December 27, 2012 –
Akira, Marci, and I arrive in Shobara, Hiroshima for the holidays. We have been on the road for about twelve hours. A very ong drive for Akira. Bless him. All along the Expressways of Japan, there are these amazing rest stops. They are called “P” for parking. A traveler discovers very quickly how nice they are for food, drinks, a chance to stretch legs/arms, and of course go to the bathroom.
When we arrived Akira’s Mom had a nice warm meal ready for us. After a little visit, we pretty much fell into bed. His Mom and Dad live in the country. They are pretty isolated in the winter. The holiday season begins just a few short days away and there is much to do.
But, never fear, there is always time for tea. Breakfast usually around 9:00 am, tea around 11:00 am, lunch around 2:00 pm, tea around 4:00 or so, and dinner around 6:30-7:00 pm, of course, tea time and snacks from then on until you wanted to end your day and bedtime was individually optional. Akira’s brother, Mitsuru, and his son, Nori, arrive in time to join in the celebration of family and the spirit of the New Year.
Pretty much each day it snowed, Akira would help his Dad clear the long drive from the road to the house and in and around the pathway to the house.
Marci spent a lot of time in the kitchen preparing food for us. Some of the traditional dishes were delivered, some made by Akira’s Mom, and some made by Marci, Akira, and his brother. These foods and the preparation for the same are called “Osechi”. I understand that originally this is so that the families may enjoy one another for three days (January 1,2, & 3) without having to cook meals. Like most Asian families there is a great effort for all to join in and do the general deep cleaning the day before the “new” year. Lots of laughter, translating language back and forth for me (thank you so much), learning about the customs, belief systems, and this family’s history.
A new year’s morning of ozone (soup) & mochi (pounded rice) we were all dressed and two cars ready to drive about two and a half hours down the mountainside into Hiroshima and the family shrine. I was excited as it was nine years ago that I was here when Akira and Marci were married. The elder Priest who officiated at their wedding greeted me – it was nice to be remembered. His son, the acting Priest now gave a heartfelt service. Everyone gathered around after service to be blessed. It was a beautiful day. After the service, we headed back to the main road to the Expressway that would take us back to the family home. There was a lovely restaurant at the first “P”. We stopped for a late lunch. It was dark by the time we were back and PoPo (the family dog) was very happy to see us. Several more days of visiting with family and it was time to leave.
On our way back to Tokyo we stopped in Kyoto, about halfway home. We stayed at a Hotel Akira has sent many a visitor to and that Michelle was familiar with as well. Michelle had lived in Kyoto for a time, went to school, and worked there too. In the morning after breakfast, Akira negotiated with a taxi driver to give us a tour of Kyoto. For the next three and a half hours we buzzed around the City enjoying the sights. So beautiful. This city was once the nation’s capital and a residence for the Emperor.
There are many Temples, Castles to see. Many movies have been made here, several famous bridges, landmarks to see, the Gion area where the Geishas are known to be established, and many universities something like thirty-five within the city.
There are lots of restaurants and after an afternoon nap, we went to a place known for beef. You order what you want and eat as much as you can for a price within an hour and a half. Whatever is leftover – you are charged back for not eating. A clever way to control the leftovers!
The next morning after breakfast we sought out the best Expressway home. Because of the Chuo Tunnel cave-in disaster, many travelers like us were having to go around and/or be in long detoured lines of traffic on the way home. I took more pictures of the “P” rest stops. Great! We sure do need these in the States. Marci and I had a good ole American cheeseburger at the last rest stop. I’m set for a while now. Home at last. Time to reflect.
Some of the things experienced these past days will come out in my writing to be sure. Right now, I am enjoying the warmth of the Condo, quiet, (I am here today by myself, and feeling good about it). A lovely trip, glad to be home. New Year greetings to all!
Sharon, your writing is so beautiful and descriptive, it’s like taking the trip with you. What a lovely way to celebrate the New Year with the customs and culture of Akiras family.