- 会友部 -

The Japan tour to Akita , Yamagata and Tokyo organized by the Associate Committee was held from 9th to 17th April. Led by JAS Secretary - General Mr Sugino , we visited many places such as Namahage Museum , Selion Tower, Homma Art Museum and Hatsumago Sake Museum. The weather was not always on our side but everyone still had a great time. Though our plan for boat ride at Mogami River had to be abandoned due to heavy rain, the dismal weather could do nothingto dampen our spirits. It was too cold for sakura full bloom but we were just as excited to experience snow at Mount Haguro. The picturesque Lake Towada was simply marvelous and the stroll along the Oirase mountain stream was equally unforgettable. Apart from enjoying breathtaking sceneries, the other great thing we did was savoring glorious food and high quality sake, which Akita and Yamagata are famous for. Right down to on our last day in Tokyo, we enjoyed great food at every meal! We hope every participant has left with a new perspective of Japanese food and culture after this trip together.

4月9日から17日まで7泊9日「豪華秋田／山形／東京ツアー」が会友部主催で挙行されました。日本人会杉野事務局長の案内で、なまはげ館、セリオンタワー、本間美術館、初孫酒造などさまざまな場所を訪れました。残念なことに天気に恵まれない日もあり、雄大な最上峡をゆっくりと下る舟下りは、大雨の為中止になってしまいました。また寒い日が続いていたので、満開の桜を堪能することはできませんでしたが、羽黒山では雪が降っていて風情ある景色を味わうことができました。まるで絵に描いたように美しい十和田湖、そして広大な自然から湧き出る奥入瀬渓流の見事な景観は、心に焼きついたことでしょう。旅の醍醐味は雄大な景観と美味しい食事。秋田と山形は全国有数の酒どころです。おいしい地酒と食事を満喫し、最後は東京に宿泊しました。