Tuesday, April 7, 2009

Sakura-Sakura

This time of year, here in Japan, is popularized by the short-lived Sakura. Sakura is the Japanese name for cherry trees and there blossoms, the latter of which is the centerpiece of this celebration. Every year, the status and progress of the cherry blossoms is tracked and monitored closely, as to stay in the know about when and where the best cherry blossom's can be viewed. People come out from all over the world to partake in the viewing festivities; which last from sunrise well into the night. 
This weekend I had the pleasure of going to a few Sakura events, with Luke. On Saturday we met up with many of Luke's co-workers, at Osaka-Jo, where we spent the day. The vibe at these Sakura parties ranged drastically, there were some older couples who spent the day in a peaceful manner, taking photos, and taking in the beauty. On the other hand, there were also tons of young people in their teens and twenties throwing raging parties with booze and loud music. Although these two extremes were happening within close range it all seemed to work out quite harmoniously; no one seemed to mind what anyone else was doing. It was about being out there and digging the day.
Saturdays Sakura party rolled into the night; when the evening rolled into full-darkness a group of about a dozen of us walked down to the JR station and took a subway into Shinsaibashi for dinner and drinks at an Izakaya, which is a traditional type of Japanese bar that also serves food. This Izakaya, just like most others, is set up in private rooms; you take your shoes off as you enter a sunken-floored room, with sliding doors, and rectangular bench seats that surround a large table.

I've said it before, and I'll say it again, I'm thrilled to be doing what I'm doing. I'm luck to be able to enjoy the experiences and adventures that I do and I'm glad to be meeting so many great people. I'm digging it!
















4 comments:

  1. How the hell did I just find out about this blog!?

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  2. I don't know, but that bums me out! This has been my outlet and my report back to friends and family. It dates pretty far, I wish you would've known sooner.

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  3. Well I'm up to date on everything now! Trip sounds mind blowing. As I sit here in my cubicle I dream of running away an retracing the steps of the infamous world traveler, Jesse Carmody! In fact, I'll probably run away pretty soon. These stories are too inspiring to just enjoy superficially. I have to be there. Miss ya bud.

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  4. Let's go on some missions, this summer when I get back, in the Westy!!

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