Japan 2011: Abby Cook's Free day :D

Course Description

Kyoto, Japan: Experiencing WA (wah)
WA (wah) is a Japanese word that means: 1) traditional Japanese culture, and 2) harmony and unity. This M-Term is based primarily in Kyoto, with several days spent in Tokyo as well. Students discover that traditions in Japan are not merely ceremonial nods to the past, but are a major part of modern life. They observe how past traditions live in harmony with modern practices. During the trip, students experience first-hand traditional Japanese crafts, culture and foods in modern day Japan. They make tie-dye scarves, Japanese sweets, lacquer chopsticks and paper. They are fitted for a kimono, participate in a tea ceremony and listen to court music. They visit a Manga museum, sumo wrestling training camps, Buddhist temples, and castles. They taste a wide variety of Japanese cuisine including Shabu Shabu, Japanese ramen, sushi and takoyaki. Students also learn Japanese phrases and expressions before the trip. They use their phrases and learn new ones as they discover Japan for themselves during a few free days in which they plan their own cultural visits.

Sunday, March 13, 2011

Abby Cook's Free day :D

In my opinion, yesterday was a very successful day in terms of getting everything done that we planned. We did a loop of Kyoto, beginning at the bamboo forest, going to a “monkey park,” eating lunch (and mochi!!), making our way across town to an Edo time period themed amusement park, and finally ending with a hot spring. However, I have to say that the most important part of my day (as well as Devon’s) was making sure that we got strategically got Emma back at 7:15 for her surprise party. While at the hot spring, we made sure to waste as much time as possible, and it all paid off. Eventually we got to the trolley station to head back up to the Hostel. When the trolley arrived, we were stunned to find that all of us simultaneously had a brain fart, and were waiting on the wrong side of the track. Instantly remembering that cars keep to the let in Japan, we had already missed the trolley. We still had a fun time; the three of us waiting at a little trolley station at 7:00pm until another one finally arrived. Emma’s party went excellently and the cake was delicious.

–Abby Cook