My last post was a lot of venting, explaining some of the tediousness, and unpleasantness, associated with repatriating to Quebec. I did not say earlier, but when I first fled Montreal, I swore I would never, ever come back Quebec. Montreal I loved, Quebec I loathed. However, maturity softens many points of view, and despite some hard moments, I have to acknowledge that repatriating to the place of one's birth, to the place where all formative years were spent, also has some advantages.
One of the advantages, that can't be given too much emphasis, is a large, loving (if neurotic!) family, and lots of old friends. I mean close friends, not just acquaintances. I've already rejoined a dart league (yes, I'm a great, big nerd), and have been invited to join another on Monday nights. I've got a dinner and bowling invitation for Saturday night with two friends who I haven't seen in eight years or so. Oh, Friday night will be a girl's night out down town with a friend I see every time I make it back to town - we will likely drink a lot of beer on tap, and sit in a corner and talk only to each other!
And next week, I'm going to hang out with my uncle and his long-time partner, probably having a long chat, drinking chai, and doing some networking since his partner is a successful manager of Telus. I should be able to find out about jobs to be had...
Of course, as soon as Denis (Bernicky) can manage it, we are going to meet for coffee or tea or whatever. He's been really under the gun the last few months, and any time I want to whine about my life, I'll remember his fortitude as he deals with all the crap on his plate (his wife has been battling breast cancer for more than five years, and now needs almost constant care; he's got two teenage children with all the accompanying needs of teenagers; he's holding down a full-time job and trying hard to make ends meet; the list goes on..). But Denis and I have been great friends from way back, and I hope that being back here, I can maybe lend a hand when necessary.
My family, too, have been good. I'll be renting a car to drive to Ottawa for Thanksgiving at my brother and sister-in-law's house (Thanksgiving here is October 10/11). And my mother, who is still recovering well from lung cancer and surgery and chemo, is so very happy to have me here, she has no intention of ever throwing me off her sofa, and even brings me home beer from the store!
In addition to having such a good lot of friends and a great support network, I have access to lots of good facilities. I've already joined the local YMCA; being unemployed, I do not want to splurge on the fancy gyms, but actually the Y is really good, so I don't need anything else. I met with a personal trainer today, had a good work out and feel inspired to lose a few pounds.
Other good things...I ran 10 km yesterday, along the St. Lawrence river, noticing how the trees are starting to change colour; the local supermarket is just a 10 minute walk away, and has a huge variety of food, including curries and other exotic goodies; red wine here is not as expensive as I'd thought; although my French sucks, people are quite friendly if I show a willingness to try to speak. And finally - even though I felt that the Zen Centre woman was quite snotty, I feel fortunate that there is a Zen Centre at all.
Showing posts with label Moving. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Moving. Show all posts
Thursday, September 30, 2010
Trials of Repatriation: Losing my Wa
I've been here for less than a week, and I am already contemplating rebording the plane and seeking refuge in my familiar Japan!
I've been back to Montreal several times in the past twelve months, but those were temporary visits, a two-week hiatus from my real life in Japan. But now I am here, without a plan to return, instead trying to repatriate, to start life again in a new (old) place.
Letting go of life in Japan was a tough decision, and selling the car and bike and moving away were all parts of the letting go. I thought I was done with it - but as I deal with a lot of the bureaucratic bullshit that is Quebec, I frequently find myself wishing for all my Japan life back again.
I called the drivers' license office today about getting my Quebec license. It is possible to convert from Japanese to Quebec license, as I knew it was. However, retardedly, because I am Canadian, I need to have six consecutive months of past bank statements or bills in Japan as proof that I lived there.
I am a minimalist, and do not keep statements generally. Also, I just moved overseas, and transporting a bunch of extraneous paper across the ocean didn't seem necessary. So, I do not have any paper bills at all. I tried, at first calmly, to explain this, and to explain that it was clear from my passport that I've spent a total of less then two months in Canada over the last dozen years. Also clear from my passport is that I have held a valid Japanese visa for the past twelve years. Also, I am a holder of a Japanese Alien Registration Card, which served as my proof of address for all nearly thirteen years that I spent in Japan. No go.
Now, if I have learned anything in Japan, it is to be patient, polite. Do not blame the messenger. But seriously, this woman on the phone today was an ignoramus who was not 'just doing her job', she was doing the absolute minimum. Maybe that was no excuse for my outburst - but my outburst did provoke greater action and finally got me something that maybe made more sense: a tax statement, translated, I was told, would be okay.
Okay. Tax statement - Brian is able to send me the last year or two, so that should be okay. I also called Citibank and asked them to send me the last six months of my statements (although I do have the past four months still in my email box). It would be good to have both as a precaution.
So why am I jumping through these hoops? Why not just retake the Quebec license? Apparently, to do so would take one year (??), but driving courses are not a pre-requisite for new licenses acquired in Quebec. Another glitch - I am only legally allowed to drive for 90 days after my arrival in Canada. Yes, now I remember - I did leave Quebec for a reason all those years ago!
And I forgot to ask what kind of paperwork I needed to transfer my motorcycle license over...god only knows what I'll have to do for that!
Fortunately, my visa is still good. If the Quebec license bureau has not issued me a license by December, I will fly back to Japan for a short vacation, and return to Quebec again, buying me another 90 days!
Anyway, after this, I called the Montreal Zen Center. I would never have lost my temper if I'd been practicing, sitting every day. On the phone, I was told I'd have to attend a beginner's workshop, followed by the beginner's course. I said okay, no problem, but I did have some experience in Japan, and practiced at several temples. The woman got snotty and told me that I should practice humility. HUH!
Already I was in a pissy mood. Determined not to let it get worse, I said, 'Mustn't we all. Could you please register me for the workshop, then?'
What the hell? When was simply explaining that you were not a beginner wrong? I guess she thought I was bragging. I wasn't, or didn't think I was. I was stating a fact.
Added to this that I'm only just recovering from jet lag, and still living out of two suitcases...my wa is out of wack!
Things are certainly not all bad, tough. I will post separately about the pleasurable aspects of repatriation.
I've been back to Montreal several times in the past twelve months, but those were temporary visits, a two-week hiatus from my real life in Japan. But now I am here, without a plan to return, instead trying to repatriate, to start life again in a new (old) place.
Letting go of life in Japan was a tough decision, and selling the car and bike and moving away were all parts of the letting go. I thought I was done with it - but as I deal with a lot of the bureaucratic bullshit that is Quebec, I frequently find myself wishing for all my Japan life back again.
I called the drivers' license office today about getting my Quebec license. It is possible to convert from Japanese to Quebec license, as I knew it was. However, retardedly, because I am Canadian, I need to have six consecutive months of past bank statements or bills in Japan as proof that I lived there.
I am a minimalist, and do not keep statements generally. Also, I just moved overseas, and transporting a bunch of extraneous paper across the ocean didn't seem necessary. So, I do not have any paper bills at all. I tried, at first calmly, to explain this, and to explain that it was clear from my passport that I've spent a total of less then two months in Canada over the last dozen years. Also clear from my passport is that I have held a valid Japanese visa for the past twelve years. Also, I am a holder of a Japanese Alien Registration Card, which served as my proof of address for all nearly thirteen years that I spent in Japan. No go.
Now, if I have learned anything in Japan, it is to be patient, polite. Do not blame the messenger. But seriously, this woman on the phone today was an ignoramus who was not 'just doing her job', she was doing the absolute minimum. Maybe that was no excuse for my outburst - but my outburst did provoke greater action and finally got me something that maybe made more sense: a tax statement, translated, I was told, would be okay.
Okay. Tax statement - Brian is able to send me the last year or two, so that should be okay. I also called Citibank and asked them to send me the last six months of my statements (although I do have the past four months still in my email box). It would be good to have both as a precaution.
So why am I jumping through these hoops? Why not just retake the Quebec license? Apparently, to do so would take one year (??), but driving courses are not a pre-requisite for new licenses acquired in Quebec. Another glitch - I am only legally allowed to drive for 90 days after my arrival in Canada. Yes, now I remember - I did leave Quebec for a reason all those years ago!
And I forgot to ask what kind of paperwork I needed to transfer my motorcycle license over...god only knows what I'll have to do for that!
Fortunately, my visa is still good. If the Quebec license bureau has not issued me a license by December, I will fly back to Japan for a short vacation, and return to Quebec again, buying me another 90 days!
Anyway, after this, I called the Montreal Zen Center. I would never have lost my temper if I'd been practicing, sitting every day. On the phone, I was told I'd have to attend a beginner's workshop, followed by the beginner's course. I said okay, no problem, but I did have some experience in Japan, and practiced at several temples. The woman got snotty and told me that I should practice humility. HUH!
Already I was in a pissy mood. Determined not to let it get worse, I said, 'Mustn't we all. Could you please register me for the workshop, then?'
What the hell? When was simply explaining that you were not a beginner wrong? I guess she thought I was bragging. I wasn't, or didn't think I was. I was stating a fact.
Added to this that I'm only just recovering from jet lag, and still living out of two suitcases...my wa is out of wack!
Things are certainly not all bad, tough. I will post separately about the pleasurable aspects of repatriation.
Monday, September 27, 2010
A Summary of my Final Week in Japan
It is now Sunday, sort of. It is 2:30 a.m. in Montreal; I'm jet lagged, and I have some time, inclination and an internet connection so I can finally post a little, to recap my final week in Japan.
Saturday, September 18th
Last Saturday, September 18th, Brian and I started the day with long, leisurely cups of tea and coffee, before driving into the mountains for a good run, and then some resting in the sun. Afterward, we met a friend and spent the entire afternoon drinking beer on the lawn of the Gotemba Kogen, one of my favourite weekend places and past-times.
Brian and I then walked a few kilometres to an izakaya where we had dinner, before then walking the final five kilometres home to Brian's place.
Sunday, September 19th
Sunday - we got up early and caught the Shinkansen to Osaka, where we spent the day at my rental flat at Banana House, waiting for the Takkyubin delivery guy to come pick up my suitcases for shipping to the airport, to be ready for my Friday flight. We later went out for dinner near Sakai Higashi station - it was a cute little izakaya (whose name I forget!), and we got our own little private booth. Very cozy, good food, and, of course, great service.
Monday, September 20th ~ Tuesday, September 21st
Monday was a national holiday -keiro no hi, or, Respect for the Aged Day. Actually, this week in September has become known as Silver Week as the 23rd is also a holiday - shubun no hi, or the Autumnal Equinox. Brian had these days off of work, and he also took the rest of the week off for us to spend together. So, no longer having big suitcases to worry about, and not needing my rental room anymore, and not wanting to have to come back if we didn't want to, I checked out of Banana House, never to return.
We had planned ahead, and had a reservation at Ekouin Temple (恵光院) in Koyasan. We took the very comfortable Koya-Go train from Sakai-Higashi station to Koyasan, arriving at about noon. Koyasan is the seat of Shingon Buddhism, and was founded by Koubou Daishi (a.k.a. Kukai) twelve centuries ago. I've had a very strong Buddhist bent for a while, and I'd been wanting to do shukobo (sleep in a temple) for a very long time, so this was the perfect opportunity. Using Jalan.net, a Japanese online hotel reservation site, I found a really good price for a night at Ekoin. This is just lucky timing - every month on the 20th, they offer shukubo for 5,000 yen per person (yes, this is very cheap!). The catch was that we had to share a room with others, so for sleeping, I was in the ladies room, and Brian was in the men's room! But this actually worked in our favour, as the pricier, private reservation options seemed to be flooded with foreigners. I know, as a foreigner myself, it seems snobby to not want to be around other foreigners - but it is just a nicer experience when it feels less touristy. Our shared rooms had only Japanese guests, giving us each an opportunity to learn about Koyasan and Buddhism from people who were really in the know, and to practice our Nihongo. There were ten women in my room, and four in Brian's - it was just fine with us, and we both slept great!
Actually, the whole experience was unforgettable, and I do want to write about it in more detail later, but the basics are:
After a night of shukubo, I felt more at peace, more prepared and accepting of the recent changes in my life and life's path.
Tuesday, September 21st~Wednesday, September 22nd
After such a relaxing evening, and cleansing morning ceremony, Brian and I prepared for the next leg of our journey. We checked bus schedules, and boarded a bus from Okunoin-mae (in Koyasan), and rode through the most spectacular mountains to our next destination - Ryujin Onsen.
As the bus wended its way up and down the windy mountain road, Brian and I sipped a beer and marvelled at the sublime beauty of these wild mountain ranges - they are quite different in scope to the ones we are used to on the other side of Japan, stretching in rolling hills as far as we could see. It was almost sad to arrive at the Ryujin Onsen bus stop.
Ryujin Onsen is a small onsen (spa) village in Tanabe, Wakayama prefecture. It is not at all a city, of course - just a small cluster of traditional ryokan on the Hidaka River. The idea of this kind of town is to provide a relaxing getaway for travellers, where they can rest, eat amazing food, and indulge in the natural hot spring baths. The hot springs here are actually one of the most famous springs in Japan, being one of the 'bijin no yu', or Beautifying Hot Springs. I suppose my skin did feel a lot softer, and did look a little younger, after so many baths!
But actually, the most amazing thing is where we stayed. Also using Jalan, we got a reservation at Kami-Goten ryokan, which is actually very, very famous and has a rich history, having been opened in 1657 for Tokugawa Yorinobu. It is now registered as a 'precious cultural heritage'. And this is where we stayed.
We had a spacious tatami room, and we even got a room with an engawa overlooking the river. We took long baths together in the rotenburo, which we could lock and have as private use; and we over-ate a magnificent dinner, and had a lovely evening stroll, walking around outside in our yukata and geta.
Wednesday, September 22nd ~Thursday, September 23rd
We woke up a bit later than usual at 7 a.m., but then hurried to the baths for a pre-breakfast soak in the rotenburo. We then had an extravagant breakfast with the usual fare of raw egg, rice, miso soup, pickles, tofu, and other delicacies.
As you can guess, it was really hard to finally tear ourselves away from this place, but one night of superiour luxury had to suffice. Our next move was to catch the bus to Tanabe city, where we hoped would be a cute seaside city. Unfortunately, Tanabe does not have much to recommend it - it is a city. That is all. However, we did find a great little shokudo (diner) where we had a good lunch and a cold beer before taking the cozy reserved train from there back to Osaka. Once in Osaka, we did some window shopping around Den-Den town, and stopped for a cocktail at a Mexican restaurant, before going out for dinner at yet a different Mexican place.
Finally, we checked into a love hotel* in the Nanba area, where we were awoken at 4:30 a.m. by the sound of loud, cracking thunder. We opened the one window we had, and listening to the pouring rain, enjoying the lightening and earth shaking thunder.
We finally checked out at about noon on Thursday, and proceeded to spend the rest of the day shopping in Osaka - several more hours in Den-Den town, and then a pit stop to a Yamaya shop, where Brian stocked up on big-city goodies and exotic beers, and I picked up a bottle of wine for us to enjoy together that evening in our hotel room.
Thursday, September 23rd
We managed to enjoy the entire week without dwelling on the fact that this was a whole bunch of lasts. But Thursday night was my truly last night in Japan. And as I had an early flight out of Kansai International, we made a reservation at the Washington Hotel near the airport in Rinku Town...
The hotel is not really near anything, but, luckily, Brian located a coin laundry on the map, so we brought several days' worth of well-worn clothes to the laundromat. The machines were amazing! They were washer/dryers - no need to transfer the clothes; and were soapfree. And the machine would phone your cell-phone when your clothes were done!!
So we put in the clothes, typed in Brian's number, then walked around looking for somewhere to eat. Once again, as often happens for us, we found a great little local izakaya. We had a couple of beers, ate lots of really good food, like kushi-katsu and yakitori and renkon-kinpira, and more. All too soon, Brian's phone rang, and we had to finish up and think about picking up our clothes and heading back to the hotel.
We finally went to sleep after midnight, having set the alarm for 5 a.m. Neither of us minded having so little sleep - I would have stayed awake all night if I could have, to enjoy the time we had there...
Friday, September 24th
I had an uneventful, and even a comfortable, flight - Osaka to Tokyo; Tokyo to Chicago; Chicago to Montreal.
My mother is happy I am here. I am happy to be in a place where I can now truly think about what my future holds...
Getting there:
The train and cable car to Koyasan from Nanba (Osaka) is very quick and comfortable and convenient, and run frequently. However - buses from Koyasan only run from April through November, and only twice per day. You need a reservation. See the link below for the schedule, and call the number for Ryujin bus for a reservation, or make a reservation at the bus terminal window (Koyasan station), or the tourist information at Oku-no-in mae.
LINKS
*A love hotel is a hotel that can be rented for a 'rest' or a 'stay'; we usually choose to stay overnight. Most do not take reservations, and some (a very very few) have cute, kinky rooms, but those ones have largely disappeared.
Saturday, September 18th
Last Saturday, September 18th, Brian and I started the day with long, leisurely cups of tea and coffee, before driving into the mountains for a good run, and then some resting in the sun. Afterward, we met a friend and spent the entire afternoon drinking beer on the lawn of the Gotemba Kogen, one of my favourite weekend places and past-times.
Brian and I then walked a few kilometres to an izakaya where we had dinner, before then walking the final five kilometres home to Brian's place.
Sunday, September 19th
Sunday - we got up early and caught the Shinkansen to Osaka, where we spent the day at my rental flat at Banana House, waiting for the Takkyubin delivery guy to come pick up my suitcases for shipping to the airport, to be ready for my Friday flight. We later went out for dinner near Sakai Higashi station - it was a cute little izakaya (whose name I forget!), and we got our own little private booth. Very cozy, good food, and, of course, great service.
Monday, September 20th ~ Tuesday, September 21st
Monday was a national holiday -keiro no hi, or, Respect for the Aged Day. Actually, this week in September has become known as Silver Week as the 23rd is also a holiday - shubun no hi, or the Autumnal Equinox. Brian had these days off of work, and he also took the rest of the week off for us to spend together. So, no longer having big suitcases to worry about, and not needing my rental room anymore, and not wanting to have to come back if we didn't want to, I checked out of Banana House, never to return.
We had planned ahead, and had a reservation at Ekouin Temple (恵光院) in Koyasan. We took the very comfortable Koya-Go train from Sakai-Higashi station to Koyasan, arriving at about noon. Koyasan is the seat of Shingon Buddhism, and was founded by Koubou Daishi (a.k.a. Kukai) twelve centuries ago. I've had a very strong Buddhist bent for a while, and I'd been wanting to do shukobo (sleep in a temple) for a very long time, so this was the perfect opportunity. Using Jalan.net, a Japanese online hotel reservation site, I found a really good price for a night at Ekoin. This is just lucky timing - every month on the 20th, they offer shukubo for 5,000 yen per person (yes, this is very cheap!). The catch was that we had to share a room with others, so for sleeping, I was in the ladies room, and Brian was in the men's room! But this actually worked in our favour, as the pricier, private reservation options seemed to be flooded with foreigners. I know, as a foreigner myself, it seems snobby to not want to be around other foreigners - but it is just a nicer experience when it feels less touristy. Our shared rooms had only Japanese guests, giving us each an opportunity to learn about Koyasan and Buddhism from people who were really in the know, and to practice our Nihongo. There were ten women in my room, and four in Brian's - it was just fine with us, and we both slept great!
Actually, the whole experience was unforgettable, and I do want to write about it in more detail later, but the basics are:
- Simple but excellent shojin ryori (vegetarian 'monk' meals) for dinner and breakfast
- Pleasant evening walk around Okunoin Temple and all 200,000 graves/tomb stones, including the mausoleum of Toyotomi Hideyoshi
- Participation in morning prayers and meditation (zazen)
- Because it was the 21st of the month, there was also the added, special 'fire ceremony' in honour of Kobou Daishi (Kukai)
- Overall soothing, peaceful, spiritual atmosphere.
After a night of shukubo, I felt more at peace, more prepared and accepting of the recent changes in my life and life's path.
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| O-Jizosama at Oku-no-in |
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| Oku-no-in at night |
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| Autumnal Moon over Ekoin Temple |
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| Vegetarian Breakfast at Ekoin Temple |
Tuesday, September 21st~Wednesday, September 22nd
After such a relaxing evening, and cleansing morning ceremony, Brian and I prepared for the next leg of our journey. We checked bus schedules, and boarded a bus from Okunoin-mae (in Koyasan), and rode through the most spectacular mountains to our next destination - Ryujin Onsen.
As the bus wended its way up and down the windy mountain road, Brian and I sipped a beer and marvelled at the sublime beauty of these wild mountain ranges - they are quite different in scope to the ones we are used to on the other side of Japan, stretching in rolling hills as far as we could see. It was almost sad to arrive at the Ryujin Onsen bus stop.
Ryujin Onsen is a small onsen (spa) village in Tanabe, Wakayama prefecture. It is not at all a city, of course - just a small cluster of traditional ryokan on the Hidaka River. The idea of this kind of town is to provide a relaxing getaway for travellers, where they can rest, eat amazing food, and indulge in the natural hot spring baths. The hot springs here are actually one of the most famous springs in Japan, being one of the 'bijin no yu', or Beautifying Hot Springs. I suppose my skin did feel a lot softer, and did look a little younger, after so many baths!
But actually, the most amazing thing is where we stayed. Also using Jalan, we got a reservation at Kami-Goten ryokan, which is actually very, very famous and has a rich history, having been opened in 1657 for Tokugawa Yorinobu. It is now registered as a 'precious cultural heritage'. And this is where we stayed.
We had a spacious tatami room, and we even got a room with an engawa overlooking the river. We took long baths together in the rotenburo, which we could lock and have as private use; and we over-ate a magnificent dinner, and had a lovely evening stroll, walking around outside in our yukata and geta.
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| Hadaka River lines with Ryokan |
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| We arrived too early for check-in due to the bus schedule, so we went for lunch at a small shokudo (diner) on the hill...(pictured) |
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| We walked down these stairs, beside our ryokan, to access the river |
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| We sat beside the river in our yukata |
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| Dinner at Kamigoten Ryokan was as regal as the hotel itself |
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| Our room was spacious and beautiful |
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| One of the stairways inside our sprawling traditional ryokan |
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| We could have private use of the rotenburo, which overlooked the river. It was nice to be able to bathe together."] |
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| Our ryokan (Kamigoten) had the most authentic, historic front. |
Wednesday, September 22nd ~Thursday, September 23rd
We woke up a bit later than usual at 7 a.m., but then hurried to the baths for a pre-breakfast soak in the rotenburo. We then had an extravagant breakfast with the usual fare of raw egg, rice, miso soup, pickles, tofu, and other delicacies.
As you can guess, it was really hard to finally tear ourselves away from this place, but one night of superiour luxury had to suffice. Our next move was to catch the bus to Tanabe city, where we hoped would be a cute seaside city. Unfortunately, Tanabe does not have much to recommend it - it is a city. That is all. However, we did find a great little shokudo (diner) where we had a good lunch and a cold beer before taking the cozy reserved train from there back to Osaka. Once in Osaka, we did some window shopping around Den-Den town, and stopped for a cocktail at a Mexican restaurant, before going out for dinner at yet a different Mexican place.
Finally, we checked into a love hotel* in the Nanba area, where we were awoken at 4:30 a.m. by the sound of loud, cracking thunder. We opened the one window we had, and listening to the pouring rain, enjoying the lightening and earth shaking thunder.
We finally checked out at about noon on Thursday, and proceeded to spend the rest of the day shopping in Osaka - several more hours in Den-Den town, and then a pit stop to a Yamaya shop, where Brian stocked up on big-city goodies and exotic beers, and I picked up a bottle of wine for us to enjoy together that evening in our hotel room.
Thursday, September 23rd
We managed to enjoy the entire week without dwelling on the fact that this was a whole bunch of lasts. But Thursday night was my truly last night in Japan. And as I had an early flight out of Kansai International, we made a reservation at the Washington Hotel near the airport in Rinku Town...
The hotel is not really near anything, but, luckily, Brian located a coin laundry on the map, so we brought several days' worth of well-worn clothes to the laundromat. The machines were amazing! They were washer/dryers - no need to transfer the clothes; and were soapfree. And the machine would phone your cell-phone when your clothes were done!!
So we put in the clothes, typed in Brian's number, then walked around looking for somewhere to eat. Once again, as often happens for us, we found a great little local izakaya. We had a couple of beers, ate lots of really good food, like kushi-katsu and yakitori and renkon-kinpira, and more. All too soon, Brian's phone rang, and we had to finish up and think about picking up our clothes and heading back to the hotel.
We finally went to sleep after midnight, having set the alarm for 5 a.m. Neither of us minded having so little sleep - I would have stayed awake all night if I could have, to enjoy the time we had there...
Friday, September 24th
I had an uneventful, and even a comfortable, flight - Osaka to Tokyo; Tokyo to Chicago; Chicago to Montreal.
My mother is happy I am here. I am happy to be in a place where I can now truly think about what my future holds...
Getting there:
The train and cable car to Koyasan from Nanba (Osaka) is very quick and comfortable and convenient, and run frequently. However - buses from Koyasan only run from April through November, and only twice per day. You need a reservation. See the link below for the schedule, and call the number for Ryujin bus for a reservation, or make a reservation at the bus terminal window (Koyasan station), or the tourist information at Oku-no-in mae.
LINKS
- Koyasan Information - http://www.shukubo.jp/eng/index.html
- Ryujin Onsen Information -http://www.tb-kumano.jp/en/onsen/ryujin.html
- Bus schedule between Koyasan-Ryujin Onsen-Tanabe - http://www.tb-kumano.jp/en/transport/pdf/Kii-Tanabe-Ryujin-Koyasan-bus.pdf
- Ekoin Temple (恵光院） (Not to be confused with the Tokyo Ekoin 回向院） - http://www.japaneseguesthouses.com/db/mount_koya/eko_in.htm
- Kamigoten Ryokan - http://www.aikis.or.jp/~kamigoten/
*A love hotel is a hotel that can be rented for a 'rest' or a 'stay'; we usually choose to stay overnight. Most do not take reservations, and some (a very very few) have cute, kinky rooms, but those ones have largely disappeared.
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
Packing for a small move
Brian was released from the hospital yesterday, and we spent the day together at his place cooking, cleaning and watching TV. I would have liked to stay another night, but had school today and also have to pack for a move, so I caught the last bullet train last night back to Osaka, arriving here at 12:30 a.m.
Why moving you ask? When I first formulated my plan to come to Osaka, I'd set my actual Japan leaving date to be, well, right about this week. However, I soon decided to stay longer - but this apartment was already reserved by someone else from August 11th. Not to be deterred, I found another place, part of the same guest house group, and have booked a room there for another full month.
The new place is called Banana House, and while the name does not inspire confidence, the place is quite pleasant and in a very quiet area in Sakai city (about 20 minutes by train from where I am now). While it will not have the conveniences of true down-town living, it has other things to offer - such as daylight! It also has a rooftop sitting area which I'm sure will be lovely on the warm summer nights.
Check out Banana House here -
http://guesthouseosaka.com/en/banana/index.html
Not wanting to be disappointed, I visited the building and looked at what would be my room last week. My room will be small - just a six-mat room. But it is tatami, which I love, but it is bright and has a view of the city. The kitchen and bath are shared, but this is fine with me. Also the rent is cheaper then where I am currently living.
I'm really looking forward to moving tomorrow, and will spend a few hours today packing my bags and tidying this place up a little bit.
Why moving you ask? When I first formulated my plan to come to Osaka, I'd set my actual Japan leaving date to be, well, right about this week. However, I soon decided to stay longer - but this apartment was already reserved by someone else from August 11th. Not to be deterred, I found another place, part of the same guest house group, and have booked a room there for another full month.
The new place is called Banana House, and while the name does not inspire confidence, the place is quite pleasant and in a very quiet area in Sakai city (about 20 minutes by train from where I am now). While it will not have the conveniences of true down-town living, it has other things to offer - such as daylight! It also has a rooftop sitting area which I'm sure will be lovely on the warm summer nights.
Check out Banana House here -
http://guesthouseosaka.com/en/banana/index.html
Not wanting to be disappointed, I visited the building and looked at what would be my room last week. My room will be small - just a six-mat room. But it is tatami, which I love, but it is bright and has a view of the city. The kitchen and bath are shared, but this is fine with me. Also the rent is cheaper then where I am currently living.
I'm really looking forward to moving tomorrow, and will spend a few hours today packing my bags and tidying this place up a little bit.
Sunday, July 04, 2010
Farewell to Another Friend
On Friday night, I sold my classic-styled, 17-year old Kawasaki Estrella. It was hard to let go, but I need to free myself of 'baggage' and obligation and responsibility. Especially financial responsibility!
I got a good price for the bike. My car dealer originally offered me 30,000 yen (about $300), but a friend of mine networked, and I sold it through him for 80,000 yen ($800). I was very very pleased with this, although my friend did expect a commission. Fair enough, I guess.
[caption id="attachment_160" align="alignnone" width="300" caption="Estrella being strapped into the buyer's van"]
[/caption]
[caption id="attachment_161" align="alignnone" width="300" caption="My Solo Ride to Nikko last November"]
[/caption]
I got a good price for the bike. My car dealer originally offered me 30,000 yen (about $300), but a friend of mine networked, and I sold it through him for 80,000 yen ($800). I was very very pleased with this, although my friend did expect a commission. Fair enough, I guess.
[caption id="attachment_160" align="alignnone" width="300" caption="Estrella being strapped into the buyer's van"]
[/caption][caption id="attachment_161" align="alignnone" width="300" caption="My Solo Ride to Nikko last November"]
[/caption]
Friday, July 02, 2010
Full Circle: Selling my Pajero Mini
Anyone who has followed the Japan Rider blog knows that I love my car to death. My car is actually a little jeep-like truck, a four-wheel drive, fully-capable, off-road machine with, of course, a manual transmission.
I bought this car on a semi-whim in July of 2006. I'd been considering a new (used) car anyway, and when B and I cycled past a dealer who had this Pajero Mini in his lot, we stopped and looked. And then I couldn't get it out of my mind. It really was love at first sight. And we had a lot of good times in that car (if you know what I mean!).
So saying good-bye to my baby I knew would not be easy, and I've been procrastinating. But when my insurance guy visited today so I could sign the contract and pay for the past month, I saw that today, July 1st, was my last insured day. And I know my luck - if I'd waited even until tomorrow, I would have likely had a fender-bender on the 2km drive to the dealer. So I got in my car this afternoon, and drive her 'home', to the same dealer I bought her from four years ago.
Here's a little gallery of photos, showing a full-circle - the first pic is my car on the lot before purchase, the last photo was taken today, as I parked her back in that same lot.
[gallery]
I bought this car on a semi-whim in July of 2006. I'd been considering a new (used) car anyway, and when B and I cycled past a dealer who had this Pajero Mini in his lot, we stopped and looked. And then I couldn't get it out of my mind. It really was love at first sight. And we had a lot of good times in that car (if you know what I mean!).
So saying good-bye to my baby I knew would not be easy, and I've been procrastinating. But when my insurance guy visited today so I could sign the contract and pay for the past month, I saw that today, July 1st, was my last insured day. And I know my luck - if I'd waited even until tomorrow, I would have likely had a fender-bender on the 2km drive to the dealer. So I got in my car this afternoon, and drive her 'home', to the same dealer I bought her from four years ago.
Here's a little gallery of photos, showing a full-circle - the first pic is my car on the lot before purchase, the last photo was taken today, as I parked her back in that same lot.
[gallery]
Officially Unemployed
I woke up this morning to the realization that today is not just a 'day off', but the beginning of a period of being among the unemployed.
And this does not scare me as much as it, perhaps, should, considering that I have a very meager savings and no foreseeable source of income. In fact, though, I feel light and airy (a feeling I'm certain will end as hunger sets in:) But seriously - I feel so free. And not aimless - I have a short term plan of study in Osaka, where I'll be doing a Japanese language intensive course. And then I'll be in Montreal, where I will, at the very least, have a roof over my head and a reliable internet connection. And it is from there, at that point, that new plans will be made. And anything can happen between now and then, so I'm keeping my options open!
And this does not scare me as much as it, perhaps, should, considering that I have a very meager savings and no foreseeable source of income. In fact, though, I feel light and airy (a feeling I'm certain will end as hunger sets in:) But seriously - I feel so free. And not aimless - I have a short term plan of study in Osaka, where I'll be doing a Japanese language intensive course. And then I'll be in Montreal, where I will, at the very least, have a roof over my head and a reliable internet connection. And it is from there, at that point, that new plans will be made. And anything can happen between now and then, so I'm keeping my options open!
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
More Progress
Yesterday, before my sensei came over, I arranged for the local recycle shop to do a last visit to my place to collect more big stuff. I successfully got rid of the microwave/oven, water pot, a chest of drawers and the big microwave stand that B just doesn't have room for.
More before and after:
[gallery order="DESC" columns="2"]
More before and after:
[gallery order="DESC" columns="2"]
Almost Partied Out...
B and I have been kept very socially busy since Friday night, with various parties and dinners. On Monday we went out with our two bosses - the president and his wife - to my favorite local yakitori shop right here in town.
Then last night, my nihongo sensei, who I've known for eight years, brought dinner over to my place, where B, she and I ate together. She's an excellent cook, and enjoys the cooking, so she brought a full multi-dish meal of potato-salmon gratin, raw ham and melon, yaki-niku with leafy vegetables and even pudding for dessert. We three ate and chatted for a few hours, listening to Enya and then Enka in the background, before she took her final leave.
I could have felt sad, and I did a little, but somehow I feel like I'll be seeing her again, and we'll definitely stay in touch. As she says, I was her longest-studying student!
Here are some photos from Monday and Tuesday:
[gallery]
Then last night, my nihongo sensei, who I've known for eight years, brought dinner over to my place, where B, she and I ate together. She's an excellent cook, and enjoys the cooking, so she brought a full multi-dish meal of potato-salmon gratin, raw ham and melon, yaki-niku with leafy vegetables and even pudding for dessert. We three ate and chatted for a few hours, listening to Enya and then Enka in the background, before she took her final leave.
I could have felt sad, and I did a little, but somehow I feel like I'll be seeing her again, and we'll definitely stay in touch. As she says, I was her longest-studying student!
Here are some photos from Monday and Tuesday:
[gallery]
Monday, June 28, 2010
My Moving Schedule
I still have a fair amount of packing to do, though not too much. I didn't do anything yesterday, so will concentrate on that kind of stuff this week.
Basically, I plan to have the recycle shop come back one more time to pick up remaining bits and pieces - like my microwave, the stand, a couple of electric fans, etc...
The overseas shipping company, Econoship, is coming on Friday afternoon. So by that time, I will have to have packed up my desktop pc and peripherals, and wrapped up my kotatsu.
My apartment should be empty by Friday night!
On Saturday, I'll do some cleaning and take out the last of the trash. I also have to pay some final utility bills in the morning.
And then - Sunday! We're both writing the Japanese test that day, though I do not have high hopes. After the test, I'm getting on the shinkansen bullet train at Mishima, and head to Osaka where I will check into my new accommodation in Nanba at 9 p.m.
And here is where I'll be staying for the first few weeks - Melon House apartment!
http://guesthouseosaka.com/en/melon/index.html
Basically, I plan to have the recycle shop come back one more time to pick up remaining bits and pieces - like my microwave, the stand, a couple of electric fans, etc...
The overseas shipping company, Econoship, is coming on Friday afternoon. So by that time, I will have to have packed up my desktop pc and peripherals, and wrapped up my kotatsu.
My apartment should be empty by Friday night!
On Saturday, I'll do some cleaning and take out the last of the trash. I also have to pay some final utility bills in the morning.
And then - Sunday! We're both writing the Japanese test that day, though I do not have high hopes. After the test, I'm getting on the shinkansen bullet train at Mishima, and head to Osaka where I will check into my new accommodation in Nanba at 9 p.m.
And here is where I'll be staying for the first few weeks - Melon House apartment!
http://guesthouseosaka.com/en/melon/index.html
Saturday, June 26, 2010
Kitchen Cleanup
I made more progress preparing for the move yesterday by getting my kitchen pretty much cleaned out. I moved all the food and spices to B's place, and got rid of the make-shift organizing shelves.
Here's my kitchen before (two years ago) and after (yesterday).
[gallery order="DESC" columns="2"]
I called a 'katazuke' service - an old man in a little white truck - who came by and took away my tv, the wooden planks of the shelves, and the concrete bricks, for a small price.
Here's my kitchen before (two years ago) and after (yesterday).
[gallery order="DESC" columns="2"]
I called a 'katazuke' service - an old man in a little white truck - who came by and took away my tv, the wooden planks of the shelves, and the concrete bricks, for a small price.
Friday, June 25, 2010
Exhausted...
This is how I'm feeling tonight. It's barely 7 p.m., and I really cannot focus or do anything right now. So, I may just whip out my Kindle and read an easy, cheesy book!
I don't feel too guilty though - B and I packed up my precious mountain bike already, and were even able to add all three of my Mt. Fuji hiking sticks to the package!
I don't feel too guilty though - B and I packed up my precious mountain bike already, and were even able to add all three of my Mt. Fuji hiking sticks to the package!
Thursday, June 24, 2010
Tale of Genji (Cross post with Japan Rider)
Everyone loves to receive gifts - no matter what that gift may be. Sometimes gifts are cute, sometimes practical, and sometimes, just perfect because you never knew you'd needed or wanted such a thing.
My nihongo sensei (Japanese teacher) of eight years gave me a lovely farewell gift the other day - a deck of cards. Oh, sounds dull, you say? But these are special - each of the 54 cards (two jokers) is beautifully decorated with a different picture illustrating the famous Tale of Genji (Genji Monogatari), a Japanese classic by Lady Murasaki.
Click the image for a larger view...
[caption id="attachment_1759" align="alignnone" width="224" caption="Several Illustrations from the classic tale..."]
[/caption]
My nihongo sensei (Japanese teacher) of eight years gave me a lovely farewell gift the other day - a deck of cards. Oh, sounds dull, you say? But these are special - each of the 54 cards (two jokers) is beautifully decorated with a different picture illustrating the famous Tale of Genji (Genji Monogatari), a Japanese classic by Lady Murasaki.
Click the image for a larger view...
[caption id="attachment_1759" align="alignnone" width="224" caption="Several Illustrations from the classic tale..."]
[/caption]
Stasis
My moving preparations are going smoothly. Actually, it almost seems like I'm not getting much done, everything is moving slowly, time seems to have shifted and left me in a form of stasis. Not a bad stasis mind you - just a sort of slow-motion sort of feeling.
My sensei took one of my large plants, as well as unopened food items, my DVD player and a big, fluffy blanket. And it's true as Karin noted in her comment in the previous post - the fewer 'things' I have, the freer I feel. Each day more and more of a weight is lifted.
Tonight B and I will pack up my custom Clockwork 29er mountain bike. I got a box for it ages ago, and now we just have to take off the wheels, pedals, handlebar and saddle, and snug it up in the box in a way that will not scratch the precious orange paint...
My sensei took one of my large plants, as well as unopened food items, my DVD player and a big, fluffy blanket. And it's true as Karin noted in her comment in the previous post - the fewer 'things' I have, the freer I feel. Each day more and more of a weight is lifted.
Tonight B and I will pack up my custom Clockwork 29er mountain bike. I got a box for it ages ago, and now we just have to take off the wheels, pedals, handlebar and saddle, and snug it up in the box in a way that will not scratch the precious orange paint...
Monday, June 21, 2010
Farewell to Parts
Well, not really. But, like me, B is cleaning up as much as possible, and he was the keeper of all our mountain bike parts and tidbits over the years. Yesterday morning, he pulled out the big box of stuff, and then some, and we sadly acknowledged that we had to take it to the dump.
Too late, after the thousands of dollars worth of stuff was gone, I thought that we could have auctioned it. Okay, I'd be gone from this city, and would be busy, but I could have handled the communications while B handled the packaging and sending...
Too late.
Too late, after the thousands of dollars worth of stuff was gone, I thought that we could have auctioned it. Okay, I'd be gone from this city, and would be busy, but I could have handled the communications while B handled the packaging and sending...
Too late.
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