Things That Are Near Our Home Part 2

The first thing to know about Japan is it's quite a lot like America, but in less space. Gifu reminds me of Colorado because of the mountains, Florida because of the humidity, and Ohio because of the fields. The majesty of those three giant states can be found within one city in Japan, and that's just the way it goes. My school is located in what could be called a suburb, and just 10 minutes south of that Matt's school is located in miles of rice fields that gorgeous cranes and herons occupy, such as the one to the left.

The second thing to know is Japan makes better soda than America, at least that which I've tried so far. The can to the right is a great Lemon soda that is full of lemons and vitamin C, and not much else. What it says on the can is also a special treat.

Oh, and the desserts are fantastic. This is a maccha (green tea) ice cream, red bean, dango (rice dumpling), and vanilla ice cream dessert from DENNY'S. Yes, that's right, in Japan, Denny's is AWESOME. And not entirely bad for you, either.

This is possibly the funniest vending machine I've seen in Japan to date. It's a condom vending machine. It was right next to a cigarette vending machine. This could only have been better if there had also been a beer vending machine in the same row.

Last but not least, this is for my second sister. I found a building that reminded me of her, and how I love having her in my life, in downtown Gifu!

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To Live in the Moment Without Fear

To Live in the Moment Without Fear is a work by Yuko Shinoda from Gifu, Japan. Danced by six women, the dance investigates what it means to be a part of a community threatened by a disaster that takes a life. Premiered June 5th 2011 in Nagoya, Japan, the dance features a strong movement aesthetic that draws from traditional Japanese dance as well as contemporary styles and contact improvisation. Shinoda's use of space and timing, as her dancers flow in-and-out of solos, duets, trios, and unison, creates a sense that the dancers are unified and alone at the same time. In the end, Shinoda's view of life is clear: we must tend to the fallen, but we must never surrender ourselves to fear while we are still alive.

Iceland, Part Five: Thingvellir

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Today's Picture: A Colorful Shrine

The back entrance to Ikuta shrine at the base of a mountain in Kobe.

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