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GENUINE THAI CUISINE COOKED BY THE CHEF FROM THAILAND
Open Daily:
lunch 11:00-15:00 /(L.O. 14:30)
dinner 17:00-23:00 /(L.O. 22:30)
Weekend & Holiday:
lunch 11:00-16:00 /
dinner 16:00-23:00/ (L.O. 22:30)
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Enjoy our spectacular east coast view
You may have seen it while flipping through Japanese sports channels. With those lightning- fast off-the-chest serves, dizzying loop shots, and wicked forehands, the game is a sight to be seen. While takkyu (table tennis), more casually called ping pong, seems relegated to only late-night sports coverage in the United States, it is consistently gaining popularity in Japan, and has developed its own unique niche in the world of Japanese sports.
Table tennis originated in England in the late 1800s when wealthy socialites would enjoy some after dinner entertainment of volleying petite balls made of cork or string with cigar box lid paddles on a cleared-off dining room table. While ping pong’s journey from Victorian England to Japan is not associated with one particular person, vessel, or event, its popularity is nothing new. Throughout the 1950s and ‘60s Japan reigned supreme on the ping pong table, boasting a string of world championship winners. More recently, however, Japan’s ping pong prowess has been eclipsed by the mighty Chinese table tennis pros, who dominate both the men’s and women’s top three spots as ranked by the International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF).
Even though Japan isn’t winning every match these days, the sport still attracts attention, especially its stars. Japan’s most adored ping pong celebrity is 20-year-old Ai Fukuhara. Nicknamed Ai-chan, (chan is a term of endearment used for children) this whiz kid is a celebrated table tennis prodigy whose career has been closely watched by the Japanese population since she was a toddler At the ripe old age of three, she began plinking the ball back and forth with her mother, former table tennis pro Chiyo Fukubara, and at 13, she became the youngest player to make the Japanese National Team. She has since played in national and international table tennis competitions. including the 2004 Olympics in Athens, and has steadily climbed the TIE ranks to her current place at number nine. Fukuhara, who opts for a traditional shake-hand grip and a close-to-the- table stance, is particularly popular with school-age youth, and like many of the athletes idolized in the United States, she even stars in her very own PS2 video game.
revolution. At the 2007 Women’s Table Tennis World Cup, several designers were featured in the first-ever Table Tennis Fashion Show with Japan’s own Fukuhara in attendance to admire the designs. More recently, at the Table Tennis National Championships inTokyo, a few ping pong competitors caused a ruckus with table tennis officials when they donned trendy short skirts, brightly colored tops, and glittery hairPing pong in Japan is continuing to prove that it isn’t the same old stuffy after-dinner pastime it once was. Beyond breaking into the video game industry, ping pong has also spurred a fashion accessories instead of the traditional neutral-hued gym garb.
With more and more ping pong tables popping up in bars, restaurants, and even convenience stores throughout Japan, ping pong has become not only a source of national pride, but one of celebrity, fashion, and casual fun as well.
—Richenda Sandlin-Tymitz
Story and Photos by Reynaldo Cantù
It’s flashy, it’s brassy, an energetic exhibition of kinetic exuberance — it’s salsa! The word means sauce in Spanish, but in the dance world it is a sensual interplay of passion, full of twirls, fancy moves and spicy interpretations.
Here is what we offer:
• Lowest price guaranteed.
• TRUE 6 month BUMPER to BUMPER warranty. (Lemon law applies)
• Up to 18-month payment plan with 0% interest.
• Personal & friendly service with English speaking staff.
• FREE island-wide towing & loaner cars.
• Title transfer and FREE junking.
• We are an agent for ACE Insurance.
Friday, March 21. 2:30 p.m. & 9:30 p.m.
The dynasty lineage of the Ryukyu Empire reveals several turning points in history. From the invasion of the Satsuma clan to overseas trade expansions, the Ryukyus weathered numerous changes that directly affected the people and culture of the island. Learn about Okinawa’s reigning kings and its mythical creation story in this episode of Okinawa Guide.
Is learning to read and write the Japanese language as difficult as people say? Also, why does there seem to be so many misspelled English-worded signs?
As the rare four-leaf clover sprouts in the fields of Ireland and fortune cookies are cracked, eaten, and analyzed on the streets of China, in Japan people flock to the local teras (temples) and jinjas (shrines) and even to the 100-yen stores for a little good luck insurance.
Japan has many symbols for good luck, protection, and fortune—the most familiar of these is the maneki-neko, or “Beckoning Cat.” Many shops display these famous cat figurines with one paw raised to beckon to customers and usher in wealth. Most maneki-neko have a collar, a bell, and a decorative bib around their necks. These were popular accessories worn by cats belonging to wealthy families; the collar to identify the cat, the bell to keep track of its whereabouts, and the bib as a display of wealth.
Not only is the maneki-neko a symbol of prosperity and good luck, but the various colors they come in are also symbolic. While green cats are believed to bring academic success, purple ones are said to hone one’s artistic side. Gold cats, of course, are the bringers of wealth, and the recently created pink cats are Cupid’s catty companions. Black and red (“ power colors”) cats are supposed to keep away illness and evil. Women are particularly keen on the black maneki-neko since they’re believed to keep away stalkers. White maneki-neko are the second-most popular type and symbolize purity. The calico maneki-neko is considered the luckiest of all because they are modeled after the rare Japanese bobtail cats.
There are many legends surrounding the origins of the maneki-neko. One legend is that a cat appeared to a feudal lord rested under a tree during a thunderstorm. It beckoned him to follow it into the old decrepit temple where it lived. When the feudal lord did this, the tree was struck by lightning.The wealthy man, in thanks, became friends with the temple priest and gave money so that the temple became prosperous once more. When the cat died, the lord had a statue made in its likeness.
Often, around shogatsu (New Year’s), thousands rush to the nearest tera or jinja to purchase ornate pieces of cloth framing a sheet of paper with ancient kanji written or stitched on them called omamori, meaning “honorable guardian.” These charms, depending on which ones you buy, can bring general protection and good luck or offer specialized fortune while driving, during childbirth, while taking a prestigious exam, for a job interview—there is a fortune for anything. Contrary to the Western belief that a black cat crossing your path means bad luck is around the corner, in Japan it’s quite the opposite, so there’s no need to panic. Even seeing a spider in the morning is considered lucky. (At night, it’s a different story.) And in a land where the number 13 doesn’t mean anything, a trip to buy brocade omamori and maneki-neko statues is chosen over spending hours on your hands and knees hunting for the elusive four-leaf clover.
Lt. David B. Thames
HEADQUARTERS BATTALION, 3RD MARINE DIVISION
CHAPLAIN'S CORNER
The phrase “Period of Reflection” has become a household term of late. While some folks no doubt expressed frustration over the restrictions placed on our day-to-day engagement with the local community, my own observation is that the vast majority accepted the state of affairs with grace and quiet resolve. Now that a new set of rules has replaced the more comprehensive limitations, life has begun to seem a bit more normal as normal as any overseas duty ever feels. At least I don’t have to worry about how to get a re-supply of those special trash bags, without which I rate a stern if incomprehensible — lecture from the Ishikawa sanitation engineer who appears at my house every three days.
Still, I think it would be unfortunate if we simply relegate the “Period of Reflection”
to the status of unpleasant memory, as if once endured, all bets are off. Part of the intent, and indeed the wisdom of such a period, after all, is to take a good look at ourselves, individually and collectively. Whatever the genesis of the phrase, the principle it expresses is that each of us must take a long and honest look in the mirror to make sure that what we see is in sync with what we claim about ourselves. Otherwise, we run the risk of holding our integrity cheap — for all the world to see.
The “Man in the Mirror” metaphor is perhaps a bit over-used. Nevertheless, it challenges us to extend the “Period of Reflection” beyond the statutes of commanding generals and into the daily discipline of being good people. It requires that we give pause in the face of our own reflection to consider that we are guests in this land and to ask “what can I do (or not do) today to be the kind of guest I would want in my home?” The visage staring back at me from the looking-glass wants to know “what kind of ambassador are you going to be today?” The familiar lines and creases pose the question “wherefore honor, whither courage and commitment today?”
The “Period of Reflection” must not be tossed into the bin of political posturing or the category of “one more bullet dodged.” Instead, it needs to be instituted as a standing order that each of us (and all of us) do the daily soul-searching required of those who aspire to the public trust, who accept the mantle of stewardship for an honorable reputation, and who dare to wear or live in association with the uniforms of our nation.
The beauty of a daily period of reflection is this as we begin to see ourselves the way we truly are — as God sees us — we are freed from false illusions, and empowered to bring what we see into alignment with our highest ideals and most noble goals. We raise the bar for ourselves and for each other.
Now take a good look - and then go do the right thing!
Thames is the chaplain for Headquarters Battalion, 3rd Marine Division.
We’ve all either heard it, joked about it, scoffed at it, or maybe even (admit it) asked it. The cliché pick-up line, “Hey baby, what’s your sign?," is as familiar and tired as any out there. But have you ever thought about whether that pick-up line would make any sense in Japan?
The answer is, probably not. In Japan, there isn’t as much of an interest in the Western astrological signs. It’s not about being a Capricorn, Sagittarius, or Aries. In Japan, it’s all about A, B, O, and AB. That’s right. The popular personality and temperament determinant here is ketsueki-gata (blood type). The four blood types (whether you are negative or positive doesn’t matter) are linked to different personality types.
Historically, the scientific study of blood types as they relate to personality has been a means by which scientists have tried to prove the physical existence of racial superiority. This, of course, has resulted in disproving that any racial superiority exists biologically, but it has spurred an interesting technical study of the relationship between that vital liquid of life and the sometimes mysterious world of character traits.
Coined blood psychology, a great deal of research in the 1950s, 60s and 70s was conducted in Japan concerning how blood type affects personality. Interestingly, the most popular research (and the most oft denounced by the scientific community) has been conducted by people with no medical background.
With that, it’s important to mention that there is actually no scientific proof that there is any connection between blood type and personality.
But that has not precluded the popularity of ketsueki-gata in Japan. Blood type pops up everywhere from job applications to magazines to registering on websites. Some morning television shows feature blood type segments, and many fictional video game, anime, and manga characters are described using their blood types. Ketsueki-gata is also often a make-or-break when it comes to relationships. Many women’s magazines have pages dedicated to blood type horoscopes and dating advice. Just like hard-headed Leo supposedly has a hard time getting along with wishy-washy Libra, some blood types just don’t mix well with others.
Are you curious about what your blood type says about you? Type A people, at their best, tend to be calm, patient, responsible, sensible, and introverted. On a not-so-good day, they can be stubborn, overcautious, obsessive, and uptight. Those with a B blood type have the positive qualities of creativity, enthusiasm, flexibility, and passion. Negatively, they can be irresponsible, forgetful, wild, and arrogant. Type 0 folks, on a good day, are ambitious, self-confident, and sociable, or on the flip side, vain, careless, and jealous. AB types are pleasantly cool, controlled, rational, and easy to get along with. At their worst, though, they can be critical, standoffish, indecisive, and unforgiving.
Whether or not you believe in any other personality determinates out there, it’s good to know what you’ll find here in Japan. So the next time you’re out and about and really want to get someone’s attention, don’t use the same old line. Try, “Hey baby, what’s your blood type?”
Can you tell me who created the popular Dragon Ball animated series? Does the artist do any other cartoons?
A friend of mine told me that there is an Okinawan fast food chain that sells a burger made with bitter melon. Is he making this up?
Lance Cpl. Ryan Wicks
OKINAWA MARINE STAFF
NAHA - Within its curved walls about 120 meters above sea level, Shuri Castle holds and protects the ancient history of Okinawa
Shuri Castle features elaborate architecture from the Chinese and Japanese cultures, including many historical buildings, a museum and an artificial lake built in 1427.
These are some of the things visitors can see as they visit the castle and surrounding grounds. As they tour the area, they can also learn about the history through information stations posted along the pathways.
The castle’s grounds are both open and sacred, which are common features of all old Okinawan castles, called “gusuku”. Shun Castle stands as a historical reminder of the Okinawan past and the legacy of gusukus.
King Satto, who built Shun Castle in the 14th century, used it as a royal residence and the center of government and religion.
After being obliterated in 1945 by the battle between U.S. and Japanese forces, it was rebuilt and served as the campus for the University of the Ryukyus.
The current site was opened to the public as Shuri Castle Park in 1992. It was rebuilt after its 18th Century version.
The main structure of the castle is called the “Seiden” or the main hall.
The first floor of the Sieden is called the “Shichagui,” where the king conducted the affairs of state and official ceremonies. The raised stage in the center of the room, called “Usasuka,” served as the king’s throne.
The second floor, called “Ufugui,” was used by the queen and high ranking “nyokan” (female retainers). The Usasuka in the center of the floor was used for formal ceremonies. The second floor is enhanced by high ceilings and decorations.
A steep stairway leads to the third floor, an attic directly under the roof designed primarily for ventilation.
The castle was registered as a World Heritage Site in December 2000.
Entry into the park is free, but visitors must buy a ticket to get into the central courtyard, housing the main hall, Seiden, and the smaller halls, Hokuden and Nanden.
To get to Shuri Castle, take Route 58 toward Naha. At the third traffic light past Camp Kinser’s Gate 1, turn left on Highway 82 and follow the signs to Shuri Castle.
By Tomoko Tomori
Instructor, Okinawa Women's College
Sample from her book "Okinawan Home Cooking"
Ingredients
(5 servings)
Tuna - 250g
Egg white - 1/2
White sesame seeds - 5 tbs
Black sesame seeds - 3 tbs
Japanese Sake - 2 tbs
Soy sauce - 1 tbs
Cooking oil for frying
Salt to taste
Pepper to taste
How to make
1. Slice tuna, marinate in soy sauce, salt and pepper for a few minutes.
2. Remove tuna from the marinate mixture, dip in egg white, coat in white sesame seeds and in black sesame seeds before frying.
3. Heat oil in pan, fry tuna until both sides are browned.
SHRIMP TEMPURA. YAKITORI. YAKISOBA. SASHIMI. BEEF & CHICKEN TERIYAKI. FRIED RICE. STEAM SOY BEANS. AND MORE. ALSO SET DINNERS.
• CALIFORNIA ROLL.
• RAINBOW ROLL.
• SOFT SHELL CRAB ROLL.
• CHATAN ROLL.
• SWEET POTATO ROLL.
Open daily 4:30pm-12:3am, Yen or $
Closed on Tuesday
HERE TO SERVE YOU SINCE 1958!
Your FULL Service Travel Agency Supporting the “Make-A-Wish” Foundation
Where can you hear the birds singing, smell the fragrance of the woods, enjoy natural beauty, and forest views? You can find the answer here at Orchid Valley!! It provides a striking setting and a true escape from the everyday life. For more information please call 956-2667.
TEL: 098-956-2667
FAX: 098-956-2939
E-mail: housing@tokuzato-hsg.jp
URL: www.tokuzato-hsg.jp
OPEN HOUSE HOURS
Mon-Fri : 10:00 - 17:00
Lunch Break : 12:00 - 13:00
Sat: 10:00 - 14:00
Sun & Japanese Holiday are closed
Directions From Kadena Air Base Gate #2
Start out going toward Goya Intersection on route 20. Turn right onto route 330 torward Rycom lntersection. Turn left onto route 85 toward East. After passing the Emerald Steak House on your right-hand side, take the first right turn. Drive straight for just a few minutes, Orchid Valley is on your right-hand side.
Celebrate our
Nestled in the midst of a housing area in Okinawa City is Matsumoto Daini Park, a grassy oasis for kids to relax and frolic.
The park is safe for children, with eye catching greenery, unique playground facilities, and equally important, a place for mom and dad to kick back while the youngsters romp. There are three open lounges available for picnics, while the kids have sliding boards and other toys to play on. There are rest room facilities in Matsumoto Daini Park.
To visit, take Gate 2 Street to Goya intersection, then make a left turn and head toward Koza intersection. Once past Koza intersection, continue on until the A & W Misato branch is on the right, and a Best Denki on the left. Turn right, then continue through the first of two traffic lights. At the second take a left at the first small intersection and go one block. The park is just across the block.
