OSAKA

From Tokyo, we went to Osaka. For the first time, I struggled with being refused entry to a restaurant because I was a foreigner. But I found other options, where I was warmly welcomed, so it was fine. Tired of the city, we headed out of town for a good forest bath. We walked along the river and through a thousand shades of green to a Buddhist monastery somewhere in the mountains. Along the way, we passed small Buddhist shrines, and at our destination, I lit a candle and incense. After using Google Translate, it turned out it was for good luck on my exams, so if anyone needs it, let me know, because my intentions were different, and I've already passed my final exams. On the way back, we got lost, but unintentionally hitchhiked with a very nice Japanese woman who had the most beautiful laugh in the world! She dropped us off in town, and it was a quick ride home. We arrived again proudly as Chopin's descendants. A fantastic adventure! And the cherry on top (as if we could handle any more excitement?): a jazz concert at a Buddhist temple! Seriously, what else will this world show us?

Kitty R.