Day 1 (part 2): Immersed in Japanese culture

I did manage to grab a magazine called "Good Luck Tokyo" (or is that a "Good Luck Trip Tokyo"?? The word "trip" is such a small print...) from Sakura Hotel before heading back to Ikebukuro station, and I was elated to discover that the Ikebukuro map inside had an indication to where Kinkadou is.

We took a subway from Ikebukuro to Edogawabashi (which is like a few stones' throw away... ok, kidding, I meant about 3 stations away) via the Tokyo-metro Yurakucho line. I had made an appointment with Kahori (Sakaeya) for the formal traditional kimono dressing and photoshoot.

I do want to mention that this whole journey in Tokyo had been literally a vigorous workout for all of us. On the very first day, we already had to climb this rather steep slope to reach Kahori's apartment. But you know, it's actually quite an enjoyable climb. The weather was cooling (cold, actually.. But I was getting used to the temperature) and it's interesting to see the actual residential areas in Tokyo.

We're a little lost again when we went to the wrong apartment... HAHAHAHA.. Luckily there was no one in the wrong unit.. Phew! It would have been so embarrassing! We managed to find the correct apartment and were greeted with a warm welcome.

Kahori, Christine (my kimono-dresser), the make-up artist (couldn't remember her name.. Argh!! My memory's failing again.. argh) and Kantarou (our photograhper) had been so friendly and funny. It was more like a culture exchange with friends.

My make-up artist was really friendly and gentle. It was a little sad that she couldn't really converse in English and I was kinda holding back in conversing in Japanese (my Japanese conversation couldn't cut it..) though.. But still, she's very friendly! And she's really good and fast at creating hairstyles!

Even though Christine is an American, she's a Japanese at heart! I was a teeny bit jealous of her for being able to converse so well in Japanese! Hahaha.. But most importantly, her skills in dressing me in the traditional kimono (complete with the Furisode) were superb. The Obi that she tied was so pretty! And yep, the whole kimono held up well throughout the whole photo-shooting! (Think she was a little worried about the kimono not holding up..) Plus she's really funny!

Kantarou, the photographer, speaks amazing English. And he's fun to work with. Heard from XB that he's currently taking Masters in photo-journalism! Looking forward to seeing more of his works (oh, the photos he took in Nepal were amazing!)

And most importantly, Kahori had been truly wonderful and patient. I had asked her tons of questions via email prior to the Tokyo trip, and she replied to all my queries. It also had been fun chatting with her. Kahori, the Furisode was really breath-takingly beautiful! Thanks! (I'm really really sorry for tripping over the Furisode!!!! ><) And I'm glad to be able to experience the process of traditional tea ceremony!

Thanks, everyone!

I think XZZ and YC had an enjoyable afternoon too. =P It was already dark by the time we're heading back to Ikebukuro to check into our hotel (it was not even 6 yet!!).