Author Archives: Lynda Philippsen

The Nezu Museum & Garden, Tokyo

The Nezu Museum is exactly the wonder I sensed it would be. Attractions aren’t always. Continue reading

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Finding My Destination on Tokyo Transit

At first—and even after some experience—deciphering Tokyo’s transit map can be much like navigating a Jackson Pollock painting. Continue reading

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The Wild Weathers Book Launch

Sunday, March 11, 2012 The Wild Weathers a gathering of love poems book launch happens at Renaissance Books (43-6th Street, New Westminster, BC) between 1-3 PM. I will be reading “Final Round,” my contribution to the anthology.

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Abbotsford Rice Field: Year 2

Now as the growing season approaches,Shiroki’s optimistic that his dream to produce 100% Canadian jizake can come true on this field. Continue reading

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Staring at Marie-Gabrielle

After nearly a week in a culture where people avoid making eye contact, a woman holds my gaze in challenge. How refreshing to stare at each other without being thought rude.

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Ueno Park, Tokyo

The broad, tree-lined avenues of Tokyo’s first public park are alive with dappled shadows, visitors and street artists. A most popular spot in spring for its cherry blossoms, the sakura leaves are not yet gold on this autumnal day. However, … Continue reading

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Sensoji Pagoda & Tokyo Sky Tree

Because of its slower pace and older character I chose to stay in Taito, a working-class neighbourhood around Asakusa Sensoji, Tokyo’s oldest temple sacred to Bodhisattva Kannon, goddess of mercy. From my hotel balcony I see the spire of Gojyunotou, … Continue reading

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Finding Sushi

The narrow street is dark but for the dim glow of lanterns. Anywhere else as a woman alone I’d stick to broad, well-lit thoroughfares. However, so long as you’re not blazingly stupid about it, Japan is safe after dark. By … Continue reading

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Evening in Tokyo

An intensely orange sunset plays out across the sky. Tokyo’s traffic-fugue floats upward into the high-rise canyons. The city’s 24-hour, open-throated roar—akin to a fog-horn blast—plays pedal tone to random pizzicato horns. Three-beer laughter from the salary men at the … Continue reading

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Taito’s Traditional Craft Museum

Drawn in by bright red posts festooned with crimson maple leaves arching over a covered street, I decide to follow wherever it leads. Japan has many shotengai like it, covered avenues filled with tiny shops of every sort. From inside … Continue reading

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