Snow Monkeys

I spent the past weekend traveling to Jigokudani, in Nagano prefecture, to catch a glimpse of the famed "snow monkeys" bathing in the local hot springs. the long trip was well worth the effort.

New Years Sumo

I headed down to Tokyo to catch part of the new years sumo tournament. The famed event begins as is often the case with a display that borders on the incomprehensible, with papers being flaunted about by a judge. It moves on reoccurring bouts to salt throwing and stomping, and finally to the fight, witch last an average of 5 seconds. But there are plenty of bouts to keep the patrions content, and a surprising number of caucasian sumo's. In the end everyone gathers around and celebrates, then a sumo waves a bow around...

All and all this was one of the most decidedly Japanese things I have experienced in my travels, and a day to remember.

Another Year

Once again we welcome a new year (a bit late on my part) so once again I examine the Japanese traditions surrounding the coming of a new year, and even take part my self. The above images are all from Kamakura around new years day. The popularity of the date should be evident to all who can see.