Hello Kyoto!

Seth Yarden

Kyoto is a fascinating and beautiful city. The tiny streets are full of smiling faces and busy feet and the winter skies are so often friendly, but still I can not find a postcard that depicts lovely Kyoto in wintery weather. All my friends in America must think it is always spring or autumn here and that all the women dress like Maiko girls.

There are many excellent, wonderful dancers in Kyoto and I came here to study them. They are very friendly but they have knees that wish for warmer weather. Also the monks are very interesting. I find their customs during festivals, especially "Setsubun", an edifying pleasure to behold, plus I really like their outfits. Traditional local culture is very prominent in Kyoto. I am taking a Kyogen class once per week and it is fun and exciting but "seiza" (sit upright) is very painful and makes me dizzy. Kyogen style singing and talking is quite enjoyable and capable of expressing many feelings at the same time.

Kyoto girls are very nice and pretty but they always giggle and run away. The boys seem good-natured and gentlemanly but I think they spend too much time reading "manga" (comics). It is difficult for me to practice Japanese language because everyone always wants to practice their English. However, I know that adapting to a foreign country is always a challenge, and I will persevere. I look forward to enjoying the glory of Kyoto spring!