October 20, 2013

• Jindaiji

  Today's "go somewhere" was to the Jindaiji area of Western Tokyo. We have been there many times before, but we really enjoy the atmosphere of the place. If you click on any of the pictures you can see a bigger version.

  

  This is the entrance to the Jindaiji Rakuyaki kiln. You can paint your own design on a piece of pottery and have it fired on the premises.

  

  Here are the glaze brushes, so go ahead and try your hand!

  

  Here are some wind bells made by the kiln's artists.

  

  2014 will be the Year of the Horse, and you can get all the decorations you need right here!

  

  You can even get earthen bells for Halloween.

  
  

  

  This traditional house near the temple has a thatched roof.

  
  

  

  This shop near the Jindaiji Temple sells all kinds of delicious goodies.

  
  

  

  Here is a place to wash your hands before going to the temple building.

  
  

  

  There is an incense brazier in front of the temple.

  
  

  

  This temple bell is several hundred years old, and when it rings, you can really feel the vibrations.

  
  

  

  This octopus paperweight is supposed to bring its owner good luck.

  
  

  

  Now let's go for a walk in the Jindai Botanical Garden.

  
  

  

  These sunflowers have passed their prime, but I like them in any condition.

  
  

  

  DH likes rose hips better than the roses themselves.

  
  

  

  This one looks kind of nasty.

  

  

  

  Here is a booth selling rose bushes as well as cut flowers.

  There was also a variety of peony plants.

  

  

  Practice report: Today was just Yamaha, because I was getting a good sound that I was enjoying. I warmed up with Altes Lesson 1 today, and I will probably spend a few more months on it before moving on to Lesson 2. I REALLY hated Altes Lessons in high school, maybe because I could not do them in the week or two for which they were assigned. I think one lesson in the Altes book takes a couple of months to be able to do well, at least at my speed. I was just kind of pushed through them and was nothing but discouraged because I couldn't do them. Hey, they were hard then and are still hard now, but a bit more enjoyable because I can go through at my own pace and speed. Right now I think I am aiming at a good sound rather than quick fingers. Bidding on Miyazawa ends in a few hours. I am still highest bidder. I wonder if anyone will save me from myself. If I win that will be fun, and if I loose DH will not have a fit.

  Later - OOPSIE, another oopsie. No one saved me from myself and I am the proud owner of a Miyazawa flute at a nice price. The auction ended and and was paid for all while DH was in the "throne room" taking care of the first movement of his symphony. Hope Miyazawa arrives when DH is not home...

  • 09:38
  • 1 Comment