Iwama

1975. Iwama.

John’s family owned a youth hostel near Ishioka)

From the left, Corri Geffen, Jeanie Lerner, Diana Taylor, Bruce, Sam from Sweden, Kiyomi, John, Bernice Tom, unknown, and David Alexander

Photo: Bruce Klickstein

Après Keiko Games

1975. Après keiko games. Who are the two (losing) on the left?

Photo: Bruce Klickstein

1974. Tom Everett gets his double nikyo & “uisuki” farewell present. Fumiko pours, Saito Sensei grabs his right and Shigemi Inagaki grabs his left. Rumor has it that David Alexander is responsible for coming up with this “tradition”, which has been “enjoyed” by many ever since.

Photo: David Alexander

Saito Sensei at the Waterfall

1973. Saito Sensei at the waterfall

Photo: Mary Bartlett

At the Waterfall

1973. On a hot, unbearably humid day, thoughts of bicycling through the rice fields to the famed waterfall (taki) proves irresistible. Looks like Hans Goto, Mary Barlett, Ulf Evanås, Darrell Bluhm, and probably Narita-san.

Photo: Mary Bartlett.

Narita-san and Hans Goto

1973. Narita-san (left) and Hans Goto in front of the Aiki-jinja, wearing hanten

Photo: Mary Bartlett

In the Shokudo

1973. In the shokudo. Saito Sensei’s soba and cold beer with lunch. The best on a hot, humid day. As ever, light bulbs remain unshaded. No television either. Rules posted.

Photo: Mary Bartlett

Perfecting Soba

1973. Saito Sensei perfecting his soba making in the shokudo. If you were lucky enough to enjoy this handmade specialty made from buckwheat flour, you’ll look upon the humble soba noodle with fond memories.

Photo: Mary Bartlett