever you were. You rock. The onsen was glorious (sorry no photos there ha!). Naked in hot steamy water. You don't get any better. Well, if it had been outside, and co-ed...yeah. I would've dug that.
The day was wrapped up with sleep, much needed. Um...that is...after all the sake. Yeah, that happened. We toasted to friendship and travels and such, and the next morning I saw everyone off...
The shinkansen took us only a couple hours to get to Shiroishi and then a cab ride of about 20-30 minutes, brought us to Fox Village, which is located up in the mountains. The ride was quite spectacular, and thank you to the drivers who took us (as we had to split two cabs btw 5 people). They gave us a ride to and from, communicating with one another to ensure we got to the village with no problem. Language barriers. I give many thanks to all those Japanese people that were so pleasant and helpful through our travels.
Anyways, Fox Village was adorable - and on some level a little sad, much like any zoo or other structure built to preserve other animals, there's always some feeling of guilt. The foxes, however, didn't seem to mind as they were all quite fluffy and large. We all made friends and even got to hold one.
How freakin' cute is that. I mean really, come on. I wanted so much to lay down with a group of them and take a nap. But that was a big no, no. There's a specified feeding area, where you can toss treats to suspecting foxes. That was special. And mostly where the guilt kicked in as some foxes had a challenging time getting their treats, and that's where some of the fights broke out. Oops.
When we were ready to leave, we all made our way outside. Only to be beckoned back by one of the staff, as she found us sitting on a bench and motioned, 'Wait for taxi inside,' or something to that effect. It was lovely. Like forced hospitality. Love it. And so, we waited by the stove, kept warm and waited for the taxi to take us back to town.
It took him roughly 20 minutes, and then we were off again. The ride back was even more fun, as we got to see more of the town (I think he took a long way). He dropped us at the train station, and then we decided to wander. Food was needed, and found, and oh so delicious. Everyone enjoyed varying meats on sticks from a vendor outside the grocery store. The grocery store itself was full of lovely looking produce, everything so fresh and clean.
After some thought, it was decided that we needed to visit a local onsen. It wasn't far from our current location and we'd heard about it from a groovy gentlemen at the Fox Village. Thanks mister, whoever you were. You rock. The onsen was glorious (sorry no photos there ha!). Naked in hot steamy water. You don't get any better. Well, if it had been outside, and co-ed...yeah. I would've dug that.
The day was wrapped up with sleep, much needed. Um...that is...after all the sake. Yeah, that happened. We toasted to friendship and travels and such, and the next morning I saw everyone off...
Japan - Day 4
The morning of Odaiba was mellow; we had no intentions of rushing about. We sought nourishment at the KioKhan, really terribly excellent food. The pancakes were almost better than my father's. After farting around for a while we decided to meander out and find the U line (monorail) to Odaiba, and....Joypolis! One of the best arcades I've been to yet. But let me back up to getting there...
The monorail took maybe 30 minutes to land us in one of the most beautiful locations in Tokyo; something about this city made me feel a great sense of belonging. Perhaps it was the bayside views and towering structures. It was so clean, and the water was gorgeous. We found our way to the top of the Diver City shopping mall, where a very large skate park resides. The view was indescribable. I just felt like I was home.
Other perks of Diver City mall included a giant fucking robot! No bullshit. I mean, he doesn't go anywhere..that I'm aware of...It was also very refreshing to include a Suntory Whiskey Highball with lunch, in the extensive food court. Mmm. We wandered the mall for some time and then decided to head to the arcade.
Joypolis wasn't far, and very well worth the money. I honestly don't even remember what we spent, but I don't believe it was much for a night pass. And then there was this....
I only wish I'd remembered to bring my Old School Sonic shirt - utter fail..
There was also a car game where you get to actually drive a car...like it's a car, and you get into it..and you drive; you can choose auto or manual (I chose auto cause I'm not that good). It was fucking fantastic and I want one. We also experienced some interactive games; Zombie Zoo involved a lot of me screaming like a girl as we walked through a couple of rooms and were given a show by some lovely employees dressed as doctors and zombies. Good times.
We spent a few hours at the JoyPolis, and shared a drink on the veranda.
It was perfection. Odaiba stole my heart. Japan still has pieces of me. But I'll get to that in more detail later......
The monorail took maybe 30 minutes to land us in one of the most beautiful locations in Tokyo; something about this city made me feel a great sense of belonging. Perhaps it was the bayside views and towering structures. It was so clean, and the water was gorgeous. We found our way to the top of the Diver City shopping mall, where a very large skate park resides. The view was indescribable. I just felt like I was home.
Other perks of Diver City mall included a giant fucking robot! No bullshit. I mean, he doesn't go anywhere..that I'm aware of...It was also very refreshing to include a Suntory Whiskey Highball with lunch, in the extensive food court. Mmm. We wandered the mall for some time and then decided to head to the arcade.
Joypolis wasn't far, and very well worth the money. I honestly don't even remember what we spent, but I don't believe it was much for a night pass. And then there was this....
I only wish I'd remembered to bring my Old School Sonic shirt - utter fail..
There was also a car game where you get to actually drive a car...like it's a car, and you get into it..and you drive; you can choose auto or manual (I chose auto cause I'm not that good). It was fucking fantastic and I want one. We also experienced some interactive games; Zombie Zoo involved a lot of me screaming like a girl as we walked through a couple of rooms and were given a show by some lovely employees dressed as doctors and zombies. Good times.
We spent a few hours at the JoyPolis, and shared a drink on the veranda.
It was perfection. Odaiba stole my heart. Japan still has pieces of me. But I'll get to that in more detail later......
Tuesday, March 22, 2016
Japan - Day 3
The next day I repeated my breakfast ritual and then left the comforts of Sotetsu Fresa Inn, to wander more through the streets of Nihonbashi. The city is impeccable, in constant motion, as suits and fine dresses move fluidly from one street to the next, in and out of buildings. It was like waves of people, all dressed to a T, like they were so important (I should note that I was in a business district, so it isn't so surprising that many people were in formal business attire).
There was very little to actually 'do' in my area, with the exception of food. Food was everywhere. These people do not like to go hungry. And I can't forget the vending machines. There were so...many...vending machines. It was glorious.
As I was strolling along a main road, I suddenly found myself within a crowd; I adjusted my pace to maintain a steady motion within this sea of suits and dresses. Just for a moment, it felt like I belonged. Like that was my city.
Eventually, I found my way back to the Sotetsu Fresa and we all decided it was Meiji day. The Meiji shrine would bring a whole new sense of calm. A giant forest in the middle of the vast city. The weather was perfect, just crisp enough that it gave the long walk an ethereal feeling. My body was numb from the cold, but it felt glorious.
I walked through the gardens, filling my lungs with fresh air, taking in all the trees and plants, the bit of sunshine on my face, and bitter cold against my nose, lips, cheeks. At one point, I lost myself in those gardens. For a minute it felt like I wasn't really there, like I was moving along with the trees, the light wind that had picked up, like every molecule/atom of my body was touching everything around me. I stayed in that state for quite some time, until something drew me back.
When we finally reached the shrine, I was surprised at how busy it had become. The gardens leading up to this space were relatively quiet. In spite of many people, it seemed like the trees muffled much of the sound. The shrine, however, was full of laughter, from children and tourists, clicking of cameras, and other raucous.
I stayed for a while, watching an old man as he made his offering and stood in silence for quite some time. His ritual was so much more affecting than that of the young. The children seemed to perform this offering out of habit and necessity; I didn't feel the same level of concern, as this old man had shown. It was beautiful to observe. I wanted to talk to him, to hear his thoughts. What was he saying to the Meiji, if anything at all, in that moment? Was his mind simply quiet? Perhaps he took that moment to meditate. This was indeed a wonderful place to observe human interaction and to see the different styles of performing old traditions. I didn't partake, as it felt rude. This is not my place, I thought. I should just watch.
The park leading after the shrine, Yoyogi Park, was quite beautiful. A perfect area for lovers and families to sit in the sun and picnic. I'd like to go back there and do just that. Someday.
We gathered ourselves and left the park, heading for food or whatever we might find. It took some time, and after being turned away from at least one restaurant (we were too foreign), we finally came to one of the most amazing restaurants I've ever had the pleasure of dining at (Hana no Mai). Thank you to my sweet, for finding this treasure. The food was orgasmic, sushi that melted like butter, and an omelette we had to get two of; and of course, good drink. Our server spoke a bit of English, and was very hospitable. I highly recommend to anyone that ventures near the Meiji Shrine to find Hana no Mai.
This was a great prequel to the Robot Restaurant show, which was utterly fantastic. A much worthy show to take in, whenever you are in Tokyo. The staff are lovely, the costumes and robots are absolutely astounding; how they manage to fit in such a small space, I have no idea. Major kudos to the controllers of the robots.
It was such a fun packed day, and with so much to take in and see. We fortunately decided to sleep in a bit the following morning. I had no idea that I was going to find my home away from home in Odaiba. Oh Odaiba, how I miss you.
There was very little to actually 'do' in my area, with the exception of food. Food was everywhere. These people do not like to go hungry. And I can't forget the vending machines. There were so...many...vending machines. It was glorious.
As I was strolling along a main road, I suddenly found myself within a crowd; I adjusted my pace to maintain a steady motion within this sea of suits and dresses. Just for a moment, it felt like I belonged. Like that was my city.
Eventually, I found my way back to the Sotetsu Fresa and we all decided it was Meiji day. The Meiji shrine would bring a whole new sense of calm. A giant forest in the middle of the vast city. The weather was perfect, just crisp enough that it gave the long walk an ethereal feeling. My body was numb from the cold, but it felt glorious.
I walked through the gardens, filling my lungs with fresh air, taking in all the trees and plants, the bit of sunshine on my face, and bitter cold against my nose, lips, cheeks. At one point, I lost myself in those gardens. For a minute it felt like I wasn't really there, like I was moving along with the trees, the light wind that had picked up, like every molecule/atom of my body was touching everything around me. I stayed in that state for quite some time, until something drew me back.
When we finally reached the shrine, I was surprised at how busy it had become. The gardens leading up to this space were relatively quiet. In spite of many people, it seemed like the trees muffled much of the sound. The shrine, however, was full of laughter, from children and tourists, clicking of cameras, and other raucous.
I stayed for a while, watching an old man as he made his offering and stood in silence for quite some time. His ritual was so much more affecting than that of the young. The children seemed to perform this offering out of habit and necessity; I didn't feel the same level of concern, as this old man had shown. It was beautiful to observe. I wanted to talk to him, to hear his thoughts. What was he saying to the Meiji, if anything at all, in that moment? Was his mind simply quiet? Perhaps he took that moment to meditate. This was indeed a wonderful place to observe human interaction and to see the different styles of performing old traditions. I didn't partake, as it felt rude. This is not my place, I thought. I should just watch.
The park leading after the shrine, Yoyogi Park, was quite beautiful. A perfect area for lovers and families to sit in the sun and picnic. I'd like to go back there and do just that. Someday.
We gathered ourselves and left the park, heading for food or whatever we might find. It took some time, and after being turned away from at least one restaurant (we were too foreign), we finally came to one of the most amazing restaurants I've ever had the pleasure of dining at (Hana no Mai). Thank you to my sweet, for finding this treasure. The food was orgasmic, sushi that melted like butter, and an omelette we had to get two of; and of course, good drink. Our server spoke a bit of English, and was very hospitable. I highly recommend to anyone that ventures near the Meiji Shrine to find Hana no Mai.
This was a great prequel to the Robot Restaurant show, which was utterly fantastic. A much worthy show to take in, whenever you are in Tokyo. The staff are lovely, the costumes and robots are absolutely astounding; how they manage to fit in such a small space, I have no idea. Major kudos to the controllers of the robots.
It was such a fun packed day, and with so much to take in and see. We fortunately decided to sleep in a bit the following morning. I had no idea that I was going to find my home away from home in Odaiba. Oh Odaiba, how I miss you.
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