Masters Judo in Kyoto

The only seats left on the train headed to Kyoto were in the smoking section. For most of the Judo Masters, who are non-smokers, this was problematic. Kong, however, had become well-adjusted to exploring different periods in time (having just done the Edo period in Hida-Takayama) so was able to enjoy the opportunity to experience and revisit what traveling must have been like during the 1950s, 60s, 70s, and much of the 80s (He also noted the irony in the fact that the smoking Judo Masters, who had been making frequent trips to the smoking car during other trips, were equally as uncomfortable because they didn't light up once during the whole two hours. I guess you had to be there).

[the Kyoto train station is a micro-city in itself -- the essence of which cannot be captured by any single photograph]


After a train switch in Nagoya (that almost saw Sensei Rick, Kahn, Wayne, and Andrew get left behind), we arrived in Kyoto shortly after 6pm. What a place. The train station is immense, clean, and brilliantly designed -- an architectural wonder. Even more attractive than the architecture, however, are the local women -- all of whom have, apparently, embraced the almost-long-enough-to-be-called-shorts and high-boots dress code.

We checked into the Toyoko Inn at Shijo Omiya. Then it was off to play Judo with the "local Thugs." To get to the dojo we had to follow Sensei Rick, who was riding a bike, on foot at at night. It was a recipe for disaster and, unsurprisingly, disaster struck (it was only mild and we eventually got to the dojo). I think it was fair to say that some of us were slightly apprehensive as Sensei Rick had been preparing us all day with stories of a small 12 mat dojo with big judoka and walls that retained the imprint of players who had been thrown into them. As it It turned out, despite his laughter, Sensei Rick was not joking. The dojo was pretty much as he described it.

The Judo was good and a fine time had by all. Well....everyone except Clayton who managed to have the son of Conan fall on him and break his rib.
[The last photo we have of Clayton in perfect health]


A big training on the back of a big day took its toll. After a hard night on the mat some went on for beers and food with Sensei Rick others headed back to the Hotel.

Next: Hiroshima and the case of the missing hotel.
***PS: I need more photo's. Hand them over please.