O-Hanami in Takamatsu

There was a huge o-hanami (flower viewing) party at Ritsurin Park yesterday. It was great to sit under the trees with friends and chat all day, with blazing sunlight and beautiful nature all around. In America, there is a similar party in Washington DC, but it is not quite the same as in Japan. The American version is a bit toned down, and it is often cold at that time. The Japanese version is extremely festive and warm, and it is steeped in centuries-old tradition. If you find yourself in the Takamatsu area, definitely check out Ritusrin Park.

Why Shikoku?

I'm often asked why I chose to live and work in Shikoku. This image is Awa-Odori, a traditional dance that happens in historical Toukushima. In Shikoku, you can experience these festivals, but also take a very short train ride to the outdoors. I really enjoy being in nature, and that's part of the reason why I prefer Shikoku over a more intensely urban area. Even though the cities are still cities, it is the ability to get to the countyside that I care about the most right now.

I've had the chance to talk via Skype with several people from Shikoku, and it is true that everyone has been very friendly. I don't mean anything against people from East Japan, I know many people are very friendly. Just ask we can't really talk about "American" ideas, it varies. But I will say that the people I've met have been great and I look forward to becoming better friends!