misadventures with miso

A Tree and Some Tricks (March 20th, 2011)

2012-01-31T08:10:00.000-08:00

Remember that cover with the 300 year old black pine? Well this isn't it.

It's right next to it.

It's said this is the largest black pine in Tokyo. It is impressive. Interesting how they had it grow sideways. The trunk is up on the slope and what you see in front are all the branches being held up off the ground.

Another tree not far away with a crowd gathered there. Of course had to go see what was so interesting.

Read more »

More of the Fields of Yellow (March 20th, 2011)

2012-01-30T08:10:00.000-08:00

More of the rape blossoms at Hama Rikyu Garden.

I tried really hard to get photos without people. It wasn't easy.

But worth it I think. Keep looking for more photos.

Read more »

Food for Friday: Cafe Dahab in Santa Monica

2012-01-27T08:10:00.001-08:00

Having at one time been an Egyptian house wife for a short period, I feel a bit of connection to the people of that country. So last year we went to a place in Santa Monica, California, where I hoped would see a bit of how people here were feeling about the events unfolding in Egypt.

I'm very glad we did to to Cafe Dahab. We kind of over ordered but with all the real authentic Egyptian food it's hard not to. Of course we didn't know the plate of khosari was going to be this big!

We also had the three appetizers. Their ful medames was really good.

This is what ful is suppose to look like. Except you need a big plate of pita bread with it.

Pickles and olives, goat cheese with tomatoes, olive oil and spices.

Humas! Can't have Egyptian food without humas. Just would seem incomplete. Really good humas at Cafe Dahab.

So if you are in Santa Monica and wanting something different, try Cafe Dahab. They do have hookah for those so inclined.

Their website is here: Cafe Dahab
Definitely worth eating at if you like Middle Eastern food or want to try Egyptian food. There aren't many Egyptian restaurants around. This one I do recommend as an experienced eater and cook of Egyptian cuisine.

Fields of Yellow (March 20th, 2011)

2012-01-26T08:10:00.000-08:00

From a distance you can't help but notice all the bright yellow.

Even with all the huge buildings lining the outside of the garden the yellow fields attract people.

People sitting viewing the yellow flowers and many with cameras.

For this is the rape blossom fields at Hama Rikyu Garden. For more, keep looking.

Read more »

Flowers of Hama Rikyu Teien (March 20th, 2011)

2012-01-25T08:10:00.000-08:00

Ume are not the only flowers at the Hama Rikyu Gardens.

There are many different camellias that bloom in winter.

Dafodills too.

And to my surprise, violets. This was the first time I've seen violets in a garden or anywhere. It's probably too warm for them in Southern California. Please keep looking to see more.

Read more »

Ume Blossoms in the Grove (March 20th, 2011)

2012-01-24T08:10:00.000-08:00

Of course I had to take more photos. One doesn't get the chance to do this often. With all that had gone on, I was grateful to find a moment to think about something else. Being able to appreciate the beauty and elegance of these flowers close up was amazing. Keep looking to see this too.

Read more »

Ume Grove (March 20th, 2011)

2012-01-23T08:10:00.000-08:00

Just beyond the Inabu Shrine there is a grove of trees. Ume or Plum trees.

What is great about seeing them in March is they allow people to go on the grass and see the trees up close.

So this post is about being amongst those beautiful trees. With photos so you can see for yourself.

Read more »

Sunday Stroll: Fowl at Hopkins Wilderness Park

2012-01-22T10:10:00.001-08:00

A bit of the birds at Hopkins Wilderness Park from June 2011.

More interesting birds to be seen, just keep looking.

Read more »

Food for Friday: Oysters on the River Bank

2012-01-20T08:10:00.000-08:00

I have a different Food for Friday today. I've been wanting to post more about things I cook but since my current apartment is very small and dark it's not easy to do.

But last year I did get a chance to do something amazing. A couple years ago I decided I wanted to learn more about Japanese cooking and not just how to make certain dishes, I discovered Elizabeth Andoh's "Washoku" cook book. It was exactly what I was looking for. So I was more than happy to help her out with testing recipes last year for her new book "Kibo".

So I'm going to post some photos from one of the recipes I tested and write a bit more about her book at the end of this post. This recipe is called Oysters on the River Bank. Above is the secret miso glaze that is a key part of the recipe. If you want to know how to make it, well you will have to get the book. As for the rest of this recipe testing and more about the dish, keep reading!

Read more »

Ume at Hama Rikyu Garden (March 20th, 2011)

2012-01-19T08:10:00.000-08:00

What can I say? I may have been too early for sakura but I did get to enjoy the ume blossoms.

And one place to see them is at Hama Rikyu Garden.

So take a look at a few more photos of the blossoms. I was lucky that a bit of sun came out for photos.

Read more »

Inabu Shrine (March 20th, 2011)

2012-01-18T08:10:00.000-08:00

One thing unique to Hama Rikyu Gardens is the Inabu Shrine.

The original date of construction is not known. But an original shrine was thought to exist
in the late Edo Period in a slightly different location on the grounds.

Considering this was a private estate it's not unheard of having a private shrine. Want to see more of the Inabu Shrine?

Read more »

Hama Rikyu Gardens (March 20th, 2011)

2012-01-17T08:10:00.000-08:00

Being once a residence of the Tokugawa family, it makes sense that there is what looks like a moat.

There are other large ponds in the garden including one that is salt water that feeds from Tokyo Bay. Sadly because of my foot pain I did not get to see most of the garden and these ponds. I would like to one day.

But I did see some interesting things that I will show more of very soon. And a few things in this post too.

Read more »

Hama Rikyu Gardens (March 20th, 2011)

2012-01-16T08:10:00.000-08:00

I started to walk around the gardens when I saw what appeared to be another victim of the quakes.

A 9.0 earthquake and the only damage I found in person where stone garden lanterns. Although later I learned there were buildings in Tokyo that had bad enough cracks that they were deemed unsafe. Which was why some places were not open at all during the time I was there.

One of the things I love about Japanese gardening is the shapes the branches end up taking. There was more to see so keep looking.

Read more »

Sunday Stroll: King Harbor Marina

2012-01-15T10:10:00.000-08:00

Here's a few more photos from the King Harbor Marina area in Redondo Beach, California. Enjoy!

More after the cut too. Including pelicans, pirates and gondolas.

Read more »

Food for Friday: Ramen Mottainai

2012-01-13T08:10:00.000-08:00

Recently I had a hankering for some ramen. When you start eating good ramen it happens.

One of the nice things about where I live right now is the fact that there are some decent ramen shops here. Can't say that about a lot of places outside of Japan but can say that about here and Ramen Mottainai.

So come in and have a taste or two with me. And don't mind the samurai.

Read more »

Hama Rikyu Gardens (March 20th, 2011)

2012-01-12T08:10:00.000-08:00

At first look the gardens looked quite large.

And they are.

But it being a gray day and feet hurting I wasn't up to going to see all of it.

Lucky for me there was a lovely ume tree near the entrance. So keep looking to see the beautiful blossoms.

Read more »

Hama Rikyu Gardens Entrance (March 20th, 2011)

2012-01-11T08:10:00.000-08:00

Walking across the Otemonbashi Bridge I reached the Hama Rikyu Gardens.

Since mon means gate, there must be one here.

Read more »

Beyond Nakagin (March 20th, 2011)

2012-01-10T08:10:00.000-08:00

Right by Nakagin Capsule Tower is this stairway that you would think leads to a subway or perhaps a way to walk across the busy street.

However from what I could tell there is a restaurant down there. Not well lit either. I didn't check it out further.

Some of these boats might look familiar to people who have been to Tokyo. I'm pretty sure some are part of the Sumida River Taxis. But thanks to the disasters they were not running.
Other things were running though. Keep looking to find out what.

Read more »

Nakagin Capsule Tower (March 20th, 2011)

2012-01-09T08:10:00.000-08:00

I had heard about and seen photos of the Nakagin Capsule Tower but I decided I wanted to see it for myself.

Completed in 1972 it's one of the first building to use the idea of capsules. You could say it's the grand daddy of all those capsule hotels.

It was designed by Kisho Kurokawa, co-founder of the Metabolist Movement in architecture and known for many buildings throughout Japan and elsewhere. Curious to know more about this interesting building?

Read more »

Sunday Stroll: Quality Seafood at King Harbor

2012-01-08T10:10:00.000-08:00

When people talk about places to visit along the beaches of Southern California, I don't know why they don't mention the King Harbor area in Redondo Beach.

There are all kinds of things there. Including a real fish market called Quality Seafood. Where you can even eat what you buy.

But there's more to it than just eating. Inside are tanks with some amazing sea creatures. Want to take a look?

Read more »

Food for Friday: End of the Year Ramen & New Year's Osechi

2012-01-06T08:10:00.000-08:00

It seemed fitting to end the year with something we have been checking out at various places around town. Because not trying it out when we have the chance to would be a shame. So off to my favorite market Marukai and one of the decent "fast food" places there, The Express. Now we have eaten other things at The Express and always found the food good. But since this year I have gotten into eating real ramen thanks to the ramen lovers on-line, I wanted to see if The Express could make it decently.

Want to know what I thought and see what the first real meal of the New Year was like?

Read more »

Good Morning Ginza (March 20th, 2011)

2012-01-05T08:10:00.001-08:00

March 20th found me just a couple stops away from where I was staying. I thought it would be a good idea not to stray too far away since my feet were not letting up on the pain. So I found myself in a part of Ginza.

Except it wasn't the Ginza that everyone advertises nor was I there to shop or see the famous extravagant architecture. Actually though, there was a building I did want to see. After two trips to Tokyo I was definitely going to try to see it no if there were matter nuclear melt-downs or hurting feet.

Once again the marvel of Spring showed it's self despite everything. Getting to see ume trees, that is plum trees in their full bloom was wonderful.

While the streets here were also bare of people, I noticed this Ginza store was open trying to sell it's wares. Life was not over here either.

But for me, what I was looking for was in the opposite direction down this empty street. Curious? I'll show you what it was in my post on Monday.

Konbini Soba in Tokyo (March 19th, 2011)

2012-01-04T08:10:00.002-08:00

Before I get to the soba I have to ask about this restaurant I saw during my night stroll. I like the graphic of the fish and have been wondering just what the name of this place is. I think I figured out part of it says "Sushi Samurai". It's in Shiba near Zojoji. Any help out there?

But I didn't get to go in. Instead it's another seaweed salad.

It's actually more salad greens than seaweed and was quite good. So nice to find this without all the cabbage that is normally in Japanese salads.

I also found soba! I can't remember what konbini I got this from. Possibly Lawsons because it's the closest one. This soba had a secret. Want to know what it was?

Read more »

Full Moon at Zojo-ji (March 19th, 2012)

2012-01-03T08:10:00.002-08:00

My night time walk ended at Zojoji Temple. It was strange being at this massive Buddhist temple with no lights and no people. Not a normal way for it to be.

But I wasn't alone. There were the people on the streets just outside the temple and a cat who made weird noises at me.

I don't remember much being made of the "Super Moon" in Japan unlike outside of the country. What do I remember?

Read more »

Night Time in Tokyo (March 19th, 2011)

2012-01-02T08:10:00.002-08:00

I decided to take a short walk around the part of Minato where I was staying. I think it was a combination of not wanting to see disaster on television and internet and wanting to see the full moon. The color from the street lights on the shrine next door was interesting.

Still not as much traffic on the streets.

And the usually bright buildings and signs were still dim. Tokyo without it's signage is quite somber. I kept walking because there was more to see.

Read more »

Sunset at the end of the world

2011-12-31T08:10:00.000-08:00

Food for Friday: KFC Tokyo Style and the Oedo (March 19th, 2011)

2011-12-30T08:10:00.000-08:00

Feeling hungry I looked for something to eat. This is a familiar place. Might as well find out why it's so popular in Japan.

Order on the street, go upstairs to eat. Space is a premium here. Want to see what I got? Proof that sizes are smaller in Japan.

Read more »

Let the Partyball begin!

2011-12-28T08:10:00.001-08:00

Look what arrived the other day!

Tokyo Tower survived the big quake but I don't know if it can survive this.

Is this help or has more trouble arrived?

It does look pretty tasty...

Toto we aren't on Melrose any more (March 19th, 2011)

2011-12-27T08:10:00.001-08:00

I have to say, if you want to see interesting architecture in Tokyo, Omotesando Dori (street) in Minami Aoyama, Tokyo definitely is a place to go. I saw this building after leaving the shrine and went "Wow!"

Even more of a surprise is that it's the Comme des Garcon store! The curvy building was designed by Future Systems. The polka dot blue glass definitely feels like it has Rei Kawakubo's influence.

I so wanted to go in. But I felt really self-conscious because there weren't other shoppers around. I like to not have all the sales people wanting to help me. I'm a browser. So I passed on going in. If I am ever back here...I want to check the store out and the Yohji Yamamoto shop. If only my feet weren't hurting so much!

Wondering what this amazing building is?

Read more »

A shrine for shopping (March 19th, 2011)

2011-12-26T08:10:00.001-08:00

My goal this day was to reach the well-heeled area of Omotesando Dori. Being an area I had not visited before and a station with rather confusing exits, I of course went the wrong way when I reached the street.

I was always curious to see if there would be people out shopping and going about. I do think crowds were still down. My guess is it's most likely because a lot of people live further out of Tokyo and with the rolling blackouts train service to and from those areas was questionable. Because TEPCO kept changing the schedule. I can totally understand the frustration of those who live there.

Luckily I did find something interesting even going the wrong way. It looked like a shrine.

Read more »

Food for Friday: Coco Ichibanya in California

2011-12-23T08:10:00.002-08:00

So, imagine my surprise when a new curry place opened in town. And it just happened to be Coco Ichibanya. In case you missed it, I have photos and a write-up of my visit to a Coco Ichibanya restaurant in Tokyo last Friday. Here if you want to check it out.

Checking it out was a must to see if I could relive a bit of that flavor I experienced in Tokyo.

It's a pretty good sized space.

With lots of seating.

But for me, sitting at the counter is the best seat. So want to know if it measures up?

Read more »

Flowers above and Oedo below (March 19th, 2011)

2011-12-22T08:10:00.000-08:00

One of the things I really like about the part of Minato that I stayed at is the fact that many people like to have pots of flowers and trees around their places even though everything is very much concrete, glass and steel.

The most hearting thing I saw was this little sakura starting to bloom. Sakura was late this year but to see this pretty tree felt like hope. Please keep looking at the post for more flowers and a bit about a rather interesting Tokyo subway.

Read more »

Hello Kitty Digestive Biscuits

2011-12-21T08:10:00.001-08:00

Moon viewing and a bite to eat (March 18th, 2011)

2011-12-20T08:10:00.000-08:00

Back at Hotel Villa Fontaine, resting my feet and viewing the almost full moon from my window.

Time to eat! Don't remember what konbini I bought this from but this Azuki Bean Onigiri was delicious. I've made rice with azuki beans before and it's really good. I have to do it again soon and maybe try turning it into onigiri.

Wonder what is in the bag? It's from Caffe Veloce, the coffee shop that helped me out so much by being open when most places were closed. Keep looking to see what I got.

Read more »

Nakano Broadway and kaitan sushi (March 18th, 2011)

2011-12-19T08:10:00.000-08:00

I took a chance. My feet were still hurting badly but I really needed to go someplace. It was a week after the earthquake, tsunami and the start of the nuclear meltdowns. Distractions and getting away from tv and news were much needed.

So I headed to a place many others have recommended. Nice sunny day meant going to a sunshine filled place called Nakano Sun Mall. Which is the main way to get to Nakano Broadway. Where I saw a lot more than I expected and had a couple nice surprises. Keep looking to find out what they were.

Read more »

Sunday Stroll: Naples Island

2011-12-18T10:10:00.001-08:00

Naples Island is considered part of Long Beach, California. It's a lovely little neighborhood with some interesting homes. Every year they go all out to decorate for the holidays.

There is a big party, boat parades, and many people come to see how the people living there seem to compete for the most impressive display of lights. Want to see more?

Read more »

Food for Friday: Coco Ichibanya Tokyo (March 17th, 2011)

2011-12-16T08:10:00.000-08:00

My feet really hurt and it was freezing cold as I returned to Minato. And I was pretty darn hungry since I hadn't eaten in a while. Trying to figure out where to eat was even more of a chore since so many places did not have their signs lit in order to conserve electricity.

Coco Ichibanya? Open? Well, might as well find out.

Read more »

Outer moat and Tokyo Station (March 17th, 2011)

2011-12-15T08:10:00.000-08:00

A bit more of the Outer Moat at the Imperial Palace Grounds in Tokyo and the contrasting newer buildings around it.

The stone work is amazing. Please take a look at more of it and some interesting photos around and at Tokyo Station.

Read more »

Wordless Wednesday: Toy Bridges

2011-12-14T08:10:00.000-08:00

For Wordless Wednesday

Where I meet a samurai warrior (March 17th, 2011)

2011-12-13T08:10:00.000-08:00

When I was walking towards the Imperial Palace I caught a glimpse of this little park at the edge of the grounds. I decided to take a look once I was done seeing what I could see at the Palace.

The park is part of Kyoko Gaigen. Walking towards the middle you see this extraordinary statue.

This bronze statue was erected in 1897. Obviously it is someone who was considered very important.
Read more »

Nijubashi Bridges (Tokyo, March 17th, 2011)

2011-12-12T08:10:00.000-08:00

I will tell you something that a lot of people don't point out when they post photos of this. That there are two bridges. Nijubashi means double bridge.

From where most people stand to take photos you see the front bridge. I am going to guess this one is the Imperial Palace Main Gate Stone Bridge which is also known as Meganebashi or Spectacle Bridge. Want to find out a bit more?

Read more »

Sunday Stroll: Hopkins Wilderness Park

2011-12-11T10:10:00.000-08:00

Still not up to everything, holidays alone are kind of sad and no trips sadder.

So for now some Autumn leaves and a return to Hopkins Wilderness Park.

Southern California tends to do seasons some what minimalist. If you are wondering about this park, check this post out.

Food for Friday: Sushi Yoshi

2011-12-09T08:10:00.000-08:00

A bit ago I decided to try once again to see how Sushi Yoshi in Gardena is. My first visit was okay with decent sushi at really good prices but it felt a bit awkward. Which was strange because I have sat at a few sushi bars before. But I stopped in and got an order to go.

Like I said, pretty good sushi at really good prices.

The thing with Sushi Yoshi is they are open at times most of the Japanese restaurants around here are not open. So craving sushi we headed over to try our luck eating in one more time.

I picked out some nigiri and was very pleased. So was my dining companion. That is yellowtail by the way.

So I went ahead and tried the scallop and unagi. I'm not a fan of scallop it turns out but the unagi was very good.

Sushi Yoshi is at:

2140 Artesia Blvd # H

Torrance, CA 90504-3046

(310) 538-2018 ‎

Nijubashi Bridges (March 17th, 2011)

2011-12-08T08:10:00.000-08:00

I think I'm not going to write much with this set of photos and in my next post about my trip to Tokyo in March there will be a bit of information about the Nijubashi Bridges at Tokyo Imperial Palace.

Read more »

Tokyo Imperial Palace Grounds (March 17, 2011)

2011-12-06T08:10:00.000-08:00

The day had started out sunny but grew cold and gray quickly. It could have been that but more likely people were not out because of the fear of radiation. Because I have read that the Imperial Palace Grounds are a favorite for runners and walkers. Yet on this day there were only a few people out. And yes that is Tokyo Tower which isn't that close but seems to be visible from so many places.

Another view of the grounds. Interesting that they let the grass go brown. Here in America they would be watering that endlessly. What is also amazing is someone is trimming all those trees.

Running and biking okay here. Except there wasn't anyone running or biking. But there were people around. Keep reading to find out more.

Read more »

Tokyo Imperial Palace (March 17th, 2011)

2011-12-05T08:10:00.000-08:00

This is the impressive Sakurada Niju Yagura turret. Since most of the Imperial Palace has been destroyed over the centuries, the walls, turrets and gates are about all you will see harking back to the time of the Shoguns.

Looking across Kikyo Bori moat towards Kikyo-mon gate.

There is more to see.

Read more »

Food for Friday: Fish Tacos Break

2011-12-02T08:10:00.000-08:00

I am not feeling well in part due to the very noisy apartments I live in.
So I am going to take a break from the blog for a couple days.
It should be back Monday continuing with my March 2011 trip to Tokyo.
In the meantime, here are some Hole Mole fish tacos from a few years ago when a guy was quitting and gave me extra.

It's a moat (Imperial Palace March 17th, 2011)

2011-12-01T08:10:00.000-08:00

I will admit I was wondering how the activity would be at the Imperial Palace. I'd heard a lot of people like to run there and it's a very popular tourist spot. I didn't know how big the grounds were till I started walking around. One of the first things I saw was the lovely Wadakura-bashi Bridge.

I'm not sure the new hotel is going to make the area look nicer. I hope it looks better once finished.

This is an outer moat at the north east end of the grounds. While there was no one around it was nice to see there were a few curious creatures about.

Read more »

Marunouchi Tokyo (March 17th, 2011)

2011-11-29T08:10:00.000-08:00

After Character Street I decided to see if I could walk to the Imperial Palace. I didn't know how far it was. While the area around Tokyo Station was interesting and a bit imposing, Tokyo Station was covered because they were refurbishing it. How sad, I would have liked to have seen it.

Marunouchi reminded me of a typical Tokyo skyline. Big buildings and lots of signs. Not as many people walking though. What was a sunny day grew cloudy and cold.

But this was cute. Yamato Transport kitties in a box! I wish they were for sale but I could not see anywhere that they were. Want to see more? I can say there were some interesting structures in between the staid buildings.

Read more »

I finally reach Character Street! (March 17th, 2011)

2011-11-28T08:10:00.000-08:00

There was a place I had wanted to stop at every time I have been in Tokyo. Since things were not working out with the reduced train service, rolling black outs and stores not being open, I decided it was time to try and see if at least this place would be open. So I started out from Hamamatsucho Station. Had to get a photo of their sign with the Manneken Pis on it.

My destination Tokyo Station. After having been in the station a few times I find it less intimidating. Even with the disasters and all there were still a lot of people traveling through here.

Low light meant photos didn't turn out well but I had to take a photo of this baumkuchen baking at a shop at the station. There is some serious shopping and eating at Tokyo Station. Definitely worth strolling around if you go to Tokyo or are passing through and have a few hours. I picked up a tiny sake set and a few other things but did not know about the Kit Kat store. Means I have to go back right? But there was someplace specific I was trying to find so keep reading to see just where it is located and what it is.

Read more »

Sunday Stroll: Long Beach murals

2011-11-27T10:10:00.000-08:00

The one thing about the Long Beach area in Southern California is there is a lot of random art in the most surprising places. I'm surprised the city never put together an on-line map to it all.

I use to have information about this mural. It was painted by Jane Boyd in 1977. She painted a few other murals in the area. "Flight of the Egrets" is located on the beach near the end of Cherry Avenue below Bixby Park. Interested to learn what was originally here and see more art?

Read more »

Saturday Songs: The Vaquetones

2011-11-26T10:10:00.000-08:00

I've been very lucky and have seen a number of really great bands.

One of the most enjoyable shows was The Vaquetones at The Pike in Long Beach. Keep going to see more!
Read more »

Food for Friday: Poko Montreal Bagels (March 2011)

2011-11-25T08:10:00.000-08:00

Places like Poko Montreal Bagels are part of the reason I wish I was in Tokyo. Both of my trips there I stopped in a couple of times. Poko is the dog and his wooden version gets dressed appropriately. In March it was to celebrate the pandas at Ueno Zoo. I was very sad the day I saw the closed sign because they were open the day before. But happy that they were open on March 17th.

In March this year I did eat inside besides getting bagels and scones to go. And Poko tote bags. But to see these you have to keep reading.

Read more »

My earthquake supplies & the NHK

2011-11-24T08:10:00.000-08:00

Thought I would make a post about how I dealt with food during the days right after the big quake and tsunami. The problem I found was at Haneda Airport they were not prepared to deal with thousands of people staying there. Even before this there were complaints that the restaurants all stopped serving food at 10 pm so late night travelers were stuck with no options.

From now on when I travel I will take some granola bars. Because all I had to eat were Cadbury Creme Eggs. I only ate a few that night because they are really sweet. I did find a beverage vending machine with a few drinks left. Haneda International Airport needs to come up with a better plan.

The two miso soups I found in a 7-11 near Shiba Park (Shiba koen). What happened in Tokyo is most people were stuck at their work so they cleaned out all the konbini and most of the restaurants. Which meant me the visitor had a hard time finding anything at all to eat the first day or so. The soups were sitting on the shelf all by themselves. Must have been found long after the locusts, I mean the salary people, had bought everything up.

The item on the left is a bag of bagel chips. Eating places were open on random days for about the first week. One day that I found Poko Bagels open I stopped in and bought a few. When I mentioned I flew in the day of the quake the very nice people there offered me the bag of bagel chips.

The first few days the news was on all the time. It was interesting to compare NHK's broadcast to American ones. American they would have whipped up computer animation to show what was going on. Not in Japan. It was really interesting to see the models they created of Fukushima Dai-ichi. Actually was scary to see at the time also.

Although the addition of pumper trucks complete with stream of water was amusing.

In case you don't understand Japanese, when you see the newscasters wearing safety helmets it means there was an earthquake happening.

But I just used this. My trusty earthquake monitor. Actually because I ended up feeling like things were shaking even when they weren't, this was good to have. It took a day home to regain my land legs. There is even a phrase for feeling earthquakes are happening when they are not. It's called jinshin yoi, earthquake sickness. I've been in earthquakes but never had experienced that before. Have you been in an earthquake before?

Tim Burton's non-Macy's Balloon

2011-11-23T08:10:00.002-08:00

For Wordless Wednesday

Damn good sushi (March 16th, 2011)

2011-11-22T08:10:00.000-08:00

Speaking of that sushi place in Asakusabashi, here is what I bought. Plus more after the cut.

Read more »

Asakusabashi (March 16th, 2011)

2011-11-21T08:10:00.000-08:00

March 16th was not a good day. There were warnings about the direction of radiation, a cold wind was blowing in from the bay, I could not find the Jenny doll store because the directions were not up to date, and my feet were starting to hurt. And not stop hurting.

But I did look a little bit while I walked beside the elevated train track in Asakusabashi. Want to know what you can see there?

Read more »

Sunday Stroll: Long Beach Art

2011-11-20T10:10:00.000-08:00

Took the day off yesterday from posting. Today I will show you a few of the public art works that have been displayed in Long Beach, California.

It's been a few years since I lived in Long Beach. Some interesting things to see there. More to see if you keep looking.

Read more »

Food for Friday: Yes I ate this (Tokyo March 16th, 2011)

2011-11-18T08:10:00.000-08:00

I wish I knew what the name of this izakaya. It's on Daiichi-Keihin in Shiba, Tokyo. But I kept seeing it and finally got up the nerve to go in for lunch since it was open on March 16th.

I was the only customer besides a small group of men at a table. Of course I forgot, they allow smoking and they were smoking. Will remember from now on.

A few of the specials on the wall. It actually wasn't that hard to order from the menu. A lot of restaurants will have photos if not also attempt English translations. It helped that I can read hiragana too. Want to see what I ordered?

Read more »

Konbini goodness (March 2011)

2011-11-17T08:10:00.000-08:00

I'm not remembering what days these were from. Or where all they came from. But the really good sushi above may have been from the 7-11 which was the first konbini I found real food a couple days after 3/11. I was so glad. I love the little bottle of soy sauce.

This probably came from the Sunkus by my hotel. Since the first couple of days after the quake most places were closed, I walked around a lot more than usual and found this over by where a lot of offices are. Another happy find of food! Want to see more?

Read more »

Wordless Wednesday: Sky Light

2011-11-16T08:10:00.000-08:00

For Wordless Wednesday.

Harajuku visit to h.NAOTO (March 15th, 2011)

2011-11-15T08:10:00.000-08:00

The streets of Harajuku. Get away from the crowds and you can find lots of trendy fashion shops. Although there were cones around this one building I did not see any damage. I think I was still trying to comprehend 9.0 earthquake yet no visible damage here. Actually later on I found out that a number of older buildings in Tokyo had cracks on the inside and some are being refurbished or torn down like Radio Kaikan in Akihabara.

And higher end stores on Omotesando. The normally busy Omotesando wasn't so busy.

Lots of stores but so many closed. Pretty window decorations at a jewelry store.

Just where to go with so many places closed?

Read more »

Harajuku (March 15th, 2011)

2011-11-14T08:10:00.000-08:00

This plaza in Harajuku is usually filled with people traveling to work, shopping, meeting others and sometimes those who want to be seen. But with major disasters still happening, being seen was no longer a priority.

Lights off.

Major stores closed. I wondered what I would find on the streets around Harajuku.

Read more »

Sunday Stroll: Long Beach California

2011-11-13T10:10:00.000-08:00

Just a few photos today from along the bluffs of Long Beach, California.

And across the water looking at downtown.

Sunset at Belmont Shore Pier. Plus more if you want to keep looking.

Read more »

Saturday Songs: James Intveld

2011-11-12T10:10:00.000-08:00

A staple on the local music scene, James Intveld is a musician's musician.

Rockabilly, blues, swing, western standards, he can handle a wide range of songs. Also known for being the singing voice for Johnny Depp in "Cry Baby".

So let me share a few photos from a few live shows.

Read more »

Food for Friday: Sake and Meiji Jingu Vistor Center

2011-11-11T08:10:00.000-08:00

Across from the wall of wine is the casks of sake for Meiji Shrine.

Very impressive.

I couldn't help but take photos of some of the art work on the casks. Also, if you keep reading you can see where you can get a bite to eat at the shrine.

Read more »

Meiji Shrine Wine (March 15th, 2011)

2011-11-10T08:10:00.000-08:00

I wasn't surprised that Meiji Jingu would have ceremonial sake. I've seen this at other shrines and temples. I was surprised to see this row of casks of wine.

Considering how difficult it was to find alcohol in the stores after the earthquake, I couldn't help but wish just a little for a little of this to take with me. However, they were empty.

So where did all this wine come from?

Read more »

Wordless Wednesday: All I want for Christmas

2011-11-09T08:10:00.001-08:00

For Wordless Wednesday

Meiji Jingu (March 15th, 2011) Inner Courtyard

2011-11-08T08:10:00.000-08:00

As you can see, the inner courtyard of Meiji Shrine was almost empty.

Very empty.

Read more »

Meiji Jingu (March 15th, 2011) Ema and Trees

2011-11-07T08:10:00.000-08:00

In the inner courtyard at Meiji Shrine there are amazing trees. I am guessing they are very sacred.

This tree oversees where people place their ema. Would you like to know more?

Read more »

Sunday Stroll: Carroll Avenue part II

2011-11-06T10:10:00.000-08:00

Since not all the houses on Carroll Avenue were gussied up for Halloween, I thought why not make a second post to show the other wonderful Victorian houses there.

So keep looking to see the wonderful details. I couldn't help but take a lot of photos. It felt almost insensitive not to.

Read more »

Saturday Songs: Lisa Cee

2011-11-05T10:10:00.000-07:00

One of the great things about going to see and hear local live music is I got to know some really great performers and people.

Lisa Cee is definitely one of those who is all that and more.

Known for being a great singer, Lisa is one of the few people I know who can handle a Janis Joplin song and do it quite well. So if you want to see a few more of my photos and listen to Lisa's music, keep going with my post.

Read more »

Food for Friday: Bahooka!

2011-11-04T08:10:00.000-07:00

Bahooka is one of those one of a kind restaurants. I'm surprised more people don't go there.

What is on the outside is just a hint of what you will find inside.

So you have to keep reading my post if you have never been there. And if you have, hurray for you!

Read more »

Meiji Jingu (March 15th, 2011) Minami-Shinmon

2011-11-03T08:10:00.000-07:00

Amazing to see this immense gate. From what I have seen of shrine and temples in Japan, the gates almost seem as important as the main shrine buildings. Since some house important papers and statues, it's understandable why they were built so strong.

Would you like to look inside?

Read more »

Wordless Wednesday: Flying Tiger

2011-11-02T08:10:00.001-07:00

For Wordless Wednesday.

Not sure how much longer I will do these posts. Most likely not every week in the future. Thank you for looking at the ones I have done.

Meiji Jingu (March 15th, 2011)

2011-11-01T08:10:00.000-07:00

This is the area just outside the main shrine courtyard. Minami-Shinmon or Ro-mon is the gate straight ahead.

This may be Shukueisha, a building that survived WWII. I am not sure since it was closed along with almost all the other buildings. Would you like to see more?

Read more »

Meiji Jingu (March 15th, 2011)

2011-10-31T08:10:00.000-07:00

I reached the torii for the main shrine area. Almost stunning in how empty of people it is.

This is the cleansing font, Temizuya.

I think for tourists, this is a good shrine to visit if you want to learn a bit about how things are done at a Shinto shrine. Want to see more?

Read more »

Sunday Stroll: Halloween on Carroll Avenue

2011-10-30T10:10:00.000-07:00

When I was much younger we would take field trips to parts of Southern California. One that I remember was getting to see the wonderful Victorian homes on Carroll Avenue at Angelinos Heights in Los Angeles.

Since last year I would be out and about, Halloween seemed a perfect time to head back to Carroll Avenue. Kind of helped that this was the Innes house used for the series "Charmed".

Sure enough, many of the homes were decorated appropriately. Want to see more?

Read more »

Saturday Songs: Tribute to Oingo Boingo at the Grove

2011-10-29T10:10:00.000-07:00

Following one of the rehearsals the Tribute to Oingo Boingo performed at the Grove in Anaheim.

With Bt4 filling in admirably as lead singer and Johnny Vatos back there on the drums. I promise, he was back there on the drums.

While John Avila showed he still has those moves. Want to see more of the band?
Read more »

Food for Friday: El Paseo Inn at Olvera Street

2011-10-28T08:10:00.000-07:00

Oh Halloween and Dia de los Muertos! Last year I finally did something I've wanted to do for a long time.

Head over to Olvera Street and experience a real Dia de los Muertos festival. Of course that means eating Mexican food!

Our choice in the very crowded Olvera Street? El Paseo Inn! Come join us.

Read more »

Walk through Meiji Shrine (March 15th, 2011)

2011-10-27T08:10:00.000-07:00

Even with everything going on, there were still those dedicated to their work. I did wonder if racking gravel that day was a little risky.

The emptiness was a bit astounding. This is one of the most popular shrines in all of Japan.

Still it was nice to be able to stop and spend time looking at things I might have missed if there were crowds. Like this bridge, and more below.

Read more »

Wordless Wednesday: Halloween at the Ferris Wheel

2011-10-26T08:10:00.001-07:00

For Wordless Wednesday.
(I hope it goes better this time)

Meiji Shrine (March 15th, 2011)

2011-10-25T08:10:00.000-07:00

I actually had a plan for the day. One I had wanted to do even before arriving in Japan this time. One expects that not everything will go perfect when traveling, but when major disasters reach the point of making you wonder each day if you are going to be evacuated, you kind of want something normal to happen. You want to have that vacation you planned on.

My first stop in the area was not shopping in Harajuku but the Meiji Shrine. I'd been to these torii before but we did not go in very far since there was much to see on that visit. This time my visit was to go in.

Read more »

Harajuku Station (March 15th, 2011)

2011-10-24T08:10:00.000-07:00

I will say, March 15th did not start off as a very good day. First off I has signed up for a cooking class that day with Elizabeth Andoh which I had been looking forward to for some time. But it was cancelled due to the disasters. I lost internet for a short time when an aftershock caused the cable to come loose from my computer. Meanwhile the news was showing another building blowing up at Fukushima Dai-ichi. I finally found the button for English translation on the tv and got the plug back into the computer. Not having any information about what one is seeing is not a good thing.

Having waited till the afternoon when things seem to have settled down, I knew I could not stay inside the small room. Watching the news and reading things on line and having to be calm for those back home was not enjoyable. I did find a professor who had a counter on-line and turned out the readings were not out of line for the Shibuya area. I needed something positive to do, so off I went.

Even though current events were very much on my mind the whole time, as it was for everyone there, I didn't go all the way to Japan just to sit in a hotel room the whole time. Knowing too there were others who needed the transportation out of Japan more than I did was a factor. I thought perhaps my staying and showing I believed in the Japanese people might mean more than running away in fear. Plus I knew even my little money spent while there would help.

So off to Hamamatsucho Station where the Manneken Pis still tinkled away in his fireman outfit. Rather fitting choice even though his outfit was changed prior to the earthquake. But the big question was, where was I going?

Read more »

Sunday Stroll: Community Garden

2011-10-23T10:10:00.000-07:00

With weather getting cooler and Fall in the air, it makes me think of harvests.

So last year I took a stroll at the local community garden to see what was growing there.

Under watchful eyes.

Read more »

Saturday Songs: Tribute to Oingo Boingo rehersal

2011-10-22T10:10:00.000-07:00

A few years ago I received the opportunity to do something I would have never imagined. As part of a class I was taking, I got to help out with a rehearsal for a reunion show. Because the band was missing one member, they had to call themselves by something other than their original name.

Although BT4 aka Brandon McCreary filled in the shoes of the missing band member ably.

While his brother Bear McCreary handled keyboards and vocals also. But this isn't just about them, it's about the Tribute to Oingo Boingo.

Read more »

Food for Friday: Eatalian

2011-10-21T08:10:00.000-07:00

Making this post is like trying to order at Eatalian. There is so much to chose from just how do I put everything into one post?

By the way, that's not the actual entrance to Eatalian.

You actually go in through a side street door to a waiting area surrounded by large cans of tomatoes. Unusual choice for a dividing wall but then again, Eatalian isn't your usual restaurant.

And why isn't it? It's location is in the middle of an industrial area. Surrounded by auto repair shops, warehouses and more, it's hard to imagine there is an up and coming Italian restaurant there. But there is a reason for this choice of location. Keep going to find out why and also see just some of the things they cook up there.

Read more »

Dinner with a darkened view (March 14th, 2011)

2011-10-20T08:10:00.000-07:00

Back in my hotel room I watched the low lit buildings around me. Much darker than before.

As I ate my local konbini food. I think this was the day I found a Lawson on the way back. Want to see what I ate?

Read more »

Wordless Wednesday: Rust

2011-10-19T08:10:00.000-07:00

Can't go over so under we go (March 14th, 2011)

2011-10-18T08:10:00.000-07:00

Since it wasn't helping to be at Odaiba, only thing to do was go back. The interesting thing about the automated train is it doesn't go over Rainbow Bridge. It goes in the middle of it.

Which doesn't give great views but offers an interesting perspective of Rainbow Bridge.

Read more »

Odaiba is closed (March 14th, 2011)

2011-10-17T08:10:00.000-07:00

I had heard Oedo Onsen was quite the place to see. But like everything else, it was closed.

Read more »

Sunday Stroll: At the beach in Redondo Beach

2011-10-16T10:10:00.000-07:00

One thing about Southern California, there are lots of beaches.

Luckily living here I have been able to go at times when they aren't as crowded.

It's really my favorite time to take photos there. Would you like to see more?

Read more »

Saturday Songs: Tommy Castro at the Belly-Up Tavern

2011-10-15T10:10:00.000-07:00

For years I've heard about what a great place the Belly-Up Tavern in Solana Beach is for live music. Any place that gives a stage to live Blues definitely deserves a thumbs-up.

So when Tommy Castro performed there early this year I decided it was time to head south and see if what people said was true.

Read more »

Food for Friday: Redondo Beach Brewing Company take two

2011-10-14T08:10:00.000-07:00

I'm glad we decided to go back to Redondo Beach Brewery last year. Not just to get more photos, but to have another nice lunch.

This time sitting upstairs on a nice October day.

On the wall the list of their specialty brews for the day. Want to see what they looked like?

Read more »

Empty Odaiba (March 14th, 2011)

2011-10-13T08:10:00.000-07:00

Having crossed Rainbow Bridge on the automated train I had hoped to see something was open, people out shopping or just walking around.

There were some driving. But not many were stopping.

I got a view of the giant tools at Tokyo Big Site.

Read more »

Wordless Wednesday: Not grounded

2011-10-12T08:10:00.000-07:00

For Wordless Wednesday

Surely something in Odaiba must be open

2011-10-11T08:10:00.000-07:00

I do recommend the ride on the automated train as a way to see the skyline of Tokyo and not have to walk around much. It's also interesting to see the islands in the bay. Some with interesting architecture and some with huge empty lots.

Read more »

What does one do? (Tokyo, March 14, 2011)

2011-10-10T08:10:00.000-07:00

What does one do when you go on vacation and almost everything is closed?

I took photos.

Sadly the weather reflected how I was feeling, probably how a lot of people in Japan were feeling.

Read more »

Sunday Stroll: Redondo Beach

2011-10-09T10:10:00.000-07:00

Speaking of Redondo Beach shops in my post the other day, here is just a bit of what is around Redondo Beach Brewing Company.

More to see, just keep going on.

Read more »

Saturday Songs: Tommy Castro

2011-10-08T10:10:00.000-07:00

One of the most notable musicians I've seen perform over the years is Tommy Castro.
(If this photo looks a little familiar, it was in Southland Blues magazine. I was just happy to get a good shot.)

Considered one of the best living Blues guitarist, the man knows how to perform.

Backed by long time band members such as Keith Crossan, they are one hard working band.

Definitely worth seeing (lucky for me to see so many good bands up close I can't help but say go see and listen if you can). Tommy's website is here for more information.