- Never Stop Dreaming -
Had a fantastic party yesterday night held at a friend's restaurant but reached home late into the night only to find myself struggling to wake up. The weather was good this morning, overcast think grey clouds shrouded the entire sky, cold and smelling like winter...I really wonder why should anyone skip such weather to go to work. Well we are afterall slaves for the very society we have created so be gone my dear sleep and off to work I go.
Reached my work place and started off the morning with my usual shot of coffee and dose of internet. The first piece of news that hit me almost threw me off my seat simply because with this news, my fate is permernantly sealed!
A while back I was really contemplating whether to upgrade my 2 year old camera to the INSANELY amazing Canon 5DMk2 which had revolutionalize the industry since it's debut sometime back in 2008. The new 5DMk2 was and is the 1st full frame camera to offer High Definition video recording on a regular DSLR. Since it's inception, many photographers, videographers and independant film makers are all flocking to this epical camera simply because of it's video capabilities. However the main set back that everyone was facing and whining about was the lack of a full manual control over the various settings like aperture, shutter speed and ISO that otherwise puts this camera on par with regular video recorders. When you pay that much for a camera, one would expect to fully utilise the manual features and I was indifferent as well.
I have been trailing the news about manual controls for this camera and I was counting my limited pieces of yen every now and then to budget for it but inside a certain corner of my head, I was pretty concern about the limitations highlighted above. So I did of course dig the internet for feasible solutions but most involve partially dismounting the lens or using lens from a different company with converters. Both the options available will work with regards to the video capabilities of the 5DMk2 but each options had it's own limitations as well. For example partially dismounting the lens will risk the lens smashing into nano fractions if it does slip of the camera mount while using lens of a different brand will mean that I have to forgo my current lens set up and start amassing other lens. Besides that I simply have no other complains besides the slower burst shooting speed which I have no use for and the weight of the camera. In fact I was really drawn into this new 5DMk2 solely for the video functions.
Months and months of contemplation, read-ups and work-arounds when a couple of weeks back, finally someone online hacked the firmware and release a custom firmware for the sound but still nothing available for the manual video control. Today with this news release by Canon, there is no other reason why I wouldn't want to get this camera. Damn...I am so intrigued by this right now that I can't shake the image of playing with the video functions off my head. It's currently the No. 1 item on my wishlist and I mean I really don't mind eating cup noodles just to be a slave to my camera.
Thank You Canon for listening and thank God for the amazing engineers here in Japan for releasing this firmware. Finally thank everything else that I chose Canon and not any other brand!
Thursday, May 28, 2009
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
Fellowship of The Blog
- Never Stop Dreaming -
My dear readers, I have added a little link at the bottom of the right column so if you feel like becoming an "Official" part of the fellowship of this blatant blog, you know what to do next.
Cheers.
My dear readers, I have added a little link at the bottom of the right column so if you feel like becoming an "Official" part of the fellowship of this blatant blog, you know what to do next.
Cheers.
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
The Wedding of My Dreams - Akira and Masayo
- Never Stop Dreaming -
While I have absolutely no idea how many people are following this humble fellowship of Japan, I am sure there are a handful of advocates hungering for details with regards to this Grandeur Unison of 2 lovely people under the Eyes of Tenrikyo. The matrimony of Akira and Masayo.
The name Masayo seems a little impolite and new for me simply because I am so used to the title Okada Sensei. Masayo was my Japanese teacher in Singapore for about 2 years and though many people find her teaching pace and style a little too slow and dedicated to individual students, I found out that she was more than that because that was simply her. This patient and dedicated effort were simply everything that she was, am and will be because I have slowly come to know Masayo more as a friend than a teacher and indeed she had preserved the demure and subtle side of the Japanese ladies from generations ago. The beautiful teachings of the religion only accentuate her fine composure.
Akira used to stop by Singapore to visit Masayo and at times, we would chill at some random watering holes in town. It was thru the Oyasato tour that I got to know him personally and we kind became great pals from then. When this lovely couple visited Singapore on vacation, I took the honor to set them up properly and when I came to Japan, again I invaded their prime time to catch up on those fleeting moments. So with Akira leaking news about the wedding to me some 2 years ago, every day I have been living in anticipation of this wedding until finally with just a couple of hours to go before departing on the epical journey, I hustled everything I needed...15 kg worth of gear!
Took leave of Friday months before and departed on a Thursday night via highway buses (cheapest but slowest option) from Nagano to Tokyo and then from Tokyo to Kyoto. The only torture that I had to subject myself was to amass weapons of mass destruction before my departure. Antiseptic, masks, Vit C lozenges, surgical alcohol, etc all in the name of destroying the H1N1 Swine Flu before they infect me. So far only Osaka, Hyogo and Tokyo are affected so I ain't taking chances to reserve myself a space in the local hospital with huge bold "I'M A PIG CARRIER!" splashed on my forehead in red. TSK TSK TSK!
Ok ok...don't stray don't stray! Reached Tokyo around 1800 hours and had ample to time to burn since my bus departs from Shinjuku at 2100 hours. Clad in authentic Black Chinese Shirt with horizontal embroided buttons and white fold-up cuffs, I swore I attracted a decent number of stares not because of the mask slapped across my face. Went shopping for camera gear, had dinner with a friend and then I hit the long road down south. The bus journey wasn't the most comfortable so zombied thru till Friday morning with an aching neck and shoulder. Took the train from Kyoto at 0700, made a couple of mistakes and ended up in Tenri at 0845 hours. Took a cab to the Main Hall only to find out that the wedding starts at 1045 hours.
Along with a few other full suited guests arriving later, we all waited until finally in a distance a tiny couple emerged from the steps leading to the Main Hall. Camera was already hung around my neck ready to secure the target! Moving in closer Akira and Masayo were thrilled to see me because I was the only rebellious student who never seems to do any homework or past any tests decently to grace this spectacular event. But they continued walking forth because there was a filming crew in the back. Followed them around the surrounding sacred gravel grounds only to find out that there were a few other assistants trailing along. 2 make-up artists, 3 camera crew and less than 20 distinguished guests (including me) were present. Had a slight photography session in the inner sanctuary's garden with the main photographer using 35mm Mamiya cameras firing away followed by 2 DSLRs and a handful of compact point-and-shoots. Changed a couple of locations and poses and then everyone was headed into the Main Hall and all these while Masayo greeted everyone present with the loveliest smile and demure and Akira charmed everyone with his stoic boyish demeanor. While going up the steps, Akira stretched out his palm to hold Masayo's hand as he helped her thru her tiny Kimono Steps, and that scene etched a eternal spot permanently in heart.
Once inside the Main Hall, no photography was allowed so my narration is probably the best you would get but I leave it to your imagination. Led by a Grand Priest everyone moved into the Main Hall and sat respectively behind either Masayo or Akira depending on how we were affiliated to them. Not sure about their true identities but I presumed the senior couples immediately behind Akira and Masayo were their parents (confirmed to be so later) which were then followed by brothers, sisters, cousins, nieces and nephews and then finally friends. The Grand Priest spoke about the wedding like the a western Pastor except it was governed by Tenrikyo's teachings. After about 20 minutes later, everyone moved to the inner sanctuary where we were separated by a low wooden barrier to witness the Sacred Wedding Process. The set up inside this 2 connecting rooms resembled everything you would see in Watten Estate except maybe 10 times bigger, dimmer, more sacred, more closely guarded and more aged. The main priest led the couple in to the inner room and they knelled like a typical Japanese for a long time. 2 female staffs served sake and other items to the couple who were seen only from their back. A dedicated photographer took as little pictures as possible so as to respect and not disrupt the wedding process. Everything was done with such intensity and yet it preserved such serenity that sets the entire sacred wedding process apart from the usual loud happy ones. Beautiful like a work of art, lucid like the flow of the river and calm like a sleeping baby, they were recognized as man and wife before the almighty God in silence watched by many curious eyes.
Once that was over, everyone then proceeded to the 3 other inner halls to pay respects to the Gods and ancestors before finally ending where we started singing songs of God. There was a huge sign of relieve on Akira's and Masayo's face because the process was almost nearing to an end. Everyone gathered outside the Main Hall for a photography session and then everything was over. Everyone was going back to prepare for the huge party at night in Osaka much like the Chinese Wedding Dinner but Akira and Masayo were not spared of any rest. They were going for the family party first before heading out the 2nd party at night.
While I was a tad bit disappointed because the MAIN reason that I wanted to be here was to capture the Sacred Wedding but the opportunities presented were pretty limited and time definitely wasn't helpful at all. The skies were overcast with thick fluffy clouds with the occasional deep rich blue peering thru. Though pictures were not possible inside the Main Hall (しょうがないね) which can't be helped, the finishing blow was that everything was over in a flash. I wasn't the main photographer so I can't possibly pose them myself. Most of the time I was scraping for left overs like a pathetic vulture among quite a few others as well. It's really up to LR and CS to save the day again (THANK GOD FOR THEM!)
After everyone left I had the entire afternoon to myself since the 2nd party only starts at 1900 hours. Took a little stroll around Tenri City, visited the old places which I have been to and stayed, and also went around finding faces whom I have known. Only managed to find Sasaki Sensei at Tenrikyo Language Institute and so chatted with him for a while. It was funny how I mocked him at why he didn't invite me to his wedding and he gave direct excuses like he was busy and stuffs...TSK TSK TSK.
By late afternoon, I settled for lunch at a small old restaurant inside Hon-Dori only to find myself building up rage. The tiny restaurant was manned by 2 older married folks presumably 60 and above. I wasn't there to discount them or to give them a hard time but to do my growling tummy a favor. The first noodle dish came and the instance it entered my mouth, I was already on the verge of becoming a Merlion. The roach taste was super distinct so after savaging thru the contents, a hairy leg of the roach showed up. Immediately I rejected the dish and ask for a replacement and no I wasn't taking any chances so when the second dish came again, I sieved thru it like a machine and true enoungh the entire roach turned up this time. Well well well what a way to screw up my meals, PUI! Despite my anger, I still paid a fair deal just to pity the older folks who were not the most polite lest remorseful. Whatever since I wasn't gonna let some foul incident spoil the joyous spirit.
Went back to Akira's dorm, took a nice shower, juiced up my camera and then headed to the second party with Shunhei, Akira's good friend, and a whole horde of others.
The party was held at Mitte, a rather small but posh restaurant in Osaka. Almost everyone turned up in a full suit or a full night night dress-to-kill but I had opted for a more subtle white shirt with floral cuffs and collar and straight black jeans. There was a painting of Akira and Masayo near the reception booth and I swore Masayo looked like Audrey Hepburn. Was fiddling with my camera since I chose to bring only the 35L prime and 580EX2 when the main photographer showed up with 2 huge camera equipped with flash guns and menacing lens which killed my ego instantly. Met another 2 fellow Singaporean there who were touring Japan when they decided to grace this wedding as well.
The music rolled and Akira appeared in a smart black suit collecting flowers as he walked thru the path made by people. He reached the stage with enoungh flowers in his hand, hinted a sign of intense pressure thru his eyes and steadfast himself for his beautiful bride. And then Masayo gently entered from the other end of the human path led on by her brother and instantly the shining star of the night stole every single attention. Akira was very tense but delighted because the anticipation from his eyes were reckoning far in the direction of his bride. When Masayo reach the stage, Akira presented her with the flowers he collected and Masayo placed a single flower on his chest pocket. They exchanged rings and then flashed the shiny stones in unison to the audience like stars celebrities.
Somewhere along the party, my name was announced and I had to present myself on the stage along with 2 other ladies. I have absolutely no idea or whatsoever what was going on but I soon found out that I had to do an impromptu open speech to this fabulous couple. It was intense but I can't back down now so I started to fill my vacuum-filled head with messages. "Think Godamit...Think!". Started off with a little Japanese and then gave it a shot at English. But upon seeing half the puzzled-filled faces of the Japanese guests, guessed like I had no choice but to spew out some fiery Japanese. Man that was one of the most crazy impromptu speeches that came out from my mouth and I don't think I can ever rise to such an occasion again.
After the speech, there were a lot of people urging me to proclaim my single status so that I could at least gain the attention of other single ladies but I wasn't that positive that I would even attempt to steal the attention from Akira and Masayo. Then came the hastily prepared video surprise for Masayo which was an idea from Akira, an effort by me and all the SG angels and completed by Shunhei. Weeks prior, Akira approached me and told me he wanted to do a special ChannelNewsAsia report only to be interrupted by well wishes from Singapore from all Masayo's ex students, friends, colleagues, etc. I agreed upon the idea and was bent on making the impossible happen. Seeked help from Gid in SG and then with the efforts of everyone who can't grace this inspiring event, I soon got hold of the collection of the well wishes from Singapore. Sent it to Shunhei who made it into a viewable video at the wedding. Masayo teared when she saw the video which justified every effort that everyone had contributed for her cause. I was just glad that I could do something useful for a friend, a teacher and a wedding.
Like the typical wedding party, it was all party, booze and every attempt to get the poor Groom drunk while the Bride just smile and look on.
This is possibly my first REAL Japanese wedding and possibly the most memorable one till date so Thank You Akira and Masayo for giving me this exellencent opportunity, everyone in SG who were involved in the vid, everyone whom I have met at the party and those reading this as well.
As usual the pictures will be up soon.
P.S. Terri, I tried to recall everything in detail and hope the words doesn't stress out your eyes :p
While I have absolutely no idea how many people are following this humble fellowship of Japan, I am sure there are a handful of advocates hungering for details with regards to this Grandeur Unison of 2 lovely people under the Eyes of Tenrikyo. The matrimony of Akira and Masayo.
The name Masayo seems a little impolite and new for me simply because I am so used to the title Okada Sensei. Masayo was my Japanese teacher in Singapore for about 2 years and though many people find her teaching pace and style a little too slow and dedicated to individual students, I found out that she was more than that because that was simply her. This patient and dedicated effort were simply everything that she was, am and will be because I have slowly come to know Masayo more as a friend than a teacher and indeed she had preserved the demure and subtle side of the Japanese ladies from generations ago. The beautiful teachings of the religion only accentuate her fine composure.
Akira used to stop by Singapore to visit Masayo and at times, we would chill at some random watering holes in town. It was thru the Oyasato tour that I got to know him personally and we kind became great pals from then. When this lovely couple visited Singapore on vacation, I took the honor to set them up properly and when I came to Japan, again I invaded their prime time to catch up on those fleeting moments. So with Akira leaking news about the wedding to me some 2 years ago, every day I have been living in anticipation of this wedding until finally with just a couple of hours to go before departing on the epical journey, I hustled everything I needed...15 kg worth of gear!
Took leave of Friday months before and departed on a Thursday night via highway buses (cheapest but slowest option) from Nagano to Tokyo and then from Tokyo to Kyoto. The only torture that I had to subject myself was to amass weapons of mass destruction before my departure. Antiseptic, masks, Vit C lozenges, surgical alcohol, etc all in the name of destroying the H1N1 Swine Flu before they infect me. So far only Osaka, Hyogo and Tokyo are affected so I ain't taking chances to reserve myself a space in the local hospital with huge bold "I'M A PIG CARRIER!" splashed on my forehead in red. TSK TSK TSK!
Ok ok...don't stray don't stray! Reached Tokyo around 1800 hours and had ample to time to burn since my bus departs from Shinjuku at 2100 hours. Clad in authentic Black Chinese Shirt with horizontal embroided buttons and white fold-up cuffs, I swore I attracted a decent number of stares not because of the mask slapped across my face. Went shopping for camera gear, had dinner with a friend and then I hit the long road down south. The bus journey wasn't the most comfortable so zombied thru till Friday morning with an aching neck and shoulder. Took the train from Kyoto at 0700, made a couple of mistakes and ended up in Tenri at 0845 hours. Took a cab to the Main Hall only to find out that the wedding starts at 1045 hours.
Along with a few other full suited guests arriving later, we all waited until finally in a distance a tiny couple emerged from the steps leading to the Main Hall. Camera was already hung around my neck ready to secure the target! Moving in closer Akira and Masayo were thrilled to see me because I was the only rebellious student who never seems to do any homework or past any tests decently to grace this spectacular event. But they continued walking forth because there was a filming crew in the back. Followed them around the surrounding sacred gravel grounds only to find out that there were a few other assistants trailing along. 2 make-up artists, 3 camera crew and less than 20 distinguished guests (including me) were present. Had a slight photography session in the inner sanctuary's garden with the main photographer using 35mm Mamiya cameras firing away followed by 2 DSLRs and a handful of compact point-and-shoots. Changed a couple of locations and poses and then everyone was headed into the Main Hall and all these while Masayo greeted everyone present with the loveliest smile and demure and Akira charmed everyone with his stoic boyish demeanor. While going up the steps, Akira stretched out his palm to hold Masayo's hand as he helped her thru her tiny Kimono Steps, and that scene etched a eternal spot permanently in heart.
Once inside the Main Hall, no photography was allowed so my narration is probably the best you would get but I leave it to your imagination. Led by a Grand Priest everyone moved into the Main Hall and sat respectively behind either Masayo or Akira depending on how we were affiliated to them. Not sure about their true identities but I presumed the senior couples immediately behind Akira and Masayo were their parents (confirmed to be so later) which were then followed by brothers, sisters, cousins, nieces and nephews and then finally friends. The Grand Priest spoke about the wedding like the a western Pastor except it was governed by Tenrikyo's teachings. After about 20 minutes later, everyone moved to the inner sanctuary where we were separated by a low wooden barrier to witness the Sacred Wedding Process. The set up inside this 2 connecting rooms resembled everything you would see in Watten Estate except maybe 10 times bigger, dimmer, more sacred, more closely guarded and more aged. The main priest led the couple in to the inner room and they knelled like a typical Japanese for a long time. 2 female staffs served sake and other items to the couple who were seen only from their back. A dedicated photographer took as little pictures as possible so as to respect and not disrupt the wedding process. Everything was done with such intensity and yet it preserved such serenity that sets the entire sacred wedding process apart from the usual loud happy ones. Beautiful like a work of art, lucid like the flow of the river and calm like a sleeping baby, they were recognized as man and wife before the almighty God in silence watched by many curious eyes.
Once that was over, everyone then proceeded to the 3 other inner halls to pay respects to the Gods and ancestors before finally ending where we started singing songs of God. There was a huge sign of relieve on Akira's and Masayo's face because the process was almost nearing to an end. Everyone gathered outside the Main Hall for a photography session and then everything was over. Everyone was going back to prepare for the huge party at night in Osaka much like the Chinese Wedding Dinner but Akira and Masayo were not spared of any rest. They were going for the family party first before heading out the 2nd party at night.
While I was a tad bit disappointed because the MAIN reason that I wanted to be here was to capture the Sacred Wedding but the opportunities presented were pretty limited and time definitely wasn't helpful at all. The skies were overcast with thick fluffy clouds with the occasional deep rich blue peering thru. Though pictures were not possible inside the Main Hall (しょうがないね) which can't be helped, the finishing blow was that everything was over in a flash. I wasn't the main photographer so I can't possibly pose them myself. Most of the time I was scraping for left overs like a pathetic vulture among quite a few others as well. It's really up to LR and CS to save the day again (THANK GOD FOR THEM!)
After everyone left I had the entire afternoon to myself since the 2nd party only starts at 1900 hours. Took a little stroll around Tenri City, visited the old places which I have been to and stayed, and also went around finding faces whom I have known. Only managed to find Sasaki Sensei at Tenrikyo Language Institute and so chatted with him for a while. It was funny how I mocked him at why he didn't invite me to his wedding and he gave direct excuses like he was busy and stuffs...TSK TSK TSK.
By late afternoon, I settled for lunch at a small old restaurant inside Hon-Dori only to find myself building up rage. The tiny restaurant was manned by 2 older married folks presumably 60 and above. I wasn't there to discount them or to give them a hard time but to do my growling tummy a favor. The first noodle dish came and the instance it entered my mouth, I was already on the verge of becoming a Merlion. The roach taste was super distinct so after savaging thru the contents, a hairy leg of the roach showed up. Immediately I rejected the dish and ask for a replacement and no I wasn't taking any chances so when the second dish came again, I sieved thru it like a machine and true enoungh the entire roach turned up this time. Well well well what a way to screw up my meals, PUI! Despite my anger, I still paid a fair deal just to pity the older folks who were not the most polite lest remorseful. Whatever since I wasn't gonna let some foul incident spoil the joyous spirit.
Went back to Akira's dorm, took a nice shower, juiced up my camera and then headed to the second party with Shunhei, Akira's good friend, and a whole horde of others.
The party was held at Mitte, a rather small but posh restaurant in Osaka. Almost everyone turned up in a full suit or a full night night dress-to-kill but I had opted for a more subtle white shirt with floral cuffs and collar and straight black jeans. There was a painting of Akira and Masayo near the reception booth and I swore Masayo looked like Audrey Hepburn. Was fiddling with my camera since I chose to bring only the 35L prime and 580EX2 when the main photographer showed up with 2 huge camera equipped with flash guns and menacing lens which killed my ego instantly. Met another 2 fellow Singaporean there who were touring Japan when they decided to grace this wedding as well.
The music rolled and Akira appeared in a smart black suit collecting flowers as he walked thru the path made by people. He reached the stage with enoungh flowers in his hand, hinted a sign of intense pressure thru his eyes and steadfast himself for his beautiful bride. And then Masayo gently entered from the other end of the human path led on by her brother and instantly the shining star of the night stole every single attention. Akira was very tense but delighted because the anticipation from his eyes were reckoning far in the direction of his bride. When Masayo reach the stage, Akira presented her with the flowers he collected and Masayo placed a single flower on his chest pocket. They exchanged rings and then flashed the shiny stones in unison to the audience like stars celebrities.
Somewhere along the party, my name was announced and I had to present myself on the stage along with 2 other ladies. I have absolutely no idea or whatsoever what was going on but I soon found out that I had to do an impromptu open speech to this fabulous couple. It was intense but I can't back down now so I started to fill my vacuum-filled head with messages. "Think Godamit...Think!". Started off with a little Japanese and then gave it a shot at English. But upon seeing half the puzzled-filled faces of the Japanese guests, guessed like I had no choice but to spew out some fiery Japanese. Man that was one of the most crazy impromptu speeches that came out from my mouth and I don't think I can ever rise to such an occasion again.
After the speech, there were a lot of people urging me to proclaim my single status so that I could at least gain the attention of other single ladies but I wasn't that positive that I would even attempt to steal the attention from Akira and Masayo. Then came the hastily prepared video surprise for Masayo which was an idea from Akira, an effort by me and all the SG angels and completed by Shunhei. Weeks prior, Akira approached me and told me he wanted to do a special ChannelNewsAsia report only to be interrupted by well wishes from Singapore from all Masayo's ex students, friends, colleagues, etc. I agreed upon the idea and was bent on making the impossible happen. Seeked help from Gid in SG and then with the efforts of everyone who can't grace this inspiring event, I soon got hold of the collection of the well wishes from Singapore. Sent it to Shunhei who made it into a viewable video at the wedding. Masayo teared when she saw the video which justified every effort that everyone had contributed for her cause. I was just glad that I could do something useful for a friend, a teacher and a wedding.
Like the typical wedding party, it was all party, booze and every attempt to get the poor Groom drunk while the Bride just smile and look on.
This is possibly my first REAL Japanese wedding and possibly the most memorable one till date so Thank You Akira and Masayo for giving me this exellencent opportunity, everyone in SG who were involved in the vid, everyone whom I have met at the party and those reading this as well.
As usual the pictures will be up soon.
P.S. Terri, I tried to recall everything in detail and hope the words doesn't stress out your eyes :p
Thursday, May 21, 2009
Thank You...
- Never Stop Dreaming -
Thanks to a fellow reader, the links of the entry Taking A Break From Hell have been updated. So feel free to re-visit those great inspirational vids courtesy of CINEMA5D where independant film makers uses the Canon 5D Mk2 to create a new utopia of Stills and Moving Images.
Thanks to a fellow reader, the links of the entry Taking A Break From Hell have been updated. So feel free to re-visit those great inspirational vids courtesy of CINEMA5D where independant film makers uses the Canon 5D Mk2 to create a new utopia of Stills and Moving Images.
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
At the expense of Nano Killers
- Never Stop Dreaming -
With less than 48 hours to go, I am pretty much all set to embark on my journey down south mentally. Will get everything together tonight and yes that means re-formatting the already formatted card, re-juicing the already charged cells and cleaning all the necessary equipment that I will be subjecting myself to. This is one chance in a life time event that I was graciously invited so I have to make sure I do everything to secure a safe journey there and back. However these are simply trivial issues within my grasp which I have full control over. It's the other nano issues that I have no control over that I am pretty much concern with.
The Swine Flu...Boo Hoo! Lunch conservations amongst the teachers had left me with nothing short of advices and tips for a safe journey. Besides I really do not want to be in the news for being the first foreigner to carry the virus over here to my prefecture...no no no. Unglamorous and definitely not my style...I was advised to wear a mask to keep the virus out but those thin flimsy paper toys that most Japanese are donning are nothing more than a fashion statement. I am not spared either because with such short time available, I cannot possible fly in my 3M half-face graffiti mask though I would love to have that since the multiple layers of litmus paper will keep me safe. But then I wouldn't want to be arrested in Tokyo for being some new age Sarin Gas Pepertrator.
Not sure how potent this viral contamination is headed but as far as I know, it does spread pretty fast but possesses a far less fatility rate as compared to SARS but we all know that that was due to CHINA being SLOW in responding to it and shoving crucial information under the carpet. Anyway I ain't taking any chances so it's the thin almost non functional mask that I will don for the wedding. Sure reminds me of being a cosplay wannabe but such masks are pretty common in Japan.
With less than 48 hours to go, I am pretty much all set to embark on my journey down south mentally. Will get everything together tonight and yes that means re-formatting the already formatted card, re-juicing the already charged cells and cleaning all the necessary equipment that I will be subjecting myself to. This is one chance in a life time event that I was graciously invited so I have to make sure I do everything to secure a safe journey there and back. However these are simply trivial issues within my grasp which I have full control over. It's the other nano issues that I have no control over that I am pretty much concern with.
The Swine Flu...Boo Hoo! Lunch conservations amongst the teachers had left me with nothing short of advices and tips for a safe journey. Besides I really do not want to be in the news for being the first foreigner to carry the virus over here to my prefecture...no no no. Unglamorous and definitely not my style...I was advised to wear a mask to keep the virus out but those thin flimsy paper toys that most Japanese are donning are nothing more than a fashion statement. I am not spared either because with such short time available, I cannot possible fly in my 3M half-face graffiti mask though I would love to have that since the multiple layers of litmus paper will keep me safe. But then I wouldn't want to be arrested in Tokyo for being some new age Sarin Gas Pepertrator.
Not sure how potent this viral contamination is headed but as far as I know, it does spread pretty fast but possesses a far less fatility rate as compared to SARS but we all know that that was due to CHINA being SLOW in responding to it and shoving crucial information under the carpet. Anyway I ain't taking any chances so it's the thin almost non functional mask that I will don for the wedding. Sure reminds me of being a cosplay wannabe but such masks are pretty common in Japan.
Monday, May 18, 2009
Kyoto - Spring 2009 updates 100% completed.
- Never Stop Dreaming -
Yes after a long time I have finally finished the entire series...in case you are lazy simply click HERE to jump straight to the entry.
Thank you once again for your patience.
Yes after a long time I have finally finished the entire series...in case you are lazy simply click HERE to jump straight to the entry.
Thank you once again for your patience.
Friday, May 8, 2009
The Ultimate Otakus' Obsession
- Never Stop Dreaming -
Today...another gloomy raining morning that greeted me when I woke up. Great...a straight 7 rainy days to ease the incoming heat and the day will go by lazy and lethargic. No lessons on the schedule today so I will just go to "work" and do some productive online "work" and get paid at the end of the month.
So with the new Dynasty Warrior Strike Force in my PSP, I can't help but want to play game all day long. Hmmm that wasn't suppose to be here. Ok ok...Mum and Dad just flew off late last night to Europe and I really hope they enjoy themselves since this is the first time they are putting their SG foot all the way across the continents. Me...I only want them to be happy and come back with lots of pictures because I will be going to Nara in 2 weeks time and then back to SG in the 3Q and then to Canada in Dec. That all aside...
Found a 2 month old news online to share in case you didn't know about it, The Ultimate Otakus' Obsession (TUOO). While there is all the hype about the not-so-new X-men movie, Spiderman 4 and Transformers 2, I am going to isolate Superheroes and talk a bit about robots here. While we, (yes that's including me the OTAKU as well) grew up on a healthy dosage of futuristic mechas from planes and vehicles to robots, from Gundams to Valkyries, from various weird polygonal and menacing looking heaps and chunks of metal from the future, those were just what we or the creators wanted to imagine. These were uber cool with lasers and beams, missiles and boosters and wreaking havoc everywhere. That can't be reality for Man's sake so the more subtle side of us brought out Aibo the cute Sony Dog and Nismo the Honda robot. Yes these were indeed very real robots in real life but they all lack a single element...that is to be the very least bit Human like we are all so used to.
Then sometime back in March 2009, the Japanese "Einstien(s)" at the National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology threw out a new level of robotics. Enter HRP-4C, a realistic Japanese Girl Fashion Robot with an ass plate carved out from a used StormTrooper costume (Yeah right!). Digg the pics below but if you can shelved out at least USD$200,000, this babe ain't coming anywhere near your home. I do hope they have online firmware updates to make her do the chores...
Today...another gloomy raining morning that greeted me when I woke up. Great...a straight 7 rainy days to ease the incoming heat and the day will go by lazy and lethargic. No lessons on the schedule today so I will just go to "work" and do some productive online "work" and get paid at the end of the month.
So with the new Dynasty Warrior Strike Force in my PSP, I can't help but want to play game all day long. Hmmm that wasn't suppose to be here. Ok ok...Mum and Dad just flew off late last night to Europe and I really hope they enjoy themselves since this is the first time they are putting their SG foot all the way across the continents. Me...I only want them to be happy and come back with lots of pictures because I will be going to Nara in 2 weeks time and then back to SG in the 3Q and then to Canada in Dec. That all aside...
Found a 2 month old news online to share in case you didn't know about it, The Ultimate Otakus' Obsession (TUOO). While there is all the hype about the not-so-new X-men movie, Spiderman 4 and Transformers 2, I am going to isolate Superheroes and talk a bit about robots here. While we, (yes that's including me the OTAKU as well) grew up on a healthy dosage of futuristic mechas from planes and vehicles to robots, from Gundams to Valkyries, from various weird polygonal and menacing looking heaps and chunks of metal from the future, those were just what we or the creators wanted to imagine. These were uber cool with lasers and beams, missiles and boosters and wreaking havoc everywhere. That can't be reality for Man's sake so the more subtle side of us brought out Aibo the cute Sony Dog and Nismo the Honda robot. Yes these were indeed very real robots in real life but they all lack a single element...that is to be the very least bit Human like we are all so used to.
Then sometime back in March 2009, the Japanese "Einstien(s)" at the National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology threw out a new level of robotics. Enter HRP-4C, a realistic Japanese Girl Fashion Robot with an ass plate carved out from a used StormTrooper costume (Yeah right!). Digg the pics below but if you can shelved out at least USD$200,000, this babe ain't coming anywhere near your home. I do hope they have online firmware updates to make her do the chores...
Thursday, May 7, 2009
The Hidden Valley
- Never Stop Dreaming -
Once a year in May, there is a week with consecutive national holidays in Japan and each year many people look forward to this particular week. This is the Golden Week as most people come to know. From what I have learnt from the past conversations with Japanese around me, most working Japanese are rarely ever granted or allowed to take leaves for more than 3 days let alone 1 week. So this Golden Week is like a national blessing for a long deserve break. While most Japanese would rather travel interstate in Japan because they fear the uncertainty outside their country, the language barrier is perhaps the biggest set back for them.
And this year, Golden Week was nothing more than a namesake for it was raining almost every day in the week. I am not implying that I am having second thoughts for such foul weather but rather, I AM implying that I am actually delighted it did turn out this way. You see I really can’t stand the heat so cool weather really “warms” me up. Of course after being accustomed to the harsh winter, a little hint of the summer heat would send me scampering for the freezer and not to mention the fact that I was already in love with the rain back in SG.
So I really can’t remember what I did last year for Golden Week…presumably nothing too spectacular but this year, I treaded into more unknown regions of Japan in my prefecture. The journey had led me to discover an abundant history buried deep in the valleys and also inspiring endeavors attempted by other SGreans. Kiso (木曽) was the place of my great escape (from the monotonous routine working life). The trip had led me to discover many interesting places, history, information, friends, etc. Nakasendo (中山道) was a inbound mountainous supply route that runs from Tokyo to Kyoto some 200 odd years ago. While most of the 546km route was already converted to main public roads, a small section of the old Samurai route was beautifully preserved in some of the 69 post towns along this route. These 69 post towns were artistically depicted in Ukiyo-e which was a series of some of the finest art in the world that flourished during the 17th century. Surprisingly the relatively unknown town I am in now (Mochizuki 望月) which used to supply fine horses to the Imperial Family happens to lie along the old Nakasendo as well. With only a day's time available, I visited 2 of the post towns, Tsumago-juku (妻籠宿) and Magome-juku (馬籠宿) which lies deep along the PicturesqueKiso Valley. The winding dual lane serpant road (Route 19) draws a tarmac line at the bottom of the breath-taking valley accompanied by the Kiso River. I was rewarded with a grey cloudy overcast sky with a gigantic arc of rainbow occasionally appearing in the sky. The journey there took a little longer than I had planned because I was stopping all over the place to snap pictures.
Tsumago-juku is a MUST visit if you do intend to drop by Kiso Valley. If you are coming by Tokyo direction, be sure to drop by Narai-juku for some fantastic pictures. Some interesting points along the route before hitting Tsumago-juku are,
A school with a really interesting architecture
A power station with it's own reservoir that look like a scene from Black Mesa (Half Life game).
Interesting assortment of bridges
Temples
Dams
Tunnels (yes I am a huge fan of tunnels)
and Ravines
Ok ok so back to Tsumago-juku...the parking is ￥500 for all day long. This post town is basically a long stretch of an old street lined on both sides with old Samurai style wooden Japanese houses. Most of the houses have been re-done but still bear a strong indication that they were built some 200 years ago. Too bad only less than a countable handful of houses are actually opened to the public with intricate tools and set up from the past. The other remaining houses were simply converted into stores or restaurants selling fame local produce ranging from wooden wares to soba noodles. If you like rich warring history like me, then of course well preserved Samurai towns like this are worth losing precious sleep to drop by. Strolling thru from one end to the other end was simply a breeze because I was indulging myself in the ambience of such a historical place to immerse in the yester years. Weather was pretty kind and with temperatures hovering around 14 odd degrees, I couldn't possibly ask for anything else. Occasionally I have to confess I did check out those massive DSLRs other intruders like myself were carrying. At times, everyone was snapping at the singing birds perched on the ledgers of the wooden houses. Might be thru evolution but these birds weren't the least shy among humans and were graciously chirping birdy melodies.
In the end I left this memorable place with 2 Noren(s) (Japanese curtains) decorated with the scenes of the town...very very beautiful.
While en route to the next post town, Magome-juku in Gifu Prefecture, I did stopped by a pretty cool waterfall in the forests. Because there were parking lots for cars at the waterfall spot, it was relatively easy to go on a picture spree. However there were those 200 year old stone paths thru the forest that were enticing my every senses to venture into it. Just too bad I really didn't know the place well enuff and the abscence of parking spaces in those mountain passes send me packing to the next post town.
Magome-juku was a little different from the previous post town in the fact that it's basically a long stretch of down hill walkway thru closely clustered houses or rather residence. Littered with shops, tea houses and restaurants on both sides of this pathway, the houses here were far more modernised although quite a number still bear marks of the distant past. A very nice gutter with intricate pipe work flows along side the pathway to a huge water wheel somewhere. Not as authentic as Tsumago-juku and doesn't give the Samurai Oomph if you ask me but nonetheless still good for a decent stroll. Here in Magome-juku, the famous residence of Shimazaki Toson, a famous Japanese poet could be found and an entrance fee applies to enter the white-walled residence to see the massive garden. I would definitely like a house like this. Further down the street, a narrow alley deviating off the main street leads to the tomb of this famous poet.
Ended the day without buying anything from here and headed back home in the wet darkness.
By the way while I was searching for information on the Nakasendo, I happen to chance upon a fellow SGrean site about his attempt to do a solo walk on the actual Nakasendo! That's right from Tokyo to Kyoto covering some 546km in total by not sleeping in a confortable inn, hotel, etc. but rather sleeping outside in the open. He is very impressive and almost comparable to climbing the Everest for this feat. God Bless him and wish him all the luck...so if you are interested in his GREAT feat, go ahead and click HERE
P.S. Pics will be up soon.
Once a year in May, there is a week with consecutive national holidays in Japan and each year many people look forward to this particular week. This is the Golden Week as most people come to know. From what I have learnt from the past conversations with Japanese around me, most working Japanese are rarely ever granted or allowed to take leaves for more than 3 days let alone 1 week. So this Golden Week is like a national blessing for a long deserve break. While most Japanese would rather travel interstate in Japan because they fear the uncertainty outside their country, the language barrier is perhaps the biggest set back for them.
And this year, Golden Week was nothing more than a namesake for it was raining almost every day in the week. I am not implying that I am having second thoughts for such foul weather but rather, I AM implying that I am actually delighted it did turn out this way. You see I really can’t stand the heat so cool weather really “warms” me up. Of course after being accustomed to the harsh winter, a little hint of the summer heat would send me scampering for the freezer and not to mention the fact that I was already in love with the rain back in SG.
So I really can’t remember what I did last year for Golden Week…presumably nothing too spectacular but this year, I treaded into more unknown regions of Japan in my prefecture. The journey had led me to discover an abundant history buried deep in the valleys and also inspiring endeavors attempted by other SGreans. Kiso (木曽) was the place of my great escape (from the monotonous routine working life). The trip had led me to discover many interesting places, history, information, friends, etc. Nakasendo (中山道) was a inbound mountainous supply route that runs from Tokyo to Kyoto some 200 odd years ago. While most of the 546km route was already converted to main public roads, a small section of the old Samurai route was beautifully preserved in some of the 69 post towns along this route. These 69 post towns were artistically depicted in Ukiyo-e which was a series of some of the finest art in the world that flourished during the 17th century. Surprisingly the relatively unknown town I am in now (Mochizuki 望月) which used to supply fine horses to the Imperial Family happens to lie along the old Nakasendo as well. With only a day's time available, I visited 2 of the post towns, Tsumago-juku (妻籠宿) and Magome-juku (馬籠宿) which lies deep along the PicturesqueKiso Valley. The winding dual lane serpant road (Route 19) draws a tarmac line at the bottom of the breath-taking valley accompanied by the Kiso River. I was rewarded with a grey cloudy overcast sky with a gigantic arc of rainbow occasionally appearing in the sky. The journey there took a little longer than I had planned because I was stopping all over the place to snap pictures.
Tsumago-juku is a MUST visit if you do intend to drop by Kiso Valley. If you are coming by Tokyo direction, be sure to drop by Narai-juku for some fantastic pictures. Some interesting points along the route before hitting Tsumago-juku are,
A school with a really interesting architecture
A power station with it's own reservoir that look like a scene from Black Mesa (Half Life game).
Interesting assortment of bridges
Temples
Dams
Tunnels (yes I am a huge fan of tunnels)
and Ravines
Ok ok so back to Tsumago-juku...the parking is ￥500 for all day long. This post town is basically a long stretch of an old street lined on both sides with old Samurai style wooden Japanese houses. Most of the houses have been re-done but still bear a strong indication that they were built some 200 years ago. Too bad only less than a countable handful of houses are actually opened to the public with intricate tools and set up from the past. The other remaining houses were simply converted into stores or restaurants selling fame local produce ranging from wooden wares to soba noodles. If you like rich warring history like me, then of course well preserved Samurai towns like this are worth losing precious sleep to drop by. Strolling thru from one end to the other end was simply a breeze because I was indulging myself in the ambience of such a historical place to immerse in the yester years. Weather was pretty kind and with temperatures hovering around 14 odd degrees, I couldn't possibly ask for anything else. Occasionally I have to confess I did check out those massive DSLRs other intruders like myself were carrying. At times, everyone was snapping at the singing birds perched on the ledgers of the wooden houses. Might be thru evolution but these birds weren't the least shy among humans and were graciously chirping birdy melodies.
In the end I left this memorable place with 2 Noren(s) (Japanese curtains) decorated with the scenes of the town...very very beautiful.
While en route to the next post town, Magome-juku in Gifu Prefecture, I did stopped by a pretty cool waterfall in the forests. Because there were parking lots for cars at the waterfall spot, it was relatively easy to go on a picture spree. However there were those 200 year old stone paths thru the forest that were enticing my every senses to venture into it. Just too bad I really didn't know the place well enuff and the abscence of parking spaces in those mountain passes send me packing to the next post town.
Magome-juku was a little different from the previous post town in the fact that it's basically a long stretch of down hill walkway thru closely clustered houses or rather residence. Littered with shops, tea houses and restaurants on both sides of this pathway, the houses here were far more modernised although quite a number still bear marks of the distant past. A very nice gutter with intricate pipe work flows along side the pathway to a huge water wheel somewhere. Not as authentic as Tsumago-juku and doesn't give the Samurai Oomph if you ask me but nonetheless still good for a decent stroll. Here in Magome-juku, the famous residence of Shimazaki Toson, a famous Japanese poet could be found and an entrance fee applies to enter the white-walled residence to see the massive garden. I would definitely like a house like this. Further down the street, a narrow alley deviating off the main street leads to the tomb of this famous poet.
Ended the day without buying anything from here and headed back home in the wet darkness.
By the way while I was searching for information on the Nakasendo, I happen to chance upon a fellow SGrean site about his attempt to do a solo walk on the actual Nakasendo! That's right from Tokyo to Kyoto covering some 546km in total by not sleeping in a confortable inn, hotel, etc. but rather sleeping outside in the open. He is very impressive and almost comparable to climbing the Everest for this feat. God Bless him and wish him all the luck...so if you are interested in his GREAT feat, go ahead and click HERE
P.S. Pics will be up soon.
Friday, May 1, 2009
Take a break from Hell.
- Never Stop Dreaming -
So it seems that shits in life are really like diarrhea, they will strike you in the most unexpected situations leaving you with some foul and uncomfortable wet pants! Just when the world's economy is showing a little glimmer of the raging bull, the sneezy pig comes in and stomp the hopes outta everyone.
While it may seem like a huge pandemic scare everywhere, I am more concern about how much the Yen will be affected. Ha...because with every single catastrophic event that happen, I might either be 1 step closer to buying stuffs off other countries cheap or vice versa. Of course I want it to be cheap...when the Yen plummeted to a shocking 84 points against the USD, I was more than delighted. But before I could do anything much, it had rose to 100 points when the Finance Minister of Japan took a blunder. Then when the ever so cute pigs brought some deadly flu into the world, the Yen dipped again to around 96. And today, it went up to 99 AGAIN!
This is after all the currency market where opportunities are lurking at every corner. If you are fast, it can either make you a whole lot more money or rob you of every cent you slogged for so far.
Well all I am saying is that I am eyeing some pretty hefty camera stuffs here so yes I am indeed pretty concern on the exchange rates. Here are some of the items that I am keeping a look our for...
1. Canon 5D Mark II (98% chance of aquisition)
2. EF 70-200 F2.8 IS USM (50% chance of aquisition)
3. Pocket Wizard FlexTT5 and MiniTT1 (98% chance of aquisition)
4. Canon 430 EX II (67% chance of aquisition)
5. Base Unibody MacBook 2.4Ghz (10% chance of aquisition)
6. Final Cut Studio 2 (98% chance of aquisition)
The main reason for the 5D MkII is because I am already using a 1.6x sensor camera so longer lens have a much longer reach so I kinda want to expand on the wide angle of a full frame camera. Besides the video capabilities of this camera are simply astounding abiet the lack of a full manual control. Of course there are numerous work arounds but it's simply these following vids that got me cancerously poisoned!
Don't say I didn't warn you...
(The link provided will bring you to the site Cinema5D where you can find those 4 or 5 stars rating vids. Thks to YOU for informing me about the broken link...Cheers!)
CLICK HERE
Of course there is the Vicent Laforet's masterpiece but those above are more subtle for my taste. I really can see the bold opportunities that are being open up from the fusion of stills and vid. Hopefully I can find more people with such passion to work with. However the years of Photoshopping would be useless for vids and I have to cry like a baby once again to learn everything from scratch with Color and Final Cut Pro.
No. 3 are the wireless triggers for me to fiddle around with off camera strobes but too bad Japan are seriously lacking in talents in such an industry. No.2 the legendary white "shark" lens might be really useful for longer reach but will probably hold for the moment. New Macbook...I am not sure but might be able to get it as a surprise. And of course No. 4 strobe will compliment the current one I have and the wireless triggers.
Man this is gonna be one really expensive journey...so everything photography aside, here is one game I am eagerly anticipating...PSP SOCOM Fireteam Bravo 3. Because I have completed Fireteam Bravo 2 and it's an awesome game, I have also completed Resistance Retribution and I NEED MORE GAMES! Here is one peekture to tease everyone...and also to bring back the good o' shoot 'em up SAF days..."Rattattatta...tattattattat!"
Alternatively you can visit HERE for more pictures.
And my oh my...my Golden Week holiday starts tonite! Planning to go up to Kiso for photography and also Ninja Village for some serious shurikens fun. Whoooooooooo!
So it seems that shits in life are really like diarrhea, they will strike you in the most unexpected situations leaving you with some foul and uncomfortable wet pants! Just when the world's economy is showing a little glimmer of the raging bull, the sneezy pig comes in and stomp the hopes outta everyone.
While it may seem like a huge pandemic scare everywhere, I am more concern about how much the Yen will be affected. Ha...because with every single catastrophic event that happen, I might either be 1 step closer to buying stuffs off other countries cheap or vice versa. Of course I want it to be cheap...when the Yen plummeted to a shocking 84 points against the USD, I was more than delighted. But before I could do anything much, it had rose to 100 points when the Finance Minister of Japan took a blunder. Then when the ever so cute pigs brought some deadly flu into the world, the Yen dipped again to around 96. And today, it went up to 99 AGAIN!
This is after all the currency market where opportunities are lurking at every corner. If you are fast, it can either make you a whole lot more money or rob you of every cent you slogged for so far.
Well all I am saying is that I am eyeing some pretty hefty camera stuffs here so yes I am indeed pretty concern on the exchange rates. Here are some of the items that I am keeping a look our for...
1. Canon 5D Mark II (98% chance of aquisition)
2. EF 70-200 F2.8 IS USM (50% chance of aquisition)
3. Pocket Wizard FlexTT5 and MiniTT1 (98% chance of aquisition)
4. Canon 430 EX II (67% chance of aquisition)
5. Base Unibody MacBook 2.4Ghz (10% chance of aquisition)
6. Final Cut Studio 2 (98% chance of aquisition)
The main reason for the 5D MkII is because I am already using a 1.6x sensor camera so longer lens have a much longer reach so I kinda want to expand on the wide angle of a full frame camera. Besides the video capabilities of this camera are simply astounding abiet the lack of a full manual control. Of course there are numerous work arounds but it's simply these following vids that got me cancerously poisoned!
Don't say I didn't warn you...
(The link provided will bring you to the site Cinema5D where you can find those 4 or 5 stars rating vids. Thks to YOU for informing me about the broken link...Cheers!)
CLICK HERE
Of course there is the Vicent Laforet's masterpiece but those above are more subtle for my taste. I really can see the bold opportunities that are being open up from the fusion of stills and vid. Hopefully I can find more people with such passion to work with. However the years of Photoshopping would be useless for vids and I have to cry like a baby once again to learn everything from scratch with Color and Final Cut Pro.
No. 3 are the wireless triggers for me to fiddle around with off camera strobes but too bad Japan are seriously lacking in talents in such an industry. No.2 the legendary white "shark" lens might be really useful for longer reach but will probably hold for the moment. New Macbook...I am not sure but might be able to get it as a surprise. And of course No. 4 strobe will compliment the current one I have and the wireless triggers.
Man this is gonna be one really expensive journey...so everything photography aside, here is one game I am eagerly anticipating...PSP SOCOM Fireteam Bravo 3. Because I have completed Fireteam Bravo 2 and it's an awesome game, I have also completed Resistance Retribution and I NEED MORE GAMES! Here is one peekture to tease everyone...and also to bring back the good o' shoot 'em up SAF days..."Rattattatta...tattattattat!"
Alternatively you can visit HERE for more pictures.
And my oh my...my Golden Week holiday starts tonite! Planning to go up to Kiso for photography and also Ninja Village for some serious shurikens fun. Whoooooooooo!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)