Daily Life, Travels and Events in Reiwa

July 6, 2025: Took a morning walk around Wakei Juku before breakfast. Last night, I joined the Kenseikan Karate Club’s practice, worked up a good sweat, and had a wonderful time afterward at the social gathering.

July 1, 2025: Watched the movie “F1” and was moved by the story of a man who, burdened by past glory, dares to return to the stage of his dreams. The film’s immersive visuals and stylish soundtrack amplified the emotion. I was also struck by the importance of teamwork in Formula 1 and how everyone drives each other to excel through shared struggle. Like “Top Gun: Maverick,” it was thrilling and inspiring to see a former hero make a comeback by staying true to his beliefs. Both Tom Cruise and Brad Pitt, now in their 60s, deliver performances that are emotionally powerful and physically striking—proof of their exceptional discipline and commitment. I miss the Racing Capital of the World!! The Italian sausage I had at Milwaukee Mile Speedway in Wisconsin was absolutely the best! July 4, 2025: F1 The Mivie at 109 Cinemas Grandberry Park, Tokyo

June 17, 2025: Visited Expo 2025 Osaka as an opportunity to get some real exercise. When I visited Expo 1970 Osaka from my hometown of Wakayama 55 years ago, it was my first time meeting people from overseas, and I still remember how excited I was by things such as the Tower of the Sun, moon stones, mobile phones, and moving walkways. This time, I didn’t feel quite the same level of excitement, but I had been looking forward to the view from the Grand Ring. However, it was simply too hot today, dangerously so, to really enjoy it. Once summer arrives, I think this is a place best visited at night. https://tedsogo2021.blogspot.com/2025/06/june-17-2025-expo-2025-osaka-grand-ring.html?m=1 There were many Commons pavilions with no waiting time at all, so I was able to cool off there.

June12, 2025: Had a Whopper breakfast and watched the movie "KOKUHO" at 109 Cinemas Minoh. I felt it was a beautiful and powerful, yet deeply heartrending film. It made me reflect on what true success in life really means. I was reminded once again that success—whether it means winning a competition, achieving a goal, or growing as a person—often comes at a cost. Therefore, success and happiness do not necessarily go hand in hand. The world of Kabuki remains a unique and closed society even today. Unless one is born into a very limited number of prestigious lineages, it is nearly impossible to stand center stage in a major performance. Despite being one of Japan’s most iconic traditional performing arts, the Kabuki world does not readily accept even exceptionally talented individuals from outside. Therefore, when a gifted outsider appears—as in this story—it inevitably causes great anguish and disruption within this deeply entrenched hereditary system. In any case, no matter ...