Aikido Hawaii
"On June 17, 17 members of the Hawaii Aiki Kai began a 15-day tour of Japan led by Sadao Yoshioka. The tour included 4 nights in Tokyo, 3 in Kyoto, 1 in Takamatsu, 2 in Osaka, 2 in Nagoya and 1 night on Hakone. Our members were able to see many cultural and tourist attractions and also those of particular significance to Aikido students.
At the Hombu Dojo in Tokyo, they were greatly honored to visit with Doshu and Waka Sensei and their families. Following their visit, they trained with Watanabe Sensei and found the instruction rigorous and rewarding.
The following day they visited Iwama, the shrine where O-Sensei lived. With Saito Sensei and members of the Iwama Aiki Dojo as their hosts, they were treated to a mochi (rice candy) pounding ceremony and a delicious lunch of fresh vegetables from the garden. That afternoon, they climbed the 378 steps to the Atago Shrine where O-Sensei prayed. Back in Tokyo that evening, they attended dinner with Doshu at a tea house and were delighted with the entertainment and surroundings.
Needless to say, there were many more interesting and equally full days during the tour, and each gave to our members a richer appreciation of the culture and people of Japan."