The Great Japanese Adventure

Post TGJA Blog

2007-09-10T06:55:00.001+09:00

I have started a new blog.

Please pop by if you are interested.

www.littlethoughtsbigideas.blogspot.com

Thank you

Justin

The End of The Great Japanese Adventure.

2007-08-30T08:05:00.000+09:00

So its with a sad farewell I bid TGJA, "sayonnara".

There has been so much happening in my life, and with tragic events happening in my life, that I have returned home to the UK for the time being.

I would like to say THANK YOU to everyone who read, commented and laughed at my blog and followed my highs and lows in Japan.

Who knows, maybe one day you'll find The Great Japanese Adventure Pt II.

Until then,

Arrigato Gozaimasu to Sayonara.

Review - Die Hard 4.0

2007-07-19T22:21:00.000+09:00

Its been around 12 years since, John McClaine last hit our screens, running around New York, Samuel L Jackson in tow trying to save New York from Jeremy Irons. This time, Underworld director and Mr. Kate Beckinsale, Len Wiseman has shifted the territory to Washington but the blueprint remains familiar.

Willis has McClaine on badass, wise-cracking form. Check. Alongside him is a fish out of water type, usually rubbing McClaine up the wrong way. Check. Sophisticated bad guy. Check.

But all this familiarity is not a bad thing and actually works to the films advantage. It is refreshing to see an action movie stick to basic principles, with no twists, incomprehensible dialogue and slow-mo Bayesque rock video visuals. Wiseman's film is all wham bam thank you ma'am, with a pace that never really lets up and some jaw dropping (if unbelievable set pieces).

Willis, however makes this film work. McClaine is a world weary Jack Bauer but with a sense of humour. His old school believability works well in contrast with an underused Oliphant's tech-savvy bad guy. There is also good support from Justin Long as the witness, McClaine is forced to protect and Maggie Q seductively fills up the screen as Oliphants arse-kicking partner.

All in all, an excellent action film, that needs little brains, but loads of popcorn to produce the most fun movie you'll see all summer.

7.5 out of 10

Forces of (Nihon) Nature

2007-07-17T23:13:00.000+09:00

The above picture is of damage done by an earthquake measuring 6.8 in magnitude that struck the Niigata area on Monday.

"Hundreds of people were injured when the 6.8-magnitude tremor struck the Niigata area.
Four women and three men - all in their 70s and 80s - died from injuries sustained in the earthquake, the National Police Agency said.
City official Takashi Otsuka said about 2,000 people had been evacuated from their homes, while tens of thousands are reported to have no power or running water." from http://www.bbc.com/

The quake also caused radioactive fluid to leak into the sea after the tremors caused havoc at a Nuclear power plant. The plant officials are claiming that there will be no effects on the enviroment.

On Sunday morning, the strongest typhoon of July also hit Japan.

"Typhoon Man-yi was later downgraded to a tropical storm with winds of 83km/h (51mph) as it passed south of Tokyo. Man-yi struck the southern islands of Kyushu and Shikoku on Saturday, killing three people and injuring about 70.
The storm's victims were an 11-year-old boy and a man in his 70s who drowned in separate incidents in Kyushu's Kagoshima prefecture on Saturday. On Sunday, rescuers found the body of a 79-year-old farmer who was swept into a river in the prefecture of Tokushima on Shikoku island.
More than 30,000 have been evacuated from homes along the path of the storm. "from http://www.bbc.com/

Thoughts

It just goes to show how random and aggressive nature can be. I was lucky as the typhoon turned out to be nothing more than a strong storm, and apart from a CD hitting me on the head last year I've been fairly fortunate with earthquakes. However many people have been injured, and my thoughts go out to them and their families.

The NOVA merry-go-round

2007-07-16T08:08:00.000+09:00

So another person leaves. More arrive.

Thats one of the bittersweet aspects of this job. You make friends with people, build bonds of trust with them and then they are gone. Yet every 6 months or so there is an injection of new blood to keep things interesting and if your school is lucky you don't get a complete twat.

So this week saw Jen, my fellow Brit, transferred to Sakaide and the arrival of Joseph from St. Louis. Next week our school will also get Chris and Vanessa, another couple from the US.

Another week at McNova.

Musical Interlude

2007-07-09T11:58:00.000+09:00

Here are some videos of the stuff I've been listening to lately..

Sakaide, Tadotsu and the Saturday from Hell

2007-07-08T09:08:00.000+09:00

So, I had to work on my days off this week for the lovely, language school beast called NOVA. The reason being was that I had to work back my shift swaps, which I have done many times before, however this time it was at different schools...

On Thursday I had to travel to Sakaide (one of the many nearby towns) and seeing as the awful Japanese summer was already in full, sweat-inducing, swing I had to somehow get to work in my only clean shirt (a grey one, so plenty of chances for sweat marks!!). Sakaide is i)A 10 minute walk to the bus stop ii) a 30 minute bus ride iii) a 10 minute train ride. Luckily is right outside the station, and my day at the school went fairly quickly.

Friday was Tadotsu, however it was pissing it down, as I've said before, Japanese summer is also rainy season (especially in June/July). This meant taking my work clothes in a plastic bag to prevent them from getting soaked. i) a 10 minute walk ii) a 30 minute bus ride iii)a 10 minute train ride and iii)a 20 minute walk!!! Tadotsu is a REALLY quite school....I'd hate it there.

Anyway it was good to meet new students and fellow instructors, but I think I prefer my own branch!!!

Saturday. Yesterday. Nightmare. Jen was sick on our busiest day, and I spent the first 4 hours in a blur of paperwork, folders, kids lessons and frustration....

I hope today is better!!!

Lincoln

2007-06-29T11:00:00.000+09:00

So, I haven't spoken much about Japanese culture for a while, so I thought I'd tell you about my favourite Japanese comedy show, Lincoln.

Lincoln is basically a Japanese Variety/Comedy show fronted by famous comedy duo, Downtown, and 7 other comedians. Each week the show either follows one theme (maybe one of the members birthday's) or several smaller installements (last weeks show had a 20 minute feature on whether chosen comedians were using CGI in stunts or not...and yes it is way funnier than it sounds!).

Lincoln is easy for a Gaijin like myself to understand because the humour is universal (although sometimes Shiori needs to translate) and physical. For example, the group went to Universal Studios Japan for one of the group's birthday. They made him dress up in a ridiculous outfit and had him perform in the parade. Another funny episode is when they mimicked Michael Jackson and "rented" an electronics store for an hour (of course Jackson had all night). They all dressed up in different incarnations of Jackson (funny in itself) and then proceeded to go shopping. The twist was at the end they had a choice of two cards; one card meant that the show would pay and other meant they had to pay themselves.

Anyway the video is the opening credits (from the guys who worked on the Animatrix) and here is the link from Wikipedia.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lincoln_%28variety_show%29

Review - 300

2007-06-25T11:17:00.000+09:00

300

Like most historical epics, 300 flirts with the details, but thats the point in Zack Snyder's (Dawn of the Dead) adaptation of Frank Miller's graphic novel. After success with Sin City, Miller's work has found a home on the big screen, and the tale of Spartan King, Leonaidis is a tale fit for celluloid.

With Persia threatening his country, Leonaidis and just 300 soldiers defended Sparta against an army of hundreds of thousands. It's a story of bravery, honour and a fight against a superior aggressor which is just one reason 300 sounds like it was ripe for cinematic adaptation.However this is a Frank Miller adaptation, and Snyder loyally sticks to the comic book roots which are the films strongest and weakest points.

This is like no other epic you will have ever seen. Imagine Lord of the Rings battlefield bravado meets the stylized palette of Sin City and you will nearly be there. It is a gorgeous looking film, with sepia, electric blue and blood red all inking into the frame. The battle sequences use Matrix style action, but it seems fresh and intense.

The other strong point of 300, is the performance of Gerald Butler as Leonaidis. He is a mountain of a man, but one filled with passion and his own sense of honour and freedom. Butler makes him the standout character in what is essentially a comic character. Leonaidis is given such a presence by Butler that you wouldn't want to piss him off.

Yet, 300 never escapes it's pulpy roots. Because Snyder plays the stylistic card to great effect, it seems that the historical epic gets lost in the mix. The dialogue at times is cliched, and there are some dubious politics and racial stereotypes that surface with rather alarming resonance for a viewer in the 21st Century.

All in all, a beautiful movie, hamstrung by its own ambitions.

7 out of 10

My week

2007-06-24T10:07:00.000+09:00

So a new week begins, and I am still in Japan. My future still is uncertain, with a definate emphasis on returning home. Anyway i have begun to realise that all time is precious, because once it's passed through the hourglass, once the day is done, then there is no going back.

Unless you are Doctor Who or Marty McFly and have a time machine.

So the last week in my life has been and gone. What happened ?

Well, first of all Shiori and I have our anniversary (1 year together) on the 1st of July, so I've been busy trying to think of surprises for that. Unfortunately I couldn't get the actual day off work, but have the Monday, Tuesday off as Shift Swaps from the guys at work, and we plan to go away. Maybe to Osaka or Kyoto.

I went and saw 300 at the cinema this week. Hopefully I'll post a review at some point either here or on my other blog, The Ninja Gaijin.

I had to work on Friday at Tadotsu, a small town a few miles away from Marugame. It's located in an Aeon Town shopping complex, in the middle of nowhere. It's a small school, with only a handful of kids and less than 150 students. That day passed rather slowly, and i'm glad I don't work there.

Update!

2007-06-19T11:00:00.000+09:00

So, I haven't felt like blogging on here recently and for that I apologise. I feel emotionally drained most evenings after work, and I keep thinking that whatever I write will sound trivial in the shadow that hangs over me and my family. However I do owe it to people who read/peruse this blog to put up some new content, so here goes!

Firstly, NOVA was in the news again this week, and again for the wrong reasons. The Japanese courts ruled that NOVA cannot trade/sell new lessons for 6 months after it broke trading rules. Full article in the Japan Times can be found here --- http://search.japantimes.co.jp/cgi-bin/nn20070614a1.html

At the mo, we all have jobs and are being told not to worry, but a fear of redunancy hangs ominously in the background.

As for me, the AT job is going well, the new staff are great and so far no real obstacles have got in my way.

So for me life is pretty much the same as ever.

Myself and Shiori did find a cool bar in Takamatsu called Tabi, which is really exclusive and hidden. It has a real top end feel to it, where they will make you any cocktail and have a massive list of their own. For a treat I purchased a Cuban Cigar, which was really nice.

Crossroad Blues

2007-06-06T11:30:00.000+09:00

So, its been all quiet on the Eastern Front for a few weeks, and for those of you who don't know the specifics around my absence, I apologise.

From my last post, you may have been aware that I returned to England because of my mother coming down with an illness. The events that followed were traumatic, numbing and life changing for me.

I now stand at a crossroads.

Unsure of what lies at the end of each path, only the direction is solid.

To stay in Japan. To be loved by Shiori, but ultimately be consumed by guilt and self hatred.

To return home. To be the rock once again for my family, but to leave my girl. To see everything I've built become abandoned. A ruin of achievement.

To disappear. To run away from everything.

At the moment, my head is a mess of ideas. My heart pulled all over the place.

My future is cloudy, uncertain. Which way to turn ?

Blackholes and Revelations

2007-05-10T09:59:00.000+09:00

It's been a mixed week. My emotions have been all over the place. For the very reason that I wanted to keep this blog Japan based and veer away from other things I may want to talk about I have created a new blog.

www.theninjagaijin.wordpress.com

It is for stuff that doesn't really fit in with the spirit of TGJA, and may be a bit more personal or irrelevant. But it is stuff that needs to be written down. Well I think so anyway.

My parents should have been in Japan yesterday, but due to unforeseen circumstances they had to cancel. These events have meant that I have to travel home next week (Monday 14th) to see them.

Sorry, for being so secretive about this, but if I will leave those personal thoughts for the Ninja.

Secondly, I got promoted to the AT position and will take up the role offically on the 1st of June. It's been a long process, but my AAM had some positive things to say about me in my final report so that was a needed boost.

For those of you in the UK, see you on the flip side.

Wakayama pics!

2007-05-03T19:49:00.000+09:00

Again I've been rather lax with the upkeep of this blog, but here are some of the pics I took on my recent trip to Shirahama in Wakayama.

Shiori's Birthday and a trip to Kyoto

2007-04-22T20:45:00.000+09:00

Kyoto Station.

This was the table at a Thai restaurant called Cabbages and Condoms...I'm hoping they weren't "used" condoms....

Outside Shiori's Uncle's exclusive bar....mmm, not sure about my attempted double chin...

So for Shiori's birthday we travelled up to Kyoto. Taking the awesome, slow crawling Jumbo Ferry we had to be up at the crack of dawn...4am...ewww. Not being a big fan of slow rocking vomit inducing boats either, the only salvation was that I was able to grab shut eye on the ship and that my lovely Shiori was with me.

Stopping over in Kobe for a bit of brekkie, we then grabbed a train to Kyoto, which was only about an hour's trip.

In Kyoto we booked into our hotel, which was an inexpensive business hotel in the main city, and then headed out to Kiyomizu Dera. Kiyomizu is one of the most famous temples in Japan and always attracts throngs of visitors. Especially in Hanami season (cherry blossom season).

"The temple dates back to 798 but the present buildings were constructed in 1633. The temple takes its name from the waterfall within the complex, which runs off the nearby hills. KIYO MIZU literally means pure water."

Taken from www.wikipedia.org/wiki/kiyomizu

We also had dinner in a great restuarant called Kai, which was expensive but delicious and had plenty of fun in Round 1 where Shiori won 3 soft toys and a giant pillow!!!!

It was great to go back to Kyoto, and see a little more of the city instead of just its beautiful temples.

I just hope Shiori had a great birthday!!!!

My recent escapades. And how I learned NOT to eat Mochi

2007-04-20T12:23:00.000+09:00

So here I am again folks.

It's been another busy time in the life of yours truly, and I will try and update you on all that has been happening in the head and life of this adventurer in Japan.

Firstly I've visited Kyoto (for Shiori's birthday!!!! HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO HER!!!) and Wakayama recently. I hope to post some fuller reports of my time and adventures later.

My laptop now works again!!!

Woo Hoo!!!!

I am still waiting on the AT job. I have another interview next week, so fingers crossed for me, please!!!

Also I nearly choked to death last week on a piece of mochi.

Mochi for those who don't know, is a sticky, chewy paste made from rice and is really good. BUT DEADLY!!!! Apparently around New Year, elderly Japanese people die from eating it!! In my case it got stuck in my throat and I had to use my fingers to pull it out....

Despite Mochi shock, I am doing fine...

Hope to post more, with Photos, later!!!

And finally

A post on 2/4/07

2007-04-02T21:04:00.000+09:00

I had my AT interview today and it was pretty intense and difficult. At the moment I'm veering into the negative camp of pessimism just to protect my feelings, however I will be able to tell you tomorrow...

Also there have been a few tweaks to the site recently.

On the side bar you may have noticed a few cool additions. Please take the time to check them out.
Also if you scroll to the very bottom of the blog you will now find and interactive map that can use Google, Yahoo or Microsoft mapping systems...See if you can find me!!!!

Trick

2007-03-31T00:41:00.000+09:00

Here is a 10 minute clip from Japanese TV show, Trick. This is from the first episode, where Naoko (Yukie Nakama) meets Dr. Ueda for the first time.

Whats goin on ?

2007-03-30T19:02:00.000+09:00

So, again I am not keeping this blog as up to date as I would like, but the lack of a computer and other things in my life have made it difficult to get online regularly.

Here it is as quiet as ever. Spring has snuck up on us here and made the days considerably warmer and more pleasant. Cherry Blossoms have begun to bloom, filling Japan with rose tinted beauty.

The downside to this is the return of my nemesis.

The Kagawa Mosquito.

Last year, on my trips to visit Shiori, I was like the local blood filled pub for these little bastards.

So far in about a week, I've gained about 5 bites...maybe I'll start a Mosquito bite blog....

Last weekend myself and Shiori hooked up with Jen (on of my co-workers) and her boyfriend, Paul, who works in Tadotsu. It was cool to get out and about again, even though I still miss my friend back in Saijo.

I am beginning to feel like an outsider at this school. Not living in the clique area of over priced NOVA accomodation and having made my intentions clear about applying for the AT position in my branch I have a feeling that I am being excluded. Maybe I am being paranoid, but its a little weird.

I have my AT interview scheduled for Monday, so fingers, toes and other bendy body parts crossed!!!!!

Um...what else...I am also into a cool Japanese TV show that Shiori has on DVD with English subtitles called Trick. Imagine a funky, actually funny Jonathan Creek with the strangeness of say, Spaced or the League of Gentlemen. It stars the lovely Yukie Nakama as a magician who with the help of an assistant Physics professor, try to prove that there is a trick behind every spiritualist. The chemistry between the two leads is great, the humour is clever as it jumps from slapstick to innuendo to black humour with ease.

Anyhoo, I am off to kill a mosquito thats circling me like a hungry vulture...

NOVA teacher murdered

2007-03-28T10:45:00.000+09:00

In the news over here is the sad and shocking story that a 22 year old NOVA teacher from Coventry, UK was found murdered in Tokyo yesterday.

From the BBC report -

A woman found buried in sand in a bathtub in Japan has been named by police as 22-year-old missing Briton Lindsay Ann Hawker.

Colleagues identified the body of the English teacher, from Brandon near Coventry, found on a fourth-floor flat balcony in Ichikawa, east of Tokyo.

The cause of death is not yet known but there were bruises on the victim's face, the BBC's Chris Hogg said.

Police are hunting a man who fled the apartment in Chiba prefecture.

The full story is here -
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/asia-pacific/6498019.stm

BEER!

2007-03-22T21:21:00.000+09:00

The Japanese LOVE beer. Which makes life somewhat difficult for me when I am in the supermarket or convenience store deciding what golden brew to purchase.

The main brewers are Kirin, Asahi, Sapporo, Suntory and Orion. I have included some links to their official sites below.

http://www.kirin.com/

http://www.asahibeer.co.jp/english/

http://www.sapporobeer.jp/english/

I think that Kirin is my favourite and has a large selection of different beers, lagers and malts.
Japanese breweries also produce beer for different seasons, so it is common to see Autumn, Winter and Hanami brews.

Taken from Wikipedia-

Japanese beer had its start during the Edo Period when the Dutch opened beer halls for the sailors who worked on the trade route between Japan and the Dutch Empire. Japanese-style commercial brewing has been exported to much of southeast Asia and factories are spread throughout the world.

Beer is the most favoured alcoholic drink in Japan. It was introduced in the early Meiji period from Germany. Major makers are Asahi, Kirin, and Sapporo while small local breweries supply distinct tasting beers. Lager beers are most common but beers made with lower grain contents called "Happoushu" (low malt beer, sparkling alcoholic drink) have captured a large part of the market as tax is lower on these products. Drinking beer with salted boiled beans, edamame, is known as a favourite summer pastime for adults.

Also, check out - http://www.brewers.or.jp/english/index.html

This has some history and facts about Japanese beer!!!

2007-03-16T15:19:00.001+09:00

Bloc Party!

2007-03-16T15:04:00.000+09:00

On the 6th I headed back to Osaka for another live show with Evan. This time Bloc Party. I loved their first record "Silent Alarm", and have been impressed with their follow up " A weekend in the City" (from which the above video is taken).

Having met up with Evan, dumped our bags and had something to eat and drink, we headed over to Namba Hatch to rock out. And they did indeed rock the place. Evan saw them at Summer Sonic a few years ago and later said that they have tightened up as a band.

The mainly Japanese crowd were really enthusiastic and got into the spirit of things in the unique Japanese way.

After our two Japanese friends that we'd made at the Wolfmother gig, and also came to this concert, took us to a small rock bar called Rock Rock, where they claimed Bloc Party would be. We were skeptical about this, but the place had good music and beer...

After about an hour 3 members of the band turned up...and we got autographs and spoke to Gorden Moakes the bassist and Russell Lissack the guitar player....

A good night!!!!

Official Website

www.blocparty.com

Tokyo 5 - Yokohama

2007-03-16T14:47:00.000+09:00

So the final evening/day of our trip was spent in Yokohama, which is the second largest city in Japan and treads on the coat tails of Tokyo. Yokohama seemed on first impressions to be more open than Tokyo and the bay area in which we stayed was quite beautiful (despite the strong wind!).

The Pan Pacific Hotel was amazing. We were on the 23rd floor, with some amazing views of the bay, and had access to a private bar area, which looked out onto the city too. The staff were great here and its one of the best hotels I have stayed in.

We took a trip to Yokohama's Chinatown which is the largest in Japan. It was pretty cool, with plenty of Chinese food and atmosphere. I found it a little strange why Street vendors kept giving me their horse chestnuts for free...

I definately recommend Yokohama for a few days if you travel to Tokyo. It's a nice diversion and has an atmosphere of its own.

Yokohama

2007-03-16T14:35:00.000+09:00

TOKYO 4 - erm, Tokyo!

2007-03-09T11:16:00.000+09:00

So on the third day of our trip the weather worsened. We had be fortunate during our two days at Disney for clear blue skies, and a gentle breeze, but on Friday, the skies darkened and the heavens opened. This didn't really deter or dampen my spirits. I wasn't waiting in queues or outside for large portions of the time.

My first impressions of Tokyo ?

Massive.

The Sprawl (for those that know William Gibson).

Hectic.

Cramped.

Exciting.

Those are only a few things that I could say about this huge beast of a city. In many ways Tokyo is Japan INC. It's face to the world. A neon drenched hub of activity, with masses of concrete and steel and yet with smaller peaceful moments found in unexpected places. Tokyo was a surprise, a joy and a disappointment. It is a contradiction of a city.

ODIBA

This is were we stayed our second night, and in the morning we decided to have a look around the place. Most of Tokyo is shopping, shopping, shopping with wierd moments in between. If you're looking for tradition head to Kyoto or Nara, but in Tokyo the range of shops and items on sale is fantastic.

Check out the photo of CondoMania. Yes, a shop that is an exclusive Condom Only shop. And it's unsurprisingly a lot of fun.

We also wasted some time at Joyopolis, an indoor amusement park, which has photo's dotted around of the many celebrities that have been there. Michael Jackson, Leonardo Di Caprio, Freddie Prinze Jnr....(well not ALL celebrities).

AKIHARBARA

One of the most (in)famous districts of Tokyo is Akiharbara. It's main claim to fame is that is a sea of electronic shops, and therefore is a magnet for the Otaku (Japanese for geek). If you want something electric, you will find it in Akiharbara.

It's also famous for a strange kind of Otaku sexual fantasy. The maid.

Therefore, as we excited the station small groups of girls dressed in short or leather (or both) maid outfits were trying to elicit men to visit their Maid cafes. Which is exactly what it says on the tin. Maids serve you tea. In short skirts.

Japanese sexuality is an odd thing.

Shinjuku

After we'd had enough in Akiharbara we headed across to Shinjuku, which although busy is a much more "normal" shopping district. The one thing that struck me about Shinjuku, apart from the size of the station is the smell of curry! Shiori informed that the CurryPan (delicious curry bread) is famous in this area.

Shinjuku

2007-03-09T11:08:00.000+09:00

Shinjuku....bloody hell, I can never escape NOVA!

Akiharbara

2007-03-09T10:58:00.000+09:00

Akiharbara..famous for electronics. And Maids. Well attractive Japanese girls dressed up as maids...

The maid theme even goes as far as Vending Machines. Maid Coffee anyone ?

Odiba

2007-03-09T10:48:00.000+09:00

This striking building is the Fuji TV headquarters..a bit more striking than the Beebs Television Centre eh ?

This is a rather striking sign for a shop called "CondoMania"....guess what they sold....

Tokyo 3 - Monogatari Onsen in Odiba

2007-03-02T17:38:00.000+09:00

So, after saying farewell to Disney we headed on over to Tokyo, and our first stop was the Monogatari Onsen in Odiba. I will talk more about Odiba in my next post, as I want to talk about the Onsen where we stayed the night.

After two long days of walking and waiting, the relaxing waters of an onsen sounded like a Godsend. We made our way, heavy luggage in tow across to Odiba, and arrived at the onsen just as it started to rain.

We had plans to go out for dinner, so instead of choosing the wonderful Yukata, you can see me wearing in the pictures below, we were given temporary orange ones, and shuffled through the shops, upstairs to the rooms.

Our room was a nice traditional tatami room with an outside bath and shower/steam room. Sleeping on the futon later that night was great. I'm not sure if this was because of how tired I was, the outside bath I had taken or the softness of my Futon.

The Monogatari Onsen was a really nice place to crash and relax after the two hectic days of Disney-ness!!!

www.ooedoonden.jp

Oedo Onsen Monogatari

2007-03-02T17:26:00.000+09:00

Tokyo 2 - DisneyLand

2007-03-01T17:53:00.000+09:00

After spending a great night in the Hotel Miracosta, it was time to get up fairly early, check out and avoid the queuing crowds at Disneyland. Thankfully we were able to leave our luggage at the Miracosta and head off to the Park with a fairly light baggage load.

To get from DisneySea to Disneyland you can walk or take the rather fun, monorail, see my photos below. In fact the monorail also offers great views of the park (like the one above).

Luckily at Disneyland we avoid the queues for entry, either because we were late or not many people were coming...it proved out to be the former. Disneyland was PACKED. Although not as bad as I'd feared, but still busy.

This is mainly due to the amount of kids that come here. DisneySea is more adult themed, with a little less of the cuteness that saturates Disneyland. Mind you, the Spinning TeaCup ride is a dizzying blast and Pooh's shop is really cute.

The amount of snacks avaliable at Disney is mind boggling...Hotdogs, Pastries, and most importantly, POPCORN. They have a myriad of flavours here, from Caramel and Salted to Strawberry and Honey. Most bizzare, and quiet nice is Curry flavour!

The parades here lacked the impact of the shows at DisneySea, but that didn't stop people lining up at least 2 hours before a schedualed show.

As for the rides, again the FastPass system allowed us to take the Big Splash Mountain ride (again well done to Shiori!!!!) and for me to take the Big Thunder Mountain rollercoaster. We also had simple fun on an electronic raceway, which proved I am not a great driver!!!

I had much more fun at Disney than I thought I could. Somehow I'd always avoided the supposed magic of the Florida and Paris attractions. But being there makes you feel like a child again...

Disneyland!

2007-02-28T10:00:00.000+09:00

There was even this beautiful cherry blossom in the park!

Tokyo Disneyland Feb 2007- The Disney Express

2007-02-28T09:51:00.000+09:00

Disney Resort's own monorail service. With Mickey shaped windows!

TOKYO - PART ONE - DISNEYSEA

2007-02-26T19:15:00.000+09:00

So myself and Shiori visited Tokyo for 4 days last week. So much happened that I've decided to break up my exciting adventures into different blog entries.

First up DisneySea!!!

DISNEYSEA

Waking up early has never been a favourite pastime of mine and getting up a 6 to catch a flight wasnt a barrel of laughs, and even harder for Shiori. Anyway we made it up to the matchbox sized Takamatsu airport and boarded our brief flight to Hamada airport in Tokyo.

1 hour later we were in the Japanese capital! Catching a bus from Hamada to Disney eliminated a loss of hassel we would encounter over the next few days. As we rolled into the Disney Resort I was shocked at how big the place is. It's like a small town, with it's own monorail system, shopping mall and several hotels. Already hundreds of people were making their ways up to the gates, which filled me with disappointment (but I was in Disney, so what did I expect!).

Our hotel, as you can see from the pictures was amazing. Right in the park with a European style elegance it was a little bit of luxury and provided direct access to the park without the queuing. The room was excellent, the bed comfortable and the service top class.

DisneySea itself was 100 times better than I expected. It's much more adult themed than it's twin, with faux Venician streets, a Titanic style ship, a Futuristic area and a massive Volcano and lake. It's beautifully designed and despite the people there always seemed to be space.

Lunch was amazing too. 10 quid for an all you can eat buffet, with enough sweets to fill a small sweet shop! Breaded shrimp, potatoes, fruit, salads you name it, it was there....

As for the rides...

TOWER OF TERROR

Shiori has a fear of rollercoasters and thrilling rides, so sat this one out. The newest attraction in the park, the Tower is basically a vertical drop ride, disguised as a haunted Hotel. And the haunting effects were creepily effect. The ride itself is shit inducing. It gives a beautiful view of the park before plummetting you down....AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAARRRRGGGGHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!

JOURNEY TO THE CENTRE OF THE EARTH

Based on the Jules Verne book, you basically take a ride into the giant Volcano that dominates DisneySea. Some impressive animatronics add to the sense of unease and claustrophobic atmosphere, before the cart you are riding speeds up and takes you into the dark...

Apologies to Shiori here. I poked her in the eye as she clung to me out of fear...

STORMRIDER

A effect simulation that takes you into the eye of a massive storm. The effects are cool too...

Thank goodness for the Fastpass system, otherwise I would have missed out on Tower of Terror....

One of the other things that impressed me at Disneysea were the live shows, Legend of Mythica and the night show Braviseamo... I hope to post some video of those in the future...

DisneySea was a great experience and is a really beautiful place, with a more romantic atmosphere than Disneyland...Me and Shiori even wrote on heart shaped paper to add to these small atriums covered in messages of love...

Disney Sea

2007-02-26T19:10:00.000+09:00

The Brown Pants inducing Tower of Terror!

The Hotel Miracosta, Disney Sea

2007-02-26T19:02:00.000+09:00

http://www.hotelmiracosta.com/index_e.html

Wacky Races!

2007-02-26T18:59:00.000+09:00

The first Disney Sea Novelty vehicle race...

Tottori, Tottori

2007-02-26T18:48:00.000+09:00

So its been a hectic week or so for me and Shiori.

Last Sunday we made a Japanese style pilgrimage to Tottori to eat crab. The Japanese love food. They have this meticulous love of the detail of taste, and in many ways remind me of Hobbits. A Crab Trip is always one of those journeys here that has a coach load of older people, and a daytripper atmosphere.

Anyway the crab was delicious, we even bought one home each...too much crab! We picked strawberries at a farm in Okayama and Shiori , her mum and Sister laughed at my mediocre selection.

Tottori is famous for its huge sand dunes. Its not just a beach, but a mini style desert, with local Japanese hiring out camels for rides!

Gomenasai! So here is an extra long post especially for you!

2007-02-15T16:09:00.000+09:00

I know.

It`s been a little while since my last post, and this has been largely due to technical difficulties (namely lack of access to my blog!!!). I have felt strangely disconnected, not being able to peruse the net for news, update my blog, or check out the latest movies and music. In fact I am posting this from the regular internet cafe in Takamatsu on my day off. Apparently I can send my laptop home to get fixed but I don`t know how long that will take...

Firstly, Happy Valentines to all you loved up puppies. Shiori made me a "special" Bento (lunchbox) for work that day. I was surprised to find inside heart shaped carrots and a heart shaped hamburger! She`s such a lovely girl and despite the obvious niggles and arguments that couples have when they live together, I do love her....(pass the sick bags I hear all cynical single people say).

We have a busy month. This Sunday we are off to Tottori which is on the Japan Sea side of mainland Japan for a crab dinner, then on Wednesday we fly off for 4 days of fun in Tokyo. 2 days in Disney and 2 days in the sprawl of Tokyo and Yokohama. On the 3rd of March we are off to Kobe to meet Shiori`s aunt and then I am hoping to meet up with Evan for another musical extravaganza in Osaka, later that week.

PHEW!

I`ll let you know how that all goes if I ever get access to a PC!

Work wise, I have an informal interview (if there is any such thing) with my AAM on Saturday regarding the AT position at the Marugame branch. I know I haven`t been there that long so I was surprised when my current AT, Matt, asked me if I was interested. It would be a lot of extra responsibility and I hope if I get the position I would be able to handle it....

On Sunday, I was called in early due to the absence of 3 teachers with sickness. Not feeling well myself last week meant it was difficult, but not as painful as I`d imagined when I found out that only 2 teachers were working!!!!

I have also made a concerted effort to learn more Japanese and am trying to learn something everyday no matter how small. I am not fluent but at least now I can say "What is the book about" - Kore wa nan no hon desu ka?.

Back from Osaka

2007-01-31T18:15:00.000+09:00

So I got back from Osaka about 3 hours ago and I must say I had a great if tiring time in a really lively city. It was great to see Evan and Brad again, eat and drink good food and beer, and generally experience something a little more lively than Kagawa and Marugame.

The Gig

So, of course the main reason myself and Evan made the trip to Osaka was to experience the sonic assault of Aussie rock trio, Wolfmother. And I have to say it was a journey well taken.

The gig itself was in Osaka`s Club Quattro (there are also venues in Tokyo, Nagoya and Hiroshima) and the atmosphere was excellent. Quattro is a small multi-levelled club with a close Performer/Audience ambience. Despite the typical extortionate price of beer and spirits I was really impressed by the place.

Myself and Evan managed to get about 2 rows from the stage and began mingling with the friendly Japanese and the not so friendly Gaijin. Then on came the support act. Wolf and Cub. Loud (2 drummers) with any melodies lost in the din, but they were an entertaining enough opening act if nothing particularly memorable in the set listing.

Wolfmother rocked the joint. All I can say they are the best live act I`ve seen in a while that doesn`t rely on gimmicks. Just straightforward rock that recalls Led Zeppelin (Communication Breakdown was included in the encore). A great show.

Osaka

We met up with Brad the day after and hung out in Osaka. We went to the Umeda Sky Building (see the photo) and kudos to Brad who went all the way to the top with us, where you can get some of the most amazing views of Osaka.

We also got down to Osaka Jo (Castle) which is impressive despite being a replica of the original.

In the evening we found a cheap Izakaya, had a few beers and food before we went onto Karaoke. Good times.

Justin`s Laptop - R.I.P

2007-01-25T18:11:00.000+09:00

So, I type this, not from the comfort of my home, but the small cubicle confines of an internet cafe. The reason, I hear you ask ? Well, I fear that my laptop may have died. It`s little circuits fried. It`s processor buggered. I don`t know, but anyway I well and truly think it is the end for the poor thing and I am very pessimistic about Lazarus style comebacks for the little guy...

RIP Justin`s Laptop....

:-(

Off to see the `Mother

2007-01-25T18:01:00.000+09:00

So on Monday I will be off to Osaka again. This time for a few nights with Evan to chill out, drink a few beers and to see Aussie rock trio Wolfmother.

http://www.wolfmother.com/

If you are a fan of loud classic rock such as Black Sabbath and Led Zeppelin then these guys might be for you. Their debut album is a solid and exciting if unoriginal, but who needs that all the time ? Sometimes just gimme some good old classic AC/DC style riffs!

I`ll try and report about the gig when I get back.

A day in Osaka

2007-01-25T16:03:00.000+09:00

No this isn`t an alien, but a very scary Spider Crab....Kowai!!!

One of the popular and inquisitive Sea Otters!

The Whale Shark!

So on Friday, myself and Shiori decided to spend some time together in Osaka for the day. Taking the Jumbo ferry from Takamatsu at 5 in the morning was difficult, but the three hour trip allowed plenty of sleep time.

We decided to go to Kaiyukan Aquarium, which is a huge 8 storey building and home to a wide variety of ocean life. The Aquarium is set up so that different tanks have the right temperature, fauna, flora for different parts of the ocean such as the playful sea otters in the Aleutian islands; the seals and sea lions in the Monteray bay tank; 3 species of Penguins (including two babies) in the Antarctica section, and most impressive the Pacific Ocean tank which is 9 metres deep (3 floors) and is home to the Whale Shark, Bluefin tuna and Manta Ray.

After this Oceanic expedition we popped across the road to Naniwa Kuishinbo, a kind of small indoor "theme park" of Kansai Cuisine set in traditional Osaka streets from around 1965. The food here was great!!!!

My Hometown

2007-01-18T20:04:00.000+09:00

So for those of you that know Weston-super-Mare, you may find this amusing. For those that don't here is a realistic insight into the Hometown of Justin R Buckley...

And yes the "Bullet Train" ride really is that exciting...

Wiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii

2007-01-11T18:30:00.000+09:00

So I finally got my hands on a Nintendo Wii! Well Shiori did, as its my Christmas present....

And I have to say it's really good fun. I think anyone can play because of the control system,which basically in a game like Wii sports lets the players use the controllers in a variety of ways that is similar to the actual sports.

GET YOUR HANDS ON ONE!!!!

Movie Review - Casino Royale

2007-01-05T11:49:00.000+09:00

So, last night, myself and Shiori managed to finally catch the new Bond movie, Casino Royale.

Below is my review (apologies for plot spoilers!) -

Casino Royale

Daniel Craig, Eva Green, Mads Mikkelson, Judi Dench

Here is a new Bond. A fresh look at a formula that had become a pastiche of itself after the high, reinvigoration of GoldenEye. And who better to steer this movie than the same director, Martin Campbell. This time its more of a reinvention with a tougher, colder, harsher Bond.

Daniel Craig, despite many doubters, has made Bond the most realistic, fleshed out he has ever been, despite his harsh exterior. Connery had this, but lacked the emotional depth whereas Moore, Dalton and Brosnan could only play Bond in one way. Their way. Craig takes all of this and moulds it with his acting chops into one bad arse mofo. Bond is a killer. The only thing that separates him from his enemies is very little and incredibly murky.

However, despite the fact the this character is unlikable and arrogant, Craig shows us bit by bit that there is a person inside. Bond is not just the cartoon agent of previous outings, but a real flesh and blood human being.

The opening sequence is fresh and fatal, the credits radiate coolness, and Campbell doesn't skimp on the action set pieces. Even the poker game is handled in a way that the suspense is right up their along with many previous Bond set pieces.

Green and Mikkelson also excel in their roles, adding depth and emotional resonance to Bond's cold blooded killer.

All in all an enjoyable, grittier Bond and all the better for it.

8 out of 10.

FukaBukoro (not sure about the spelling)

2007-01-05T11:38:00.000+09:00

So I was dreading 3 days of ghost townesque Japan, as I had been told this is what happens over New Year. However, despite many smaller places being closed, the larger shops were open for the SALES!

Yes, just the same as in the UK, the Japanese have massive January/New Year Sales where people come out in droves to find bargains.

One type of bargain they have in Japan is Fukabukuro. Basically, stores bag up goods and then seal it. These bags/boxes can range from 2000 to 20,000 yen, and most of the time you don't know what you are getting. However, I have seen plenty of places, showing the customers what is in each box and this is where I skewered a bargain!

I bought a box for 10,000 yen that has a total value of 65,000 yen. Inside were 2 coats (one with a parka style hood), a fleece, a sports jacket, a black long sleeved shirt, a long sleeved t-shirt, a white polo shirt, a t-shirt and a handkerchief, all by Japanese label , DJ Honda...and all my size. (By the way 10,000 yen is about £50!). Bargain eh....

New Year

2007-01-05T11:24:00.000+09:00

Firstly let me apologise for not having posted for a while. This is mainly due to the fact that I have found it difficult to log into my Blogger account. So I'd better make the most of it while I can!

Anyway, Happy New Year to all of you. I hope your celebrations went well and that you had a good time. In this post I'd like to explain a little about my New Year experiences here in Japan.

Firstly, as you may know, New Year is a big festival in this country, likened to say, Christmas in the UK. Families get together at New Year, and that was the case with Shiori's family and drink and eat.

On New Year's day, many people go to a temple, but we didn't do that until the 3rd, because of the crowds. We did however travel to the resting places of her grandmother, and tidied the grave. I don't know if grave is the right word, because Japanese people don't bury the dead. Maybe a shrine or altar is better, but Shiori, her Dad, brother and me helped to clean it, before they put fresh flowers on it, lit candles and said a prayer.

We travelled to Zentsuji temple, where, despite being two days after New Year, many people had gathered. Shikoku is famous in Japan for an 88 temple pilgrimage, and Zentsuji is considered the home of the priest who begun this tradition or sect of Buddihism. It's a pretty specatular place in a quiet, peaceful way.

Food on New Years day, is usually specially prepared (and apparently expensive) bento (lunch boxes). With the food, Shiori had made before, plus the bento there was plenty to eat. I even ate Shark's fin....

Merry Christmas! Japanese style!

2006-12-25T18:23:00.000+09:00

So this is Christmas...begins a well known Christmas ditty by John Lennon...and here in Japan the main thing I have to say is that its strange. The country, which is of non Christian, seems to enjoy the Capitalist money-making spectacle of it. This has left me feeling a little empty, underwhelmed and craving the familiarity of my own country.

However it's not been bad at all. In fact Shiori and her family have been absolutely outstanding. On Saturday night, Shiori made an oishi (delicious) Christmas dinner (Chicken, stuffing, roast tatters), so that bought a little bit of home to my strange Christmas.

Japanese people all go to KFC and eat chicken on Christmas day, and swap these beautiful Christmas cakes. It's not the same as the traditional, gut busting Christmas roast, but it's still chicken/turkey ish!!!

I had to work today, Christmas day...and thank God it was only 5 lessons. Anyway, Merry Christmas to all who read this blog, and best wishes for the New Year! See you in 2007!

UDON!

2006-12-14T15:00:00.000+09:00

Just as Okonomiyaki was a regional delicacy in Hiroshima, so Udon is the prized food here in Kagawa. Kagawa is the one of the smallest prefectures in Japan and was once called Sanuki, so Sanuki Udon are now know all over the country.

"Udon (Hiragana:うどん; Kanji:饂飩, rarely 餛飩; Traditional Chinese: 烏冬, sometimes 烏冬麵) is a type of thick wheat-based noodle popular in Japanese cuisine.
Udon is usually served hot as noodle soup in a mildly flavored broth, in its simplest form as bukkake udon, served in kakejiru made of dashi, Japanese soy sauce (shōyu), and mirin. It is usually topped with thinly chopped scallions. Other common toppings include tempura, often shrimp or kakiage (a type of mixed tempura fritter), or abura age, a type of deep-fried tofu pockets seasoned with sugar, mirin, and soy sauce. A thin slice of kamaboko, a halfmoon-shaped fish cake, is often added. Shichimi and beni shoga can be added to taste.

The flavor of broth and topping vary from region to region. Usually, dark brown broth, made from dark soy sauce (koikuchi shōyu) is used in eastern Japan, and light brown broth, made from light soy sauce (usukuchi shōyu) is used in western Japan. This is even noticeable in packaged instant noodles, which are often sold in two different versions for east and west."

Taken from www.wikipedia.com

There are many styles of Udon, most of which are posted below -

Kake udon – Hot udon in broth topped with thinly sliced green onions, and perhaps a slice of kamaboko.
Kitsune udon – Topped with abura age (sweetened deep-fried tofu pockets).
Tempura udon – Topped with tempura, especially shrimp, or kakiage, a type of mixed tempura fritter.
Tanuki udon (in Kanto) or Haikara udon (in Kansai) – Topped with tenkasu (deep-fried tempura batter).
Tsukimi udon – Topped with raw egg, which poaches in the hot soup.
Wakame udon – Topped with wakame, a dark green sea vegetable.
Karē udon – "Curry udon." Udon in a soup made of Japanese curry. May also include meat or vegetables.
Chikara udon – "Power udon." Topped with toasted mochi rice cakes. A hearty dish.
Sutamina udon – "Stamina udon." Udon with various hearty ingredients, usually including meat, a raw egg, and vegetables.
Nabeyaki udon – A sort of udon hot-pot, with seafood and vegetables cooked in a nabe, or metal pot.
Kamaage udon – Served in a communal hot-pot with hot water, and accompanied by a hot dipping sauce of dashi and soy sauce.
Udonsuki – Udon cooked in the manner of sukiyaki.
Yakiudon – Stir-fried udon in soy-based sauce, prepared in a similar manner to yakisoba. This originated in Kitakyushu of Fukuoka Prefecture. (Note that while yakiudon is made with udon, yakisoba is not made from buckwheat soba, but with steamed Chinese-style ramen.) Misonikomi udon – Hard udon noodles simmered in red miso soup. The soup generally contains chicken, a floating cracked raw egg that is stirred in by the eater, kamaboko, vegetables and tubers. The noodles are extremely firm in order to stand up to the prolonged simmering in the soup; additionally, the noodles do not contain salt, so as to avoid over-salting from the salt in the miso.
Niku udon - Udon with meat, usually beef or pork.

Cold

Zaru udon – Chilled udon noodles topped with shredded nori and served on a zaru (笊 or ざる), a sieve-like bamboo tray. Accompanied by a chilled dipping sauce, usually a strong mixture of dashi, mirin, and shoyu. Eaten with wasabi or grated ginger.
Bukkake udon – Cold udon served with various toppings liberally sprinkled on top. It may include: tororo – puree of, or grated yamaimo (a Japanese yam with a slimy texture) oroshi – grated daikon radish natto – sticky fermented soybeans okra – fresh sliced okra kijoyu udon – served in a really cold soup of raw (unpasteurized) soy sauce and sudachi (a type of citrus) juice, sometimes with a bit of grated daikon.

Here are some more links to sites about Udon!

http://www.city.takamatsu.kagawa.jp/ENGLISH/kankou/seto/tokusan/

http://www.ec.kagawa-u.ac.jp/~tetsuta/udon-j.html

One Week Down

2006-12-09T22:19:00.000+09:00

So I have officially been working here for one week and so far so good. To be honest I still fill a little displaced and disorentated, but I am sure that will pass as I feel it ebb away bit by bit everyday. Thats not to say I miss my old school, students and especially friends. Moving to a new place is always a challenge and I have begun to think that maybe I am past my prime for so many moves.

All in all, despite the remoteness of Marugame, that makes Saijo looks like Vegas, its been a fairly easy move. My co-workers are a fairly diverse bunch, and I hope to settle into some kind of routine.

Matty, my AT is an Alabama boy and is a nice guy...keeps using the word dude and other Americanism far too much...

Steve is probably the oldest guy I have ever seen at NOVA. Really friendly, although this one doesn't have an obsession with Hitler or the War...so far.

Joe is another American, younger and from Boston. Seems cool

Taryn is the only gal. Aussie, and pretty cool.

The students have been nice too me, although we have far too much Voice for my liking...

As for the guys in Saijo...I MISS YOU!!!

Japan's Donor Difficulty

2006-12-04T20:15:00.000+09:00

One of the biggest health problems for Japan in the last few years has been the serious lack of donors. In the UK, organs were donated from 773 deceased donors over a 12-month period in 2002/03, according to the British Department of Health. In Japan, permission for organs to be donated has only been obtained in 50 cases since 1997.

From www.bbc.co.uk

On the southern Japanese island of Kyushu, another patient, Kenichiro Hokamura, is still recovering from an operation to receive a new kidney he bought in China.
The kidney had belonged to a prisoner who had been executed. Mr Hokamura said he had few regrets about getting help this way.

"Dialysis treatment was just waiting to die. I felt that if I could buy an organ, it would be the start of a second life," he said.

"I feel sorry for the executed man but he was going to die anyway, and now his kidney is contributing to a life again."

It is even harder for young people and children.

The Akaishi family are trying to raise 10m yen ($85,000) in a street collection to pay for a heart transplant for the youngest daughter Shuri.

Japan has no children's organs available because the law says under 15s cannot consent to donate their organs.

So Shuri's father Hiroshi Akaishi knows her only chance of survival is if they can get her treatment overseas.

"10m yen is far beyond what we can find ourselves," he told me while taking a break from collecting.

FULL STORY AT http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/asia-pacific/6156925.stm

First days in a strange school...

2006-12-04T19:00:00.000+09:00

So sorry its taken so long to post anything but in between this and the last one there has been many tears, beers and stress.

I am now living and working in Marugame and its bloody wierd to say the least.

I miss my old school, students and familiarity of the Saijo branch but here I am and here I must stay. New challenges are always difficult but I think there is plenty of hope and good things here. For starters, I am now living with Shiori and so far (touch wood) it hasn't proved too much of a bad thing.

The staff at the school are friendly, mostly American and have an obsession with College US Football...the students I have met so far also seem really nice...

I will post again later in the week, when I have a day off, as my internet access isn't as convenient now.

24...My last full day

2006-11-26T08:07:00.000+09:00

Right now, my future hangs in the balance between safety and the unknown.

People I work with may be involved in both.

My name is Justin Buckley.

This is my last day at Higashi Hiroshima Nova.

And its a sad day. I have a Farewell Voice today, so fingers crossed that all goes well. I've finished all my kids lessons (that was a sad moment for me), and taught most students, probably for the last time.

On a different note, my blog has now passed 500 posts!!!!!

The Clock is counting down...

2006-11-20T21:26:00.000+09:00

So it's Monday the 20th.

This means I have about a week left in Saijo before my BIG move. I am sad, and now the whisps of nostalgia are tugging at my heart. My students have started giving me cards and the parents of kids are taking pictures of me with their kids.

Its all very sad.

We went out last night for Matt's big farewell. I will miss him. He's been a fine flatmate and good friend during the last 6 months in Saijo, and has complimented the Gaijin gang well.

Meet the Parent...

2006-11-20T21:17:00.000+09:00

So last week, I had the terrifying prospect of meeting Shiori's dad.

Now, this is a daunting proposition for anyone, even if its meeting someone who is fluent in your own language and cultural idiosyncracies. Let alone trying to form a bond of respect and friendship with someone who doesn't speak your language, you don't speak theirs fluent enough for a conversation.

So, I studied, sweated and worried. I bought him a gift in the hope that this small token would break the ice.

And all seemed to go well.

He is a really nice guy. Funny, relaxed and seems to care deeply for his daughter. I just hope I made a positive impression on him.

The Hiroshima Pictures

2006-11-10T00:32:00.000+09:00

So I have posted up a 5 part documentary, The Hiroshima Pictures which tells the story of how the Hiroshima Peace Museum commissioned the survivors of the Atomic Bomb to paint or draw what they saw and witnessed on that horrific day and the aftermath...

Be warned some of it makes for unpleasant viewing....

The Hiroshima Pictures - Part 5

2006-11-10T00:31:00.000+09:00

The Hiroshima Pictures - Part 4

2006-11-10T00:30:00.000+09:00

The Hiroshima Pictures - Part 3

2006-11-10T00:28:00.000+09:00

The Hiroshima Pictures - Part 2

2006-11-10T00:16:00.001+09:00

The Hiroshima Pictures - Part 1

2006-11-09T11:20:00.000+09:00

Beware the Hiroshima Dancing Police!

2006-11-08T16:30:00.000+09:00

So, my friend, Brad, over at J-Culture sent me some interesting links regarding the recent spate of raids by the Hiroshima police of bars for, wait for it, Illegal Dancing.

El Barco was raided about 2 or 3 months ago for not having a license to allow people to dance after 1am. It sounds like something from an 80's movie, but video footage can be found at the following links -

http://youtube.com/watch?v=OdFGW-fSmg8&mode=related&search=

http://youtube.com/watch?v=RHvgTKta3AQ

More in depth analysis can be found at these links -

http://www.gethiroshima.com/en/gethiroshima/Hype/2006/10/29/andthatsofficial

http://search.japantimes.co.jp/cgi-bin/fl20061031z1.html

http://search.japantimes.co.jp/cgi-bin/fl20061031z2.html

Remember guys and gals, if you're in Hiroshima, no dancing after midnight!!!!

My Neighbour Totoro

2006-11-08T12:19:00.000+09:00

So yesterday evening (on my day off) I sat down and watched a DVD, that myself and Shiori failed to watch during the weekend. My Neighbour Totoro is an utterly charming, timeless and beautifully detailed movie from all round animation genius, Hayao Miyazaki.

The story revolves around two young girls, who move with their father to an apparently haunted house in rural Japan to be closer to their sick mother. What makes Totoro so charming is the warmth and benevolence from both the adult characters and the spirits that live in the giant campher tree, especially Totoro (above).

It's a film that is so sweet, but never condescending with a beautiful eye for the Japanese landscape and way of life. This film is fully recommended if you want something to warm your heart, oh and watch out for the "Cat Bus".

You can also check out this website - http://www.totoro.org/ for a fan's eye view of Totoro's world.

I first got into Miyazaki with the excellent Spirited Away which tells the story of a young girl, Chihiro who attempts to save her parents that have been turned into pigs.

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0245429/

http://www.spiritedaway.com.au/

Perhaps Miyazaki's great work is Mononoke Hime (Princess Mononoke) a darker epic where the beauty of nature is at odds with the advance of science and the modern world. In Mononoke, the spirits are less benevolent than Totoro and are trying to defend their land from the emotionless march of machines.

http://users.pandora.be/joris.van.dingenen/mononoke/index.html

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0119698/

Other works by Miyazaki include Laputa, Castle in the Sky; Kiki's Delivery Service; Howl's Moving Castle; Porco Rosso and Nautica.

More information about Miyazaki can be found here -

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hayao_Miyazaki

http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0594503/

Miyajima...at last

2006-11-06T11:26:00.000+09:00

So having been here for about 17 months, I finally got around to visiting Miyajima. Miyajima is famous for the Floating Gate and the Itsukushima Shrine, but the reason I wanted to visit was to witness it in all it's Autumnal glory.

However when myself and Shiori began to approach the island by ferry, I was slightly disappointed to see the mountains covered in the a sea of healthy green trees. However this was soon dispersed as the awe inspiring wonder that has made Miyajima such a sacred place began to overwhelm me.

Tame deer roam freely on the streets, and the shops that sell Momiji Manju (Japanese cake stuffed with chocolate, custard or bean paste) and other nick-nacks have a strange air of otherworldliness and British seaside charm.

Time seemed to stop during my visit to Miyajima. I know that may sound odd, but thats how it felt. The only other time I felt this way was in Nanzen Ji in Kyoto, last year.

At the port, prior to the ferry crossing a crowd of people were taking pictures. As we approached, Shiori got out her camera and got taken aware on the wave excitement. Confused, I followed like a lost puppy, only to see three huge men. Sumo wrestlers. Shiori then told me that one of them, Asashouryu had been Yokuzuna (champion) for the last three years. No wonder everyone was scrambling for a photo! Here was a major Japanese celebrity to rivial David Beckham.

Again we saw at Miyajima, where he told the crowds he was off to visit the Dalai Lama, who was also on Miyajima! Sadly I didn't get to see the him, but what a day to visit Miyajima!

The following is taken from www.wikipedia.com

Itsukushima (厳島, Itsukushima?) is an island in the Inland Sea of Japan. It is popularly known as Miyajima. Itsukushima is part of the city of Hatsukaichi in Hiroshima Prefecture. The island was the town of Miyajima prior to the 2005 merger with Hatsukaichi.

Itsukushima is famous for the Itsukushima Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. According to records, the shrine was established in the time of Empress Suiko. The warrior-courtier Taira no Kiyomori gave the shrine its present form. In 1555, Mori Motonari defeated Sue Harukata at the Battle of Miyajima. Toyotomi Hideyoshi built a large building, the Senjō-kaku, on a hill above the shrine.

Itsukushima is mountainous and sparsely settled. It does have an elementary school and a middle school. There are no traffic signals.

Frequent ferry services, operated by West Japan Railway Company (JR West) and by Miyajima Matsudai Tourist Ship, carry traffic between the island and the mainland. The trip takes about ten minutes. There is an hourly express passenger ferry to Hiroshima harbour.

Miyajima's maple trees are renowned throughout Japan, and blanket the island in crimson in the autumn. Momiji manju, pastries filled with azuki jam or custard, are popular souvenirs, and carry maple-leaf emblems. Because the island is sacred, trees may not be cut for lumber. Deer and monkeys roam freely.

A style of wooden spoon used to serve cooked rice, without imapring the taste, is said to have been invented by a monk who lived on the island. This style of spoon is a popular souvenir and there are some outsized examples around the shopping district.

The peak of Mount Misen, at 530 m, is the highest point on the island. A ropeway carries visitors to the top. There are several sites related to the historical Buddhist priest Kobo Daishi near the top.

Oh Dear...

2006-11-06T11:24:00.000+09:00

These guys roam freely and tamely ALL over the island. I thought they were quite cute. Shiori was scared of them.

The leaves are beginning to change...

2006-11-06T11:21:00.000+09:00

Sadly the main reason I went to Miyajima was to witness the orange leaves on the trees. However the warm weather has meant that this change is late...Still beautiful though.

Itsukushima Shrine

2006-11-06T11:18:00.000+09:00

Sadly the tide was out. When the waves come in, the Shrine appears to be floating on the Ocean.

Myself and Shiori at the Tori Gate

2006-11-06T11:16:00.000+09:00

The Floating Gate (tide out sadly)

2006-11-06T11:14:00.000+09:00

Miyajima and the Floating Tori Gate

2006-11-06T11:13:00.000+09:00

The port of Miyajimaguchi

2006-11-06T11:10:00.000+09:00

Approaching Miyajima

2006-11-06T11:05:00.000+09:00

Moving on...

2006-10-21T22:03:00.000+09:00

So this first chapter of the Japanese Adventure will draw to a close on December 1st. I will be sad to leave Saijo and the many happy memories that is has given to me over the last 17 months or so, but my future now lies elsewhere.

I will miss Evan, the school and the students. I will miss going to Jin's for delicious Okonomiyaki. I will miss the familarity of Mannikineko, our favourite Karaoke haunt.

But my future now lies with Shiori. In a different part of Japan. With new opportunities.

Saijo Sake Festival - New link

2006-10-10T14:47:00.000+09:00

I have put up the link to the official site for the Saijo Sake Festival. Please look in the links section or click this -->

http://sakematsuri.com/

The site is in Japanese, but click the little English link (a Union Jack I think) in the top right corner for the English site.

Here you can find more information on this years festival, and previous Sake Matsuris.

Nuclear Dawn in the Land of the Rising Sun

2006-10-09T21:10:00.000+09:00

News that North Korea has tested an underground Nuclear weapon has bought widespread condemnation from people all over Japan.

The test has isolated the North Koreans even more, and has the potential to seriously change the atmosphere in the Asian area. Although the North Koreans don't have the potential to deliever a Nuclear strike in the form of a warhead, there are fears that a plane could drop a Nuclear bomb.

From www.bbc.co.uk

"The test, which South Korean media said took place in Gilju in Hamgyong province at 1036 (0136 GMT), has still to be confirmed.

But both the US and Japan said they had detected seismic waves. Russia said it was "100% certain" a nuclear test had occurred.

The size of the bomb is uncertain. South Korean reports put it as low as 550 tons of destructive power but Russia said it was between five and 15 kilotons. The Hiroshima bomb of 1945 was 12.5-15 kilotons. "

Full story at - http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/asia-pacific/6033457.stm

The following is the full text of the announcement carried on North Korea's official Korean Central News Agency as reported on the Reuters news agency:

"The field of scientific research in the DPRK (North Korea) successfully conducted an underground nuclear test under secure conditions on October 9, Juche 95 (2006) at a stirring time when all the people of the country are making a great leap forward in the building of a great, prosperous, powerful socialist nation.
"It has been confirmed that there was no such danger as radioactive emission in the course of the nuclear test as it was carried out under a scientific consideration and careful calculation.
"The nuclear test was conducted with indigenous wisdom and technology 100%. It marks a historic event as it greatly encouraged and pleased the KPA (Korean People's Army) and people that have wished to have powerful self-reliant defence capability.
"It will contribute to defending the peace and stability on the Korean peninsula and in the area around it."

Also check out this link -

http://www.asahi.com/english/Herald-asahi/TKY200610090122.html

Sake Matsuri # 2

2006-10-08T18:10:00.000+09:00

So yesterday was the first day of the Saijo Sake festival, and once again the streets of Saijo (well the Boulevard and Sake breweries) were buzzing with throngs of people. This being my second Sake festival I had booked the Saturday as a paid holiday, and invited Shiori to come down to enjoy the proceedings.

We decided to go into Hiroshima in the day, as my fellow co-workers were not going to be there until after 6 anyway. Except Jimmy. Who spent 8 hours in the company of sake. Not a good idea. And when we finally met him, here was the living proof the too much alcohol is not a good thing.

However when we got down to the station to go into Hiroshima, the Boulevard was awash with people, mainly Japanese and a variable mix of smells wafting from the numerous food stalls. Resisting the temptation to eat proved difficult, but we decided to eat in Hiroshima, where I took Shiori to Molly Malones for good ole pub food (I had the fish n chips and she had a pie and mash).

When we returned to Saijo, many more Gaijins had now descended on the scene and the only Japanese left were either late, or asleep from too much Sake. We met up with Evan, Kaori, Derrick, Ken and our two new teachers, David and Jessica and had a fair few cups of fine Japanese rice wine.

After we met Matt (who arrived late so couldn't get in) and went to the usual post Sake Festival party at Mondo. Shiori and Kaori chatted, leaving me to talk to Evan, David and anyone else...

I was in bed by 12...Shiori had to catch an early train and I was in a 10am this morning...YAWN!

No Go

2006-10-03T12:02:00.000+09:00

Well, it looks like I'll be stuck here in Saijo, after my transfer still seems to be stuck in the proverbial swamp. After a week or so, of chasing Dean (my boss) for an answer of whether I would be able to transfer in November, he finally confirmed to me that I would have to remain here for the time being.

I do love the school. The staff are great, the students (kids and adults) are nice and I have some good friends here, but my heart lies with Shiori, and that is the path I need to follow. It's frustrating because it's not as if I am requesting a transfer to a much sought after area of Japan, but to somewhere similar to where I am now. And we can always do with new teachers.

I try to keep my hopes up and those of Shiori because I know that we are supposed to be together. I just wish the guy or girl who works on transfers in the NOVA offices would pull our his oe her finger and let me move.

Latest News

2006-09-29T09:52:00.000+09:00

So, as the Japanese air gets progressively cooler and the trees in Northern Japan begin to turn to their Autumnal colours, I begin to look forward to my second Winter season here in Japan.

ONSEN

Last week, I visited Shiori again, and we made a trip into the mountains to visit an onsen, or hot spring. Because Japan is located on many tectonic plates, the natural fissures allow for many springs especially on the island of Kyushu.

However the onsen we visited was part of a hotel, but this didn't distract from the relaxing atmosphere. There were several pools, a hot tub, baths that would use water pressure to massage you and even a pool outside where the water was around 42 degrees.

Before we left, we used the baths our separate male/female areas. Basically for those that don't know, you go into the baths naked (I had my small, and I mean small, towel) sit at separate shower cubicle and clean yourself. Then you go to a large barrel of warm, clean water and using a ladle like cup, rinse yourself. Finally you get into a large warm bath, usually occupied by other men/women and usually old. Luckily for me I had one of the baths to myself....

WORK

We have two new teachers, a couple, who start work tommorrow ( Saturday) . They are American, but lets hope they are better than the Americans I have met here so far...

It's still pretty much the same old with work. I gave up my Voice Co-Ordinator position to Matt, and can now concentrate on Kids...

EARTHQUAKE

We had a minor quake here on Tuesday. About 7am I was woken by the tremor that lasted about 10 seconds and at the epicentre was about a 5. Here it was only a 3, which is just enough to wake you up but nothing more.

MOSQUITOS

I HATE THESE LITTLE SHITS.

A Journey

2006-09-14T20:41:00.000+09:00

A post on Music

2006-09-14T17:55:00.000+09:00

Now I know I haven't been very nice toward Japanese music in the past, but to be honest it's a harmless mix of pop and hip-hop that has the occassional catchy hook. It's not to say I am a fan, but maybe with a Japanese girlfriend, my ear has become used to it.

I have put up this http://www.videouncovered.com/ in my links section. It's a website with new videos of J-Pop artists, and well worth a look so you can judge for yourselves.

One artist who has stood out for me is Utada Hikaru. Mainly because her voice is reminiscant of a Japanese, Sarah MaClachan. Her official site is here - http://www.toshiba-emi.co.jp/hikki/ . So if you have an interest in J-Pop please check them out.

Healthy and Green

2006-09-14T14:53:00.000+09:00

A recent Japanese study,that began in 1994, has claimed that drinking green tea can reduce the risks of fatal cardiovascular disease. The study, which surveyed 40,530 healthy adults aged 40 to 79 in north-eastern Japan claimed that those who consumed green tea on a daily basis has a 26% lower risk of dying of Cardiovascular disease.

Those who drank five cups or more of green tea each day had a 31% lower risk of dying from cardiovascular disease compared with those who had less than one.

However British scientists have put this down to differences in the Japanese diet and not just the properties of green tea.

Ellen Mason, a cardiac nurse at the British Heart Foundation, said "The rate of heart disease in Japan is already one of the lowest in the world, and the Japanese diet is believed to play a substantial role in keeping this low.

"Drinking 3-4 cups of green tea in parts of Japan is a daily habit.

"The average British diet contains more saturated fat than the average Japanese diet, and our levels of heart disease are relatively high compared with many other countries in the world.

"It is questionable whether drinking the same amount of green tea a day in the UK would have a significant impact on levels of heart disease."

She added: "Clinical trials are now needed to discover whether something as simple as green tea really can prevent deaths from heart disease."

Taken from -

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/health/5334836.stm

GREEN TEA

Green tea (ryokucha) is so ubiquitous in Japan that it is more commonly known as "tea" (ocha) and even "Japanese tea" (nihoncha). Types of tea are commonly graded depending on the quality and the parts of the plant used. There are large variations in both price and quality within these broad categories, and there are many specialty green teas that fall outside this spectrum. The very best Japanese green tea is said to be that from the Uji region of Kyoto.

Gyokuro, (jewel dew)
Selected from a grade of green tea known as tencha (), Gyokuro's name refers to the pale green color of the infusion. The leaves are grown in the shade before harvest which alters their flavor.

Matcha (rubbed tea)
A high quality powdered green tea used primarily in the tea ceremony. Matcha is also a popular flavour of ice cream and other sweets in Japan.

Sencha (roasted tea)
Common green tea in Japan. It is made from leaves that are exposed directly to sunlight.

Genmaicha (popcorn tea)
bancha and genmai (roasted rice grain) blend.

Kabusecha (covered tea)
kabusecha is sencha tea where the leaves have grown in the shade prior to harvest ( although not for as long as Gyokuru. It has a more delicate flavor than Sencha.

Bancha (common tea)
Sencha harvested as a second flush tea between summer and autumn. The leaves are larger than Sencha and the flavour is less full.

ｶ Hōjicha ( pan fried tea)
A pan-fried or oven roasted green tea

Kukicha ( stalk tea)
A tea made from stalks produced by harvesting one bud and three leaves.

(Taken from Wikipedia)

Also for more information on Green Tea check out -

http://www.japanesegreenteaonline.com/

It's a boy!

2006-09-14T14:47:00.000+09:00

So, I know it's old news but Princess Kiko gave birth to a baby boy on September 6th, ending the controversy and crisis around who would succeed the Crysanthemum throne. Of course, as I have mentioned before, only male heirs can succeed to the throne, and the new baby, named Hisahito, is the first male born in 41 years.

The new prince is third in line to the throne, behind Crown Prince Naruhito and his own father, Akishino.

For more information, click the links below -

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/asia-pacific/5337374.stm

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/asia-pacific/5320224.stm

Now I'm 30...Dear God!...Hold it's not that bad!

2006-09-13T14:30:00.000+09:00

After all the fear of the big three, zero, it comes down to it that I feel exactly the same as I did when I was 29. The same fears and hopes. Exactly the same. No big revelation. No sudden onset of arthritus and gray hair.

The only thing thats changed is that when people ask me my age and I tell them, they look at me slightly incrediously. "30?". "Really?".

Anyway, we had a party on Sunday for my birthday at my appartment. Shiori made the long trip (bless her) and also cooked a delicious Kimchi Nabe. Food was plentiful, and it's kept myself, Matt and Jimmy going so far this week. I must thank everyone who turned up and thanks for all the really cool gifts.

After the party we all went bowling, which was hilarious, especially as Evan, the star on our team on the first game went from hero to zero due to copious amounts of alcohol!

Seoul

2006-09-13T10:36:00.000+09:00

I couldn't think what to call this post, so I've kept it simple. I tried to think up something clever and amusing based on the word Seoul/soul, but couldn't come up with anything that adequately described my experiences in Korea.

So I've kept it simple.

And to in the vein of keeping it simple I had a truly fantastic time. Seoul is a wonderful, vibrant place and I barely even scratched the surface. So before I even start into this post I have to say a BIG loving thanks to my girlfriend, Shiori and her Mum for organising everything.

GETTING TO KANSAI AIRPORT

Now my last experience of getting to Kansai, was one that I would rather forget. Imagine for a minute, getting up at the crack of dawn (4am to be precise), then with a heavy suitcase that has the maneoverability of Peter Crouch stuck in concrete, jumping on a succession of trains, each one leaving on a track a little further away from the other...

This time however, it was much easier. A bus from Shiori's home town straight to Kansai airport. Beautiful!

THE FLIGHT

JAL have always been great to fly with and this time despite a small plane, reminiscant of the ones I used to fly on to Mallorca or Ibiza with Mum and Dad as a kid, was again no exception. The flight time only 2 hours, which was a little disorienting after my last 3 flights have all been 13 hour monsters.

KOREA

Getting of the plane, I was hit with the familiar blast of humidity that has seemed to be a part of daily life in Japan, and also had blanketed itself over Korea. We had to wait at Incheon airport for about 30 minutes for Shiori's Mum's friend, who flew in from Tokyo. Whilst we were waiting were hassled once or twice by taxi drivers, who suprised me in that they spoke Japanese and English pretty well, and found the Korean convience stores stocked Twix bars!

Our first hotel was the Ibis in the busy shopping district of Meong-dong. The hotel was clean, nice and really convenient.

Then we went to dinner, where we had pork, kimchi (a Korean food, which is spicy vegetables), pickles, rice etc...it was a feast, and really delicious. It only came to 5000 between us (about 25 pound) which surprised me how cheap it was.

My first impression about Seoul was how cosmopoliton it was and how forward the Koreans were compared to the Japanese. Also young girls walk everywhere holding hands. At first I thought, maybe there are lots of lesbians in Korea, but Shiori informed that most Korean girls hold the hands of their friends...

That night, Shiori gave me presents that she had bought for me (ANOTHER BIG LOVING THANKS!!!!). A cool bag, a great new leather wallet, a cover for my phone (with Doraemon on!) and a candle in the shape of a heart. She's such a wonderful girl. xxx.

Also, I got some gifts from Shiori's mum, which was amazing. She bought me a really cool t-shirt and some sandals (which have taken some getting used too, but are really comfortable and convenient in the hot weather). Thank you!!!

Day 2 was spent shopping, and let me tell you in Korea it's a pretty amazing experience, especially in the bustling markets, where you could find anything. Food came by the way of Toppogi (Korean mochi and sausage in a hot sauce), which was oishi!

Day 2 was my birthday, so they bought me and Shiori's Mum's friend (as it was her birthday recently) a cake, which we took, along with our baggage to the Park Hyatt!
What a wonderful hotel....

http://seoul.park.hyatt.com/hyatt/hotels/index.jsp

A massive room, with a ceiling to floor window that looked out onto the neon of Seoul, a granite bathroom with a tv...amazing!

All in all, Seoul is a wonderful city, that I would recommend to anyone, and as I said earlier I barely scratched the surface, so I want to go back at some point.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Seoul

http://www.visitseoul.net/visit2006/index.jsp

Yummy!

2006-09-12T20:59:00.000+09:00

Yummy!
Originally uploaded by renegadese7en.

Seoul's City Hall

2006-09-12T20:57:00.000+09:00

Seoul's City Hall
Originally uploaded by renegadese7en.

Kimchi!

2006-09-12T20:55:00.001+09:00

Kimchi!
Originally uploaded by renegadese7en.

Shop till you drop!

2006-09-12T20:55:00.000+09:00

Shop till you drop!
Originally uploaded by renegadese7en.

View from the Park Hyatt

2006-09-12T20:54:00.001+09:00

View from the Park Hyatt
Originally uploaded by renegadese7en.

Seoul trade centre

2006-09-12T20:54:00.000+09:00

Seoul trade centre
Originally uploaded by renegadese7en.

Seoul at night

2006-09-12T20:53:00.000+09:00

Seoul at night
Originally uploaded by renegadese7en.

Incheon Airport

2006-09-12T20:50:00.001+09:00

Incheon Airport
Originally uploaded by renegadese7en.

Korea from the air

2006-09-12T20:50:00.000+09:00

Korea from the air
Originally uploaded by renegadese7en.

Bliss

2006-09-12T20:49:00.000+09:00

Bliss
Originally uploaded by renegadese7en.

Our Plane

2006-09-12T20:43:00.000+09:00

Our Plane
Originally uploaded by renegadese7en.

Off to Korea!

2006-08-29T09:41:00.000+09:00

So after work today (and it's only a half day), I will once again board the train and ride down to see Shiori. Then on Thursday we will fly to Korea for my 30th Birthday.

"Which Korea ? The good one or the bad one ?"

Of course the good one.

Anyway, I will take some photos and post them when I return.

Happy Birthday Our Kid!

2006-08-24T09:28:00.000+09:00

TANJOBI OMEDETO!

Translated as Happy Birthday!

Today is the 29th birthday of my little sister Kelly. I just wanted to wish her a special day, and all the best for her 29th year...nearly 30, Kel...

Have a great day!!!!

Justin xxxxx

Japanese Pop 3 - MR. CHILDREN

2006-08-23T11:02:00.000+09:00

Mr.Children is one of the greatest bands in Japan. They made their major debut in 1992 with the release of their first album, "EVERYTHING", but it wasn't until one of their singles was used as a drama theme song that they started getting noticed. They got their big break in 1994 with the release of their fifth single, "innocent world", which made record sales and earned them an award. Their fourth album, "Atomic Heart", which was released in the same year, is still their top selling album to date. Since then, all their singles have been number one hits in the Oricon charts, and they've produced other noteworthy albums.

Their sound is essentially a blend of light pop and classic rock. But due to the band's inclination to experiment with various music styles, their sound is constantly evolving. They have delved into various types of rock as well as jazz, blues, folk, country, and dance. Despite this constant change, however, their music has progressed successfully, proving them to be a versatile band that can last.

(Taken from http://www.geocities.com/everything_misuchiru/)

Official Site - http://www.mrchildren.jp/