Retirement

I was surprised to learn that for many companies in Japan, the retirement age is 60 years. This is a country with over 33% of its population 60 years and over. State pension is low so many people continue working for much longer …. however after the age of 60 years companies can dramatically reduce the pay & benefits levels for employees, even if they are continuing in the same job! There are plans to amend laws to help people to work until they are 70 years, but they don’t yet apply.

Tengui

Tengui is a unique Japanese dyed cloth dating from the 8th Century. Guess which are the original hangings and the cheapie knock offs from China …….

• 

• 

Birds … in metal

Like a bird on the wire, Like a drunk in a midnight choir, I have tried in my way to be free ….

• 

• 

Crazy Road Barriers

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

Most recent barrier (top photos) and a reminder of barriers that I have shared before!

School Bags

• 

• 

The school bags, randoseru, are almost as large as the children! Traditionally they are given to a child starting their first year of school …… I hope the contents are minimal as they look so heavy.

Sand

I agonised over the meaning of the term ‘sand’ in Japanese cuisine and after googling it, I came to the conclusion that it was something to do with grilling. I am stupid! It is obvious – sand refers to a sandwich!