Page 18
JAPAN
In June 2000, Acoustix spent 10 days in Japan. During that 10 days,
they gave 4 performances and made a bunch of new friends.
Our first night in Japan. We had been in-country about 4 hours when we were taken to supper.
None of us really knew what time it was, OR what exactly it was we were eating.
Chinese Restaurant .... Itami - June 12, 2000
Here's to safe travels and new friends!! Across the table from us are
many of the organizers of the Itami concert - the first of four very successful concerts.
Chinese Restaurant ...Itami - June 12, 2000
Kobe is world famous for its incredible Kobe steaks!
On the afternoon of our second day in Japan, we were taken to Kobe
and treated to an unbelievable meal at an authentic Kobe Steak House.
For an average Kobe steak meal, you could expect to pay
over $70US for a 10oz steak!! (bib not included)
The best meal I've ever had ... Kobe - June 13, 2000
After lunch, we took a cable car up to the top of the mountains that surround the city.
Mountain scenery ... Kobe - June 13, 2000
After walking around all afternoon, we were ready for a bit of R&R.
What better place to relax while in Japan than the local Irish pub???
Brewskies (and a Coke) ... Kobe - June 13, 2000
The Japanese are very giving people. We were given gifts at the end of every performance
before leaving the stage. In Itami, we received beautiful blue and white ceremonial kimonos.
Itami Hall ... Itami - June 14, 2000
The Itami afterglow was held in the restaurant on the main level of our hotel ... excellent planning!
And as the old expression goes ... "Have microphone - will crank a tune."
Afterglow ... Itami - June 14, 2000
Making friends at the afterglow. The lady on the right is a local
radio personality named Seta-san. She was our interpreter/translator for the Itami show.
Afterglow ... Itami - June 14, 2000
A tremendous highlight for Joel was to meet up with his cousin, Mary Frances, who teaches
English in Japan. Note the "Twizzlers" care package under Mary Frances' right arm.
Afterglow ... Itami - June 14, 2000