(links to sections of Nagoya at bottom)
I realized, as I was planning this vacation, that a train we were taking, from the Mt. Fuji area to Osaka, crossed through Nagoya. Nagoya I later learned was the city where the style of aikido I practice had originated. I decided I should see if I could drop in for a class. Apparently, I was a little short-sighted, as it is customary to submit a formal letter requesting a visit, and there's a chain of people that must approve it before I'm allowed to attend a class. Even if I'm allowed to attend, it's usually just to watch. However, as luck/misfortune would have it, the head sensei was in Pennsylvania while I was in Nagoya. We almost switched places. Since he was not there, I was allowed to participate in the class. They weren't sure if I'd be allowed to attend both classes (there were two in a row) because I only had one gi, and I'd be sweating a lot. Lots of people attended the class I went to. They were all black belts there. I, the puny orange belt (less than one year of training, as opposed to 10+ years) was brought in front of everyone and asked to introduce myself. Someone translated for me. I said it was an honor to meet all of them, and they applauded. I then tried to sit down, and they told me I wasn't allowed to sit near the women. I moved, and then endured the first class. It was so hot in that dojo, mosquitos were picking at us, and I was exhausted, especially after Mount Fuji, so I figured maybe it was a good thing if I only participated in the first session. Those vending machines in the picture were very important. There are vending machines on every street in Japan. Well, maybe not every street, but you never worried about ever finding something to drink, because there was always a vending machine within sight. Anyway, they let me participate in the second session too though. One good thing about aikido is that the more relaxed you are, without using strength, the better your technique. Since I was so worn out, my muscles weren't capable of doing anything, so I think my technique improved. After class, I raided the vending machines again and was on my way.
Here's a nice shot of Nagoya.
In the water, I saw this turtle. I love turtles, and I think this one returned the affection.
Restaurant
Nagoya Castle
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