Walk with me: Shinobazu Pond and Former Kan-ei-ji Temple Grounds By Lala Lopez de Leon Just recently, a quick trip by taxi to the Pension Office in Ueno, the nearest place I could make inquiries, being a resident of Taito-ku, was a total disappointment. They were not as accommodating as I had thought government offices in Japan would be. Obviously, the pandemic has changed all that. I ended up filling an appointment form and was asked to come back a Saturday morning in October. I was seriously sulking. What a morning! What a total waste of time!
I needed a nice cup of coffee to flush the blues away. But, wait! Right in front of the Pension Office is the Shinobazu Pond! Well, alright, maybe a slow leisurely walk back to Ueno Station would be a healthy distraction from my bad mood. Oh, how sweet and romantic young love can be! Not the best of weather, but it was bright enough and there was a soft breeze. I was beginning to feel better; even without the coffee, yet.
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September - October 2021
