Back in 2008 I went to Japan to participate at the Kyoto Butokuden . A vivid memory of the whole affair is stored in my head but for the life of me I fail to fully remember the name of the place it was held. The visual memory though still lingers fresh in my mind.
This was the first time I went with my Shihan after being his student for 10+ years. I snuck away from the group while we were at the temple. It was straight after the purification ritual. I wanted to have a smoke. Yes, I indulge myself to my vices. Even when I have just been cleansed.
The group getting ready to depart Sydney. I actually got in trouble at the customs area, I failed to see the no filming sign. so was cordoned off by the guards and demanded to delete the footage of my friends getting frisked.
I miss these guys. The only other Asian in this group photo still hangs out with me. The rest have left or lost contact with me through the years. I think I can say that since this picture is 12 years old. We flew Singapore Airlines and the stewardess were very accommodating to the fellas flirting with them. At that time beverages were very liberal on most flights so we were pretty tanked at this time.
Our stopover at Singapore Airport. You don't realise this but these two with me are actually very serious guys when then are sober. I managed to get them in a happy uninhibited way. Alcohol has its uses.
My gorgeous hair. I had to cut it when summer came to Australia. It was itchy but dang that took two years to grow. I still miss it. Nothing special with the place we took the picture. Someone's very attractive entrance. I don't want to disrespect the place. I unfortunately did not own google translate at the time and failed to read the sign to our left.
We found this very traditional martial arts shop just on the same block as the hotel we stayed at. Lots of old katanas and sets of lacquered armors. Anything old and expensive locked away from hands. Not for securities sake. More to keep the oils from human hands exposing the blades. It deteriorates them. Wish I had purchased lots, then again I was not very financially well off then. Actually still not. Gotta hope you upvote this post so maybe I can go back there and get something.
I think you know that we didn't take it too seriously on the first day when we got to Kyoto. Plus Shihan let us roam around Kyoto proper to sight see and ride golden pigs. I will tag my friend this picture so he can demand I take it down. After seven days...
We were instructed to all wear white belts at the onset of the DNBK ceremonies. To show that we are all just students learning each and everyday. My Shihan was miffed at this. A very proud man he was and is. I wore the jacket and stood behind him. I stood out from the rest. Gotta play mind games.
The second day, we had already attended the days training, ceremonies and few demonstrations. I was not allowed to go berserk on taking photos by Shihan. Not sure why. Pictures last longer. The gentleman in the middle is Allan Tattersalls , I am not doing justice without stating his title. He passed away a few years after this picture. He is not a person to shake hands with. He plays alot of games with you. His minion took this photo. Again I stand out from everyone with my cargo shorts. They wanted to go clubbing. I was content on drinking from the numerous beer dispensers on the street.
Philosopher's Path
Troll totem
Random students relaxing away from the sun
On the third say we were given early marks to explore Kyoto on the day time. I can't find all of my pictures of the day. I hope I didn't delete them by accident.
I was asked to take a picture for the none Japanese on this picture and subsequently included after I took them. I had no idea who they are but later on I was informed they were part of the royal family. Can anyone tell me who? I still don't know. To this day. The gents with me in suits are masters in their own right and befriended me for my drinking. I basically became part of their drinking crew. I did not take photos of the drinking sessions.
This was the welcoming celebrations. We took this picture because of the sign behind us. We were all smiling except for the man. Very serious.
Had to take a photo with this bad boy. What a big drum. Over compensation to the nth degree.
These twins are deadly. From edited: Maltese. I was very impressed by their demonstrations so I made it a point to take a picture with them. We did not exchange details. But I know they kick ass.
This temple is so beautiful. I especially like the entrance doorway. The big doors and its intricate design. I don't do justice with my description or picture. I will only say. You need to visit it to truly get the magnitude of the place.
That is a very small Tori gate.
Sleep is very important
I'm leaving and you're arriving
Pressies for my baby
Thanks for reading.