Author Archives: Lynda Philippsen

The Birth of Saké Is Now on Netflix

I’m glad to have enjoyed a both the Yoshida brand wines and a glimpse into the world of traditionally brewed saké. Continue reading

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Unrelenting Beauty and Spectacle

On any given day when I think there can’t possibly be anything more fabulous to see, I turn a corner only to find another charming street of seemingly endless raptures. Continue reading

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Farewell to Consul General and Mrs. Okada, Vancouver

It was a bitter-sweet evening of photos, speeches, sake, food, music and some tears. The Okadas will be sorely missed. Continue reading

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Happy Terrace, Kyoto Station

The grid of gray concrete slabs and squares of grass are wonderfully calming and restful. Shadows of clouds passing across the sun flit across the tableau. A dragonfly darts overhead and a little breeze ripples the single reflecting pool. Continue reading

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Champagne Boutique YUHI, Kyoto

I’ve stumbled into Champagne Boutique YUJI. This is what would be called dai kichi luck—the pinnacle of good fortune. Continue reading

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Takaaki Abe and the Granpa Dome Factory Farm System

It is always a pleasure to share inspirational stories of people like Takaaki Abe whose innovation and entrepreneurship reminds me that age is no barrier to human imagination or success. Continue reading

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In Memoriam: Lloyd Dykk

A dark smudge of light warms the still black Coast Mountains at six. Half an hour later an intensely orange sunrise spreads slowly skyward and across the waters. Mt. Baker looks on from the northwest as the east shoots its … Continue reading

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A very amusing history of Japan

I’m a bit behind on posts. Complicate that with a change in the schedule of a vacation to this week rather than month’s end and the difficulty is compounded. I’m currently away from my PC and restricted to the use of … Continue reading

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Escalator Earworm

The chirpy voice in its sing-song style begins as the escalator starts up. Strangely enough, the one going down does the same. The result is a mad duet. JR’s Toccata and Fugue in Escarata Minor. Continue reading

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International Ikebana Class: Tokyo Sogetsu Headquarters

After registration, along with the other students I am introduced to Master Instructor, Suikei Sakaguch. Then we are directed to the bank of flowers and branches from which we are to choose our materials. Continue reading

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