This was one of the most fun days so far on the trip. Instead of
taking a train somewhere this morning, we walked across Kameoka to Dr.
Stapp’s friend’s house. Nishijima-sensei, one of Japan’s premier
potters, was gracious enough to invite us into his home and studio for
the morning. First he showed us through his showroom, which housed
incredible pieces of art. All of his pieces are glazed in an original
glaze that he creates. After that we moved into his studio.
First we had a chance to look at his kilns and works in progress, then
he presented us each with three-piece sake sets, a much to generous
gift. Then we really got to work making pottery. The first piece that we
worked on was painting a bowl that Nishijima-sensei had already
initially fired. We got to choose what we were painting on it, which was
honestly the most difficult task of the day.
Sometimes I’m just
crippled by the paradox of choice. Eventually I settled on kanji
characters for “rising sun” or “japan” and cherry trees. Next I
attempted to make a vase out of clay, but who knows how that one turned
out. Best-case scenario sensei forgets to fire it and I never have to
see it again. Finally we all made sushi plates. I swear by the end of
this trip I will have enough sushi plates and chopsticks to be set for
life. Pottery was really fun. I’ve really enjoyed seeing into the life
that Stapp had in Japan. He always tells stories about it in class, but
meeting all of his friends has been eye opening.
After
finishing up at Nishijima-sensei’s house we caught a train into Kyoto
for the “Toji Flea Market”. One of the oldest markets, the Toji flea
market has happened the 21st of every month for hundreds of years. This
market happens around the Toji temple in downtown Kyoto, a short walk
from the main train station. We stayed and wandered around for a little
while, but I couldn’t really find anything that I needed to buy. It was a
great place for people watching though.
That night ended with a
little fun. Some of the students on the trip and I went out for
Karaoke. It was such a different experience compared to what you do in
America. At World Vision, a Japanese chain, they take you to a private
room that seats maybe 10 people and you are given your own private
Karaoke set-up. I would definitely recommend it if you are looking for a
little fun.
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Read more from Stephanie at http://stephsadventuresabroad.tumblr.com/
Find out more about the U of A International Business in Japan program at http://studyabroad.uark.edu/wcobjapan
