Category Archives: Life in Japan
The end of summer, the arrival of Fall
Summer ended here with a bang. We had our athletic festival in the middle of September. It was nice weather thankfully, instead of the searing heat that I experienced the first two years I was here. We got rained out … Continue reading
Midsummer madness
Summer is now is full swing in Japan and the heat and humidity pack a double wallop of brain melting, insanity inducing weather. The students are less eager than ever to study and even the academic students would rather be … Continue reading
Houten Ryu Sword
After an intense and tiring morning of spear training, what better thing to do than train some more in the afternoon! I am not sure if I envy professional martial artists who train 6-7 days a week and twice a … Continue reading
The Spears of Hozoin
I must say, I feel extremely lucky to have the opportunity to live and train in Japan. It’s my firm belief that understanding the culture of a martial art is just as important as studying the art itself. I use … Continue reading
Living to work vs. working to live
I must say, one of the biggest differences I have noticed between Japan and America is the concept of work. In America most people work to live. We work to pay the bills, to have money for our interests, and … Continue reading
Yagyu Village and Yagyu Kaido (Yagyu to Nara “highway”)
The past week was Golden Week, so of course everyone in Japan was on vacation at the same time. As usual the trains, roads, and hotels were jam packed. Luckily my friend had a great idea. “Lets hike the Yagyu … Continue reading
歓迎会(Kangeikai) The “Joyful Welcome Party”
This past Friday our school had a welcome party for the new teachers. It was held at a Chinese restaurant of all places, which surprised me. It was all-you-can-eat and all-you-can-drink, but at a cost of approximately $50 U.S. per … Continue reading
Quiet time
The last week of March and the first week of April is a much quieter time than usual at school. The students only come in the mornings, usually between 9-noon. They practice their chosen club with the current members, sometimes … Continue reading
100% in focus
In Japan, most activities require 100% dedication. Both adults and children are required to fully dedicate themselves when they take up a sport or hobby. Whether it be basketball or Calligraphy, the members are expected to be present at pretty … Continue reading
Sobetsukai or “The end of the school year, sorry you’re being transferred or retiring party” ;)
Last night we had an expensive dinner at a fancy hotel to say goodbye to 8 teachers who are either transferring or retiring. Most of the food was fish, but luckily they requested a special menu for me since I’m … Continue reading
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