Fushimi-Inari Walking Tour
@@@@Spring has well and truly arrived! I recently walked along the trail stretching
from Fushimi-Inari Shrine (•šŒ©ˆî‰×) to the top of Mt. Inari, then on to Tofukuji
Temple (“Œ•ŸŽ›). It was a little bit chilly at the time, as it was the peak of cherry
blossom season when the weather tends to cool down again - period is known as hanabie
(‰Ô—₦). Nevertheless, it made for a refreshing and fragrant spring journey. If you are
keen to see and taste the delights of southern Kyoto, by all means, read on.
@@@@Making your way from the Fushimi-Inari Keihan station along Omotesando Rd.
(•\ŽQ“¹), you will pass by various shops, including several food stands selling local
delicacies such as yakitori (skewed chicken), inari-zushi (fried tofu stuffed with
vinegared rice) and suzume (skewed sparrow). I stopped at one of these stands and
decided to try "sparrow". Having never eaten it before, I was pleased to find out that
it truly lives up to the fine reputation it enjoys with some people. But to be honest,
at first sight I thought i was about to eat what looked more like a frog than a bird!
Not to be discouraged, however, I applied a generous amount of special flavored sauce
and instantly the dish took on a more palatable appearance and aroma. Despite my initial
misgivings, in no time at all I was licking my lips and wondering if I should get
seconds! So, if you haven't tried this tasty snack I suggest you do, as you may be
pleasantly surprised.
@@@@Continuing along Omotesando you will soon reach the Main Gate of Fushimi-Inari
Shrine. In front of it you will notice two large statues, both of the mystical fox,
considered a magical creature in Japanese folklore and a messenger of the gods. One of
the foxes has a rice plant sticking out of its mouth, while the other has what looks
like a mochi rice ball. The shrine itself is dedicated to the three deities of
agriculture: the protectors of food who determine a poor or bountiful harvest. The
items in the foxes' mouths are symbolic of this relationship. Passing through the
gate you will come to the Gohonden (Œä–{“a), or the Main Shrine.
@@@@There are many Inari shrines scattered across Japan, although this is the
original and by far the oldest, dating back to the 700's. Its origin is tied to
legend of the Hata-clan (ancient people linked to the dawn of Japanese history), a
member of whom supposedly shot an arrow into a piece of "mochi" (pounded rice cake),
and the mochi turned into a white bird and flew off. The bird landed on the peak of a
mountain, where rice began to grow in prosperity. That mountain is the one that stands
before you, Mt. Inari. The shrine's name is therefore taken from this area, "Fushimi",
while "Inari" is said to derive either from an alteration of a word meaning "growing
rice" or because the hill on which the shrine originally stood resembled rice stalks
piled on top of each other.
@@@@Leaving the grounds of the main shrine, this is the beginning of the ascent to
the top. The path begins to rise slightly and near here there is an interesting monument
in which the same two foxes are shaped into a stone circle, seeming to represent two
foxes playing. If you throw a small stone and it lands inside the open middle section,
it is said that your wish will come true. One of my shots made it in, so I hope its more
than just an urban legend! In front of this monument is the beginning of a myriad of
torii gates which wind their way through the hills to the top, forming a hallway through
which the surrounding forest may be glimpsed. At first I tried to count how many there
were, but got distracted when I came across a bizarre tree. This tree is very old and
rotted; one of its huge roots rises up out of the ground, forming an upside down U-shape.
In Japanese, "raised root" is called neage (ªã‚°). The same reading, although a
different Chinese character, means "raised price" (’lã‚°). This pun is used in saying
that by passing under the root, which crosses the path, one's "value goes up". Put
another way, by passing under the root you'll become a slightly better person. But don't
forget, pass through more than once and it might work in reverse!
@@@@At this point you can take the option of a quick detour to check out an area
where origami-style paper dolls are hanged on display. If you are worried about
something, you can write your troubles on the paper doll and it will take on your
burdens, freeing your mind and spirit (and your wallet of a few coins at the same time!).
Heading on, between the 3rd (ŽO‚Â’Ò) and 4th Crossing (Žl‚Â’Ò), the going gets a little
tougher. It's worth the effort, however, given the beautiful view of Fushimi below once
you reach the 4th Crossing. From here you can choose either the far left or right path
for the final stage to the peak, either are relatively easy going. The summit itself
covers only a small area, and thus the shrine is quite modest in size. Here you can
find out your future by trying your hand at omikuji - a "lucky-dip" kind of prediction
of your fortune to come.
@@@@After taking a look around and having sufficiently recuperated, head down the
opposite trail to the one you came up - it will take you back to the 4th Crossing. With
the bulk of the hard work behind you, the decent will seem relatively easy. Swift as it
may be, it's nice to stop along the way and enjoy the views. The silence is only broken
by the sounds of birds singing and the steam locomotive chugging along in the distance.
I am sure you will experience a mysterious feeling of peace and at one with nature,
especially if you visit on a weekday. Setting a leisurely pace, if you allow about 2
hours for the walk to top of Mt. Inari and back you should be fine.
@@@@When you return to the front of Fushimi Inari Shrine, if you continue along this
street it will take you to Tofukuji Temple (“Œ•ŸŽ›). While it's a little over 30 minutes
walk, there are many interesting things to see along the way. If you have visited
various temples in other parts of Japan, you may notice something special about Tofukuji
Temple. As with most temples in Kyoto, there is a lot of moss, and the effect this green
color provides is an unrivaled elegance. There are innumerable places to explore in
Kyoto, so before the weather turns muggy and wet, venture outside and make the most of
May. Enjoy!
K. Naka
Volunteer Classes & Groups at KICH
The Kyoto International Community House (KICH) in Keage is the place to come for FREE volunteer-run classes
and groups. These range from language lessons to learning calligraphy and flower arrangement,
whatever your interest, there is sure to be something for you. All groups meet in the VolunteersERoom on the 3F.
of KICH. Materials and handouts are provided free of charge, however, students wanting to take home flowers after
flower arrangement class will be asked to pay a fee.
Please refer to the following schedule for classes and meeting times. Next months' issue of Life in Kyoto
will feature introductions by each of the language and culture classes. For further information,
contact KICH on Tel. 075-752-3511.
Shodo (Calligraphy) Circle
By joining the Shodo (‘“¹) Circle you can make many friends and improve your Japanese
while enjoying calligraphy. Here you can learn how to write your name in kanji (Chinese
characters). You are welcome to come along and have a try.
Class Time: 11:45-13:15,
1st & 3rd Saturday
Teacher: KIKUOKA Yuko (‹e‰ª@—TŽq)
Kanji & Kana Study Group
Volunteer staff will help you learn not only kanji (Chinese characters) and kana
(Japanese phonetic symbols), but also how to use them in your everyday life in Japan.
We'll do our best to tailor lessons to your individual needs. Why don't you come and
have fun studying with us at the Kanji & Kana Study Group.
Class Time: 13:45-15:15,
1st & 3rd Saturday
Teacher: MURASE Yoko (‘º£@—TŽq)
Ink Painting (Suibokuga) Circle
In this circle, you can enjoy ink painting (Suibokuga: …–n‰æ), and learn how to carve
your own stone seal (your name in kanji). You personal seal is stamped on the side of
your paintings, instead of writing your signature.
Class Time: 15:30-17:00,
2nd & 4th Thursday
Teacher: KAWARABAYASHI Shunyo (‰ÍŒ´—Ñ@t—z)
Fan-Throwing (Tosenkyo) Circle
No relation to frisbee, fan-throwing (Tosenkyo: “Šî‹») is a traditional Japanese
indoor game enjoyed by men and women of all ages and nationalities. Here you will learn
the basic throwing techniques, and how not just technique, but chance, influences a game.
Come along and have fun improving your game each lesson.
Class Time: 13:45-15:15,
Every 3rd Sunday
Teacher: KOBAYASHI Suisen (¬—Ñ@ˆî)
Soroban (Japanese Abacus) Circle
Try studying the soroban! It's a like a puzzle and is great exercise for your mind.
Your ability to do mental calculation will increase, your fingers will remain supple,
and you may receive accreditation after studying for a period of time.
Class Time: 10:00-11:30, Every Friday
Teacher: ITO Yasuharu (ˆÉ“¡@‰õŽ¡)
Japanese Language Classes
Japanese Classes welcome anyone who wants to improve his/her Japanese skills, or just
have fun through learning Japanese. You are free to choose which class you join
according to your level, with classes ranging from Beginner to Advanced. You can also
participate in Free Conversation Classes where you can put your newly acquired language
skills into practice. Each class is conducted in a relaxed atmosphere and arranged by a
skillful teacher using various methods. Come along and have fun!
Class Time: Refer to schedule in April Issue of LIK or come to KICH for a copy.
Teacher: HOSODA Naoko (דc@®Žq)
Japanese Fabric Craft Salon
Japanese Fabric Craft is a fantastic class for anyone, male or female, interested in
making things using fabric. In this group you can learn how to make clothes and bags
among other items from old kimono material, and also receive dress-making and sewing
tips. Come along and create something unique - many of the things we create make
excellent gifts or souvenirs.
Class Time: 15:30-17:00, 1st & 3rd Thur.
Teacher: YAMAMOTO Mineko (ŽR–{ –¤ªŽq)
Flower Arrangement Class (Ikebana)
In this class you will learn how to prepare and appreciate Japanese flower arrangements
(Ikebana: ¶‚¯‰Ô). Once you have learned the basics you can prepare your own arrangements
at home, or perhaps even continue studying flower arrangement upon return to your home
country. Have fun learning about the aesthetics of ikebana.
Class Time: 11:45 to 15:15, 2nd & 4th Fri.
Teacher: HIRAISHI Tanshuho (•½Î@’OŽì–G)
Chinese Language & Culture Salon
Nihao! (Hi there!) Come along to the Chinese and Culture Salon
(’†‘ŒêƒTƒƒ“) and have fun studying a new language. As part of the course you will
even get to try out your karaoke skills in Chinese! The class is aimed at beginners and
taught by a native Mandarin speaker.
Class Time: 10:00-11:30, 2nd & 4th Sun.
Teacher: KASHIHARA Shukukin (”Œ´@i‹Õ)
Paper Craft (Origami) Circle
We have fun making traditional Japanese origami, original creative origami, and unit
origami (joining smaller units together). We would like you to increase your
understanding of Japanese culture through making Origami. You can see some of our works
on display at the Information Service Counter (1F). Why not try your hand at origami
and chat with us over tea and sweets at break time?
Class Time: 11:45-15:00, 2nd & 4th Sat.
Teacher: Nakamura Yoshiko (’†‘º iŽq)
Kids' Club
At Kids' Club, children of foreign nationals between elementary and junior high school
age can receive help with their homework, and enjoy playing fun games with responsible
volunteers. Activities include Japanese seasonal cultural events such as bean-scattering,
the telling of popular Japanese folktales illustrated with pictures, treasure hunts,
trips to the zoo and the municipal library and much more. Parents are welcome to
accompany their children.
Meeting Time: 15:30-17:00 every Sat. except festivals & national holidays
Representative: HASHIMURA Asako (‹´‘º@–ƒŽq)
Counter Information Volunteers
Counter Information Volunteers provide information about daily living and sight seeing
in Kyoto in English, Chinese, Korean and Japanese. We can assist you if you are looking
for accommodation or wanting to pursue a cultural activity or hobby. At the Information
Service Corner other services include: domestic/international fax, a computer for word
processing, and registration for Internet access. Please come and see us for all your
information needs - we will do our best to help!
Representatives: Ms. Kusuki, Ms. Mizui, and Ms. Oiso
Time and Place: 1 F KICH, 10:00~20:30
Tasty Picnic Lunches
@@@@Let me show you how to make some cheap and simple picnic lunches using rice.
œ Tuna sushi œ
Ingredients:
3 cups of rice
1 tsp. salt
1 or 2 cans of tuna
6 tbsp. of rice vinegar
2 eggs
3 tbsp. of sugar
30-40 mls. of sushi vinegar
Directions:
1. Boil and season rice.
2. Break up the tuna into pieces and season them with sugar, soy sauce, and sake.
3. Bake eggs in thin sheets and cut into strings (3 or 4 cm x 2 or 3mm).
4. Ready a square or a round plastic container like a lunch box.
5. Spread plastic wrap over inside of the container.
6. Fill the bottom half of the container with the rice.
7. Spread the tuna over the rice evenly and compress.
8. Fill almost to the top with rice.
9. Spread the egg over the rice and compress.
10. Cut and divide the sushi like a cake when you eat.Red ginger pickles, aojiso
(a type of herb), green beefsteak plants, or nori (seaweed) will make the lunch look
and taste better. You may also choose to use ham or smoked salmon instead of tuna.
œ Baked Riceballs œ
Ingredients:
Boiled rice
Soy sauce or miso
Mirin or sweet sake, if possible
Directions:
1. Boil rice.
2. Make flat rice balls.
3. Spread soy sauce with mirin or miso on the balls.
4. Bake the balls.
They go perfectly with vegetables and meat, sesame seeds, or just by themselves.
Bon appetite!
Y. Matsuda
Household Tips for Spring
Keep flowers looking beautiful
Avoid sitting flowers where they are in direct sunlight or receive warm or cool air
from a heater/air-conditioner. Put a spoonful of vinegar and sugar into the vase of
water so as not to spoil the water and to give the flowers added nutrition.
Clean, but what's that fragrance?
Don't pour out that small amount of beer remaining at the bottom of your beer bottle or
can. Dip a piece of cloth in it and wipe down windows or furniture - no joke! It's
surprisingly effective as a cleaning agent.
I. Hashimoto