The rhythm of life in Akita has settled into a driven composition of academics, clubs, friendships, and personal projects. Classes are fairly easy and I think my first Japanese test on Friday went well. Before the semester is over, I'll be writing papers on the Bushido (samurai code of ethics) and the presence of martial arts and military influence on traditional Japanese theater. My first Judo session was fun, and I think I've grasped some of the basics of groundwork grappling. For Ecology and Environment Club, I'll be helping to promote some long-term green projects to be carried out here at AIU, including planting trees and (hopefully) getting an Akita pet!
This weekend, many Japanese and international students took the opportunity to visit some of the beautiful locale in Akita Prefecture. First stop was Dakikaeri Gorge, a natural gorge turned to tourist stop. There were some interesting old buildings, a shrine, an old well, and a suspension bridge allowing access to the small waterfalls. At one point on the stop, I noticed a small statue on the top of large rock structure. I wanted to get a picture of it, so I held my camera in my mouth by its laniard and hopped into knee-high, chilly water. A steep rock climb followed, and I made it to the buddhist statue. A few old-looking 10 yen coins lay at its feet, and after some pictures I left a coin and made a wish. The decent from the top of the rock was much easier: from the high vantage point I could see an easy, walkable path around the sloping backside of the rock! I was also able to catch a small frog by the lake, and I let it hop out of my hand and onto a startled Hannah.
Lake Tazawa is Japan's deepest lake (423 meters), with beautiful, clear blue water and plenty of tourist distractions. I was tempted to rent a motorcycle or ATV for 30 minutes, but I decided to save my money and ride a space-ship paddleboat with some friends for 500 yen. There were plenty of overpriced, locally made trinkets, but nothing stood out as a must-have souvineer. We also viewed the Tatsuko-hime statue, a large golden woman standing on a tall cement base that allows her to "stand on water" just off the shore. I'm not sure of the legend behind her, but somehow she became a dragon that now lives under the lake.
Kakunodate, a samuari town that has existed since the feudal times of the 1600's, still retains a sense of tradition despite necessary modernization. The old-style manor architecture and drainage ditches contrast with the newly cement-paved roads and large traffic signs. We were provided tickets to view the Aoyagi Samuari family Manor Museum. I was getting exhausted by this leg of the trip, but my interest was peaked by the large collection of ancient katana, tanto, yari, full body armor, spears, and even some western-style rifles. I also spied what appeared to be the first prototype motorcycle; a bicycle fitted with large machinery and pedals for accelation and braking. Before leaving the manor, I managed to aquire a samuari sake cup that will make a fine addition to the other shot glasses and epic goblets I use for drinking.
That's about all the news to report for now. I continue my long-term ambitions of website development, body-mind training, and game design. Go play my first game now, it's cute and simple! Let me know what you think of it!
http://www.playcrafter.com/#gameID=46043&invitedBy=12128
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