AMATSU OKIYA

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Celebrity Immigration Attorney Kate Raynor lawyers O 1 visa green card

For over a decade, Kate Raynor has been one of the most sought after immigration attorney for aliens of extraordinary ability in Hollywood. What is an alien of extraordinary ability you might ask? This is the term lawyers use to describe foreign actors and celebrities who want to come to our shores in order to grace us with their extraordinary talents. With the recent increase in films starring foreign actors, her services have become increasingly in demand.

The moment you step into Kate Raynor’s lobby, you just know she is not like most attorneys. While other attorneys have bland waiting rooms, hers is full of autographed pictures of famous foreign celebrities whom she has helped come to the land of opportunity. Kate Raynor’s clients include many A-list celebrities in Hollywood today. Kate Raynor’s clients have starred in such Hollywood Block-busters as Derailed, Ocean’s Twelve, Ocean’s Thirteen, Around the World in 80 Days, Letters From Iwo Jima, The Last Samurai, Memoirs of a Geisha, Pink Panther 2, Eastern Promises, 300, and many more. Additionally she has represented platinum selling music artists from major record labels such as Capitol Records, Atlantic Records, Sony, Maverick and more. These talented musicians not only produced hit albums, but have created music for such hit TV shows as CSI: NY, CSI: Las Vegas, America’s Next Top Model, Pimp My Ride, J Lo’s Dance Life, Step It Up 2, and Big Brother, as well as the feature films Spiderman, Annapolis, and many more. Kate Raynor has also helped many television actors that appear in shows such as CSI, Young and the Restless, Ghost Whisperer, Xena the Warrior Princess, Power Rangers, and too many others to list. Her clients also include professional athletes playing for such teams as the Miami Fusion and internationally ranked tennis and world dance champions.

But Kate Raynor does not only represent celebrities. She also represents musicians, directors, writers, and just about every type of entertainment professional you can think of. Many of her clients have won Academy Awards and platinum records in their own countries.

Once you have looked over the glamorous photos that grace the walls of her waiting room, Raynor comes out, and you are greeted by yet another picture of Hollywood glamour, except that this picture is not hanging on any wall. Kate Raynor possesses all of the qualities one might expect from a Hollywood attorney; she is beautiful, charming, and intelligent, but she also has mastery over that down to earth, relatable presence Hollywood is so well known for.

Kate Raynor offers each new client a free consultation during which she reviews their documents, and guides them in creating an immigration package. One advantage that entertainers gain from using Kate Raynor as opposed to other immigration attorneys is that, because of her experience, she knows what entertainers need in order to qualify for visas and green cards. Many times foreign celebrities will go to attorneys who don’t specialize in entertainment law, only to be turned down by immigration. They will then go to Kate Raynor, and she will get them approved.

Another advantage of using Kate Raynor is her honesty and integrity. If, after your free consultation, she does not believe you will qualify for a visa or green card, she will tell you right there. But, she won’t abandon your cause. Instead, she will offer you career advice and guidance, so that you may qualify in the future. If Kate Raynor believes in an individual, she is willing to stick with him or her as long as it takes.

Although most of her clients are foreign celebrities, Raynor is also highly sought by Hollywood production companies who want to bring performers or directors to work on projects, but don’t know how to get the proper clearance. She is also sought after by foreign production companies and film finance companies that want to do business in the states.

Kate Raynor boasts a 98% success rate in bringing entertainers over to the US. And, her clients are very appreciative. It should also be noted that Kate Raynor does not only represent stars. She runs a full service immigration law office, and can handle any and all immigration needs. Although her office is fully staffed, she personally works on every case, and works one on one with all of her clients. If you would like to use Kate Raynor’s services, or simply want to learn more:

15720 Ventura Blvd. #312
Encino, CA, 91435
1 (888) 952-9937
www.kateraynor.com.

kate raynor

GEISHA

Geisha’ consists of two videos which should be played simultaneously. In both videos we see a dance – filmed at the same time from two different angles – performed by a butohdancer. Her make-up and clothes refer to those of a geisha. It’s a dance on a tram near the coastline on a rainy morning during summertime.
The dancer responds on her fellow travellers, transforms and ascends in the surrounding.
In one video the colours are soft and we only see the dancer in profile. The atmosphere is surreal and reminds of a fairytale.
In the second video the colours are harsh and reality bites. Here we see a stranger among strangers.
Geisha is the Japanese word for artist. In that sense the videos are a metaphor for the artist and his place in society.
The videos are also a reflection on the authenticity of cultures. The butohdancer in this video comes from the west and lacks the specific kind of concentration for which the Japanese butohdancers are famous. Nevertheless she uses butohdance as a means to search for her identity in an alien civilisation. In that sense the videos also question today’s search for truth and identity, symbolised in an oriental dance which in it’s own way was a search for a Japanese identity after the atomic bomb on Hiroshima.
It’s also a reference to Ruth StDenis, a pioneer in modern dance, who introduced dances from foreign (and often colonial) civilisations to western society in the beginning of the twentieth century.
 But most of all ‘Geisha’ is the record of a slow and beautiful live performance, viewed from two different angles, which offer many more perspectives.

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Things to Do on a Luxury Holiday to Asia

When planning a holiday in Asia, one really doesn’t know where to start and what places to visit. Asia is so rich and diverse in culture, history and people, that selecting places to see can be quite daunting. Japan, with its sumo wrestlers, geisha girls, cherry blossoms in spring, and bullet train taking one to view the awe aspiring Mount Fuji, can be quite an experience. With their sense of purpose, the hard working and friendly Japanese people will make any trip to Tokyo memorable. One can watch sumo wrestlers display their skills, in the afternoon be a guest at a traditional tea ceremony, and dine out at night and taste Japanese cuisine while sipping their famous saki wine. Riding the bullet train to Mount Fuji and watching this awesome snow-capped extinct volcano rising to its tremendous heights reminds one of the mysterious powers of nature.

After Japan, which remains a leading place with tourists, the next stop would be Hong Kong. It’s amazing to see the tall buildings and teeming markets of this special place. This island city is a showcase of what people can achieve in development, all the while in keeping with tradition. Yes, there are buildings with holes in them to let the imaginary Chinese dragons pass through without hindrance. Dining out at the 66 revolving restaurant in Hong Kong, which is located on top of one of the tallest buildings, is a pleasant way of getting a bird’s eye view of Hong Kong by night. A stroll through the famous Temple Street Night market and then a boat ride in a Chinese junk is a pleasant way of spending an evening in Hong Kong.

Cambodia, with its famous Angkor Wat temple, is worth a visit. Buddhism still flourishes across the major countries of East Asia, and the Angkor Wat temple is listed as one of the wonders of the world. The next stop after Cambodia would be Bangkok, the capital of Thailand. A visit to Bangkok is always memorable, as a visit to the Grand Palace Complex that houses the famous emerald Buddha is worth seeing. The morning boat market, with women selling fruits and fresh vegetables, adds a sense of colour, and makes Bangkok one of the most exotic and vibrant cities in Asia. Where else can one ride on an elephant than in Thailand. There are plenty of places that offer elephant rides, so finding somewhere should not be too difficult. If time permits, a visit to the famous bridge on the river Kwai and to Phuket Island would be time well spent. Thai food is very inviting, but has a variety of spices in it so one needs to careful when trying it.

Malaysia has developed into a haven for tourists, and from its capital Kuala Lumpur to Genting highlands and its plenty of seaside resorts, there is plenty of opportunity for relaxing on the white sandy beaches or indulging in water sports in Malaysia.

Singapore is a hop away from Malaysia, and the Raffles hotel, with its old bar where Earnest Hemingway had his favourite seat, is one place steeped in history. A stay at Raffles is experiencing the exotic luxury of yesteryears, as this hotel has not changed much since its inception. In Singapore, a trip along the undersea walkway allows a close look at the undersea world.

For a relaxing end to an exotic trip, a visit to Bali would be in order. There are so many places to visit in Asia that one would really need a lot of time to see them all.

David R HUghes
For Luxury Holidays in Malaysia try the Tanjong Jara Hotel

Royal Palm 2009 Chinese NY Theme Party – Geisha Girls.AVI

Royal Palm Chinese NY Theme Party – Geisha Girls

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Set Of Five Kokeshi Dolls Chopstick Rests $21.99 Rest your chopsticks in style while eating sushi, noodles, etc. Set includes five chopstick rests each with a different kokeshi doll design….

Unique Discount Gift for Her Teen – 18 Geisha Art Japanese Design Electric Paper Lantern Lamp Attractive variation of classic Japanese paper lantern. Pressed pulp rice paper shade w/ whimsical Geisha design. Creates a soft, warm glow in any room. UL approved wiring, socket, and switch for 25W bulb, ships in 48hrs from our Massachusetts warehouse via FedEx, expedited delivery available….

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Maiko walking in the Gion district in Kyoto, Japan

Maiko walking in the Gion district in Kyoto, Japan

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ROME TRENDY AND FASHIONABLE, THE NEW FACE OF THE ETERNAL CITY

The “New Roman Style” a fascinating itinerary to discover the hidden corners of Rome, from fashion to design, art and cuisine, here are all the most in places in the capital.

Rome the Eternal City? Of course, if you think of all the treasures and artistic masterpieces in the capital that represent human civilization from ancient Roman times, through the Renaissance and Baroque. But Rome is also much more than this. In recent years it has become an open-air artistic and cultural “workshop”. Alongside its historic monuments, the feature that distinguishes it around the globe, there are initiatives that look to the present and the future, just as in London, Paris and New York. There are flourishing modern art galleries, avant-garde buildings, trendy shops and night spots that go in for designer décor and minimal chic, while the oriental and ethnic styles hold sway in nearly all the neighbourhoods. In other words, you don’t need to go abroad to find out what is all the rage, because Rome has become a world leader in fashion, art and design.

In the spirit of Zen, with a minimalist look and a desire to seek out the trendiest places in the city, taste oriental dishes or enjoy the ritual of a fashionable aperitif follow our itinerary of the latest and most exotic spots in the capital.

A shop that has become one of the most popular in the city opened some time ago right next door to the Hotel dei Piranesi. It is a boutique, a feng shui furnishings centre, a florist’s, a café, a restaurant, an art gallery, a bookshop, a beauty salon, in a nutshell it is a concept store called Tad. In the very heart of Rome this is the perfect place to begin your day, it is a modular space of 1000 square metres, streamlined and decorated with gaudy colours, housing a varied collection of items for the home and for personal use. Give yourself a new look with the help of an expert stylist, buy a shantung garment and enjoy a coffee with an Arabic aroma to start the day with renewed energy. You’ll find the most original things with a particular focus on oriental trends (Tad, Via del Babuino, 155a Tel. 06 32669511).

Not far away, in Via Vittoria, there is another temple of oriental culture. It is called Thè Verde (Via Vittoria, 23 Tel. 06 32110174) after the green tea that is so popular in China and Japan. Entering this small shop is like plunging into a Zen atmosphere. Everything is arranged with the utmost care in a way that reminds you of the rules of feng shui. Soft lighting, large brickwork shelves and small niches enhance the display of very special objects that include, for example, Chinese vases, Middle-Eastern necklaces, silk and cashmere shawls, but above all tea services and the ingredients for the tea drinking ritual. Continuing down the same street, at number 55 you come to a young designer’s small jewellery shop Cristina Di Stefano Creazioni Orafe (Tel. 06 6791546). This very minimal shop has just opened and displays and sells fascinating designer jewellery in gold and silver with gemstones and precious stones in all shapes and colours. It is the ideal place if you’re looking for a special gift for a trendy spirited person who will be sure of wearing an absolutely original and unique piece of jewellery.

Obviously a piece of jewellery like this demands the right outfit to match it. Il Baco da Seta (Via Vittoria, 75 Tel. 06 6793907) is just the place for this. The name of this boutique means “silkworm” and here, of course, silk reigns supreme and it is worked in thousands of ways in colours that range from hemp to orange, from desert shades to Mediterranean hues. There are fascinating clothes by young designers who draw inspiration from the Orient and interpret the lines of samurai and geisha garments in a modern key. If you prefer the African style to the Orient, then pay a visit to Monies (Via Vittorai, 37) a small, chic, ethnic shop selling objects, furniture and items for home decoration inspired by the desert and safari style, and while we’re on the subject, pop into Exante Due at number 13 in the same street, where you’ll enjoy choosing really unusual pieces of costume jewellery.

Now it’s time for a coffee break or, if you want to be really fashionable, for a stylish aperitif. The “in” place is Shaki (Via Mario de’ Fiori, 29/a Tel. 06 6791694), a wine bar that has become a must for the young and trendy. It is small, but offers a great variety of teas and coffees with most unusual flavours, as well as appetizing snacks and good wine. Contemporary in style, everything here has that unmistakable designer touch, from the cups and plates to the glasses and napkins. If there is something that takes your fancy and you’d like to buy it, you can find it at the Shaki shop not far away in Piazza di Spagna (no. 65 Tel. 06 6786605).

We continue our itinerary through the new modish capital with a visit to the Galleria Colonna, named after the actor Alberto Sordi, which has recently reopened and become a focal point for Rome fashions. A short walk takes you to one of the latest bookstores in the Feltrinelli chain. This is a large space devoted to culture, which, as well as books and music, also has an art gallery that mounts exhibitions for young up-and-coming artists, photographers and sculptors, and a music bar where live jazz or blues is played at every Sunday brunch.

If you love technology and all the latest high-tech inventions, you’ll find two original shops in the Galleria Colonna. Tech it Easy has all the craziest and funniest designer electronic gadgets in circulation, and Sony Gallery displays the latest novelties by this Japanese company and is a real temple of high-tech.

Do you like the way out? Then Jam is the place for you. On the Corner of the Galleria Colonna, on the Via del Corso side is a vast space on two floors selling unusual, weird, crazy clothes, objects and souvenirs that sometimes verge on the kitsch, but are absolutely unique.

Now it’s time for lunch and we recommend two restaurants in the area. At Reef (Piazza Augusto Imperatore, 40/42 Tel. 06 68301430) the sea and its habitat feature in a minimalist key and are the theme of the whole design. Entering this restaurant is like plunging into tropical seas both as regards the décor and the menu. The undulating plates of glass resemble the rippling waves of the sea, the balustrades made of iron rods are close meshed like fishing nets, even the iron seems to have been rusted by salt water. The lighting and colours all create a soft atmosphere. And the food is really sublime. Gusto (Piazza Augusto Imperatore, 9 Tel. 06 3236363), however, is something else. Apart from being a very good restaurant, wine bar and pizzeria, it also has a bookstore mainly devoted to books on gastronomy from all over the world, and a shop, so it is the ideal place for those who like to read a newspaper or book over lunch.

Now we’ll take in some art. The Galleria Nazionale d’Arte Moderna (Via delle Belle Arti, 131 Tel. 06 322981; Tues-Sat 8.30 am – 7.30 pm, Sun 9 am – 7.30 pm) is located in the Villa Borghese, one of the loveliest parks in Rome, and has one of the most interesting 19th-century Italian Neoclassical, Romantic and Futurist painting and sculpture, as well as works by many 20th-century artists including De Chirico, Morandi and Marini. Outside the gallery is the Caffè delle Arti, the perfect place for a coffee in the open air and it is very popular especially at lunchtime. Lovers of contemporary art can visit the very new exhibition space MACRO (Via Reggio Emilia, 54 Tel. 06 67107900 www.macro.roma.museum; Tues- Sun 9 am – 7 pm, public holidays 10 am – 2 pm, Mon closed). MACRO is housed in the converted Birra Peroni factory, built at the beginning of the 20th century and has become a dynamic, cultural centre that includes six exhibition rooms, a bookstore, a lecture hall, a workshop and a bar. It has a permanent collection of works by world famous contemporary artists from the 1960s to the present, and periodically mounts temporary art exhibitions.

Now it’s time to relax before facing Roman nightlife, devote a few hours to your personal well-being and enjoy an oriental ritual. Rome too has its Hammam (La Culla del Benessere, Via della Maratona, 87 Tel. 06 36298573) and it is here that you’ll forget your daily stress and fatigue in the absolute peace and quiet of this temple of beauty. Let yourself be carried away by the magical exotic atmosphere of distant lands, surrounded by objects and ornaments from Morocco, by walls painted in Mediterranean colours, and sofas and armchairs covered in rich fabrics. An oriental doctor will make you welcome and then follows the full Turkish bath ritual including washing with black, date oil soap, gommage, a massage and to finish off a fragrant cup of mint tea. Now in top form, looking really great you are ready for the Rome nightlife. An absolute must among the very latest gourmet haunts is The Place, in the Prati neighbourhood, (Via Alberico II, 27 Tel. 06 68307137). This is a restaurant and American bar in a very minimal eclectic style, which in addition to an interesting menu with dishes from all over the world, has live music every day ranging from jazz to blues, funky and ethnic. If you prefer to go to a concert of classical or modern music check the programme of the new Auditorium della Musica (Via Pietro De Coubertin Tel. 06 8082058 or 06 80242350/1; www.musicaperroma.it), designed by Renzo Piano, another temple of design, where the acoustics, thanks to the special system of lines and shapes, is really extraordinary. And if you want a late meal, next to the Auditorium is another cult place Red (Via Pietro De Coubertin, 30 Tel. 06 80691630), this is one of the ultimate designer night spots where the red of the small mushroom-shaped armchairs and curious tables sets the tone, and where you can have dinner or simply taste the delicious snacks late into the night.

Jane Maripose
Jane Maripose has travelled extensively in Italy for 15 years. She currently spends summers in her house in northern Tuscany and hopes to retire there. She has also been a teacher in California for 20 years. Jane is passionate about Italian food and culture and enjoys sharing her vast experience with others.
Experience:
Jane’s Italy travels have included every region of Italy. She enjoys going to traditional festivals and learning the native folk dances, talking with the locals, and sampling the regional cuisine.
Education:
Jane has a bachelor’s degree in art history and is a credentialed educator. She studied Italian language and culture at the University for Foreigners in Perugia, Italy. Whilst studying in Ialy she undertook various cooking proficiency exams in the main Culinary academies
From Jane Maripose:
The passion for Italy, food and wine, music, have induced Jane to dedicate herself to this new activity which consists of writing independent articles based on her travel experiences, so that she can share this information with those who intend travelling to Italy on vacation.
Personal Details: j.maripose@gmail.com – www.janemaripose.com

Mr. Big of Sex and the City at Brasserie Cognac

Mr Big of Sex and the City, actor Chris Noth, at the opening Brasserie Cognac on Broadway at 55th Street.

the restaurant is the new creation of Vittorio Assaf and Fabio Granato, owner of Serafina Group and Geisha.

April 9th 2008

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Holidays in Japan: A Study of Cultures in contrast

There are two words which come to mind when considering a vacation in Japan: culture and contrasts. The richness and diversity of life in Japan is matched only by its enthusiasm for its own cultural heritage, and whether you stay a week, two weeks or many months, you will always find it astonishingly easy to feel at one and the same time, both very much at home, yet transported to a world that seems uniquely set apart from anywhere else.

Tokyo is one of the better known cities for many people to choose to visit. This is not only because of the 13 million inhabitants who help to create a city to call home, but because of the fact that it has become ever more popularized through Hollywood, with the James Bond film, ‘You Only Live Twice’ being filmed here, as well as ‘My Geisha’ and ‘Lost In Translation’.

The skyline, dominated by the snow peaked mountains in the distance, is a testament to modern architecture, with glass and steel entwined towards the skies; a remarkable feat, but don’t spend too long staring up at the heavens, because on the ground is the real Tokyo, with everything from exquisite sushi bars to trendy shopping experiences. If you enjoy modern, vibrant shopping, then you must make time to see the Harajuku on your Japanese vacation, often referred to as Tokyo’s Champs Elysees.

Or perhaps you might like to leave behind the bustling streets of Tokyo’s city centre and visit the breathtaking Meiji Jingu Shrine. The original shrine was erected in the early twentieth century, created from Japanese cypress and copper; sadly this was destroyed in World War II, but rebuilt in the fifties to create a magnificent modern masterpiece which very much captures the spirit with which the original was constructed. The Meiji Memorial Picture Gallery is based here, and it is well worth spending time to admire the beautiful murals which depict the life of the Emperor Meiji and his wife.

When it comes to dining in and around Tokyo during your vacation in Japan, as with much of Japan, the culture is one dominated by fish; indeed, the very symbol of Tokyo itself is a fish. It is well worth rousing yourself a little earlier than usual and heading towards the Tsukiji Fish Market , known more commonly as the Tokyo Metropolitan Wholesale Market.

The fish here is often so fresh it’s still moving! The sale of fish is frenetic and absorbing, and afterwards it is highly recommended that you enjoy the best of Japanese fish with an exquisite sushi breakfast. If you’ve never tried this, you really don’t know what you’re missing. Japan is full of contrasts, and to enjoy these at their best, it is worth diving in and participating in the traditional customs.

Before you leave Tokyo, another aspect of Japanese culture which you must experience, and which contrasts very much with the throb and hum of the city centre is the Hamarikyu Gardens. No vacation in Japan would be complete without seeing these beautiful gardens, occupying nearly a quarter of a million square meters. They provide a tranquil resting place, through which you can enjoy a pleasant walk, perhaps enjoying a traditional tea ceremony at the teashop in Nakashima, in the centre of the gardens. The flowers here are fabulous, with peony gardens and a plum tree grove just two examples of the areas which appeal, whatever the season. Depending on when you visit, there are a number of displays and exhibitions which demonstrate more of Japanese culture, such as Japanese goshawk hunting.

Many people today associate Kyoto with the international climate agreement (or disagreement!) but this former imperial capital of Japan holds many fascinating opportunities to explore the culture of Japan, and offers many contrasts with the city of Tokyo, despite both names being an anagram of each other. Situated within a beautiful, lush valley, harbored by the mountains of the Tamba highlands, the city of Kyoto offers the chance to experience Japanese customs, such as the art of calligraphy.

Of all written languages in the world, Chinese and Japanese symbols are perhaps the most artistic and decorative. Although Chinese sounds very different from Japanese, they use all of the same letter shapes, and it is well worth experiencing this for yourself. A true master can help anyone to feel the beauty of creating these exquisite shapes. If you’re interested in learning new things, then perhaps rather than taking part in a tea ceremony, you should indulge yourself in learning more about it, and experts in Kyoto will be more than willing to teach you this ancient tradition.

But for a real taste of Japanese culture and tradition during your Japanese vacation, there is one opportunity hidden away in Kyoto which is hard to find, yet well worth it if you know who to ask. The secrets of the Geisha have long been known, yet rarely understood; rarer still is to experience it for yourself, and even the Japanese consider it a great honor.

However, it is possible for westerners to experience the song and dance ceremonies of the Geisha, and nowhere else are the contrasts with modern western cultures more noticeable than amongst the culture and heritage of Japan’s Kyoto region. But be warned, you may well find yourself tearing up your return tickets once you have embraced the culture of a vacation in Japan.

Margaret Winfrey

If you are seeking a luxury Japan vacation, you can’t beat the personal service offered by Ultitude with business class flights and first class rail travel. You have no need to drive: Ultitude provides the car and the driver for a fabulous Japan vacation.

Japanese Geisha House Photos WWII Interview with US Army Officer

Part of an interview with (Ret.) Lt. John Roberts, Army Signal Corp Photographer and Movie Cameraman. Visit to Geisha house by permission of Brass. “See no Evil, Hear no Evil, Speak no Evil” photograph.

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Geisha Girl Collage Decorative High Gloss Ceramic Drawer Knob $2.99 Handcrafted in the USA to the highest standards using a specialized heat fused, high definition image transfer, that is tripled sealed with a UV resistant glass like gloss finish to ensure durability, easy cleaning, and to obtain an enamel hard like finish. Unlike some of our competitors cheaper plastic and wooden drawer knobs, our drawer knobs are made from high grade ceramic, the artwork is guar…

Geisha Portraits Decorative High Gloss Ceramic Drawer Knob $2.99 Handcrafted in the USA to the highest standards using a specialized heat fused, high definition image transfer, that is tripled sealed with a UV resistant glass like gloss finish to ensure durability, easy cleaning, and to obtain an enamel hard like finish. Unlike some of our competitors cheaper plastic and wooden drawer knobs, our drawer knobs are made from high grade ceramic, the artwork is guar…

Garden Geishas Decorative High Gloss Ceramic Drawer Knob $2.99 Handcrafted in the USA to the highest standards using a specialized heat fused, high definition image transfer, that is tripled sealed with a UV resistant glass like gloss finish to ensure durability, easy cleaning, and to obtain an enamel hard like finish. Unlike some of our competitors cheaper plastic and wooden drawer knobs, our drawer knobs are made from high grade ceramic, the artwork is guar…

Memoirs of a Geisha (Widescreen Two-Disc Special Edition) $6.62 Chicago director Rob Marshall’s pretty but empty (or pretty empty) film has all the elements of an Oscar® contender: solid adaptation (from Arthur Golden’s bestseller), beautiful locale, good acting, lush cinematography. But there’s something missing at the heart, which leaves the viewer sucked in, then left completely detached from what’s going on. It’s hard to find fault with the fascinating s…

Memoirs of a Geisha (Single Disc Version) $4.99 Studio: Sony Pictures Home Ent Release Date: 05/15/2007 Run time: 145 minutes Rating: Pg13…

Puccini – Madame Butterfly / Huang, Troxell $11.62 Like the finest of film scores with its fluid beauty and succession of intensely romantic tunes, Puccini’s opera Madame Butterfly has a surprisingly cinematic feel. In 1995 director Frederic Mitterand exploited this quality of the story, exposing a young woman’s disillusionment against a backdrop of cultural chasms. Shot on location, with Tunisia doubling convincingly as a turn-of-the-century Naga…

Vinyl Wall Art Decal Sticker Japanese Geisha 20×32 Asian Decor $27.00 The newest interior design trend is adding vinyl art on interior walls. It’s easier than hiring an artist and a lot cheaper. The smaller pieces can be put up within minutes. The larger pieces takes a little longer. The decals can be applied to all smooth surfaces, such as walls, windows, tiles, mirrors and doors. Each of our designs come with easy instructions to follow. This is an original design…

The magic of Kyoto

Japan. The name evokes images of cherry blossoms and temples, of Samurai and Kimono clad Geisha. The contemporary Japan of today is a diverse conglomeration of history and tradition merging with a future that often struggles to understand itself. A country vibrantly alive and awaiting the traveler who seeks to experience a culture replete with skyscrapers and bullet trains, of castles and paddy fields lined with rustic wooden homes. What better place to begin your journey within this exotic land than the city of Kyoto. This extraordinarily beautiful city with its abundance of shrines, temples, palaces, gardens, and historically priceless buildings, exemplifies the essence of Japanese culture and history. With over 2,000 Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines architecturally still intact, it is one of the best preserved cities in Japan, and a top tourist destination for foreigners and Japanese alike.

One of the most frequently visited sites is the Zen Temple of Kiyomizu. Its wooden veranda supported by hundreds of pillars located on a mountain slope overlooking the region provides an awe inspiring view of the city below. Visitors are also able to stand beneath the temple’s waterfall Otowanotaki and collect water in tin cups to quench their thirst before hiking the mountain path that leads from the structure to the tranquility of the forest above.

Two additional temples which are also popular attractions are Kinkakuji and Ginkakuji. Construction of Kinkakuji (Golden Pavilion) began in 1397 as part of a new residence for the retired shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, and was converted into a Zen Sanctuary after his death in 1408. The Pavilion is covered in gold leaf, and houses sacred relics of the Buddha. Ginkakuji (Silver Pavilion) was modeled after Kinkakuji, and is located at the foot of Kyoto’s Higashiyama mountains. Built as a villa for Ahsikaga Yoshimasa, (a descendant of Yoshimitsu) the building was also converted into a Zen Shrine after his death in 1490.

Another impressive structure that is a well known tourist destination is Nijo Castle. Located on the eastern edge of a 70 acre compound, the building consists of 33 rooms, and is famous for the intricate paintings of landscapes which adorn the Palace’s sliding doors, and for the innovative construction of wooden floors that squeak like nightingales when walked upon which was employed as a security measure against intruders.

Other memorable sites in and around Kyoto include the “Philosophers Walk”, the Gion District, and Arashiyama, a charming tourist area distinguished by its landmark Togetsukyo Bridge, with Mount Arashiyama standing peacefully in the background. A wide selection of cafes, restaurants and shops are located near the famous bridge. If you venture a short distance north you’ll also come across a cluster of bamboo groves and residential district with several small temples placed placidly among the wooded hillside.

The “Philosophers Walk” refers to a scenic two kilometer path running south from Ginkakuji Temple along a meandering river to Nyakuoji Shrine, and was named after philosophy professor Kitaro Nishida, who could often be seen using the pathway. The Gion District located northwest of Kiyomizu Temple consists of flagstone paved lanes lined with traditional buildings, where if you’re lucky you may catch a glimpse of Geisha as they make their way gracefully down the cobblestone streets.

About the Author

Jim Sherard is the author of “Land of the Rising Sun, A Guide to Living and Working in Japan” which can be found at: http://www.escapeartist.com/e_Books/Living_and_Working_in_Japan/Living_and_Working_in_Japan.html

Geisha Pressure – Japan

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jhmWZHzxeJw

Japanese Silk Handheld Fan, Dandelions on Blue HF143 $11.00 Lovely designs captured on silk make these fans wonderful decorative accents. They also fit nicely into a purse to ward off hot flashes or the heat on hot summer days. Each fan is handmade and thus may look slightly different from photo….

Japanese Silk Handheld Fan, Pink with Cherry Blossoms HF78 $11.00 Lovely designs captured on silk make these fans wonderful decorative accents. They also fit nicely into a purse to ward off hot flashes or the heat on hot summer days. Each fan is handmade and thus may look slightly different from photo….

Japanese Silk Handheld Fan, Brown Trim with Flowers HF73 $11.00 Lovely designs captured on silk make these fans wonderful decorative accents. They also fit nicely into a purse to ward off hot flashes or the heat on hot summer days. Each fan is handmade and thus may look slightly different from photo….

Essential Hyperion, Vol. 2 $7.98 …

Teenage Pet Sounds [RARE] 1 Teenage Pet Sounds 2 Gokart Chanpion 3 Songs For Christmas…

Remix Girls Show $14.68 Japanese pressing. CBS. 2005….

The Geisha House From internationally acclaimed Director Kinji Fukasaku…

Geisha Girl Collage Decorative High Gloss Ceramic Drawer Knob $2.99 Handcrafted in the USA to the highest standards using a specialized heat fused, high definition image transfer, that is tripled sealed with a UV resistant glass like gloss finish to ensure durability, easy cleaning, and to obtain an enamel hard like finish. Unlike some of our competitors cheaper plastic and wooden drawer knobs, our drawer knobs are made from high grade ceramic, the artwork is guar…

Geisha Portraits Decorative High Gloss Ceramic Drawer Knob $2.99 Handcrafted in the USA to the highest standards using a specialized heat fused, high definition image transfer, that is tripled sealed with a UV resistant glass like gloss finish to ensure durability, easy cleaning, and to obtain an enamel hard like finish. Unlike some of our competitors cheaper plastic and wooden drawer knobs, our drawer knobs are made from high grade ceramic, the artwork is guar…

Garden Geishas Decorative High Gloss Ceramic Drawer Knob $2.99 Handcrafted in the USA to the highest standards using a specialized heat fused, high definition image transfer, that is tripled sealed with a UV resistant glass like gloss finish to ensure durability, easy cleaning, and to obtain an enamel hard like finish. Unlike some of our competitors cheaper plastic and wooden drawer knobs, our drawer knobs are made from high grade ceramic, the artwork is guar…

Kyoto Renaissance Immerse yourself in the rich heritage of Kyoto and stay in a traditional house in the city. Who knows, may help preserve disappearing Machiya Japan. [More.]
Geisha in Gion

Geisha and Maiko at Memorial for Poet Yoshii Isamu in Gion, Japan Lonely Planet Collection Framed Art Poster Print by Frank Carter, 39×31 $214.99 Art.com is the world’s largest retailer of art prints, posters, photographs, and framed artwork. With our huge selection of over 400,000 prints, you’ll easily find the perfect piece for your home, office, or classroom. Our art is printed on quality paper. When you order framed artwork, the piece is built by our team of in-house professionals. Visit our Amazon store today at www.amazon.com/artdotco…

Geisha and Maiko at Memorial for Poet Yoshii Isamu in Gion, Japan Lonely Planet Collection Framed Art Poster Print by Frank Carter, 49×39 $299.99 Art.com is the world’s largest retailer of art prints, posters, photographs, and framed artwork. With our huge selection of over 400,000 prints, you’ll easily find the perfect piece for your home, office, or classroom. Our art is printed on quality paper. When you order framed artwork, the piece is built by our team of in-house professionals. Visit our Amazon store today at www.amazon.com/artdotco…

Geisha and Maiko at Memorial for Poet Yoshii Isamu in Gion, Japan Photographic Poster Print Geisha and Maiko at Memorial for Poet Yoshii Isamu in Gion, Japan is digitally printed on archival photographic paper resulting in vivid, pure color and exceptional detail that is suitable for any museum or gallery display. Finding that perfect piece to match your interest and style is easy and within your budget!…

Sakura Petals – Emperors and Geishas $24.95 Sakura Petals: Emperors and geishas continues the visit in Kyoto with the Imperial Palace and a geisha spotting session in the Geisha quarter in Gion.Later, we visit Nara, the first ever settled capital of Japan for only 75 years, with its tranquil atmosphere, full of roaming deer and its remarkable temples, pagodas and shrines, where is located the largest Buddha statue in Japan.This product is m…

Sakura Petals – Temples and Zen $24.95 Sakura Petals: Temples and Zen brings you to Kyoto, capital of Japan for 1000 years, a world treasure of exquisite temples, with dry or moss Zen gardens, bamboo groves and secluded pavilions. The trove of monuments is astonishing being augmented by the Kyoto museum, the best museum for Japanese art. After we visit temple and after temple and the Gion district, we end up inside the city at the Gion…

Geisha of Gion: The Memoir of Mineko Iwasaki $7.61 ‘I want you to know what it is really like to live the life of a geisha, a life filled with extraordinary professional demands and richly glorious rewards. It is a life in which I was a pre-eminent success; many say the best of my generation. And yet, it was a life that I found too constricting to continue. And one that I ultimately had to leave. It is a story that I have long wanted to tell. My n…

Films Directed by Kenji Mizoguchi: Ugetsu, a Geisha, the Life of Oharu, Sansho the Bailiff, the Crucified Lovers, Sisters of the Gion $19.99 Purchase includes free access to book updates online and a free trial membership in the publisher’s book club where you can select from more than a million books without charge. Chapters: Ugetsu, a Geisha, the Life of Oharu, Sansho the Bailiff, the Crucified Lovers, Sisters of the Gion, the 47 Ronin, Utamaro and His Five Women, the Story of the Last Chrysanthemums, Osaka Elegy, Street of Shame, Sh…