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Friendship Force of the

Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia

Exchange to

The Friendship Force Clubs of

Nara and Kumamoto, Japan

and Visit to

The Friendship Force Club of

Hiroshima, Japan

9 May to 26 May 2012

Exchange Directors

Gold Coast: Maureen Miners

Kumamoto: Kazuhiko Hirose

Nara: Reiko Harigae

FF Contact Hiroshima: Keiso Ueda

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Wednesday 9 May - Day 1 by Barbara

I arrived at Gold Coast airport to find Maureen, as always efficiently waiting for all the

intrepid travellers going to Osaka. After checking in, our exchange group assembled at

gate 9. It wasn’t long before we boarded all being very excited at the prospect of

visiting Japan. The hours went quickly and it wasn’t too painful flying just 8 ½ hours

before arrival at our destination Osaka Kansai airport at 18.20pm. Some of Nara’s

Friendship Force members were there to meet us at the airport and guide us to the bus,

which would take us to Nara.

An hour later Gina and I were greeted by our very excited host Kanko and she soon

whisked us off to her waiting car. By the time we arrived at her home, it was dark, so

we could not see the house properly, but Kanko gave us some history of her traditional

170 year old Japanese house where we were to stay for the next week. We were so

happy to be staying in a traditional house which had western beds and a adjoining toilet

which was a source of delight with the seat going up upon opening the door, warm seat

and automatic flush, together with the fountain to wash one’s hands. We had never seen

anything like it.

Our host put electric blankets on the beds so we would not be cold, and fussed about us,

leaving us feeling like VIPs. After dinner, and a hot bath, (kept at very comfortable 42

degrees) we retired feeling very weary, but eagerly waiting for a tour of the house next

day together with all the other surprises which would happen during the next week.

Thursday 10 May – Welcome lunch and Japanese Culture by Bob and Jo

We awoke wondering why I was on the floor and remembered the warm welcome we

received the night before from our lovely hosts. We were surprised also to find we had

slept so well. The home we are staying in is beautiful and the gardens a delightful oasis

in suburbia although they call it the countryside. After a great and very leisurely

breakfast we set out to meet up with all the others for our first photo shoot.

A feast was prepared for us at a local bakery and we got to sample so many different

breads We all then went off to the local cultural centre where amidst much laughter we

were dressed up in Kimonos (another photo shoot) and tried our hand at origami and

calligraphy real Japanese style. The men all had to be dressed also in Hakama and

looked the part for their photos as well.

I think it will be a long time before I become used to folding beautiful paper into lovely

objects of art. We rushed home after a long day and on the trip back to countryside Bob

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had 40 winks and I was ready for bed but we quick changed and set out again this time

by local bus to meet up with others for a Special Dinner at Yat ai Shusin, again for more

delicious food. We tried it all - raw fish, tofu, caviar, miso soup, salad and sweets. All in

all a very FULL and exciting day

Friday 11 May – Nara Park by Viv and Gloria

Today at 9.40 we departed on our way to the Todaiji Temple to visit Nara Park and the

'Big Buddha' the Nara Buddha. It was a cool day. Our host Yukiko could not join us as

she had a guitar performance. We were greeted by many deer harassing us for food;

however we all enjoyed the experience. Nara Park is famous for their deer habitat. The

deer were quite happy to eat any paper brochure in sight.

Along with the deer we were also engulfed by literally 100's of school children on

excursion entering the Temple Gate. Many school children in small groups obviously had

a set task to test their English skills and walk up to tourists and ask questions in English.

We all happily obliged and many photos we taken.

All ambassadors broke into groups and our host Kingo was our personal guide. Our

group was Viv and I, Henk and Annette, Sandra and Patricia and two more Japanese

hosts. The path to the temple signifies how Buddhism came to Japan via India then

China and Korea. We learnt the meaning of the hand gestures. Hand held up - Don't

worry and hand held out - every thing will be OK. Buddha has 1 (disciple like Buddhist)

sitting either side. Also there are intimidating Guards protecting east and protecting

west.

12.30. We met at Restaurant within the Nara Park and enjoyed a traditional Japanese

lunch. We departed Nara Park around 3pm and made inquiries to purchase a Nara

Buddha. It was very difficult. Soon our host Yukiko arrived by car. We walked into NARA

CBD and on the way eventually found a store with beautiful merchandise where we were

able to purchase a Nara Buddha.

As we were being dinner hosted in the evening we purchased Saki and beer and cake

and made our way to the home of the Club President Hiro and wife Hiromi Onishi. Hiromi

and ladies prepared beautiful traditional food along with French fra gras and we drank

wine and beer. We had a wonderful evening. We returned home around 9.30pm, a

20min drive. It was a full but wonderful day.

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SATURDAY 12 MAY – Free Day by Deirdre and Marie

Collecting passengers and half prepared lunch provisions along the way, Mie and I

transferred all [food, Kuniko Koizumi, Marie and ourselves] to Kieko’s car. We were on

our way to Hiroko Shigei’s traditional house in Kyoto. We entered her garden through a

covered gateway with a small wall across the centre [to keep bad spirits and enemies at

bay]. The garden was in the traditional style with carefully manicured shaped trees,

strategically placed rocks, plants, and on the paths: fist-sized stones tied with rope to

indicate that the pathway was blocked. There was a tea room in the garden with a low

doorway at the side impossible for an armed samurai to enter.

On entering the house we found many more of our group there. Our hosts disappeared

to prepare the tables and cook food while we, slipper footed, explored the house.

Amongst the delights were the Tatami mats, dried lotus flowers decorated with silk

covered balls, the low cushion-covered seats, a table with an indigo shibori cloth;

beautiful bowls full of interesting colourful hand-crafted objects; the 6 panelled screen

with beautiful paintings; an exquisite carp scroll; calligraphy; and on and on…..

Next we strolled along-past houses, people, agriculture plots containing a multitude of

vegetables, rice, and fruit trees as we wended our way up to search for bamboo shoots.

We came to a flat plot of land that looked to be covered in weeds and bracken fern. Our

hosts were ecstatic as they pounced on the bracken fern shoots, and soon there was

quite a bunch-later divvied up, with the bamboo shoots. First we had to FIND the

shoots-visible, so not too small, not too big, but JUST RIGHT! Bob, Sam, Gloria and I

tried our muscles at digging the shoots, but not one of us were able to dig one out

cleanly with roots in tact-but we gave it our best.

On our return Hiroko, still dressed in a beautiful apricot coloured kimono, performed the

Tea Ceremony, first explaining the finer points of the tradition and how to conduct

ourselves for it. The sweet is eaten. Hiroko held up a beautiful ornament from the table,

opened it and then smelt the fragrance. The tea was poured into a cup decorated

appropriately for the season, and handed to the recipient, who, holding it in a particular

way, turns it 2 times clockwise and then drinks [never from the front!] Hiroko explained

that the purpose is for the host to show respect and equality for the guest and the

calligraphy explains it- “This opportunity may never come again and it may be the only

chance to serve him.” The guest should sit calmly and thankfully. The Art of Chanoyu:

Simplicity and purity, Delicacy and efficiency. Sincerity and respect to all existence.

We were rallied outside where lunch was set on picnic tables. But first we were in for a

treat. Split bamboo poles were joined lengthways and we were lined up either side with

chopsticks ready and a small bowl of soup/sauce in our other hand. Noodles were placed

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at the top and the water washed them down into a colander over the bucket. The IDEA

was to snatch the noodles, dunk them and then eat. Our hosts showed us just how easy

it was. For me, it was very slim pickings. Thank goodness it was followed by a delicious

lunch of tempura, rice balls etc etc etc

Leaving was not as simple as it should have been for my host Mie had discovered that

her keys were missing. She had run and searched for them up at the bamboo digging,

to no avail. The resulting anxiety was not in proportion to the size of the keys. [Her

daughter drove out with a replacement set and the keys were eventually located 2 days

later in her friend’s jacket pocket....]

Back at home, Yukio met us in his apron. He’d taken the day off and had been preparing

his “Spitted Cutlet Menu”-of 19 courses-for our dinner plus accompaniments. Kazu,

[Kieko’s husband] Kieko, Marie, friend Kuniko, Mie and I each took turns to choose a

course. It was cooked [by Mie] as Yukio had, by this time, sat down at the table to

enjoy the food, the company and the saki. We had no problem at all in joining him.

Sunday May 13 – Habataki Welcome Party by Gina

On this beautiful sunny day the Friendship Force of Nara and the Australian

ambassadors met at the Habataki building to celebrate our welcome party. This spacious

modern council owned building has several purposes. I saw i.e. a library with computers

for use by the public, meeting rooms for hire, tatami room, restrooms and kitchens.

According to Yukiko Fujito the cost for the afternoon was Y24.000.

We we're entertained and a wonderful range of food was served. We did games.

Amongst the entertainment it was the 'Happy' Dancers', that I found captured the spirit

and happiness of the Japanese people the best. Their energy and smiling faces were

captivating. Speeches were held by the Japanese E.D. Ken Ikoma, Reiko Harigae.

Maureen Miners responded and thanked the Nara Friendship Force of Nara. President

Onishi proposed a welcome toast.

The Australian Ambassadors did sing some well known Australian songs, which were

appreciated very much. At the end of the afternoon all Ambassadors received a small

farewell present. The afternoon closed at 4PM.

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Monday 14 May – Kyoto Japan by Anne

We all started the day with a farewell to some of our hosts while a few hosts including

my host, Takako jointed us for the very comfortable coach trip to Kyoto. We enjoyed

chatting about our previous evening’s activities and the trip so far. Some Japanese

cinnamon biscuits were passed around that was delicious, crunchy and different.

Our first stop was the beautiful Kinkakuji Temple referred to as the Golden Pavilion. It

was surrounded by a beautiful small lake with violets growing in the water that provided

such a vivid violet contrast to the yellow gold of the Temple. Next stop was lunch at a

traditional noodle café. We had a choice of hot or cold noodles with a wonderful variety

of vegetables and spices that we could add to the soy sauce mix. We had to eat quickly

as we only had 2 hrs parking for the bus and still had to fit in our walk to the Ginkakuji

Temple referred to as the Silver Pavilion.

We walked up the hill to the temple along the narrow road for pedestrians only past

many interesting shops. It was my first taste of Japanese shops and I couldn’t help but

take a few photos of the lovely fan shop and just had to try the green ice cream on the

way back.

On entry to the Silver Pavilion we walked along a path with huge clipped hedges either

side of it. This temple had an interesting sand sculpture at the entrance. We all enjoyed

the lovely walk up and over a small hill through a small forest of trees and shrubs, past

a small waterfall and past a special traditional bamboo railing on some stairs that is a

design only specific to the silver pavilion.

We ran out of time to see the Nishiki Market and so headed back to our hotel to check in

and relax before exploring the various food options for diner next door and below our

hotel. Some enjoyed a “Western Style” desert of waffle and ice cream, a nice change

after several days of all Japanese food that we had enjoyed to date.

Tuesday 15 May – Kyoto Day Excursion by Voni and Margaret

We had a great breakfast on the 13th Floor of the Hotel Keihan – wonderful views of the

city. Unfortunately it was a wet day that became progressively wetter!!! There was a

change of plan to the schedule – we broke up into small groups with our Hosts who

came up from Nara for the day. Our group was Maureen, Fusako, Voni and I. We took a

taxi to the Kiyomizu Temple. It was a Buddhist temple with an unusual Cedar roof.

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A Japanese saying for making a big decision or purchase was “Jumping off the Kiyomizu

Terrace” a long way down! And no way back. The Temple also had a “Lovers Lane” for

young people. We discovered the difference between a Temple and a Shrine – A Temple

is for the study and worship of Buddha and a Shrine is for praying the various Gods.

We had lunch in one of the many lanes surrounding the Temple and then went to the

Kodai-ji Temple. The rain was getting worse so we all headed back to the Hotel about

3.30 for coffee. Many of the other groups had done the same. All 7 groups had different

experiences to talk about. We went over to the train station to farewell the Nara Hosts.

We all met again at 5.00pm to go to Gion Corner for a Cultural Show including the Tea

Ceremony, Japanese Harp playing, Ikebana Demonstration, a group of 7 musicians,

Kyoto style dancing in traditional dress, a Comic Play and a Puppet Play. It was all very

interesting. Due to the bad weather everyone dispersed and made their own

arrangements for dinner. We found an Irish Pub (in Japan would you believe) called the

Man in the Moon. Had hamburgers for dinner and slept very well that night after a busy

day.

Wednesday 16 May – Train back to Nara by Shirley

After two busy days in Kyoto we boarded the train back to Nara where we were met by

our hosts who had planned the day for us. A few of us were taken to Mrs Kanko Shigei’s

house for lunch. As usual the presentation of the food was wonderful. We then spent

time admiring the house which is over 150 years old, and the contents were beautiful.

In the afternoon we were taken to the site of the old Nara Palace. They are digging on

the site and finding artifacts from the era. The museum shows what the palace looked

like and now houses the artifacts. It is a very interesting display. From there we went to

Non’s house (she was Barry’s host) for dinner that night. Bento boxes are a wonderful

way to serve food. The Japanese just love to eat. We all enjoyed ourselves, but after a

long day we were happy to go home to bed.

Thursday 17 May - Our last Day with our hosts Hiro and Hiromi Onishi by Mary

Our day began with another Japanese Breakfast prepared by Hiromi. (Each day Marcia

and I were treated to a different breakfast) Today an assortment of small dishes -

Pickles, Salmon, Grilled Snow Peas and Spinach, Egg Plant and Ginger, Fish Cake, Raw

Tuna, Rice Strawberries (from Sawako's and Katsinori's Kitchen garden) and Green Tea.

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It was time to pack our large cases to be delivered by Courier to our host family in

Kumomoto. Hiromi prepared lunch - Pumpkin Soup, Bread, a salad of Lettuce and sliced

skinned tomatoes. Before leaving the house took photos of our hosts in their garden.

With packing completed, we took our cases to a Lawson's Station store, Hiro completed

the paperwork and we paid Y1250 and Y1450 per case according to size, not weight.

We then took a 2 hour drive into the countryside, narrow winding roads, average speed

60K before reaching a number of Pottery factories producing the famous Nara Raccoons

(little resemblance to the animal) Ceramics in all sizes, we looked in two potteries

selling an assortment of craft and Green Tea and Vanilla Icecreams which we hurriedly

enjoyed as it was time to return to Nara. A shorter route, pine forests on the hills, tea

plantations set in rows very manicured as they use harvesters to mechanically pick the

leaves.

Due to time, we went directly to our dinner location (our treat to say thank you to our

hosts) to meet up with Sawako and Katsinori, hosts of Deanna and Sam also Kanko,

hostess of Barbara and Gina. It was a very Japanese meal where we consumed jugs of

Beer and Sake. Our Dinner trays, Soup with Tofu, the Hotel specialty - Eel, individual

burners with Potato, Onions and Beef cooked to your own taste, small dishes of Tuna

and Peanuts, Braised Beef with Carrot and Onion, Tofu and Ginger, Rice, Pickles

(Cucumber, Onion, Daikon) various Dipping sauces and Green Tea. Everyone took lots of

photos - Necklace girls (we all wore handmade silk tie and bead necklaces), the Sake

Club (men), Hiro's harem. Sawako gave each of us a special sweet (cake) to eat when

we arrived home. The culmination of a wonderful stay with gracious and generous

families who welcomed us into their homes, with such warmth and hospitality.....a

memorable time possibly a once-in-a-lifetime visit with I hope everlasting friendships.

Friday May 18 – Train to Hiroshima by Sandra and Patricia

Nara. We were up early to try and pack into small case, as our main case is couriered to

Kumamoto. Breakfast: yoghurt, fresh strawberries, drip coffee toast and vegie juice,

say goodbye to Nory Karilya one of our hosts. We were driven to the station by our

other Host, Massy Karilya, and said goodbye to all our Nara new friends. Lots of photos

were taken and most of us bought lunch for the train at the station. Tragedy struck for

us when Patricia’s camera went missing. Massy followed up for us but it was not found.

We left Nara and changed at Kyoto Station for Hiroshima, where we arrive at 11.32 a.m.

and were met by James Takaaki and Casey Ueda and the Hiroshima FF who were looking

after us for the couple of days. They help us stow our overnight bags in storage lockers

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at the station. At 12.15 p.m. we caught the train for Miyajima Island where we caught

the ferry across to the island.

We arrived at 13.20 p.m. and divided into groups, some with our new Hiroshima friends,

and enjoyed a glorious sunny day for our walk around the island. Senjokaku – this

“pavilion of a thousand mats” was built 1587 as an offering to Itsukushima Jinja by

Toyotomi Hideyoshi. The vast hall is built of rough timbers and hung with numerous

large ema paintings. There are numerous other pavilions and a stage for Noh theatre. All

are built over the water. It is a Shinto-Buddhist sanctuary. The nearby pagoda dates

from 1407, and the view from top was terrific.

The shrine is most spectacular viewed at high tide on a dark evening when lanterns

hanging in the galleries are lit with candles. The tide was out for our visit but we could

easily imagine this.

Miyajima was considered the sacred island of sea deities as long ago as the 6th century.

Miyajima was considered so sacred that ordinary people were forbidden to set foot on it.

Instead worshippers approached by boat through the great vermillion torii out on the

water. The shrine is breathtaking at night when as often happens, someone makes an

offering to burn lanterns in the galleries. Unfortunately for us the torii had been

damaged by strong winds recently and was under wraps until repairs were completed.

We were thrilled to watch the Buddhist priests setting up for a formal Japanese wedding.

They looked very handsome in their gorgeous aqua culottes and white shirts

After a very special coffee stop we walked around the pagoda and strolled back to the

ferry through a market thoroughfare. Some made interesting purchases and Annette

was heard to rave about a certain freshly made biscuit “that was to die for”!!!! (like a

biscuit/sponge with custard filling)

We were all back to the ferry in good time 15.35 p.m. and take train to station where we

collected our luggage, and took the bus to our Hotel, which for a Government Hotel and

the price, pleasantly surprised most people. We checked in at 6 p.m. and were ready to

go out for dinner by 6.45p.m. Our dinner was traditional Japanese pancakes -

apparently there is a friendly rivalry between Kyoto and Hiroshima. Those of us lucky

enough to try both think they are all delicious, including ones made by our Host in Nara.

Massy is going to send us the recipe if anyone would like it. We thanked James and his

helpers who accompanied us back to Hotel for showing us a delightful day.

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Saturday 19 May – Peace Park Hiroshima (a somber day) by Lance

We were met at our hotel by our hosts from the Hiroshima club. It was but a short walk

to Peace Park. Of significance was our guide from Friendship Force, Hiroshima – Mr

James Takaadi, who was in Hiroshima at the time of the bombing. He is now a very

committed advocate to spreading world wide the message of peace and the futility of

war. Some salient points of the tour were:

The Memorial Monument for Hiroshima. This monument embodies the hope that

Hiroshima, devastated on 6 August 1945 by the world’s first atomic bomb, will stand for

ever as city of peace. The stone chamber in the centre contains the register of deceased

A bomb victims. We laid a wreath in respect to those who lost lives.

We next went to the Peace Memorial Hall. On the way we stopped at the monument

which depicts at its’ centre “8.15”, the time the A-bomb was dropped towards the

hypocenter. Around it lie the A-bombed roof tiles and other objects unearthed from the

Hall. The National Peace memorial Hall for the Atomic Bomb victims is an effort by the

Japanese National Government to remember and mourn the sacred sacrifice of the

atomic bomb victims. It is an expression of Japan’s desire to convey lasting peace.

The atom bomb dropped at 8.15 AM, exploded at an altitude of approximately 600

metres over the city of Hiroshima. It emitted heat rays, blast and radiation. In the

vicinity of the hypocenter, heat from the bomb raised surface temperatures to 3000 to

4000 degrees Centigrade and generated a blast that blew 440 metres per second.

About 350,000 people are estimated to have been in Hiroshima when the atomic bomb

was dropped. The bomb was approximately three metres long.

The A-bomb destroyed nearly all administrative agencies and destroyed official

documents. Thus, the exact number of deaths due to the atomic bombing of Hiroshima

remains unknown. We hereby mourn those who perished in the atomic bombing.

In the Memorial Hall are approximately 280,000 names of victims who were exposed to

the atomic bomb and are written in the Hiroshima Register of Deceased Atomic Bomb

Victims.

Childrens’ Peace Memorial Monument. This monument stands in memory of all children

who died as a result of the atomic bombing. It was built with contributions from more

than 3,200 schools in Japan and donors from nine countries. After we had lunch we were

invited to listen to poems written by children from the time of the bombing. Next, we

ambassadors were invited to read some of them ourselves – a very moving time for all…

Next we moved on to the remains of the all above which the bomb was dropped. The

afternoon then went on to a very much anticlimax – shopping.

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Later, a farewell dinner was held at a function room in a building next to our hotel. It

was buffet style catering. 8 members from Friendship Force Hiroshima and some

spouses were in attendance. They later provided us with some musical entertainment,

conducted by that very extroverted lady called Seiko Tamura who wore the most

eccentric clothes. James, once again, emphasised the importance of world peace and

harmony. An interesting part of the evening was when the hosts from Hiroshima

produced a song sheet of Waltzing Matilda in Japanese and proceeded to sing it in

Japanese. Maureen, from our club, made a very appropriate speech themed with good

wishes and appreciation. A thoroughly enjoyable evening with peace, love and harmony

was a fitting finale.

Sunday 20 May – Hiroshima to Kumamoto by Barry

On my way to breakfast at the Aster Plaza Hotel, Hiroshima, I had to walk up and down

a very wide and high set of stairs from the lift to the breakfast room. That is no big deal,

but I was surprised, when I noticed a man vacuuming the stairs. The Aster Plaza Hotel is

part of a large government community building. Another different sight I saw on my way

to breakfast, was, a line of people waiting for something. I don’t know what they were

waiting for. But, I do believe they may have been waiting for some time, or were

prepared to wait for some time, judging by their possessions.

Marcia provided the “quote of the day”. She told Lance that his, “virility was too high –

up in his head”. I am sorry to say that none of us ambassadors registered our apologies

for today’s general club meeting on the Gold Coast. Unfortunately, some of our

Ambassadors are still sick. Also we heard another quote from Marcia, during breakfast -

in fine form today. “Can’t have indecent acts in the passage”. Have to ask Lance what

Marcia meant by that one.

As we got onto the bus, just down the road from the hotel, Maureen remembered that

she had left a bag behind at the hotel. One of the very friendly Hiroshima FF members,

phoned the hotel (whilst we were still on the bus), and arranged for Maureen’s bag to be

sent to her Kumamoto Host’s address. We had great difficulty getting all 25

Ambassadors plus a few Hiroshima members onto the local bus, because it was nearly

full when it stopped for us.

We required 2 train tickets to be held in a certain way and placed into a ticket

verification barrier, before we were permitted into Hiroshima Railway Station. It should

have been straight forward. But, not according to Murphy’s Law. I don’t know what

happened exactly because I was too far away from the action. Maybe it was something

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about our luggage causing a problem going through the ticket barrier. Anyway, we were

then all directed to file through an open barrier, closely watched by a Conductor.

Hiroshima Railway Station is huge. I don’t believe I would be able to find my way around

the station, if I was by myself. Thank goodness, we were ushered through the station

maze by some very friendly and helpful, Hiroshima FF members. The train timetable is

so tight, that only 1 minute is provided for each stop. That means a total of 1 minute for

passengers to alight and board the train. That was a big ask for 25 Ambassadors to get

on with their baggage. All of us would not have made it if some did not enter the train

through an adjoining car. I for one went to an adjoining car. A piece of trivia - I was

very amused and amazed when I sat down beside Anne Halliday to discover that we

were both reading exactly the same book. Anne was reading a paperback book while I

was reading an e book.

We were met by our Hosts at Kumamoto Railway Station at midday, and went our

separate ways. For the remainder of the day, I can only share what happened to me.

Lance Munday and I were paired together with our Host, Tadashi Morita. Tadashi

suggested that we have lunch at a coffee shop before proceeding to his home. Tadashi

drove his Toyota Crown car about ½ an hour to his home. I understand that some

Ambassadors had a very long drive to their Host’s home. It was unfortunate that our

Host was “a chain smoker” of heavy cigarettes.

Monday 21 May – Okuno-in Temple, Yachiyoza Theatre, Yamaga Lantern Craft

Museum and Thermal Springs at Yamaga by Glenis

Friends travelled with their hosts to each of the sites and thoroughly enjoyed each of the

experiences. THE OKUN0-IN TEMPLE grounds are simple and very attractive with wide

paths, pleasant gardens and an amazing pond with many large carp of various colours.

Six ambassadors assisted a young monk in ringing the Hiryo-no-kane, or Big Temple

Bell, at noon.

We viewed the rebuilt Rengein-Tanjyoji Temple which was originally built in1177 and

destroyed by fire in1582. The currrent temple was built in 1930 and was inspired by the

revelation of the dragon-deity; St Keon. A Japanese lunch was served at the site and

appeared to be enjoyed by all.

We then journeyed a short distance to the Perfecture of YAMAGA and the YACHIYOZA

THEATRE. Our visit to the theatre was preceeded by a short video about the history of

the theatre. We were amazed by the theatre itself and were priveleged to try out the

seating, watch a performance of traditional Japanese dancing and go backstage. This

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backstage area was fascinating as all the functions of the stage are manually controlled

from beneath the stage and have been restored to the original workings. This includes a

turntable, enabling performers to be moved about on the stage and a "lift" to bring

performers to the stage from underneath.

A short walk led us to the YAMAGA LANTERN CRAFT MUSEUM where we enjoyed a huge

range of paper craft. All the exhibits are made of paper and are a wonderful display of

the care, patience, and skill of the makers. A large exhibit of lanterns of various styles

was enjoyed. It would seem that many of the lanterns have been used in productions at

the theatre. Other exhibits included castles, temples, palaces and numerous small

articles. A skilled craftsman was working at the site so we were able to further

appreciate this wonderful, no doubt, time consuming skill.

A little further down the road weary Ambassadors had the pleasure of bathing their feet

in a clear, THERMAL SPRING. This provided us with a much needed rest, a singsong and

a pleasant end to the day before setting off for home with our wonderful hosts.

Tuesday 22 May – from the city of Kumamoto by Deanna and Sam

Another night of restful sleep on futons in the tatami matted special room in the

traditional, 150 year home of out hosts. Our space is enchanting with its shoji screens

framing a beautiful Japanese garden with one large ginko tree standing out and casting

its shadow on the screen. It is like we are in a dream, a Japanese woodcut one. The

interior of our room continues this tone with its lovely tokonoma, or alcove, displaying a

long art scroll showing a koi fish arching up out of the water. The atmosphere is one of

beauty and calmness. It is a soothing contrast to our busy days of touring.

Today we are off on a bus trip to the Hitoshi-Kuma region. Our very able guide for the

day is Tetsuo Surata, CEO of Kumamoto airport. We are on the Kyushu expressway

heading south through a region of rugged hills and deep valleys with many tunnels, the

longest being about 6.4 km.

We tour the city of Hitoshi, which is often called “little” Kyoto. We walk along a

traditional street, Kajiyamcahi, stone paved and lined with old style buildings that

include a tea storehouse and miso and soya sauce factory. The Japanese have a very

nutritious and very varied diet and this is cited as a factor in their young look. They all

seem to look 20 years younger than their age. For our noon meal today there were

about 25 different foods, some being potatoes, burdock root, raw mackerel, tofu,

various veggies, salad, radish pickles and, of course, the usual rice and miso soup. We

have become very good at using chopsticks (hashi), even for soup, with plunging the

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sticks in to grab the big pieces and then, heartily slurping up the remaining liquid. One

of our Kumamoto friends, Akiho, showed us how to store the disposable wooden sticks

back in its envelope and then fold the envelope to show that it has been used.

Next we went to a Shochu factory and were shown the process of making various liquors

from rice and the very clear water of the Kuma River. We proved to be keen students,

especially when we reached the tasting part. There were seven varieties from 40%

alcohol to a mild sake. We were also, again, keen shoppers. Our last stop was along

the Kuma River where under a large sun tent a resting spot had been created for us with

tea and cookies. We were hosted by the Tsukushi-Ibgra rose conservation group. This

is a 5-petaled rose similar to Alberta’s wild rose emblem. Fresh air, beautiful bushes of

wild rose, tea and delightful conversation with our new Japanese friends made a nice

closure to our group activities for that day. Submitted by Deanna and Sam, the

Canadians from the province of Alberta

Wednesday 23 May – Kumamo by Annette and Henk

On this morning we got up at 7am and at 8am our hosts, Koyo and Masdayo took us to

the Ikuta Tea Factory in the village of Sagara where the owner, Shizuco, met us. She is

a friend of our hosts. We were shown the operation of the factory and its machinery. The

only product they produced there is an organic green tea. We were told that they

operate for one month only when the young new growth leaves are picked. Some of the

complex machines were able to detect unwanted white vegetation amongst the green

ground tealeaves and separate them. We also had a look at a green tea plantation at the

rear of the factory. On our departure we were given a packet of their highest quality tea

to take back to Australia. On our way to having breakfast in a park, we drove past large

tea plantations. It seems that during the winter the tea plants are very much subject to

being destroyed by frosts. To prevent this they have installed many electric fans, which

are spread throughout the fields.

Our next stop was at a magnificent location known as Tenishinomi Park｡ It is set in a

small valley surrounded by a variety of beautiful trees. The valley has a natural spring

with very pure and clean water that is drinkable. A path meanders through a field of

hydrangea bushes and Irises. We had a picnic breakfast besides a pond-containing

colored carp fish. Breakfast consisted of bamboo salad, beef, salmon, tomato, pickled

shallots and sour gohya. The weather was warm, sunny and the area peaceful. We were

the only people there except for two very friendly senior ladies tending to the iris field.

They were volunteers from a local seniors club. We then wound our way back to our host

home via narrow roads, passing vast agricultural lands, which is the main industry in the

region.

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In the pm, our host daughter Shoko and Masayo took us to a Tofu Production Factory

known as Fureai-Bussankan. We were invited to make tofu. Annette and I donned

aprons and set to work under the instruction of Akemi Masuda. The process was much

more complicated than we anticipated and slaved for 1hr30min to make to blocks. The

recipe requires extreme accuracy with temperate and ingredients, including water. We

then shopped at a nearby super market in preparation for a party commencing 7pm at

our host home.

The party was attended by several of our host friends including three children. In all

there were twelve of us enjoying an amazing Japanese feast. Annette prepared three of

the many courses under Masayo’s supervision and Henk cooked the Okonomiyaki.

Thursday 24 May – Kumamoto Castle and Meet the Mayor by Maureen

After a lovely breakfast of all Japanese food, Ann and I were driven by our host, Shinko

along the very narrow streets which form their neighbourhood into the morning traffic of

Kumamoto. It was not an early start as had been during the past few days and we

arrived at the entrance to the Kumamoto Castle which sits almost in the middle of the

Old Town of Kumamoto.

We were met by several actors dressed up as Ninjas and Warriors and much glee and

laughter was had when we had our photos taken with the Ninjas and Warriors.

Kumamoto Castle is considered to be one of the three most famed castles in the whole

of Japan. It was constructed by Kato Kiyomasa in 1607. One of its famous features is

the Musha-gaeshi, a device invented to prevent Ninjas or external enemies from

invading the castle during times of war.

One of the hosts who were looking after us today suggested that we visit the Honmaru

Goten Palace, rebuilt 130 years after its destruction by fire in 1877 and based on

historical records and archaeological surveys. We were to do this before climbing to the

top of the Castle if we wanted to.

The Honmaru Goten Palace, located on the southeast side of the main castle tower is a

cluster of structures serving multiple functions including those of the residence of the

daimyo, the official audience hall and the kitchen. The restoration and design

emphasized historical features and was a pleasure to see. A range of traditional

construction methods were used by master craftsmen in the project. A few of the fit

ambassadors then walked to the top of the castle which gave a marvelous view of the

city of Kumamoto.

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Lunch was at The Jousaien where pizzas were served to each person, plus there was a

buffet of all salads. The food was more than adequate with lots of people not being able

to finish their pizza. The restaurant was obviously very popular as it was very crowded

and noisy.

Then there was only a short stroll to the Mayor’s office where we had a reception. The

Mayor, Mr Seishi Kōyama was very young and handsome and addressed us and

welcomed us through an interpreter. I responded and said how privileged we were to be

hosted so warmly by the people of Kumamoto and told him a little about our form of

government, both local and federal. We all wore our green shirts and this was noted by

the Mayor. Sam (and Deanna) introduced themselves from Canada. We were then

invited to ask questions. This was followed by exchanging gifts and pins which proved

very popular.

As the Farewell Dinner wasn’t to 6:00 PM we were taken home for a rest and change of

clothes. Because there is a zero tolerance to drink driving we were taken to the farewell

dinner by taxi and the same coming home. The dinner was at the Meruparuki Hotel in

Kumamoto City and was very grand. We had the usual speeches before our dinner and

after dinner we played a form of Bingo where everyone received a prize. It was a fun

night.

Friday 25 May – Kumamoto by Marcia

A rainy day. Our schedule for the day was to visit a nursery school of 32 children, visit a

blind school of five children, a craft lesson with Takako’s mother, and a family dinner at

Takako’s parents’ home. As I still had a sore throat and cough I decided to forego the

visits to the children. I did not think the parents would thank me if their children

contracted this throat.

After Mary and Takako (she works with dialysis unit on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and

Thursdays only) we took Takako out for lunch at a curry restaurant in the nearby

shopping centre. I was also able to post 3 Kgs of books and brochures home. Returning

home I elected to stay home whilst Mary and Takako took Mary’s large case to the Black

Cat Station (similar to Lawsons) to be forwarded to Kyoto. They then continued to

Takako’s mother’s home for the lesson (or demonstration) – whatever, I was the

recipient of gifts of Takako’s mother’s handiwork. Mary received a large swatch of

materials so I expect some gifts when Mary becomes proficient – No, Mary, I don’t want

your practice specimens ! !

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Dinner with the family – six children and 8 adults was a veritable feast. I particularly

enjoyed the tempura whiting which Takako’s parents had caught when they went out

fishing two days previously. Takako’s mother again presented us with gifts. She does the

most exquisite needle work – also our chopsticks and rest. Takako’s father produced his

specialty – plum whisky – 1 Kg Plumbs, 1 Kg Sugar, 2 bottles of Old Pa Whisky – aged

for 7 years – smooth, superb. I might try making this but I need an old fashioned blue

plum, e.g. Prune/Washington. Aged for 7 years. I have my doubts if I will remember

what I did in 7 years so I’ll start sampling after 2 years.

For her enthusiasm for said liqueur, Mary was given a stone bottle of said liqueur. I am

glad it wa she who had the problem of transporting it. What I enjoyed more was the

Riesling from Bern Kastel-Kuez, an area of Germany I have been visiting for the past 36

years – what a coincidence! ! I think Mary should give you a write up of her school

visits. The invitation to the school was issued by the lass involved with the nursery

school. She was one of the parents at the Ishimoto’s home for our welcome. Takako and

Tatsuya had arranged a BBQ welcome for Mary and I. There were 17 children and their

parents. What a welcome. The children had made a welcome banner and paper lei. Food

– so much food that everyone went home with a “doggie bag”. What wonderful people

for non-Friendship Force people. We were so lucky to have had the Ishimoto Family,

especially with 2 young daughters, to host us.

Saturday 26 May – Leaving Kumamoto by Ann

Leaving Shinko and Yasufumi’s home around 9.00 AM, they drove Maureen and I to

Kumamoto airport. We had a while to wait before our departure and everyone said their

goodbyes. I found it extremely difficult leaving these kind, caring people. They had given

up their sleeping accommodation for us. They had shared their friends and neighbours

with us.

We had an hour and half flight to Osaka domestic airport with a few bumps on the way.

After landing Lance went ahead to find where we should walk to catch the transport to

the International Terminal. This went smoothly with the driver’s attendant labeling our

cases and giving us numbers to match our luggage. The bus trip took one and half hours

to Kansai International Airport.

This being an island we therefore crossed a long causeway. I would not enjoy this in a

high wind. We then checked our luggage into a holding bay as we didn’t have to collect

it until around 6 PM. Maureen, Marie and I ran into Lance and Barry. They knew where

to find a nice curry. Lance proved a good scout once more. We found lunch around 2 PM,

though perhaps not curry.

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We passed through security without trouble after waiting around an hour in the line.

After boarding, the Captain advised us we would find turbulence around 20 minutes out.

Changing seats I managed to stretch out for a few hours sleep. When arriving on the

Coast and passing through customs, I saw these placards picking up Japanese for

English language courses.

I have never experienced such a wonderful exchange with such an efficient caring ED. I

would like to say thank you, Maureen, well done.