July 31, day six, was a pretty typical JASC day. There was history, there were diplomats, there was academic discussion, there was fun, and there was very little sleep. The day started with free time, which I used to visit the Meiji Shrine, where Emperor Meiji and his consort Princess Shoken are enshrined. Although the treasure house was closed, the shrine was still a huge treat for me, and to top it off I was able to see some Shinto ritual performed.
Not only was the shrine fantastic for its history, but it was also a treat to be in a forested area in the middle of densely populated Tokyo. The spacious grounds were relaxing and quiet, but for the cicadas.
Shinto ritual. The music was amazing!
A funny sign on the walk home.
The Olympic Center, my home in Tokyo.
In the afternoon we participated in the Asian Foundation Forum along with students from South Korea and China. The topics were varied and interesting, and the highlight was a visit from a princess of the Japanese Imperial family. Imperial.
Princess!
Eri and I at the reception.
The garden at the Asian Foundation.
After the reception a big group of JASCers headed over to Roppongi for a little fun.
Good times!
SunYong and I having a different kind of fun after a long day of serious academic discussions.
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