The Akitan Fall 2019

AKITA JET QUARTERLY

THE AKITAN

FALL ISSUE

20.12.19

THE AKITAN FA L L 2 0 1 9

We are always looking for new content and ideas for The Akitan.

Don’t hesitate to contact us at akitajoho@gmail.com if you might be interested in becoming an Akitan contributor!

Cover by Irene Cao

CONTENTS Editor’s Letter...........................................................P.05 Turning Over............................................................P.13 Taking the Long Route Around the River................P.19 Towada Hotel............................................................P.21 Dark Days.................................................................P.25 Fall

in

Film.......................................................P.29

La Corsa Delle Foglie Morte....................................P.35 Mauerfall...................................................................P.39 Itadakimasu!.............................................................P.59 Irene Interviews Gretchen Miura of Dairyuji..........P.73 Horoscopes.............................................................P.115

Film Review: Ohayo お早よう (1959) ......................P.127 December Log........................................................P.131 Get Crafty................................................................P.135 Kimbo Slice (of Life)............................................P.139

MEET THE AKITAN STAFF IRENE CAo Editor & Creative Director Hi, I’m Irene! I’m a 3rd year JET who’s got a penchant for flowers.

I like discovering new places and experimenting with different ingredients when I cook. I believe in trying everything, at least once.

Lexi Baker Freelance Astrologist I’m Lexi, a 3rd year JET who moonlights as a part-time witch. I dabble in star readings, the mystic arts, and love potions. I almost never use my powers for evil.

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Kim Bartos Webcomic Artist I’m Kim, a 2nd year JET in Kosaka Town.

I’m currently co-managing social media for the AkitaPRC. I’m obsessed with all things animation and have dedicated most of my adult life to that. I enjoy drawing, animating, learning languages, and adventuring out into the wilderness.

I’m prone to long-winded discussions about the spooky scary unexplained.

Peter Bond Film Review I’m Peter, I’m a 1st year JET in Yurihonjo City. When I’m not hiking or reading, I’m watching movies.

Classic Japanese Cinema, Japanese New Wave, and of course Non-Japanese movies as well.

Some favorite films of mine are : Mistress America, In the Mood for Love, Ran, Vertigo, The Act of Killing. Hit me up with any movie suggestions, always looking for more.

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3Rice fields, Andrea Danko

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Editor’s letter It’s my 3rd fall in Japan. “I wasn’t supposed to be here for so long,” is what I always say to myself. But here, I still am.

It never came to mind, that I would want to work and live in Japan for such a long time. And there are so many factors that have made me want to stay.

Things like the macaron icecream sandwiches that pop up at 7-eleven every so often, or the grapes that come into season in the early fall. Man...those grapes are good. But also things like the nature here is what made me stay.

Now, the winter holidays are coming and some of you may be going back to your families, or some may be spending your first winter holiday on your own. However you’re choosing to spend it, I hope you can make the most of it. Sleep if you need to sleep, eat if you want to eat...indulge! Explore places you’ve never been.

Happy Holidays!

Irene Cao, Editor & Creative Director

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Mt. Chokai, An

nthony Madry

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Iwate, Andrea Danko

Nikaho, Shelby Stark

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Mototaki Falls in Nikaho, Shelby Stark

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Autumn leaves, Irene Cao

Yokote Castle, Shelby Stark

Turning Over TRESIER MIHALIK

13 Fallen leaves, Tresier Mihalik

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The summer leaves no longer blush, Their prime now gone They fall and crunch.

The vibrant hue of long green reeds, Now cropped and brown, Are plucked and tied and carted off.

The mountains Proudly stand and take in stride The transition of green to yellow-Orange to red.

Its beauty changes But never fades, And thus retains the gaze Of all.

The waters that weave in and out And carve their path into the slopes Shiver as they shimmer in The fleeing of the sun’s warm glow.

As summer turns to autumn And the harvest comes to bear, This season of Turning over Creates the need to Stop And stare.

...

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15 Tazawako in Semboku, Irene Cao

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Tattered Leaves, Tresier Mihalik

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Foliage by night, Irene Cao

Taking the Long Route Around the River NATHANIEL SERES My soaked body is a gas canister on wheels Unwieldy and volatile, yet slick and cold As the rain that surrounds the runner shrouded In the pouring aurora of night-lights flaring Through the muck-oil Rorschach paintings of the trees.

The rain pours down its somber elegy And the lighting dances about it to light The silhouettes of what the eye wants to seeIt dives for meaning in this ocean of cracking sound and wavering color The crushing depths of the contrasts unquenchable No bottom in sight, a chrome cone of miraging length.

There is an oasis of warmth and definition at the end, But there is no way to reach it.

Some take the bridge, some the road, some the tram No one reaches it And its yellow glow burns Like the crucifix seen by Constantine A possible idea, but as nebulous as the edges of fire Wrestling the open skies.

...

It’s worth a visit!

Towada Hotel

LAURA PUERINGER

Opened in 1939, the Towada Hotel is a

figural part of the scenery of Lake Towada. Its golden glow makes it a memorable building, even if just seen from a cruise boat on the calm waters of the largest lake in Japan.

When I saw it for the first time, I

immediately put it on my bucket list to stay there at least once. When I got the chance to in September, I jumped on it immediately. It is an expensive place to spend the night, coming in at just over ¥20,000 plus beverages at dinner and breakfast. But if it’s an experience you’re wanting, it is worth every cent in my opinion.

While the heat of summer was still present

and heavy in the air during my stay, the crisp breeze from the lake and the mountain’s mist chilled the area just enough to make it seem like a fall getaway. The view of the trees covered in rolling fog come morning was mesmerizing.

It is a huge building. Although its clear

appearance from the lake makes the size of it well-known, it is something else to see it in person. Standing there in front of it, I had to take a moment and admire the beauty of the hotel

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Lake Towada, Brooke Dalgleish

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tucked away in the mountains. The main

windows to get a great view while relaxing.

building is constructed via traditional

Japanese architecture techniques. The

Akita specialty feast. Including iburigakko,

work of an imperial carpenter; the beauty

sashimi, hotpot, and the best roast beef,

of the Akita cedar is acutely accented

it was blended flavors of both Akita and

by careful consideration to details. The

Western foods. Even if you’re not a big

inside is just as golden and glorious as

hiker or onsen goer, I think the meal

the outside, a structure like I’ve never

makes the visit worth it. A major bonus

seen before in my life.

is the waiting staff who will tell you all

about each dish you get with a smile.

The lake is within walkable distance

to the hotel. The paths are clearly marked

for hiking routes, making an easy escape

to go for a refreshing get away. If you are

into nature possible. The onsen has both

a foodie, love nature and walking, or just

indoor and outdoor baths of perfect

enjoy unique getaways, check out Towada

temperature. Massage chairs are available

Hotel.

to use as well, situated right next to

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The meal served is a seven-course

All in all, Towada Hotel is the place

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**Photos courtesy of Laura Pueringer

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Dark Days FELIX CLUTSON

I’m gonna write this one in advance Before the setting of the sun Before the winter winds sweep me away Before the deed is done As the dark accelerates towards us You can’t help but stop at the sight Of halogen puddles that quiver and quench The sunlight pouring into night Maybe you won’t see it in the gloam My face hidden by the twilight As shortened days make light work of the sun Upon the fields, shadows become night

Cos I will try to hold my poker face And not show you with my eyes The hope that keeps me warm inside And could so quickly turn to ice So, here I stand, before Pre-empting Quelling hope and fear the same And wishing On every cloud-filtered sunbeam That when I open my mouth...

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I’ll flick Looking in the b Dancing And I’ll after the Hope That the beckon Climb o the air o In some gibberis

my glance upwards g at the strip-light shining bottle g on the water l try to tread one word e other

ey will come when I them out of me, and reach for outside e form that isn’t just sh

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I dare not hope for eloquence Or even brevity But there’s a cold breeze outside that tells me That mysteries uttered, must float or fall now Before the crunch of snow and blanket silence Crowds out any sounds of light And winter sinks its cold-cut teeth Into the trees across the road

The leaves are falling now What at first started a colourful tinkle Is become crescendo In the gathering days of dark and cloudwater Your feet as if drawn slowly trudge their way to bed To the warmth and the books of the not-outside Blanketed with cotton not rain

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But I’m not ready Not yet I want to linger on the corner Under the lights of the highrise Counting the spots of brightness As if each one was a story unto itself And that’s what I want to tell you To take you by the hand And tell you a story To whisper away the dark In the spin of a yarn And a turn of lexical pitch and toss And say that I want to hear a story too From you I’m tired of the clouds sending me home Of the lights in the streets only guiding me To the shops on the corner and the porch out the front So come with me

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The light still bobs in the bottle And I think of other nights in other lands When my heart was fit to burst For other reasons But now, in the cold twilight of day I want it to reflect in two pairs of eyes Across the table Across the seasons A twinkle, maybe That says let the drizzle sweep us Around the corner Into the blue-grey day And gone And not stop until we reach adventure

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I think this may be in vain But I’ll whisper the words Into yesterday’s hazy sunlight anyway Put my hands in my pockets And follow the stone I kicked across the street And see if the place over there sells any hope along with its ice cream

...

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Fall in Film Jillian Camille Yashica T4 Fujifilm Superia Venus 800

Jillian Camille Yashica T4 Expired Fuji Film

Rachel Stivicic Ricoh KR-10 SLR Fujifilm Superia Premium

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Irene Cao Superheadz Ultra Wide and Slim Lomography 800

Eric Badar Nikon F3 Ilford Delta 400

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Eric Badar Nikon F3 Fujifilm Superia 800

Eric Badar Nikon F3 Fujifilm Superia 800

Irene Cao Canon AE-1 Kodak Portra 400

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THE AKITAN Eric Badar Nikon F3 Ilford Delta 400

Jillian Camille Yashica T4 Expired Fuji Film

Jillian Camille Yashica T4 Fujifilm Superia Venus 800

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Jillian Camille Yashica T4 Fujifilm Superia Venus 800

Jillian Camille Yashica T4 Expired Fujifilm

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THE AKITAN Eric Badar Nikon F3 Ilford Delta 400

Irene Cao Canon AE-1 Kodak Portra 400

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La Corsa Delle

FELIX CL

I Standing on the hill As the ribbon road recedes I know it’s over Summer’s swept away Without a word Upped and gone The days swing short and sharp As the wind rolls and swoops Bouncing off the mountainside I can trace the line of the sea Grey against the whitish clouds Specks of crows puncturing the sky Next to me a leaf drops Joins its friends under the crash barrier

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Settles in for the rain and children’s boots Gathered at the side of the road They lie, patiently Aware that the sky will bring their end At the tipping point now Between dazzling mosaic And brown mush No wonder the tides and turns Of yellow and red beauty Haunt our misty minds But I hear something else On the breeze A different whisper

e Foglie Morte

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LUTSON

Route 398 in Miyagi Prefecture, Irene Cao

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II

As bells that strike the hour Peal in the shortening sun And yellowed leaves float fallen In the cooling river’s run

The thing is – it’s a secret I only found it out by chance When I was standing on the hillside And the leaves began to dance

And the rain falls on the hillside Grey clouds heavy with the load And whispered dark floats fallen Over footsteps on the road

The breeze it was that told me As it saw me standing gazing over town In whispered words of wind As the leaves came floating falling down

The darkness gathers dewdrops To sprinkle on the fields To glint softly in the cloudlight When a new day is revealed

There is if you glance carefully Shrouded in the morning mists At the tread of dawn and hidden streets A secret magic that exists As the world is torn asunder To make way for winter’s white The leaves burst forth with colour At the dying of the light

The crows take up the clarion call As they caw on through the gloom Wings reflected in the water They know it’s winter soon

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There’s an urgency in the atmosphere As the wind cuts through the square Of the scarcity of sunlit days A growing coolness in the air

And in their sombre trip to Earth You can see time fraying at the seams And the sun strikes different golden chords Playing hazy dawning dreams

You know, there’s something else though Amongst the falling skies The crows I’m sure can sense it It’s in their song and in their eyes

The yellowed leaves are the runes For the changing of the ways As colours run and breeze sweeps in These new world-tilted days

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It’s in that change the crows espy The magic seeping through the gaps Through swelling seas and changing leaves And through rainy pavement cracks So, step out in the drizzle Come down from northern lands And in birdsong and soft rain Feel the world turning in your hands While the winter cold comes down townwards And the sea wind gathers chill Look for the colours blazing out against The cold slinking towards us from the hills With hues glowing in your pockets Turn and face the sound Of daybreeze, crowsong, rainpatter Of ancient words swirling round

You’ll feel it first in your fingertips Hear it in the sound of the raining beat The crows across the road will tell you Up the hill is where you’ll secrets meet Silence falls on your shoulders now The world in quiet pools of light And twilight floats down fallen At the burgeoning of night Yet one last glance at colours And wise old crows amongst the leaves As autumn magic floats down fallen On the softly whispering breeze

...

If you look and listen closely To the drops bouncing at your feet And step skyward to the rhythm With the light sliding down the street

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Mauerfall FELIX CLUTSON

I don’t know about you, but I’m

thanks in part to the Egyptians, the Greek

always a bit ambivalent about New Year’s.

and Roman civilizations, a couple of Hindu

I love a good excuse for a party as much

mathematicians and some very talented

as the next bloke, but it always seems a bit

Arab scholars, but most of all our ten

over the top. January 1st will be exactly

little fingers, here we are. A little arbitrary

the same as the day before, apart from me

maybe, but our perception of significance

forgetting what year it is for three months,

in blocks of ten just about bears the

an inevitable headache, and probably a lot

weight of history and the physiology of

of waiting around, as there’ll be a reduced

the hands that carry it. So, let’s turn the

service on whatever bus/tube/train I need

clock back 30 years, to the helter-skelter

to get home.

autumn of 1989 – a number you have a 6th

The same can be said, I feel, for anniversaries. Why is a 50th any more important than a 49th or a 51st? Still,

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century monk from modern-day Romania to thank for, by the way.

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It is the 4th of September, and

Over the course of the Mondays that follow,

a weekly prayer meeting is being held

the demonstrations swell in number in

at the Lutheran church of St. Nicholas

the square by the church, and Germans

in Leipzig, the largest city outside of

in other cities start to follow suit.

East Berlin in the German Democratic Republic (East Germany to you and me).

The city lies about 160km south of Berlin, and historically was known as a place of the arts. Bach, Mendelssohn, Liszt and Wagner all lived there, it is one of the two sites of the National Library, and it was his time in this city which inspired the great Friedrich Schiller to write his poem Ode to Joy, which you may know from its use

in a little piece of music by some German

for the 40th anniversary of the country

lad called Beethoven. Ironically, our mate

were met with protests and consequently

Ludwig hailed from Bonn, which was the

hundreds of arrests. Two days later, there

capital of West Germany.

was a tension in the air. In expectation of

On the 7th of October, celebrations

Of course, these days, any young

large numbers, it was reported that 8000

Schillers have to write stuff that fits within

security troops had been readied. All eyes

some rigid socialist cultural parameters,

turned to the patch of ground outside

or you might start seeing some of your

a baroque church in Saxony. It was

colleagues talking to guys in grey jackets

reckoned that 120,000 people showed up

an uncanny amount.

in Leipzig that day. This also marked the

On this day, however, a group of people,

emergence to the wider consciousness of

aware that the Church, while not overtly

the defining slogan of those protests, ‘Wir

political, sympathises with their wish

sind das Volk!’ (‘We are the people!’).

for freedom from oppression, join the

meeting and afterwards stage a small

week later, Erich Honecker, the leader of

demonstration against the authorities.

the communist party and de facto head of

The numbers continued to grow. A

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state, was forced to resign. On the 4th of

the electric fence which ran along their

November actors and theatre employees

border with Austria. East Germans began

in East Berlin organised a demonstration

to find their way out, and after a superficial

at Alexanderplatz (site of the famous TV

change in travel regulations was met with

tower built by the East German regime).

outrage, the East German government

Estimates vary wildly, but somewhere in

decided they had no choice but to relax

the region of 500,000 showed up.

travel restrictions, and allow free travel

Amongst those who spoke to the

across the border. A press conference was

crowd that day was Gunter Schabowski,

called for the early evening of November

the East Berlin socialist party boss. It was

9th, and Schabowski was chosen to chair

a speech he gave the week after though,

it, despite not being involved in the

which he will be most remembered for.

decision, but was instead armed with

The first gap in the Iron Curtain had

a note from new leader Egon Krenz.

appeared in April, after revolution in

Famously, he was asked when the new

Hungary precipitated the dismantling of

regulations were to come into effect, to

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Berliners, before then also restricted, were

except Krenz had failed to avail him of

free to travel to East Berlin. In June 1990

that detail, so without anything informing

the state officially started dismantling the

him to the contrary, Schabowski replied

wall. Autumn came, and less than a year

that the changes would come into effect

after that wild night back in November,

immediately. Such historical events can

Germany

be triggered by such small accidents.

(reunification). The task of taking down

the wall itself was finally completed in

The

evening

news

from West

had

its

Wiedervereinigung

Germany, which had long managed

1992.

to broadcast into many East German

homes, brought it to the attention of

For

many in East Berlin, and as the evening

anniversary carries conflicting emotions,

lengthened into night, people began to

and it is not really considered a day of

gather at checkpoints along the wall. Just

celebration. Reunification was, perhaps

before 11pm, when it became clear that

inevitably, very complex and difficult, and

no one in the party would take personal

in many ways still is. Also, significantly, the

responsibility for forceful resistance of

9th of November was already an important

the growing numbers wanting to cross,

date in German history. On that night in

the checkpoint at Bornholmer Strasse was

1938 hammers were also used, but instead

opened, and the East Berliners poured

of walls, they were swung by Nazis to

over the bridge into a different country

smash the windows of Jewish businesses,

and a new era. They were met, reports say,

homes and synagogues. This is what

by joyful crowds with flowers waiting for

became known as Kristallnacht (crystal

them on the other side.

night) – called The Night of Broken Glass

in English.

For the wall, of course, this was the

Germany,

the

beginning of the end. The people took

It is also worth noting, reflecting

to their task passionately with hammers

this example of two very important events

and chisels in the coming days. On the

on the same date, that the 9th November

22nd of December, the Brandeburg Gate

was probably not even the most important

was opened, and the following day, West

day in 1989. Arguably, that was the 4th of

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June, when the joy of Solidarity winning

after, brought and will continue to bring

Poland’s historic democratic elections in

great complications, I like to think of the

a landslide, was contrasted tragically with

events of that night in the light of human

the events in Beijing, centred around

fellowship.

Tiananmen Square, where protesters and

I was lucky enough to live in Leipzig

bystanders alike were killed and wounded

for a year, and stand in that church where

by the authorities.

those demonstrators first stood, and Bach before them, and imagined what it must have felt like to stand there on those charged days. A city which suffered greatly after reunification, it has begun to grow again. Many like me, on an autumn day, just like this one, got the train up to Berlin and the tube to Alexanderplatz, which lies on the main road going

Just for a moment though, as the

through the heart of the city, running

leaves fall around us, I want to focus

under the Brandenburg Gate and away

on the wall again, and think about it as

westward. There is a stretch of the wall

it stands, or, well, falls in this case, as a

still up, decorated by artists from all over

symbol. Families, friends and neighbours,

the world at the East Side Gallery, right

who had been separated for years by

on the banks of the Spree. There, when

concrete were reunited, men and women

you consider the history of the tarmac

who had grown up not knowing what was

and stone around you, is where perhaps

down the end of their street were free

the idea of reunions can really hit home,

to roam. Citizens of the same city but

not only of nations, but of people, free to

different countries brought down what

spend time with each other, to share the

had become the world’s visual incarnation

view of the river together.

of the Iron Curtain, by coming together

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and saying ‘we are the people’. For that

So, thirty years ago, some concrete

reason, while I know the before, and the

fell amongst the leaves. Scattered the

THE AKITAN debris of its origins and the intervening years, I hope it reminds you, as it does me, that among other things, freedom and fellowship can have their moment in the low autumn sun.

**Photos courtesy of Felix Clutson

...

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45 Mt. Chokai, Irene Cao

s e r u t n e v d a

. ..

Au tum n

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Persimmons, Irene Cao

Yasu no Taki in Kitaakita, Brooke Dalgleish

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Oyasukyo in Yuzawa, Vincent Hsu

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Oyasukyo in Yuzawa, Vincent Hsu

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THE AKITAN Far left: Omoshiroyama hiking trail in Yamagata Top: Dairyuji Temple grounds in Oga, Akita Bottom: Autumn folliage at Dairyuji Temple Irene Cao

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Naruko Gorge in Miyagi, Irene Cao

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57 Yamadera in Yamagata, Irene Cao

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Itadakimasu!

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Harvest salad, Irene Cao

Recipe by Laura Pueringer

*Can be substituted 3 cups water and 3 bouillon cubes ((or Ajinomoto コンソメ blocks)

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Mille feuille nabe, Irene Cao

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Takikomi gohan, Irene Cao

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chocolate, Irene Cao 69 Hot Hand models: Vincent Hsu & Anthony Madry

71 Chrysanthemum flowers, Irene Cao

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It’s worth a try!

CHRYSANTHEMUM “Kiku” in Japanese The national flower of Japan (yes, that’s right, it’s not the cherry blossom!), is a popular autumn flower as well as the imperial seal of Japan. You can often see yellow or purple ones in the fresh produce section of your supermarket.

Incredibly fragrant, the Chinese dry them and make a chrysanthemum tea and is said to be “cooling” for the body when we eat too many fried foods and meat. When chilled, it’s a refreshing drink during the summer months!

In Japan however, many people will blanch the petals and have it with some light soy sauce or sesame dressing. If you keep your eyes peeled, you can even find chrysanthemum jam. It’s sweet and great with crackers, toast, or dissolved into hot water for a drink.

Experiment with these edible flowers! How about a sprinkle of petals for a pop of color in your salad and added vitamins A and C?

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Bonsai at Dairyuji, Irene Cao

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Irene Interviews...

Gretchen Miura of Dairyuji Temple

Recently, I sat down with Gretchen

Miura, a fascinating woman who, for me, has led one of the most interesting lives. She’s studied in Nepal, went to China, Tibet, India, Thailand...a mom of 4 kids and wife of Keno Miura, the head priest of Dairyuji Temple.

Dairyuji has a very special place in my

heart and is somewhere I can always go to, to reconnect with myself. I will tell almost everyone I meet about Dairyuji Temple. So here I am again, trying to tell a much wider audience about my favourite place in Akita.

Prior to coming onto JET, I had experienced many years of depression. It’s

something that’s quite hard for me to talk about, but going to therapy and being introduced to mindfulness and meditation, I was given tools to help me cope, not only with my depression, but also daily life.

My first year in Japan was quite hard. It was the first time that I lived alone and

I was always trying to find ways to connect with other people who were interested in yoga and mindfulness. I can’t express enough how the practice of mindfulness really changed my life, and so I actively seek it out. When I heard about Dairyuji’s Zen Mindfulness Retreat of Meditation and Yoga, I jumped on the opportunity. The 3 days that I spent at this retreat was such an enriching experience. I met people from all over the world, and made lifelong friends.

My experience at Dairyuji’s retreat was about 2 years ago, almost 3. When I was

asked this year, to come and help Gretchen and Keno at the retreat, I thought it was the perfect opportunity to show you what their temple is like, and what their retreats offer.

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The retreats run twice a year; one in fall, and one in spring, and last 3 days. The

retreats focus on mindfulness, meditation, and zazen (traditional Zen meditation), as well as yoga. It’s a great retreat for those who have no experience with meditation and it’s also a nice getaway from the routines of life. For 3 days, you can just sit, relax, connect with people, and experience staying overnight at a Japanese Buddhist temple.

Dairyuji tries to highlight locally sourced food, and gives you a chance to eat at

cafes or restaurants too. The retreats aren’t only about meditation and yoga. You also have the chance to get out, go to a museum, watch the Namahage Daiko performance, experience an onsen and much more. More importantly, the most valuable thing I took away from the retreat were the connections I formed with people I met, knowing I was offered a place to come back to to find peace, and teaching me to always keep my mind open.

Dairyuji is a Buddhist Temple of the Soto sect. It’s one of the major Zen sects out

of the 3 in Japan. Situated in Oga, in Akita Prefecture, with a concrete history of 500 years, the temple sits on top of a hill. The architecture of Dairyuji is quite unusual when compared to the mainstream Buddhist temples we usually encounter. It’s a temple that is made up of several buildings that loop around and features a courtyard. Some buildings were built by Keno’s father and grandfather. One of the current buildings is about 110 years old and was originally a summer home donated by a wealthy family who were members of the temple. With wide open windows that circle the building, one can sit and enjoy the inner water garden, or the breathtaking view of the Sea of Japan.

Keno is the 3rd head priest of his family, and currently the 38th at Dairyuji. Upon

meeting Keno and Gretchen for the first time 2 years ago, my expectation of what a priest was and how a Buddhist temple is, was completely changed. I wanted to learn more about Gretchen, so as I sat down at my local Starbucks (I’ve grown to really like Starbucks) with Gretchen, I had to ask...

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THE INTERVIEW Irene: You probably get this question a lot, but what’s it like being married to a Buddhist priest?

Gretchen: Well, you’ve met Keno. He’s very laid back and very easy to get along with.

Irene: Yes, he is so easy to talk to!

Gretchen: Right? Sometimes you have to dismiss what you think a Buddhist priest is; as very serious. He’s quite relaxed, funny, and has a lot of energy. So in terms of just our marriage, it’s very easy to be married to him. I forget that he’s a Buddhist priest, except for the fact that he’s bald and shaves his head! It doesn’t dominate our conversations. Clearly, it effects our

to move into that lifestyle already having lived in Japan while on JET?

lifestyle. I mean, it’s a big part of my life,

Gretchen: I was an ALT for one year here in

but person to person, it’s not a problem

Akita, in Ikawa-machi. I had another job

at all. The only thing that’s irritating

lined up in America, but had already met

sometimes is that he’s so nice and never

Keno. I went back to America, and Keno

gets mad. He’s really good natured, so it’s

and I continued our relationship. When

very easy to be married to him. Of course

we were serious, I thought, I could live in

it’s a whole different situation if we talk

Japan because it’s so fun and everyone was

about the social implications of being

so friendly while I was an ALT. Though,

married to him.

I was very naive because I was just an

Irene: Was it difficult in any way; for example in the beginning? Did you find it frustrating or was it quite easy for you

English teacher, and the expectations of an English teacher are radically different than what a community expects from a

76

priest’s wife.

We actually got married in America and my oldest son was born there. When we came back to Japan, I met his parents. It

77

very traditional part of the culture and I knew nothing. What I thought I knew about Buddhism or Zen was completely different.

was a huge shock to the system because

The members of the temple have always

when you’re an English teacher, people

been kind to me and given me space to

are really friendly to you and invite you

grow into the role as a priest’s wife. The

over. People felt standoffish towards

first few years were very hard and I didn’t

me because I was married and part of

really know what I was doing, and I felt

a temple, Dairyuji. There was not as

very isolated. I think there were some

much outreach as when I was an English

doubts about who I was. Like, how could

teacher. I don’t want to imply that anyone

this Westerner move in and become a

was mean, just the dynamic was different.

priest’s wife? But Keno and I decided

I really was very naive because it’s just a

early on that we weren’t going to listen to

THE AKITAN that. We just sort of ignored it.

Though as I settled in, I realized there was a deeper layer being a part of Japanese society. When my oldest son started

my head about how I should be behaving and what I should say. I was creating this sort of distance between who I am and who I really am.

elementary school, I really made a huge

Irene: How did you move on from that or

effort to be involved in the community

overcome that?

and the school, the temple, and speaking the language as well. In a lot of ways, that was good. I felt very much connected to the community. I learned a lot and had a lot of friends. But after 6-7 years of that, I felt I was losing myself. As a non-Japanese person, there’s this constant conflict of how I would raise my children in America vs. how I would raise my children in

Gretchen: In some ways, I felt really good with what I was doing because I was part of the community and there was a smoothness to it. It also felt like, for my children’s sake, there was cohesiveness to it. But I was starting to feel that it wasn’t working for me and was getting quite stressed, so I took a step back.

Japan. An example of this would be club

I actually took my kids back to America

activities after school. It takes a lot of

to go to an American school. I just took

commitment and frowned upon if you

a breather to reconnect with myself, with

don’t attend. I found myself sacrificing

my family, with my culture. And I did. I

every weekend, year after year.We couldn’t

came back after that year with confidence

take family vacations anymore, and it

to say, “How are you going to live here in

even impacted me taking my kids back

a way that is more aligned with who you

to America. We would go back for a long

are?”

time during summers and we couldn’t do

It was sort of like growing pains. You’re

that anymore. I found myself sacrificing

stepping out of the lines more. I think

things that were important to me like

fundamentally because I’m living long

family time. Japan is such a communal

term and I have my children here and

society and you feel that you’re supposed

I’m connected with the temple, I do feel

to act this way because it’s what the group

that it’s important to be respectful of the

is doing. I would often run things through

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79 Water garden at Dairyuji Temple , Irene Cao

THE AKITAN

80

culture.

I’ve been here almost 20 years, so some things just take time. I talked to Keno about this too, and took a step back and just asked how could I belong to this community and this temple in a way that I feel more comfortable with. There were a couple of years of those growing pains of not really knowing how to do that. I would

up and prep work. There’s a lot of greeting people and making sure I talk to everybody, since I’m Keno’s wife, and also just cleaning up. Sometimes a big ceremony will be 2-3 weeks of preparation and then 5 days of clean up. During big ceremonies, which is about 3 a year, we do have volunteers or a small staff to help.

say that the last 3-5 years, I’ve been really

Irene: Sounds like a lot of work! And to

happy here. It just comes, but sometimes

add on to that, you also run retreats.

it just takes a long time to settle in.

Gretchen: Right, and the retreats are sort

Irene: Could you tell me what an average

of connected to what I was saying before.

day for you would be like at the temple?

I was thinking, how could I be part of the

Gretchen: Well, I actually have a small handmade business, which is sewing things so I usually sew two days a week.

The other days, I’ll go to the temple.

At the temple we have a lot of people visiting, and it could be 2-3 people coming, or sometimes we get a whole group of people from City Hall or school trips. Sometimes big bus tours come too, so every day is a different amount of people. We always have to be prepared for

temple in a way that reflects something that I’m really excited about and that I like?

I really like Zen and meditation, and one big difference about Japanese temples that shocked me when I first came here is that Japanese temples tend to be just ceremonies. There are funerals, memorials, Obon, New Years... It’s a ceremony focused type of Buddhism.

There’s a big focus on ancestors too.

that. I normally don’t work at the temple

Japanese people’s perspective of a temple

on weekends unless there’s a ceremony.

is really just for funerals. It’s a very narrow

We also have a lot of ceremonies at the

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temple. Ceremonies take a lot of setting

vision of a temple and I really want to

THE AKITAN

Back of Dairyuji, Irene Cao

82

widen that. I want people to come to

You can have a very secular experience;

the temple and relax, have tea, do zazen

like enjoy the nature, have tea, relax... Or

or just come in and enjoy the grounds.

if you want more of a spiritual experience,

My husband does a lot of events at the

clearly there’s a lot of history, and Keno

temple, but even more, I’m trying to open

can talk more deeply about Buddhism.

it up to meditation and mindfulness.

Irene: In Japan especially, temples almost

(meditation) classes that were open to

seem closed off and private. Your temple

people. I mean, I was projecting what

has a very warm atmosphere to it. How

I had learned in America. Japanese

did you and Keno create this atmosphere

communities in America still maintain

and make it feel more open to people?

those traditional ceremonies, but outside

Gretchen: Thank you that makes me very happy!

those immediate Japanese communities, when you think of Zen, it’s sort of this esoteric, meditation, Alan Watts... very

That’s something we’ve talked a lot about.

different from Zen in Japan. Having said

We have this temple, and I just want to

that though, zazen is at the core of Zen

share this space with people. Whatever

Buddhism.

they’re needing that day, they can find what they need. If you need someone to talk to, we want to talk to you. If you need some quiet space, that’s fine too. Keno is very good at that; he’s an easy presence to be with.

So, I kept asking my husband, “why don’t you have meditation?” and he didn’t really know. I was really happy when about 5 years ago, he started an early morning meditation every Thursday that’s open to anybody. It’s a small thing, but I thought

Sometimes I think that it’s too simple,

it was very significant. More people are

but my deepest desire is to just welcome

asking Keno and me to lead meditation

people and let them know they have a

groups now. Before 5 years ago, it wasn’t

place to come. The other thing I like

something that we even offered and no

about Buddhism is that it’s a religion yes,

one asked us about it.

but you don’t have to believe anything.

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I also noticed there were no zazen

Irene: I remember you ran some afternoon

THE AKITAN

zazen days at Dairyuji for a time, which

always been quite progressive and doing

was free for anyone who was interested.

events. But he would do more big events

Even going in for a little bit was such a

like concerts and different markets. I

great experience.

think they’re great too, but I also wanted

Gretchen: Yeah, let’s say you come for just 2 hours and do a bit of meditation and just talk and eat. It makes the temple experience really casual and accessible.

I’m so happy you find the temple so warm and welcoming though, because that is at my core. It’s my dream for the temple; to make it feel welcoming to everyone.

something more intimate.

Irene: Is that why you created the retreats?

Gretchen: Definitely, and of course the retreats have been really good since I’m contributing to the temple and participating; just more in line with what I care about, which is meditation and mindfulness. It’s also a wonderful way to

It’s something Keno and I talk about, and

invite foreigners to come into the temple.

I would say he was doing that and he’s

A lot of times, when foreigners visit the

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85 Temple tour, Irene Cao

Water garden, Irene Cao

temple, they get really excited because

a really good group of people. Part of it

they’ll go to the big temples but they don’t

was that I like meditation and it was just

get an opportunity to just see a normal

sorely lacking from the temple. Like what

temple and go inside it to relax.

we talked about before, I wanted to make

Irene: Going off the topic of your Mindfulness and Yoga Retreats...I really want people to know about the retreats since I love them so much!

How long have you been doing this retreat for, and also what made you want to start the retreat?

it for foreigners because whether you’re living here long term, travelling, or an English teacher, I do want there to be a space for people to come to relax, talk, be themselves and also see a part of Japan that maybe is sometimes hidden.

Temples do have this imposing feeling, as though you can’t go in. I want people

Gretchen: Well, you came on my first

to come in and enjoy themselves. It was

retreat! That group was such a great

really just everything that I care about.

group and we had so much fun. It was

Also for me, it’s a sense of belonging. I really struggled with finding a sense of belonging. How do you find belonging when you don’t naturally fit in, or you’re putting on a show for everybody? I want people to feel like they belong, even if it’s a temporary community. Sometimes you have to create that; sometimes it can’t just be handed to you.

I know many Japanese people who are so welcoming, so it’s not a criticism, but it’s just how do you find a sense of belonging when you live in such a different culture?

That’s something that I’ve gone up and down with and struggled with. So that

87

THE AKITAN

was also at its core as to why I created this retreat.

great experience to just sit.

Gretchen: It’s totally difficult. Our minds

And of course, I really like meditation, as

are constantly going. A lot of people say

mentioned before. It’s something that has

to me, “Oh, I could never meditate or go

been consistently grounding for me in

on your retreat because I’m so anxious or

my life. Meditation is quite easy. It’s hard,

always thinking.”

but easy.

Irene: It’s hard to just sit and do nothing!

We’re so used to doing something and you almost get frustrated at yourself when you can’t just sit. You can’t play with your phone...I mean you just have to take in your surroundings and not judge. I find that incredibly difficult, but it’s also a

Irene: That’s probably a good reason to go on the retreat. *laughs* Gretchen: Right? We’re all like that, so it’s great to step out of your routine and have that space to say, “Okay, we’re going to meditate.” I myself can be lazy. I don’t do it all the time, but if there’s a place to sit and go to do it, it’s a lot easier.

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89

Lunch at Dairyuji Retreat, Irene Cao

THE AKITAN

90

I always feel really good after I meditate.

The environment that you create in your

It creates a lot of space in my mental

retreats, you don’t have to put on this

and emotional life to be present with

facade. It’s not just about what country

people. To be grateful and happier, more

you’re from. I mean, that doesn’t really

fulfilled. I started meditation since I was

matter anymore, and you just talk. What

in college and it’s been an adult, lifelong

your temple provides is this way of

thing where I thought, I have this temple

connecting people, and forming really

and want to provide and welcome people.

close relationships within the span of 3

Almost selfishly, I want to have that for me

days.

too. About 6 years ago, where I was sort of going through my reconfiguration, I just started floating that idea. I was almost expecting Keno to take the idea and run with it, but he wasn’t. So then I thought, I’ll do it and I’ll do it the way I want to. It’s sort of the reason why I thought to do it in English; to do it for foreigners because we do have something in common.

example this past retreat which you helped, I really felt that if one person wasn’t here, it would have changed the dynamic. I thought it was quite an eclectic group of people, but by the 3rd day, everyone’s comfort level had changed. It was such an amazing transformation. I feel so happy about that. Everyone just shows up, and

Irene: Even being an ALT and having this

I hate this word, but everyone shows up

ALT community in Akita, which is a great

so authentically. I’m always touched that

support system, I still find it really hard

people come up and let other people into

to connect with my own community. But

their lives as much as they’re comfortable

having a space and meeting other ALTs,

with, again, with what they need at that

for example in the first retreat that you ran,

moment. So I agree, I think it’s just really

and the one I recently helped out with, I

special.

feel like it’s a really great environment to get to know each other. Not just ALTs, but people from all over the world as well as Japanese people.

91

Gretchen: It’s really quite magical. For

Irene: Yes, I agree completely. For me, that’s the best part of the retreat. For you though, what do you enjoy the most about the retreat?

THE AKITAN

Breakfast at Dairyuji Retreat, Irene Cao

92

Dairyuji altar, Irene Cao 93

THE AKITAN Gretchen: I would say, that’s definitely

they can walk away with some meditation

it. What we were talking about; it’s the

or techniques where they can bring some

people and it’s the connection. We’re all

calm or awareness, and like you said, non-

looking for connection right? Even if it’s

judging into their lives. Those are really

just a spark or temporary; it feels nice.

wonderful skills to have.

We’ve done 5 retreats so far, and each one has its own magic of people coming together. I do feel like Keno and I’s role is

Irene: Could you tell us a little more about what Mindfulness is?

to facilitate that, and make sure everyone

Gretchen: Sure, Mindfulness is sort of

feels welcome and that everyone has space

under the umbrella of Buddhism, but it’s

to be themselves. But it’s also a two way

also quite popular now worldwide.

street of people also being themselves. I’ll

Irene: How did you get into, and learn

just say that I actually really like planning

about Mindfulness? What draws you to

them. It’s really fun for me, and it’s really

Mindfulness?

nice working with Keno.

Gretchen: That’s a huge question, but

Irene: I noticed that your retreats draw

I think that it really hit me at a very

people from all walks of life, regardless

impressionable age when I was younger.

of religion and culture. We all walk away

I grew up on the East Coast; I grew up

with something from the 3 day weekend.

Catholic and had a really nice childhood.

Gretchen: Right! Again, I really like

But when I went to Asia for the first time,

meditation and Buddhism, but I also

it was such a shock. When I personally

want to offer a space for people to feel

interacted

that there’s a secular element in it as

during my study abroad in Nepal, it was

well. Mindfulness is not really religion.

so amazing to me. I didn’t really have a

People can come here and they don’t

connection to the Catholic Church. It

have to be Buddhist. I try to incorporate

never really resonated with me, but I

mindfulness activities as well because I

thought, I like meditation and Buddhism.

don’t have an agenda about Buddhism so

It’s just seeing yourself and being with

much. I just really want people to feel like

yourself. Being honest, and being honest

with

Tibetan

Buddhism

94

Admiring the water garden, Irene Cao

with the world. It has really helped me.

Buddhism?

Irene: It helps everyone, I think. I know

Gretchen: That’s a good question! A lot

everyone can use a bit of mindfulness

of people ask that. The core of Zen is

practice in their lives.

meditation and in Buddhism, there are the

Gretchen: Yeah, you can have a 40 minute a day practice, a 1 min a day practice, or even 1 min a month. You can leave it and come back to it. It’s given me so much in my life having a meditation practice, and more these past years going deeper into Mindfulness.

Irene:

What’s

Right Speech, Right Effort, Right view....

One of the paths is Right Mindfulness.

It’s an element of Buddhism, but it can be distilled into a secular version. And as you said before, mindfulness is being aware and having an awareness. It can be

the

main

focus

a

physical

awareness, emotional

of

awareness...just a feeling of being aware

Mindfulness? What are the elements that

and being aware in a non-judgemental

are Zen, and how does it connect with

97

4 noble truths and 8 paths. For example,

THE AKITAN that’s creating space so you’re not as tight.

There’s more spaciousness and more willing to see the other person’s point of view. You see things a little more clearly.

I feel that meditation and mindfulness practice

translates

into

life,

in

relationships, into your work, into your way. That’s what mindfulness is and of

parenting. I want to offer this at Dairyuji

course that plays out in a lot of ways in

and have people walk away with these

your life.

tools.

What

offer

Irene: Your temple definitely offers a

mindfulness

spaciousness and openness. What I like

meditation. In Zen Buddhism, zazen

about the retreats is that you get a little

traditionally is a meditation where you sit

snippet of what traditional zazen is like,

and no one really talks. There’s not a lot

but also what mindfulness meditation

of talking, which I actually love. Whereas

is. It’s two different ways of meditating.

mindfulness meditation may have a little

Having the experience of the morning

more guidance, so you’re being guided

meditation and morning zazen at the

more by connecting through your breath

retreat has been great.

at

I’m

Dairyuji

interested retreats

in, and is

or doing body scans. A lot of times it’s just anchoring in your body. There are a little more techniques in mindfulness.

Gretchen: I really love hearing your perspective. That makes me really happy,

I found zazen to be great, but I found that I needed more guidance and help.

So for me, the big question is how do you translate meditation into your life?

So when you’re feeling really stressed at work, what if you have a tool to calm yourself down? If you meditate every day,

98

and I do agree. I like zazen. It’s sort of

Irene: I actually wanted to ask you about the

austere you know, sitting and having this

Japanese community, about your in-laws

posture. It’s very serious and you’re afraid

and how they view the retreats that you’re

to cough and afraid to move even though

running at your temple. You incorporate

your legs are dead asleep. That can be

a lot of western influences into Dairyuji,

intimidating.

like the retreat and mindfulness day

Irene: Yeah, I think mindfulness is a good entryway.

Gretchen: Yes! It’s an entryway and it’s also something that you can really bring into your life in snippets. I think some people compare meditation to exercise.

Like creating muscles in your body so later, you can exercise better.

99

workshops. Do they support what you’re doing? Do they like that the temple is becoming more open and accessible to people?

Gretchen: I think they’ve been very accepting. And again, I had to give them time. I’ve been here for a long time and I’ve talked about it for a long time and

THE AKITAN introduced it slowly. I do care what people in a community think because I don’t ever want to be disrespectful, but I don’t worry too much at the same time.

In general though, I think the community has been very positive about our retreats because it brings tourism. For example, Unshoji that does the hydrangeas in the summer months, they’re our best friend!

Their hydrangeas have nothing to do with Buddhism, but has brought so much tourism to Oga. Temples in Japan are really in a crisis because the population is dwindling and people don’t want to spend a lot of money on funerals or memorials anymore. There’s a big shift. So there’s that reality, of how do you make a temple sustainable

financially?

Temples

are

turning to different ways to make money.

avenues to support a temple financially.

It’s not a secret that Akita’s population is dwindling and it’s a crisis. Oga’s population is dwindling as well.

Each temple is its own entity, like a small

Keno and I work together all the time.

business. There’s nothing but you, and so

It’s really fun to work with him and it’s

that means you’re completely dependent

been nice to try different things at the

on the members.

temple. We’ve also gotten a lot of positive

Irene: I’d assume dependent on donations, right?

Gretchen: Yes, definitely donations. So I feel that it’s ok to look for different

reactions to the retreat from newspapers and TV shows.

Irene: It kind of draws attention not only to the temple, but also Oga and Akita in general doesn’t it?

100

Gretchen: Yeah! Actually, AIU came to do

In the last retreat, 3 people were actually

a seminar at our temple and used our

travelling all around Japan, but they came

retreat as an example of a sustainable way

up to Tohoku just for the retreat. I was so

to promote local tourism. They were a

excited about that. Last weekend, we had

small group, but it was a mix of exchange

some people from Amsterdam stay with

students and Japanese students. It was

us because they heard about the temple.

interesting to hear their candor since the

I mean, it’s just a drip; a teeny tiny drip,

exchange students thought it was really

but when you try to connect the whole

cool to stay at a temple and do meditation,

community like incorporating local food,

whereas the Japanese students felt it was

restaurants, shows like the Namahage

odd and wouldn’t have considered it.

Daiko that we have as activities in our

To a foreigner, it seems really cool, so they’re highlighting the retreat at Dairyuji as a way of sustainable tourism.

retreats, it not only benefits the temple, but also the whole community because we’re all interwoven.

Irene: Sounds like it benefits the locals!

I love Dairyuji so much, and Oga is just breathtaking no matter what season.

When I meet people who haven’t been to Oga yet, I always tell them how they NEED to visit Dairyuji.

Gretchen: I’m so happy to hear that! Oga’s such a small community and we don’t need many people to visit, but if we do have more people visit, because our temple is an English speaking temple, it does benefit our community.

Irene: For people who join your retreat, just seeing the dynamic between you and

101

Keno is fascinating. We don’t often see

THE AKITAN a Buddhist priest and his wife casually

Irene: As a final question, what do you

interacting with each other. We usually

want people to take away from the retreat

just see the priest. On the retreat, you get

and your temple?

to stay at this temple, and be there after hours. You get to see how a temple family operates, along with their children. You get to see what temple life is like without having to be at the temple for months to really see that side of life.

Gretchen: I do want people to just take away a sense of calmness or just a sense of finding a place to relax and a place for connection. The temple is our home and I don’t want Buddhism or Zen to be something way over there. Again, I want

Gretchen: Wow, yeah you’re right. You want

people to come and find whatever it is

to peel back the layers and see what’s

they need, to enjoy the temple grounds,

really going on. And I want people to see

and to be at peace.

that side of Japan.

END

102

If you are ever in the Oga area, please visit Dairyuji when you get the chance! If

you are curious about the retreats, don’t hesitate to send a quick email to Gretchen for more information. Or keep your eyes peeled for posts about the retreat on the Akita JET Facebook Page. Gretchen often posts about upcoming retreats there!

*Photo of Gretchen Miura was provided by her **All photos used in the interview courtesy of Irene Cao

...

Dairyuji Temple

103

Address:

船川港船川字鳥屋場34 Oga, Akita

Email:

dairyuji.oga@gmail.com

Website:

https://www.dairyuji-oga.com

Call:

0185-24-3546

THE AKITAN

Dairyuji

104

Autumn foliage at Dairyuji, Irene Cao

105

Zazen at Dairyuji, Irene Cao

THE AKITAN

106

Bell tower at Dairyuji, Irene Cao

107

THE AKITAN Goddess of Mercy, Irene Cao

108

Dairyuji garden, Irene Cao

111

Left: Dairyuji hallway Top: Entrance of Dairyuji Bottom: Sitting area Irene Cao

113

THE AKITAN

114

Bell tower at Dairyuji, Irene Cao

Written in DECEMBER SAGITTARIUS (November 22 - December 21) Mercury has finally slid into Sagittarius

Cap

after lingering by Scorpio for months, and

mom

you’re sure to feel its spark. This planet

of p

rules communication, so don’t be surprised

end

if you see your social opportunities

over

expanding! As your birthday approaches,

dem

enjoy the influx of friends and fun times.

Plut

However, it’s important to think before

Betw

you leap. You might be feeling the urge

two

to be extra generous with your time, your

likel

thoughts, and even your money—but don’t

out.

overindulge. It’s important to stay in touch

brin

with your long-term goals, too—especially

a fu

the financial ones. As long as you proceed

on e

with just a little bit of caution, future you

how

will be very grateful!

chan

seei This month’s lucky conbini snack: Lawson’s

Hap

Choco Cream Danish. It totally counts as a balanced breakfast.

This

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lil b

115

the stars...

THE AKITAN

HOROSCOPES BY LEXI BAKER

CAPRICORN

AQUARIUS

(December 22 - January 19)

(January 20 - February 18)

pricorn has always had a role in defining

Jupiter’s

ments of great change, and as a ton

throughout all the signs, and Aquarius is

planets converge on your sign at the

no exception. If you’ve been feeling rough

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ly been feeling completely wrung

See what you can salvage, and cast away

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anything beyond your power. Plus, right

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be rolling into your sign and giving you

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w deeply and positively you’ve been

After your emotional spring cleaning, this

nged by it. Breathe, and expect to start

transit will offer a welcome new romance

ing your hard work pay off in 2020!

or a strengthening of existing bonds.

transit

is

sending

waves

ppy birthday!

This month’s lucky conbini snack: Family

s month’s lucky conbini snack: 7-11’s

Mart’s Caramel Nut Tart. It’s fresh, it’s

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exciting, it’s nutty (like you).

birthday treat. You deserve it!

116

PISCES

ARI

(February 19 - March 20)

(March 21

You can’t control the way other people think

Both Eris and Chiro

or feel, and it’ll only bring you grief if you

through your sign,

try. Know that the decisions you’ve made

a little wild. Eris ca

have been in your best interest. There’s

something

no shame in taking care of yourself before

own independence,

others sometimes! Neptune is still at home

uncomfortable insig

in your sign, giving you the understanding—

may have been avoi

and the validation—that you know exactly

You sometimes act

what you need. This month, why not treat

and pick fights with

yourself a little and recover from the stress

consequences—whic

you’ve been under? Additionally, the full

effect of covering u

moon on the 12th will offer you a boost of

trying to ignore. Howe

energy and clarity for the rest of December,

you really want to br

allowing you to break down walls and foster

new decade? What’s

honest and productive communication

compromising every

with those that matter to you. You’ll be okay,

is the perfect time to r

Pisces. Onward to 2020!

and start living authe

that

re

foundation for 2020 a This month’s lucky conbini snack: Lawson Barley

Butter

Rolls. You

know

how

This month’s lucky c

sometimes bread and butter is literally the

hamburger. It’s no B

best thing you can put in your mouth? Yeah!

of all the conbini ha month, 7-11 was the

117

THE AKITAN

IES

TAURUS

- April 19)

(April 20 - May 20)

on will be transiting

Your life has been quiet but pleasant

and it’s making you

recently—you’ve been able to try new

arries chaotic energy,

things and explore new relationships.

esonates

your

However, retrograde Uranus is lurking on

while Chiron offers

the horizon. This will bring about another

ght into things you

period of questioning your personal goals,

iding about yourself.

your values, and the growth you’ve already

t without thinking,

done. Are you happy where you currently

hout considering the

are? What do you feel is missing, and how

ch

bonus

can you take steps to secure it for yourself

up insecurities you’re

in the future? 2020 has the potential to be

ever, is this the energy

a big year for you, but only if you’re willing

ring with you into the

to be flexible and roll with opportunities as

really so awful about

they arise. A little hard work isn’t anything

once in a while? This

to be afraid of—the results will be more

reassess relationships

than worth it!

has

with

the

entically, so that your

and beyond is secure.

This month’s lucky conbini snack: Oden.

You’ve seen all the conbinis offering oden,

conbini snack: 7-11’s

right? Like...maybe it’s time for you to try

Big Mac set, but out

it. You know you’re curious.

amburgers tested this clear winner!

118

GEMINI (May 21 - June 20) Jupiter is making its way through Capricorn, and this transit is currently lighting up the part of your chart that deals with intimacy and love. Things might be currently in flux; perhaps a new relationship is forming in your life, or an existing relationship is on its way out. Regardless of your current situation, you may find yourself drawing plans you initially tried to skim over, or starting to lay down the groundwork for a new future goal. This kind of energy is a lot more introspective and heavier than you might be used to, but it is vital for your growth. Keep on your path! 2020 is just around the corner with all sorts of new experiences and personal growth. This will all have been worth it!

This month’s lucky conbini snack: Curry bread! Warm up those cold fingers.

119

CAN

(June 21 -

The full moon in you

welcome reminder to

go of things that aren’

out for you. As always

think, but don’t let y

your judgment! As 20 want to take with you

What do you want to

has been overwhelm

what has been holdi

fear change—embra

to grow. This is the

something new, or m

you’ve been stressing

will help you land on

This month’s lucky con

hot cocoa. Soothe you

THE AKITAN

NCER

- July 22)

LEO (July 23 - August 22)

ur sign this month is a

As you get ready to welcome 2020, you

o stop, breathe, and let

might be feeling spread a little thin. This

’t necessarily working

is a great time to start managing your

s, you feel before you

time effectively! It’s easy to say yes to

your sensitivity cloud

everything, but it’ll leave you burned out

020 nears, what do you

and exhausted by the time the new decade

into the new decade?

arrives, which isn’t a good look. Instead,

o leave behind? What

why not reflect on and prioritize your

mingly positive, and

biggest goals now, so that you head into

ing you back? Don’t

the new year with a solid plan and clear

ace the opportunity

steps to achieve your dreams? Whether

e perfect time to try

you want to focus on your career, your

make that risky move

education, or your relationships next year,

g over. Jupiter’s transit

you have the drive and charm to achieve it.

n your feet.

You just need to pull yourself together and focus on what’s really important to you!

nbini snack: Lawson’s

ur soul.

This month’s lucky conbini snack: Strawberry Jelly-Filled

Marshmallows. Fruit

jelly

marshmallows are a fun snack year-round, but the strawberry flavor really brings the Japanese Christmas cheer!

120

VIRGO (August 23 - September 22)

121

LIB

(September 23

This month, the full moon might illumi-

Your sign is ruled by V

nate an unpleasant truth about a close

you just love to be in

friend or loved one, and your resulting

it’s the perfect weath

hurt might make it difficult to respond

someone under the

appropriately. Try not to react before you

as your ruling plane

think; it’s important to consider every-

your sign, it might be

one’s needs, not just your own. Lower

about your relations

your walls with others, and thank your

and platonic. If thing

loved ones for their honesty. They need

or if your hard work

your guidance—and they’ll pay back

unappreciated, it’s o

your support tenfold when you need it in

of whatever’s fallen o

the future. Relationships require equal

deserve people in you

engagement from all parties in order to

halfway out of joy, n

thrive, and you’ll want to go into the new

away the people who

decade with all the people you care about

feel good or suppor

at your side!

2020 without guilt or

This month’s lucky conbini snack: Strawber-

This month’s lucky con

ry Toppo. Share it with someone you care

Winter Potato Chips

about!

Flavor). Get seasonal,

THE AKITAN

BRA

3 - October 22)

Venus, and sometimes love (especially when

her to cuddle up with

e kotatsu!) However,

et transits away from

e time to think deeply

ships, both romantic

gs aren’t feeling right,

k is being repeatedly

okay to simply let go

out of alignment. You

ur life who meet you

not obligation! Clear

o no longer make you

rted, and move into grief.

nbini snack: Calbee’s

s (Powdered Cheese

SCORPIO (October 23 - November 21) Have you considered a change of scenery recently? The winter holidays might be the perfect time to shake things up and invite a friend to take a trip with you! Mars is currently glowing in your sign, offering you the drive and energy to accomplish anything you take on.

This is also an excellent time to practice flexibility and welcome new opportunities and friendships into your life. 2020 has the potential to be a vibrant year for you if you step out of the edges of your comfort zone—why not allow yourself to be under the spotlight for once? New year, new you.

Go ahead and enjoy your popularity!

This month’s lucky conbini snack: Calbee’s “Satsumariko” sweet potato sticks. It’s, like, basically a vegetable.

, get snacky.

122

123

Left & Right: Entsuin Temple in Matsushima Bay, Irene Cao

125

THE AKITAN

126

Fall Illumination at Matsushima Bay, Irene Cao

Film Review

PETER BOND

お早よう (1959) YASUJIRO OZU

I cannot count how many

They even refuse to even say good

fart jokes are in this film. They are

morning to others on their way to

many with multiple conversations

school. This conflict is at the center

alongside them, and even once with

of the plot, but the movie has more

a bombastic music cue. The humor

in mind. The aforementioned bodily

comes from two young boys, and

humor serves merely as surprising

posits a timelessness to the simple

exclamation points in what is a

pleasures of scatological humor.

quite thoughtful film.

The commitment to these jokes

The

movie

is

still,

both surprised me and brought me

purposeful.

to raucous laughter. However to

naturalism found in much of Ozu’s

focus on this, would miss the beauty

work. A camera placed on the tatami,

of this piece of classic Japanese

thoughtfully watching life trickle

cinema. Good Morning is Yasujiro

through our characters. The movie

Ozu’s fiftieth film and his second

doesn’t go anywhere at all, because

shot in color. Set on the outskirts

Ozu wants us to stay within these

of Tokyo, the movie tells the story

moments. It’s a movie dedicated

of a pair of two young brothers who

to observing how, why and what it

want a television. Their mother

might mean to say お早よう.

refuses, and the boys enter a pact of silence until they get their way.

Dedicated

to

and a

“Adults talk too much.” The older

brother

declares

before

listing the proper pleasantries of

these omissions. In addition to the

a Japanese society: Hello, Nice

brothers, the film weaves in the lives

Weather, Good

Morning. These

of the mothers of the neighborhood

children come to their frustration

and their conflict over dues to

and their silence only after the

a women’s club. We watch this

language of childhood has failed to

conflict as women scurry from

persuade their parents. Both mother

home to home to gossip, but always

and father socialize in the language

maintaining a facade of politeness;

of adults, and the children cannot

conveying frustration and furor

understand why. The language of

with a polite hello. The young boy’s

these adults is saturated with the

English teacher wrestles with how to

unsaid, attempting to communicate

articulate his feelings to the woman

by omission.

he loves. The teacher, a soft spoken

The

film

is

dedicated

to

man who can’t help but discussing

observing

the

consequences

of

the weather. He continues on his

romantic pursuit, but is hamstrung

they haven’t gotten around to the

by his silence. And finally we have

important things. The things that

children

and

are more messy, more human than

vice versa. All of these characters

the meaningless things that can so

struggle with the difficulties of

easily fill up a conversation. Ozu

human communication, to speak to

doesn’t condemn these characters,

others and understand. All hopeless

he portrays these shortcomings

attempting to express themselves,

as part of our fallible humanity,

but unable to communicate how

something we’ve all succumb to.

they truly feel.

He does ask you though, to observe

An

scolding

answer

parents

to

the

film’s

underlying question is articulated

what might be lost if we only say good morning.

as, “Get around to important things.”

Yet, within this wisdom is the deep struggle of the film and the beauty

...

as well. Characters find a security and a pleasure in saying good morning. Ozu defends greetings and

small

talk,

understanding

the need for such things. His characters are suffering because

“Important things are difficult to say.

Whereas meaningless things are easy to say.”

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Fall to winter, Irene Cao

THE AKITAN

December Log:

It’s the most wonderful time of the year...

ANNIES JOY

December is a time for longing; spiritually, mentally, socially. December is often said to be the loneliest month of the year , and Christmas goes hand in hand with being known as the loneliest time of the year. If you are living alone, then I guess you tend to notice it more. I’m starting to notice it this year.

But what makes it more apparent? Is it the cool winds making you want to snuggle up close to someone?

Is it the decorations, the lights and the exciting chitter chatter of the people that beam with Christmas spirit making you want to share it with someone?

Christmas is depicted with families, gatherings, friends, loved ones, presents... I guess you need at least one other person for these things. It’s not a void that can easily be filled when you’ve packed your bags and moved to another country.

But do I regret this decision? No, not at all.

Opportunities like these don’t come by easily, so sometimes you have to be selfish and grab at it. And I did.

It’s been four months. Some would call it long. Others call it short. You see it’s just a matter of perspective.

132

Yes, it definitely has its ups and downs, but so does everything else. That’s just the way life is. You get the good, the bad, and the ugly. But somehow, the good triumphs at the end and that is enough to keep me happy. The consequence of all this is that this is my first Christmas alone and away from family and friends. And it kind of feels weird and incomplete. You kind of feel lost... just a little.

I’d be lying to myself if I say there aren’t times in the day where I don’t suddenly feel empty. There are things I experience... things I see, feel, and touch that I want to share with someone. But distance, and time can be such a pain in the neck sometimes.

What I learned so far from my four months, is that being on your own makes you appreciate the small, fine details in your life. You notice every kind deed and action.

Things you have taken for granted before, you remember them. You start to treasure them. You want to shout out to the world how thankful you are to them. And I’m not going to lie, I’ve embarrassingly done that a few times already.

What I’m trying to say is this, Christmas is a time where you might inevitably start feeling down, but when you start to appreciate the little things in life, you start to enjoy a different kind of magic.

133

THE AKITAN

So if you are alone this Christmas, don’t lose hope. And if you know people who are alone, offer them a minute or so of your day. It might mean more to them than you think.

...

134

135DIY festive wreath, Irene Cao

y t f a r C t Ge

THE AKITAN

h t a e r W Y IRENE CAO I D

MATERIALS NEEDED Wreath base

Glue gun

Dried fountain grass*

Dried cotton flowers

Mini pine cones

Large pine cones**

Decorative balls Wreath base, dried cotton flowers, mini pine cones, and decorative balls were bought at Daiso. *I collected some dried fountain grass, but dried leaves, flowers, or twigs can also be used. **Larger pine cones were also collected and later painted with gold and white spray paint. Painting them is optional.

136

STEP 1 Trim stems of dried fountain grass, leaves, flowers (whatever you chose to use) and fit them into the wreath base. Slowly make your way around the base.

STEP 2 Using the wire end of dried cotton flowers, wrap them around the wreath base in an arrangement that you like.

STEP 3 Use a glue gun to attach the pine cones around the wreath. Try to make it asymmetrical.

STEP 4 Pull the wire bit out of the decorative balls. Use a glue gun to glue them in place.

Try to fill empty spaces, and arrange them near the pine cones.

And you’re done! **Photos used in tutorial courtesy of Irene Cao

...

THE AKITAN COMIC SECTION

KIMBO SLICE (OF LIFE) KIM BARTOS A non-sequential, comic strip-based, slice-of-life comic that follows “me” and my various interactions with wacky students, coworkers, and townsfolk while living in the inaka of Japan. Everything you are about to read is true.*

*Except the things that aren’t

CHARACTERS

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THE AKITAN

Hello my dudes! I’m Kim and I’m currently an ALT in the cozy town of Kosaka in Northern Akita.

I’ve been drawing as a hobby for as long as I can remember, and although I still have a lot to learn and improve upon, I wanted to share this fun comic I’ve been working on. It’s a lighthearted, not to be taken seriously, slice-of-life comic based on real (and not so real) events that have occurred during my first, and now currently second year as an ALT. My hobbies also include talking (i.e obsessing over) spooky scary things such as ghosts, yokai, and the like. I also love baseball and volleyball; food is way up on that list as well.

Thanks for taking the time to read this!

I hope to bring you some laughs with my drawings. No, you will not get an explanation of the comic’s title.

140

halloween (

141

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(a new fan)

142

aaaand...th

143

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hey’re gone You’d think a girl would learn after the 80th time...

144

AISATSU

145

THE AKITAN

U NO.2

146

kyushoku no

*black or dark brown seaweed that’s super rich in iron, magnesium, p

147

THE AKITAN

o.1 (hijiki*)

potassium, and calcium...and is the bane of my existence.

148

UPCOMING EVENTS What: Christmas caroling Where: Akita Station West side, in front of FONTE When: 1-4PM What to bring: Warm clothes and your beautiful voice!

All proceeds will go to Misono Tenshien Orphanage

APPI SKI TRIP Where: Appi Kogen Ski Resort When: February 15-16, 2020 Place of stay: Pension Mutti Address: Appi Kogen Mutti, 605-51 Appikogen, Hachimantai, Iwate 028-7306, Japan More details coming soon!

Mark your calendars!

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Tsubaki in snow, Irene Cao

Instagram worth

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hy

152

by e

Go od 153Omoshiroyama hiking trail in Yamagata, Irene Cao

a f

. . ll .

THE AKITAN

154

155Autumn foliage in Miyagi,

Irene Cao

THE AKITAN

156

He

157

llo

THE AKITAN

. . winter.

158

Winterscape, Irene Cao

the staff of the akitan would like to talented contributing wr

Most photographs are credited in pla Martin Jackson (images 25, 27, 151) Andrea Danko (images 25, 26, 27) Allyson Roberts (images 25, 26, 27, 132) Vincent Hsu (images 26, 151) Irene Cao (images 28, 151, 152; banner 37-38) Gerard Malie (image 39) Jose Giribas (image 41)

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THE AKITAN

o extend our grattitude to our many riters and photographers .

ace, but we would also like to thank: Unknown (image 62, 128, 129, 132-134) Unknown (Zodiac wheel 115-122) Jeremy Thomas via Unsplash (background (115122) Shelby Stark (image 151) Brooke Dalgleish (image 151) Rachel Stivicic (image 152)

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Thank you for reading

T H E A K I TA N

S E E YO U I N W I N T E R