The United States President Obama visited Japan today, and he and Prime Minister Hatoyama had a meeting a little while ago. At the press conference, President Obama hedged the answer of the question that a Japanese journalist asked how he thinks about the atomic bombs in Hiroshima and Nagasaki.
I understand why he did so. But I wished he was wiser than any other presidents in the past. Unfortunately, a lot of people in the United States think it was right to drop the atomic bombs to make Japan stop the war. Whether President Obama thinks it was good or bad, he cannot be able to apologize for the atomic bombs. If he said an apology for that, many American people would explode in anger and demand of resignation.
People who think the atomic bombs were right should visit Atomic Bomb Memorial Dome in Hiroshima or Urakami Cathedral and Atomic Bomb Museum in Nagasaki. I'm sure they will change their minds.
Oh, ignorance is a sin!
Friday 13 November 2009
Friday 23 October 2009
folder
Folders have time stamps that are the present date and time when they are copied and pasted, but they have ones that they were created when they are cut and pasted. So it is good to cut and paste folders if we want to keep their time stamps.
Monday 19 October 2009
The Quality of Sound in CDs
Recently I prefer to use lossless codecs instead of mp3. In many cases, bitrates affect the quality of sound: the higher bitrates the better quality. I wondered how many bitrates CDs have, so I searched and found it.
"16 bits" means the quantity of data in one sample. "2 channels" means stereo: right and left sounds. "44100 Hz", or sometimes "44.1 kHz", means the times of calculations in one second: CD players calculate samples 44,100 times in a second.
How much data does music need? Many albums contain over 60 minutes. Let's think about a just 60 minute CD.
"1/8" means conversion units from bits to bytes.
CD-R/RW have usually 650 MB, but some have 700 MB. We can recond music about 60 minutes in 650MB CDs and 70 minutes in 700MB CDs.
But unfortunately we can't use maximum spaces. Some spaces are necessary in addition to spaces for recording music when we write onto discs. This happens with DVDs and Blu-ray Discs, too. We can know this when we format blank discs. Perhaps makers will say, "It's because of the standards."
I like the spelling of "disc" better than that of "disk".
16 bits · 2 channels · 44100 Hz = 1411.2 kbps
"16 bits" means the quantity of data in one sample. "2 channels" means stereo: right and left sounds. "44100 Hz", or sometimes "44.1 kHz", means the times of calculations in one second: CD players calculate samples 44,100 times in a second.
How much data does music need? Many albums contain over 60 minutes. Let's think about a just 60 minute CD.
1411.2 kbps · 3600 seconds · 1/8 = 635,040,000 bytes ~ 635 MB
"1/8" means conversion units from bits to bytes.
CD-R/RW have usually 650 MB, but some have 700 MB. We can recond music about 60 minutes in 650MB CDs and 70 minutes in 700MB CDs.
650 MB · 8 bits / 1411.2 kbps ~ 3685 seconds = 61 min. 25 sec.
700 MB · 8 bits / 1411.2 kbps ~ 3968 seconds = 70 min. 8 sec.
But unfortunately we can't use maximum spaces. Some spaces are necessary in addition to spaces for recording music when we write onto discs. This happens with DVDs and Blu-ray Discs, too. We can know this when we format blank discs. Perhaps makers will say, "It's because of the standards."
I like the spelling of "disc" better than that of "disk".
Sunday 30 August 2009
My first voting
I've just gone to vote in an election for the first time.
This general election is to choose members of the lower house. And it's drawing people's attention about whether the overthrow of the government will happen or not: Japan has been ruled by the Liberal Democratic Party after the war. Liberal Democrats and government officials have developed too-cozy relationships for a long time.
4 years ago, the former prime minister Koizumi Junichiro with the LDP and Komei Party (puppet party of a cult group Soka Gakkai) contested seats in the lower house against other parties about privatizing postal services. Koizumi won the election and the Japanese postal services were privatized. But the quality of the services got worse.
Both former prime ministers Abe Shinzo and Fukuda Yasuo threw out government in a year: the government changed 4 times withoust any election.
Government officials have wasted taxes, they have been appointed to high positions in private companies after their retirement, and it was discovered they had falsified the records of pensions.
People are getting angry with politicians and government officials. So the Domocratic Party is hoped for.
Japanese people are expecting a leader like President Barak Obama in the United States.
This general election is to choose members of the lower house. And it's drawing people's attention about whether the overthrow of the government will happen or not: Japan has been ruled by the Liberal Democratic Party after the war. Liberal Democrats and government officials have developed too-cozy relationships for a long time.
4 years ago, the former prime minister Koizumi Junichiro with the LDP and Komei Party (puppet party of a cult group Soka Gakkai) contested seats in the lower house against other parties about privatizing postal services. Koizumi won the election and the Japanese postal services were privatized. But the quality of the services got worse.
Both former prime ministers Abe Shinzo and Fukuda Yasuo threw out government in a year: the government changed 4 times withoust any election.
Government officials have wasted taxes, they have been appointed to high positions in private companies after their retirement, and it was discovered they had falsified the records of pensions.
People are getting angry with politicians and government officials. So the Domocratic Party is hoped for.
Japanese people are expecting a leader like President Barak Obama in the United States.
Saturday 15 August 2009
Sato Eisaku is a liar
The Nobel peace prize winner Sato Eisaku was a liar.
When he was prime minister of Japan, he stated Three Non-Nuclear Principles.
But he made a secret promise with the United States which Japan connives US Forces pass with nuclear weapons in Japanese waters.
The successive prime ministers, foreign affairs ministers and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs have kept on denying the secret promise, though some former government officials of the Ministry admitted the existence of the secret promise.
The hoped-for election of the House of Representatives will be held on 30 August. The Democratic Party of Japan says they will investigate on the secret promise if they come into power.
Sato's bereaved family SHOULD return the Nobel prize, or they are betrayers against Japanese citizens.
When he was prime minister of Japan, he stated Three Non-Nuclear Principles.
1. We do not have nuclear weapons
2. We do not make nuclear weapons
3. We do not let other nations bring nuclear weapons to Japan
But he made a secret promise with the United States which Japan connives US Forces pass with nuclear weapons in Japanese waters.
The successive prime ministers, foreign affairs ministers and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs have kept on denying the secret promise, though some former government officials of the Ministry admitted the existence of the secret promise.
The hoped-for election of the House of Representatives will be held on 30 August. The Democratic Party of Japan says they will investigate on the secret promise if they come into power.
Sato's bereaved family SHOULD return the Nobel prize, or they are betrayers against Japanese citizens.
Sunday 9 August 2009
Nagasaki
An atomic bomb was dropped in Nagasaki today of 64 years ago.
More than 150 thousand people were killed directly and indirectly.
Many people are still suffering from its after-effect.
More than 150 thousand people were killed directly and indirectly.
Many people are still suffering from its after-effect.
Thursday 6 August 2009
Hiroshima
An atomic bomb was dropped in Hiroshima today of 64 years ago.
More than 260 thousand people were killed directly and indirectly.
Many people are still suffering from its after-effect.
More than 260 thousand people were killed directly and indirectly.
Many people are still suffering from its after-effect.
Saturday 27 June 2009
Suzumiya Haruhi episode 13
涼宮ハルヒの憂鬱 第13話 「エンドレスエイト」
The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya episode 13 "Endless Eight"
This is the sequel of Episode 12, which has the same subtitle as Episode 13. I thought the "Endless Eight" story would be two episodes, but it seems they have three episodes.
In the novel, it is near the end of the "Endless Eight" story. But the scenes at the cafe and after thet are different from the book. I won't say the details because they will be a spoiler.
The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya episode 13 "Endless Eight"
This is the sequel of Episode 12, which has the same subtitle as Episode 13. I thought the "Endless Eight" story would be two episodes, but it seems they have three episodes.
Synopsis:
One day in the summer holidays, Kyon got a call from Haruhi. He
noticed he had a feeling that something was wrong. Kyon, Haruhi, Yuki, Mikuru
and Itsuki went to the pool, bought yukata at the department store, went
to the Bon Festival, played with sparklers, catched cicadas on the mountain and
worked a part-time job.
One night Kyon got a call from Mikuru and
Itsuki. He was told they had been spent two weeks again and again. Perhaps
Haruhi was feeling unsatisfied, and she was wishing the summer would never end.
The day before the last day of the holidays, Kyon felt strong déjà vu
thet he had never experienced before. He wanted to catch Haruhi not to get out
of the cafe, but he didn't know what to say. On 31 August, Kyon was standing
with his homework in his room.
In the novel, it is near the end of the "Endless Eight" story. But the scenes at the cafe and after thet are different from the book. I won't say the details because they will be a spoiler.
Friday 26 June 2009
Sean Lennon with Honda
I was very surprised that the person who appears in the commercial of Honda car Freed is Sean Lennon, who is the child of John Lennon and Ono Yoko. Σ(･ω･ﾉ)ﾉ！
Thursday 25 June 2009
Garnet Cradle
I started to play "Garnet Cradle", though it's a little bit late since it was released.
I'm little bit sad because the protagonist, in other words I, isn't called her name by other characters and she doesn't have any voice. So that players can easily empathize of the main character, with freely deciding her name. (We can also choose our own name as her.) But it's amuzing like I was attracted into the story.
The main character Miku is so cute! She's a little bit shy, (or rather she wants to live in a quite way?), but it's not unpleasant and so I have a favorable impression.
Miku's best friends Tsubaki-chan and Nono-chan are pretty too. (By the way, why Misaki-chan is called Nono-chan?)
I'm just in the beginning, so Miku has ordinal relationships with the boys. But I feel that Sariya and Toya are unfriendly, that So is kind, that Rihito seems to be plotting something under his smile, and that Kiichiro is like a cute puppy.
Garnet Cradle has Arabian flavour in it, so its music does too. It's sitar, isn't it? I feel it's a pleasant timbre. The music produces an oriental atomosphere with minor scales. I love this kind of music.
I'm looking forward to reading next.
*Note*
This time I once wrote this in Japanese and then translated into English.
(I usually write in English directly.)
The original Japanese version is here.
I'm little bit sad because the protagonist, in other words I, isn't called her name by other characters and she doesn't have any voice. So that players can easily empathize of the main character, with freely deciding her name. (We can also choose our own name as her.) But it's amuzing like I was attracted into the story.
The main character Miku is so cute! She's a little bit shy, (or rather she wants to live in a quite way?), but it's not unpleasant and so I have a favorable impression.
Miku's best friends Tsubaki-chan and Nono-chan are pretty too. (By the way, why Misaki-chan is called Nono-chan?)
I'm just in the beginning, so Miku has ordinal relationships with the boys. But I feel that Sariya and Toya are unfriendly, that So is kind, that Rihito seems to be plotting something under his smile, and that Kiichiro is like a cute puppy.
Garnet Cradle has Arabian flavour in it, so its music does too. It's sitar, isn't it? I feel it's a pleasant timbre. The music produces an oriental atomosphere with minor scales. I love this kind of music.
I'm looking forward to reading next.
*Note*
This time I once wrote this in Japanese and then translated into English.
(I usually write in English directly.)
The original Japanese version is here.
Sunday 21 June 2009
Ristorante Paradiso episode 01
リストランテ・パラディーゾ 第01話 「ニコレッタ」
Ristorante Paradiso episode 01 "Nicoletta"
Synopsis:
Nicoletta came to Rome from the Italian countryside. She was going to tell her mother's new husband everything about her. Olga didn't want Nicoletta to tell him, so she persuaded her. In the course of visiting the restaurant Casetta dell'Orso, she gradually started to have Claudio on her mind.
I had sympathy with Nicoletta when I watching this episode.
She was cute with her face red, when she was helped by Claudio.
Ristorante Paradiso episode 01 "Nicoletta"
Synopsis:
Nicoletta came to Rome from the Italian countryside. She was going to tell her mother's new husband everything about her. Olga didn't want Nicoletta to tell him, so she persuaded her. In the course of visiting the restaurant Casetta dell'Orso, she gradually started to have Claudio on her mind.
I had sympathy with Nicoletta when I watching this episode.
She was cute with her face red, when she was helped by Claudio.
crazy Japanese politicians
I can't understand why Japanese politicians who experienced World War II want to change laws to be able to make the Self-Defense Forces participate in wars.
The Constitution of Japan Article Number Nine is a thing Japanese people are proud of. The article says "Japan abandons wars as the means to solve problems". In other words, Japan will never join wars.
Violence causes only harm.
I hate the munition industry because the companies' executives hopes wars to gain profit of selling arms. Japanese government has the close relationship with building companies, but the United States government has one with munition companies.
People who love wars are the enemies of the world.
The Constitution of Japan Article Number Nine is a thing Japanese people are proud of. The article says "Japan abandons wars as the means to solve problems". In other words, Japan will never join wars.
Violence causes only harm.
I hate the munition industry because the companies' executives hopes wars to gain profit of selling arms. Japanese government has the close relationship with building companies, but the United States government has one with munition companies.
People who love wars are the enemies of the world.
Chinese plagiarism of Harry Potter
A Chinese author 周艺文 wrote a book 冒险小王子, which means "The Little Prince Adventure". It's not published yet, but the samples were distributed to Chinese schools. The samples get favorable receptions from children and their parents.
The book is said to have 18 same points as Harry Potter series. The points are not clearly stated on the news.
J.K. Rowling is going to sue him for damages. But I wonder if the sue goes well. Because China ignores claims or gets angry in reverse.
China is very famous for producing many many many bootlegs. The authorites take actions against illegal makers, but that's not enough.
A lot of countries have been worried about Chinese piracy. Japan too.
China should try hard to prevent from making pirates, and other countries should more pressure China to do.
China is one of the biggest country that contribute environmental destructions. The countries around China are troubled about its environmental pollution.
China is a nation of dictatorship by the Communist Party. Chinese people are deprived of freedom of speech by the government. Search engines such as Google, Yahoo! and Microsoft obey the rule not to show Chinese people inconvenient truths for Chinese government.
Because of one-child policy, many female babies are killed with abortions. Parents in the countryside are likely to want boys, not girls, because parents want children to feed them in the future. In addition, the ratio of women and men is not balanced, so it causes the increase of men who can't get married and so the increase of sex crimes, especially rapes.
The book is said to have 18 same points as Harry Potter series. The points are not clearly stated on the news.
J.K. Rowling is going to sue him for damages. But I wonder if the sue goes well. Because China ignores claims or gets angry in reverse.
China is very famous for producing many many many bootlegs. The authorites take actions against illegal makers, but that's not enough.
A lot of countries have been worried about Chinese piracy. Japan too.
China should try hard to prevent from making pirates, and other countries should more pressure China to do.
China is one of the biggest country that contribute environmental destructions. The countries around China are troubled about its environmental pollution.
China is a nation of dictatorship by the Communist Party. Chinese people are deprived of freedom of speech by the government. Search engines such as Google, Yahoo! and Microsoft obey the rule not to show Chinese people inconvenient truths for Chinese government.
Because of one-child policy, many female babies are killed with abortions. Parents in the countryside are likely to want boys, not girls, because parents want children to feed them in the future. In addition, the ratio of women and men is not balanced, so it causes the increase of men who can't get married and so the increase of sex crimes, especially rapes.
Friday 19 June 2009
Suzumiya Haruhi episode 12
涼宮ハルヒの憂鬱 第12話 「エンドレスエイト」
The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya episode 12 "Endless Eight"
New episode
Synopsis:
One day in the summer holidays, Kyon suddenly got a call from Haruhi. The SOS Brigade members went to the public pool and played there. Next day, Haruhi, Yuki and Mikuru bought yukata and they went to the Bon Festival and played with sparklers. Next day, they worked part-time at a supermarket. Next day, they caught cicadas in a forest. They kept on playing with batting practice, a test of their courage in a graveyard and watching fireworks. On 31 August, Kyon spent the whole day doing homework and playing with his sister. He went to bed at 11:50 pm.
*Note*
Yukata is a kimono with thin cloths for wearing in summer.
The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya episode 12 "Endless Eight"
New episode
Synopsis:
One day in the summer holidays, Kyon suddenly got a call from Haruhi. The SOS Brigade members went to the public pool and played there. Next day, Haruhi, Yuki and Mikuru bought yukata and they went to the Bon Festival and played with sparklers. Next day, they worked part-time at a supermarket. Next day, they caught cicadas in a forest. They kept on playing with batting practice, a test of their courage in a graveyard and watching fireworks. On 31 August, Kyon spent the whole day doing homework and playing with his sister. He went to bed at 11:50 pm.
*Note*
Yukata is a kimono with thin cloths for wearing in summer.
Sunday 7 June 2009
Japanese are victims of crimes by US armed forces
US armed forces in Japan steel things from people, rape girls and women, kill people by car accidents, and murder people with weapons.
The forces "try" to hand over the criminals to Japanese police, but they rarely do. The forces shield criminal soldiers.
The criminals are judged by the forces themselves, such as "not guilty" or light sentences.
The forces "try" to hand over the criminals to Japanese police, but they rarely do. The forces shield criminal soldiers.
The criminals are judged by the forces themselves, such as "not guilty" or light sentences.
Saturday 23 May 2009
K-On! episode 08
けいおん！ 第08話 「新歓！」
K-On! episode 08 "Shinkan!" ("Welcome Party for New Students!")
*Note*
The subtitle Shin-Kan is short for Shinnyusei Kangeikai.
It's not a common way to call it, but it's used like a slang especially among students.
Synopsis:
Ui passed the entrance examination of her sister's school. Yui, Ritsu and Tsumugi were in the same class, Class 2, but only Mio was in a different class, Class 1. Mio was relieved because she noticed Nodoka was in the same class. The light music club played a gig in the welcome party.
Azusa was so moved by the live performance, and she joined the club.
Another insert song "Watashi no Koi wa Hotchkiss" was performed!
It's 「わたしの恋はホッチキス」 in Japanese, and it means "My Love is a Stapler".
Staplers are often called as hotchkiss in Japan.
K-On! episode 08 "Shinkan!" ("Welcome Party for New Students!")
*Note*
The subtitle Shin-Kan is short for Shinnyusei Kangeikai.
It's not a common way to call it, but it's used like a slang especially among students.
Synopsis:
Ui passed the entrance examination of her sister's school. Yui, Ritsu and Tsumugi were in the same class, Class 2, but only Mio was in a different class, Class 1. Mio was relieved because she noticed Nodoka was in the same class. The light music club played a gig in the welcome party.
Azusa was so moved by the live performance, and she joined the club.
Another insert song "Watashi no Koi wa Hotchkiss" was performed!
It's 「わたしの恋はホッチキス」 in Japanese, and it means "My Love is a Stapler".
Staplers are often called as hotchkiss in Japan.
Friday 22 May 2009
Suzumiya Haruhi episode 08
涼宮ハルヒの憂鬱 第08話 「笹の葉ラプソディ」
Suzumiya Haruhi no Yuuutsu episode 08 "Sasa no Ha Rhapsody"
The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya episode 08 "Bamboo Leaf Rhapsody"
The new episode of Season 2 was at last aired last night!
So THIS is what the staff called the New Animation.
This series will contain 28 episodes.
Synopsis:
Kyon and Mikuru travelled back to the Tanabata of three years ago. The future Mikuru made Mikuru sleep and she told him to help a person. Carrying the sleeping Mikuru, Kyon found the young Haruhi in the junior high school. After helping her draw strange drawings on the school ground, Haruhi asked Kyon if he thinks aliens, time travellers, espers or sliders exist, and he told her they might. After Haruhi left, Kyon woke up Mikuru and she noticed she had somehow lost he time travelling device, or TPDD. They went to the Yoki of three years ago, and she helped her return to their proper time.
*Note*
I referred the Wikipedia article when I wrote the outline.
Suzumiya Haruhi no Yuuutsu episode 08 "Sasa no Ha Rhapsody"
The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya episode 08 "Bamboo Leaf Rhapsody"
The new episode of Season 2 was at last aired last night!
So THIS is what the staff called the New Animation.
This series will contain 28 episodes.
Synopsis:
Kyon and Mikuru travelled back to the Tanabata of three years ago. The future Mikuru made Mikuru sleep and she told him to help a person. Carrying the sleeping Mikuru, Kyon found the young Haruhi in the junior high school. After helping her draw strange drawings on the school ground, Haruhi asked Kyon if he thinks aliens, time travellers, espers or sliders exist, and he told her they might. After Haruhi left, Kyon woke up Mikuru and she noticed she had somehow lost he time travelling device, or TPDD. They went to the Yoki of three years ago, and she helped her return to their proper time.
*Note*
I referred the Wikipedia article when I wrote the outline.
Wednesday 20 May 2009
Thai bishojo games
A Thai game company Studio GU is in production of bishojo games, which are popular in Japan.
Japanese news site IT Media says the videos of its games are getting popular on YouTube and Nico Nico Douga. This is the opening of the new visual novel Re Angel, which is the remake of its previous game Angel's Tale.
Though the text and voices are in Thai, some parts like the character design and the composition of the movies are influenced by Japanese games. They also have high quality, so many poeple made comments of surprise and praise.
They also have a demo movie, and the trial version (Thai language) is released too.
News source: http://plusd.itmedia.co.jp/games/articles/0905/18/news065.html
Japanese news site IT Media says the videos of its games are getting popular on YouTube and Nico Nico Douga. This is the opening of the new visual novel Re Angel, which is the remake of its previous game Angel's Tale.
Though the text and voices are in Thai, some parts like the character design and the composition of the movies are influenced by Japanese games. They also have high quality, so many poeple made comments of surprise and praise.
They also have a demo movie, and the trial version (Thai language) is released too.
News source: http://plusd.itmedia.co.jp/games/articles/0905/18/news065.html
Sunday 17 May 2009
Thursday 14 May 2009
Otokonoko Bokujo
A mobile phone site Otokonoko Bokujo is giving rise to much controversy. It was started by Cyber Agent on 13 May and its name literally means "Boys' Farm". The service is aimed at supporting women who are looking for their future partner.Recently a new word konkatsu, partner hunting, is getting popular. The company says they want to promote communication among women and to help them through the theme of konkatsu.
Otokonoko Bokujou is a coomunity site which women who signed up register their friends' photo and profile and introduce them. The registered men appear as horses, cows and sheeps in the virtual "farm".
Since it was launched, a lot of people posted comments on the company's blog.
For example,
In addition, the name "Farm" is inappropriate. So the company is thinking about the change of its name.
For example, "Is it ethically all right to express men as domesticated animals?"Also some say it's not good because it lacks the protection of personal information.
"You're in lack of consideration. I think it vulgar."
In addition, the name "Farm" is inappropriate. So the company is thinking about the change of its name.
*postscriptum*
Otokonoko Bokujo was closed on 18 May because of the criticism.
Monday 11 May 2009
Shinkyoku Soukai Polyphonica Crimson S episode 06
神曲奏界ポリフォニカ クリムゾンS 第06話 「双魂: affettuoso」
Shinkyoku Soukai Polyphonica Crimson S episode 06 "Soukon" ("Twin Souls")
Synopsis:
When Phoron and Perserte were talking in the destroyed building, the roof started to collapse and Prinesca saved them with the power of spirit. Perserte was shocked because she knew her sister was half human half spirit. She thought she had been deceived by her sister and father for a long time. Perserte told Phoron she didn't want to go home and she stayed at Phoron's, whike Corticarte stayed at Prinesca's. Phoron told Perserte "Prinesca is Prinesca. She didn't disappear anywhere." Next morning, Perserte told Phoron she was all right, but she ran away when she saw Prinesca. Prinesca chased after Perserte, but she stopped and started to cough because she was delicate. Perserte heard Prinesca's tuning fork fall and ran to help her. Perserte hugged Prinesca and she told her she was sorry.
I love this episode so much.
This is one of the important episodes in Crimson student story.
It's based on Episode 2 of visual novel series.
Shinkyoku Soukai Polyphonica Crimson S episode 06 "Soukon" ("Twin Souls")
Synopsis:
When Phoron and Perserte were talking in the destroyed building, the roof started to collapse and Prinesca saved them with the power of spirit. Perserte was shocked because she knew her sister was half human half spirit. She thought she had been deceived by her sister and father for a long time. Perserte told Phoron she didn't want to go home and she stayed at Phoron's, whike Corticarte stayed at Prinesca's. Phoron told Perserte "Prinesca is Prinesca. She didn't disappear anywhere." Next morning, Perserte told Phoron she was all right, but she ran away when she saw Prinesca. Prinesca chased after Perserte, but she stopped and started to cough because she was delicate. Perserte heard Prinesca's tuning fork fall and ran to help her. Perserte hugged Prinesca and she told her she was sorry.
I love this episode so much.
This is one of the important episodes in Crimson student story.
It's based on Episode 2 of visual novel series.
Tuesday 5 May 2009
Kodomo no Hi
Today, 5 May, is Children's Day in Japan.
Kodomo no Hi is originally a day to celebrate boys' growth in the past, but it was reborn as a day to think children's happiness and to thank their mothers.
We decorate outside of our houses with koinobori (carp-shaped streamers), wear helmets made with origami, and eat chimaki, which is similar to rice cakes.
We also take a bath in hot water with calami, a kind of iris. It is said to remove the evil from our bodies.
Kodomo no Hi is originally a day to celebrate boys' growth in the past, but it was reborn as a day to think children's happiness and to thank their mothers.
We decorate outside of our houses with koinobori (carp-shaped streamers), wear helmets made with origami, and eat chimaki, which is similar to rice cakes.
We also take a bath in hot water with calami, a kind of iris. It is said to remove the evil from our bodies.
Saturday 2 May 2009
a little prayer
It is the golden wedding of Their Majesties today.
I don't know their young days (I did't exit at that time, of course), but I know they've been getting over a lot of difficulties. I watched a special programme on TV and I felt sympathy.
We don't have peace. We're not living in peace. There're still wars everywhere. Regrettably we have many troubles. We can't smile happily yet.
願わくば、皆に幸多からんことを。
Negawakuba mina ni sachi ookarankoto wo.
May everyone have much happiness.
I don't know their young days (I did't exit at that time, of course), but I know they've been getting over a lot of difficulties. I watched a special programme on TV and I felt sympathy.
We don't have peace. We're not living in peace. There're still wars everywhere. Regrettably we have many troubles. We can't smile happily yet.
願わくば、皆に幸多からんことを。
Negawakuba mina ni sachi ookarankoto wo.
May everyone have much happiness.
Sunday 19 April 2009
Thursday 16 April 2009
anime 2009
I'm currently watching some anime: Suzumiya Haruhi, K-On!, Shinkyoku Soukai Polyphonica Crimson S, Sengoku Basara ... maybe more.
I'm planning to write outlines and impressions for each episode, as I did on Maria-sama ga Miteru.
(Though I already saved an article on Polyphonica Episode 1 as a draft.)
I'm planning to write outlines and impressions for each episode, as I did on Maria-sama ga Miteru.
(Though I already saved an article on Polyphonica Episode 1 as a draft.)
Friendster
I saw Friendster for the first time. It seems like MyYearbook, which I joined before and now leave it alone.
Wednesday 15 April 2009
Comedy or Tragedy
As I said on Twitter yesterday, North Korea is likely to ignore other countries' advice and leave inconvenient groups. It seems just like the former United States government, whose ex-president once called it the "axis of evil".
Hmm ... why did Bush use the word "axis of evil"? It was the term showing Germany, Italy and Japan around World War II. Did he want to be a winner of "World War III"? For me, he was posing as a hero, or rather a cowboy in westerns. Look at his face. He should have been a cowboy, not President.
The Bush family had friendship with Osama Bin Laden before. Bush Sr was exporting money and arms around the Gulf War. Some people say Al Qaeda planned September 11 because Bush Jr became President of the United States. Love turned into hate.
Subprime loan problems ... Bush loves limited government, so he pursued market fundamentalism and carried out deregulations. And we have troubles now.
"The invisible hand of God" Thank you for the optimistic word, Adam Smith.
My goodness. Kim Jong-il was elected again as its leader. So he will spend more money on military, not for its people. One of his jobs must be an egoist.
Autocracy : to be continued
China and Russia are too easy with North Korea. They are "relatives". I mean, they're socialist or communist nations.
North Korea is short for Democratic People's Republic of Korea. But it's never democratic. They should change its name to Priviledged Class's Aristocratic Nation of Korea.
Hmm ... why did Bush use the word "axis of evil"? It was the term showing Germany, Italy and Japan around World War II. Did he want to be a winner of "World War III"? For me, he was posing as a hero, or rather a cowboy in westerns. Look at his face. He should have been a cowboy, not President.
The Bush family had friendship with Osama Bin Laden before. Bush Sr was exporting money and arms around the Gulf War. Some people say Al Qaeda planned September 11 because Bush Jr became President of the United States. Love turned into hate.
Subprime loan problems ... Bush loves limited government, so he pursued market fundamentalism and carried out deregulations. And we have troubles now.
"The invisible hand of God" Thank you for the optimistic word, Adam Smith.
My goodness. Kim Jong-il was elected again as its leader. So he will spend more money on military, not for its people. One of his jobs must be an egoist.
Autocracy : to be continued
China and Russia are too easy with North Korea. They are "relatives". I mean, they're socialist or communist nations.
North Korea is short for Democratic People's Republic of Korea. But it's never democratic. They should change its name to Priviledged Class's Aristocratic Nation of Korea.
Monday 6 April 2009
Polyphonica episode 01
神曲奏界ポリフォニカ クリムゾンS 第01話 「邂逅 misterioso」
Shinkyoku Soukai Polyphonica Crimson S episode 01 "Kaikou - Misterioso" (The Encounter)
Friday 3 April 2009
The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya
Suzumiya Haruhi Season 1 starts again.
Some sources say its anime begins from April, but they didn't say whether it's season 1 or 2.
It seems Season 2 is not prepared.
An ad about Season 2 was on the Asahi Shinbun in the summer in 2007.
Little information has been announced since then.
Haruhi's staff seems to like to surprise people, but I don't think it's a good way.
PS A source says the new anime has 28 episodes. They will broadcast Season 1 chronologically and after that the new 14 episodes will come out.
(postscriptum added on 5 April)
Some sources say its anime begins from April, but they didn't say whether it's season 1 or 2.
It seems Season 2 is not prepared.
An ad about Season 2 was on the Asahi Shinbun in the summer in 2007.
Little information has been announced since then.
Haruhi's staff seems to like to surprise people, but I don't think it's a good way.
PS A source says the new anime has 28 episodes. They will broadcast Season 1 chronologically and after that the new 14 episodes will come out.
(postscriptum added on 5 April)
Wednesday 1 April 2009
April Fool
Today is 1 April.
April Fool's Day!
Japan is one of the earliest countries that a date changes.
So half a day has already passed.
Who do I play tricks next?
April Fool's Day!
Japan is one of the earliest countries that a date changes.
So half a day has already passed.
Who do I play tricks next?
Sunday 29 March 2009
Maria-sama ga Miteru 4th Season episode 13
マリア様がみてる 4thシーズン 第13話 「あなたを探しに」
Maria-sama ga Miteru 4th Season episode 13 "Anata o Sagashi ni" (In Search of You)
Synopsis:
Just before the Card Hunt ended, Toko came in the Rose Mansion. She said, "I apologize to you for my lack of courtesy. I would like to be your sister." When Yumi stood up, the red card appeared on the chair. The next week, Toko told Yumi she wanted to be told Yumi's answer after the date. The next Sunday, Toko and Yumi went out together. Toko didn't tell Yumi where they would go. On the date, Toko told Yumi her story little by little. They arrived at the hospital. Toko told Yumi that her parents had been dead in a car accident when she was little, that the Matsudairas had taken care of her, and that she had mistakenly thought she had been unnecessary for the Matsudaira family. On the train, Yumi decided to be sisters with Toko in front of Sachiko next day.
This last episode is mainly about Toko and Yumi.
Marimite anime comes to a stop, but the story continues.
I hope to watch the next season someday.
Otsukaresama deshita, everyone of the cast and staff.
Maria-sama ga Miteru 4th Season episode 13 "Anata o Sagashi ni" (In Search of You)
Synopsis:
Just before the Card Hunt ended, Toko came in the Rose Mansion. She said, "I apologize to you for my lack of courtesy. I would like to be your sister." When Yumi stood up, the red card appeared on the chair. The next week, Toko told Yumi she wanted to be told Yumi's answer after the date. The next Sunday, Toko and Yumi went out together. Toko didn't tell Yumi where they would go. On the date, Toko told Yumi her story little by little. They arrived at the hospital. Toko told Yumi that her parents had been dead in a car accident when she was little, that the Matsudairas had taken care of her, and that she had mistakenly thought she had been unnecessary for the Matsudaira family. On the train, Yumi decided to be sisters with Toko in front of Sachiko next day.
This last episode is mainly about Toko and Yumi.
Marimite anime comes to a stop, but the story continues.
I hope to watch the next season someday.
Otsukaresama deshita, everyone of the cast and staff.
Friday 27 March 2009
Lupin versus Conan
The new TV anime "Lupin the Third versus Detective Conan" will be aired today.
Perhaps this project was planned because the same production company creates both anime and the same network TV stations broadcast them.
Both series are based on manga, and both of them were inspired by classic novels.
Detective Conan is from Sherlock Holmes: Lupin the Third is from Arsene Lupin.
(I can't understand why Conan was called Case Closed in the United States.)
Perhaps this project was planned because the same production company creates both anime and the same network TV stations broadcast them.
Both series are based on manga, and both of them were inspired by classic novels.
Detective Conan is from Sherlock Holmes: Lupin the Third is from Arsene Lupin.
(I can't understand why Conan was called Case Closed in the United States.)
Tuesday 24 March 2009
Japan wins World Baseball Classic
Yes!
Japan won World Baseball Classic again!!
I was watching on TV.
My heart was beating so fast when South Korea caught up in the second half of the 9th inning.
At the end, Nippon scored 2 runs in the 10th inning and defended.
It was one of the best baseball games I've ever watched.
Otsukaresama, South Korea and Japan.
* "Otsukaresama" is a Japanese word that expresses thanks to someone.
Japan won World Baseball Classic again!!
I was watching on TV.
My heart was beating so fast when South Korea caught up in the second half of the 9th inning.
At the end, Nippon scored 2 runs in the 10th inning and defended.
It was one of the best baseball games I've ever watched.
Otsukaresama, South Korea and Japan.
* "Otsukaresama" is a Japanese word that expresses thanks to someone.
Sunday 22 March 2009
Maria-sama ga Miteru 4th Season episode 12
マリア様がみてる 4thシーズン 第12話 「クリスクロス」
Maria-sama ga Miteru 4th Season episode 12 "Kurisukurosu" (Crisscross)
Synopsis:
Toko told nothing to Noriko. She decided to take part in the Valentine event after the talk with Sachiko. Toko remembered Noriko's and Sachiko's words and she noticed Yumi loves her. She dashed for Yumi, where the red Valentine card was.
The next episode will be the last.
13 episodes, 3 months, are so short.
Maria-sama ga Miteru 4th Season episode 12 "Kurisukurosu" (Crisscross)
Synopsis:
Toko told nothing to Noriko. She decided to take part in the Valentine event after the talk with Sachiko. Toko remembered Noriko's and Sachiko's words and she noticed Yumi loves her. She dashed for Yumi, where the red Valentine card was.
The next episode will be the last.
13 episodes, 3 months, are so short.
Saturday 21 March 2009
Maria-sama ga Miteru 4th Season episode 11
マリア様がみてる 4thシーズン 第11話 「ハートの鍵穴」
Maria-sama ga Miteru 4th Season episode 11 "Hato no Kagiana" (Keyhole of the Heart)
Synopsis:
Toko's mother was lying on the bed. Her father came home and he told her "You have given a lot to us." On the next day, Toko went to the drama club to get a drop-out form. The president proposed her to be her sister. Suguru Kashiwagi suggested her to drive in front of the school gate. On the car, he noticed she went to the cottage because she worried Yumi: Toko must have been said abuse by other girls before. Suguru got angry about it and he was about to drive the car recklessly. On the next day, Toko hesitated to get an application form of the Valentine event. She got another form from Noriko. Toko and Yumi walked together with chatting. Toko got angry. Yumi told Toko not to move until she counts a hundred. Toko asked Sachiko if she told Yumi her family circumstances. Toko noticed she was mistaken about Yumi's proposal to be sisters. Noriko appeared in front of Toko. She thanked the Virgin Mary.
I always think Noriko is nice.
One of the important elements in Marimite is love.
Not only love between lovers, but also one among friends and one among family.
Yoko Mizuno, and later also Yumi, said "Friends are likely to be to play a role to suffer for someone."
Maria-sama ga Miteru 4th Season episode 11 "Hato no Kagiana" (Keyhole of the Heart)
Synopsis:
Toko's mother was lying on the bed. Her father came home and he told her "You have given a lot to us." On the next day, Toko went to the drama club to get a drop-out form. The president proposed her to be her sister. Suguru Kashiwagi suggested her to drive in front of the school gate. On the car, he noticed she went to the cottage because she worried Yumi: Toko must have been said abuse by other girls before. Suguru got angry about it and he was about to drive the car recklessly. On the next day, Toko hesitated to get an application form of the Valentine event. She got another form from Noriko. Toko and Yumi walked together with chatting. Toko got angry. Yumi told Toko not to move until she counts a hundred. Toko asked Sachiko if she told Yumi her family circumstances. Toko noticed she was mistaken about Yumi's proposal to be sisters. Noriko appeared in front of Toko. She thanked the Virgin Mary.
I always think Noriko is nice.
One of the important elements in Marimite is love.
Not only love between lovers, but also one among friends and one among family.
Yoko Mizuno, and later also Yumi, said "Friends are likely to be to play a role to suffer for someone."
Monday 16 March 2009
I watched the feature news about Twitter on NHK BS1.
Microblogs like Twitter and Timelog are good.
But we have to be careful about our privacy.
Everyone can see logs on Twitter.
Microblogs like Twitter and Timelog are good.
But we have to be careful about our privacy.
Everyone can see logs on Twitter.
Saturday 14 March 2009
White Day
Today, 14 March, is White Day.
It is the day men give women sweets like cookies and marshmallows in return for Valentine presents.
White Day is also a custom confectionery companies started like Valentine's Day.
I don't know why it's called "white".
As I wrote before, many people (including couples, of course) exchanged chocolate on Valentine's Day.
So many of them will also give sweets each other today.
It is the day men give women sweets like cookies and marshmallows in return for Valentine presents.
White Day is also a custom confectionery companies started like Valentine's Day.
I don't know why it's called "white".
As I wrote before, many people (including couples, of course) exchanged chocolate on Valentine's Day.
So many of them will also give sweets each other today.
Thursday 12 March 2009
Maria-sama ga Miteru 4th Season episode 10
マリア様がみてる 4thシーズン 第10話 「キーホルダー」
Maria-sama ga Miteru 4th Season episode 10 "Key Holder" (The Key Ring, The Keychain)
Synopsis:
The Yamayuri decided to have a special Valentine event. Yumi told Noriko she likes Toko so much.
Maria-sama ga Miteru 4th Season episode 10 "Key Holder" (The Key Ring, The Keychain)
Synopsis:
The Yamayuri decided to have a special Valentine event. Yumi told Noriko she likes Toko so much.
Saturday 7 March 2009
MyMiniCity
I found MyMiniCity, which we can build virtual cities on the Internet.
It's similar to SecondLife in a sense.
It's so simple to start:
Choose a country and decide your city's name.
The cities become bigger and larger when they are accessed.
It seems the development of the cities is not always good:
For example, too much population, crimes and environmental problems like deforestation.
It's so realistic!
My city is here: Naotie
It's similar to SecondLife in a sense.
It's so simple to start:
Choose a country and decide your city's name.
The cities become bigger and larger when they are accessed.
It seems the development of the cities is not always good:
For example, too much population, crimes and environmental problems like deforestation.
It's so realistic!
My city is here: Naotie
watching sports
World Baseball Classic game of Japan versus South Korea is on air now. But I'm watching a football game on TV: England's Premier League game of Manchester United versus New Castle.
Oh, I want to watch football games in Europe, especially in England.
By the way, FIFA World Cup will be held in South Africa next year. I'm looking forward to watching it.
Ummm, I want to start lacross someday... .
Oh, I want to watch football games in Europe, especially in England.
By the way, FIFA World Cup will be held in South Africa next year. I'm looking forward to watching it.
Ummm, I want to start lacross someday... .
stressful days in the modern society
To live is hard. It's a challenge.
Industrial Revolution to World War II: "Human Beings and the Philosopher's Stone"
After the War to Subprime Loan: "Social Wars: Episode 2 Attack of Stress"
Present to Future: "The Lords of the Society: The Return of the Class Society"
Industrial Revolution to World War II: "Human Beings and the Philosopher's Stone"
After the War to Subprime Loan: "Social Wars: Episode 2 Attack of Stress"
Present to Future: "The Lords of the Society: The Return of the Class Society"
Tuesday 3 March 2009
Hinamatsuri
Today, 3 March, is Hinamatsuri (ひな祭り). It's also called Momo no Sekku (桃の節句, literally the Season of Peaches).
Parents hope their girls to grow healthily and to be happy.
In the past, we had Girls' Day on 3 March and Boys' Day on 5 May. After the Pacific War, 5 May became Children's Day: Girls' Day remained as a custom, though.
In families which have girls, they usually display a set of ornamental dolls called Hina-Ningyo (雛人形). The dolls show Emperor, Empress and ministers in the Imperial Palace in Heian Period.
A lot of people know a popular Hinamatsuri song:
Japanese:
明かりをつけましょ ぼんぼりに
お花をあげましょ 桃の花
五人囃子の笛太鼓
今日は楽しい雛祭り
romaji:
akari wo tsukemasho bonbori ni
ohana wo agemasho momo no hana
gonin bayashi no fue daiko
kyo wa tanoshii hinamatsuri
English:
Let's light small lamps with a paper shade
Let's display flowers of peaches
The five players' performance of Japanese flutes and drums
It is a happy Hinamatsuri today
The above is the first verse of the song.
Parents hope their girls to grow healthily and to be happy.
In the past, we had Girls' Day on 3 March and Boys' Day on 5 May. After the Pacific War, 5 May became Children's Day: Girls' Day remained as a custom, though.
In families which have girls, they usually display a set of ornamental dolls called Hina-Ningyo (雛人形). The dolls show Emperor, Empress and ministers in the Imperial Palace in Heian Period.
A lot of people know a popular Hinamatsuri song:
Japanese:
明かりをつけましょ ぼんぼりに
お花をあげましょ 桃の花
五人囃子の笛太鼓
今日は楽しい雛祭り
romaji:
akari wo tsukemasho bonbori ni
ohana wo agemasho momo no hana
gonin bayashi no fue daiko
kyo wa tanoshii hinamatsuri
English:
Let's light small lamps with a paper shade
Let's display flowers of peaches
The five players' performance of Japanese flutes and drums
It is a happy Hinamatsuri today
The above is the first verse of the song.
Sunday 1 March 2009
Maria-sama ga Miteru 4th Season episode 09
マリア様がみてる 4thシーズン 第09話 「仮面のアクトレス」
Maria-sama ga Miteru 4th Season episode 09 "Kamen no Akutoresu" (The Masked Actress)
Synopsis:
The Yamayuri Council election took place. Not only Yumi, Yoshino and Shimako but also Toko run for it. Toko gradually got isolated from other classmates. The three were elected. Yumi noticed Toko's purpose had been to lose the race.
Both Shimako and Yoshino were right despite Yoshino said she was selfish herself.
No one can always do "right" things. Me neither.
I think Toko holds a lot in herself and don't tell her feelings so much.
So it's sometimes difficult for other people to understand her.
Ha ha ... she's like me ... .
Maria-sama ga Miteru 4th Season episode 09 "Kamen no Akutoresu" (The Masked Actress)
Synopsis:
The Yamayuri Council election took place. Not only Yumi, Yoshino and Shimako but also Toko run for it. Toko gradually got isolated from other classmates. The three were elected. Yumi noticed Toko's purpose had been to lose the race.
Both Shimako and Yoshino were right despite Yoshino said she was selfish herself.
No one can always do "right" things. Me neither.
I think Toko holds a lot in herself and don't tell her feelings so much.
So it's sometimes difficult for other people to understand her.
Ha ha ... she's like me ... .
Monday 23 February 2009
Two Oscars to Japanese Films
2 Japanese films won Academy Awards.
"Departures" (おくりびと, Okuribito) got the Best Foreign Language Film.
"La Maison en Petits Cubes" (つみきのいえ, Tsumiki no Ie) got the Best Animated Short Film.
Anime has been awarded for both best animated feature film and best animated short film.
"Spirited Away", which was directed by Hayao Miyazaki, was given Oscar in 2005.
I'm happy to hear this news!
It's a brilliant achievement.
"Departures" (おくりびと, Okuribito) got the Best Foreign Language Film.
"La Maison en Petits Cubes" (つみきのいえ, Tsumiki no Ie) got the Best Animated Short Film.
Anime has been awarded for both best animated feature film and best animated short film.
"Spirited Away", which was directed by Hayao Miyazaki, was given Oscar in 2005.
I'm happy to hear this news!
It's a brilliant achievement.
Sunday 22 February 2009
Maria-sama ga Miteru 4th Season episode 08
マリア様がみてる 4thシーズン 第08話 「くもりガラスの向こう側」
Maria-sama ga Miteru 4th Season episode 08 "Kumori Garasu no Mukougawa" (The Other Side of the Clouded Glass)
Synopsis:
The Yamayuri members had a new year party in Sachiko's house. Yumi had her first dream of the year that Toko was in Yumi's next room. They were separated by the clouded glass. Even though Yumi wiped the glass, she couldn't see Toko well. At the beginning of the next term, Toko smiled at Yumi as if she had had nothing with Yumi.
I think Yoshino's word "add a room" is a nice expression.
I have empathy with Noriko's feelings.
It seems some scenes in the novel were cut.
For example, Toru-ojisama (Sachiko's father) mistook Yumi in kimono for Sayako-obasama (Sachiko's mother).
The ending animation shows Yumi and Toko's relationship with distance.
(Their relation will change better later, though.)
Maria-sama ga Miteru 4th Season episode 08 "Kumori Garasu no Mukougawa" (The Other Side of the Clouded Glass)
Synopsis:
The Yamayuri members had a new year party in Sachiko's house. Yumi had her first dream of the year that Toko was in Yumi's next room. They were separated by the clouded glass. Even though Yumi wiped the glass, she couldn't see Toko well. At the beginning of the next term, Toko smiled at Yumi as if she had had nothing with Yumi.
I think Yoshino's word "add a room" is a nice expression.
I have empathy with Noriko's feelings.
It seems some scenes in the novel were cut.
For example, Toru-ojisama (Sachiko's father) mistook Yumi in kimono for Sayako-obasama (Sachiko's mother).
The ending animation shows Yumi and Toko's relationship with distance.
(Their relation will change better later, though.)
Sunday 15 February 2009
Maria-sama ga Miteru 4th Season episode 07
マリア様がみてる 4thシーズン 第07話 「未来の白地図」
Maria sama ga Miteru 4th Season episode 07 "Mirai no Hakuchizu" (Blank Map of the Future)
Synopsis:
The Yamayuri Council had a Christmas party. Yumi invited Toko and Kanako, and Yoshino invited Nana Arima. Yoshino surprisingly knew Rei's future career at the party. Yumi asked Toko to be her petite sœur (little sister), but Toko refused it.
I was also crying at the scene Yumi cried holding Sachiko.
I often empathize with characters and cry.
Maria sama ga Miteru 4th Season episode 07 "Mirai no Hakuchizu" (Blank Map of the Future)
Synopsis:
The Yamayuri Council had a Christmas party. Yumi invited Toko and Kanako, and Yoshino invited Nana Arima. Yoshino surprisingly knew Rei's future career at the party. Yumi asked Toko to be her petite sœur (little sister), but Toko refused it.
I was also crying at the scene Yumi cried holding Sachiko.
I often empathize with characters and cry.
Maria-sama ga Miteru 4th Season episode 06
マリア様がみてる 4thシーズン 第06話 「予期せぬ客人」
Maria-sama ga Miteru 4th Season episode 06 "Yokisenu Kyakujin" (The Surprise Guest, or The Unexpected Guest)
Synopsis:
Kashiwagi-san called Yumi if she knew where Toko was. Toko had a trouble with her family and run away from home. Rei and Sachiko talked about their future careers at Sachiko's house. Toko visited Yumi, and they had a dinner together. Yoshino asked Yumi to invite Toko and Kanako because she wanted to invite Nana Arima, who is in the 3rd grade at Lillian Junior High School.
I sympathized with Noriko's feelings that Yumi should ask Toko to come because she wants.
I was reminded that I also had impatient feelings in situations like that.
Maria-sama ga Miteru 4th Season episode 06 "Yokisenu Kyakujin" (The Surprise Guest, or The Unexpected Guest)
Synopsis:
Kashiwagi-san called Yumi if she knew where Toko was. Toko had a trouble with her family and run away from home. Rei and Sachiko talked about their future careers at Sachiko's house. Toko visited Yumi, and they had a dinner together. Yoshino asked Yumi to invite Toko and Kanako because she wanted to invite Nana Arima, who is in the 3rd grade at Lillian Junior High School.
I sympathized with Noriko's feelings that Yumi should ask Toko to come because she wants.
I was reminded that I also had impatient feelings in situations like that.
Wednesday 11 February 2009
St Valentine's Day
St Valentine's Day is coming soon.
In Japan, many women give men chocolate on the day.
(Actually it's a custom confectionery companies started with their ads.)
But this year, 逆チョコ (gyaku-choco) is popular.
It means men also give women chocolate.
My girlfriend and I are going to give chocolate each other.
Luckily today (11 Fubruary) is National Foundation Day and I have no school.
So I make chocolate today.
In Japan, many women give men chocolate on the day.
(Actually it's a custom confectionery companies started with their ads.)
But this year, 逆チョコ (gyaku-choco) is popular.
It means men also give women chocolate.
My girlfriend and I are going to give chocolate each other.
Luckily today (11 Fubruary) is National Foundation Day and I have no school.
So I make chocolate today.
Tuesday 10 February 2009
Search Engines' Difference Among Countries
I mainly use Yahoo! Japan and Google Japan.
But sometimes I use Google US and Google UK, too.
I noticed the results are different in US and UK versions.
Hmm... it's interesting.
I don't know those of other countries.
I speak only Japanese and English.
But sometimes I use Google US and Google UK, too.
I noticed the results are different in US and UK versions.
Hmm... it's interesting.
I don't know those of other countries.
I speak only Japanese and English.
Saturday 7 February 2009
Osamu Tezuka
I watched a TV programme which sees Osamu Tezuka from the aspect of music today.
NHK's site on Tezuka Osamu:
http://www.nhk.or.jp/tezuka/
The programme says it's the 80th anniversary that he was born. (Though he was dead about 10 years ago.)
NHK will broadcast special programmes this year.
A lot of Japanese people are familiar with his manga since they were little.
Of course, me too.
He's one of the starting points on anime/manga culture in Japan.
I recommend you to read his works if you have a chance.
NHK's site on Tezuka Osamu:
http://www.nhk.or.jp/tezuka/
The programme says it's the 80th anniversary that he was born. (Though he was dead about 10 years ago.)
NHK will broadcast special programmes this year.
A lot of Japanese people are familiar with his manga since they were little.
Of course, me too.
He's one of the starting points on anime/manga culture in Japan.
I recommend you to read his works if you have a chance.
Tuesday 3 February 2009
Setsubun
Today, 3 February, is 節分の日 (Setsubun no Hi) in Japan. 節分 (Setsubun) is one of the traditional customs, which originally people celecrate coming of spring.
On Setsubun day, we have an event to scatter parched beans to drive out bad luck, saying 「福は内、鬼は外」 ("Come on in, Fuku; Get out, Oni."). Fuku is a symbol of happiness and good luck; and Oni is a symbol of unhappiness and bad luck, which literally means ogres.
The recent boom is eating 恵方巻き (eho-maki), which is a kind of sushi roll. Eating eho-maki is said to bring us good luck. So a lot of people have one facing this year's lucky direction. In 2009, it's east-north-east.
On Setsubun day, we have an event to scatter parched beans to drive out bad luck, saying 「福は内、鬼は外」 ("Come on in, Fuku; Get out, Oni."). Fuku is a symbol of happiness and good luck; and Oni is a symbol of unhappiness and bad luck, which literally means ogres.
The recent boom is eating 恵方巻き (eho-maki), which is a kind of sushi roll. Eating eho-maki is said to bring us good luck. So a lot of people have one facing this year's lucky direction. In 2009, it's east-north-east.
Monday 26 January 2009
never let me go
memo:
words I came up with when I was watching Maria-sama ga Miteru 4th Season Episode 04
I still be with you...
Never let me go -- so that I won't wish myself dead.
I named the title after Kazuo Ishiguro's novel Never Let Me Go
I know they're not grammatically correct ... but I wanted to write them down as they were
words I came up with when I was watching Maria-sama ga Miteru 4th Season Episode 04
I still be with you...
Never let me go -- so that I won't wish myself dead.
I named the title after Kazuo Ishiguro's novel Never Let Me Go
I know they're not grammatically correct ... but I wanted to write them down as they were
Saturday 24 January 2009
proof that we live
As you know, there are a lot of microblogs on the Internet.
Many people use them as memos or chat.
I heard it's common for many Japanese people to use them as lifelog.
In my case, I'm using 3 microblogs and, alas, I use all of them as lifelog.
I thought it was usual to write a daily life.
It's a lot of fan for me to lifelog and to chat with my friends.
I like the word "alas". Dumbledore often used it in Harry Potter books.
I chose "proof" as title because I love the song Proof of the anime Hayate no Gotoku!.
Many people use them as memos or chat.
I heard it's common for many Japanese people to use them as lifelog.
In my case, I'm using 3 microblogs and, alas, I use all of them as lifelog.
I thought it was usual to write a daily life.
It's a lot of fan for me to lifelog and to chat with my friends.
I like the word "alas". Dumbledore often used it in Harry Potter books.
I chose "proof" as title because I love the song Proof of the anime Hayate no Gotoku!.
Wednesday 21 January 2009
even if it is a little light
I watched the inauguration ceremony live on TV last night.
I don't think the world will change better just because Mr Obama became president of the United States.
But I believe "we can".
May everyone be able to be happy.
I don't think the world will change better just because Mr Obama became president of the United States.
But I believe "we can".
May everyone be able to be happy.
Saturday 17 January 2009
Center Shiken
Today and tomorrow are one of the hardest days for students who take university entrance examinations. They have Center Shiken for 2 days.
The test is called Center Shiken because National Center for University Entrance Examinations administers it.
It is similar to Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) in the United States.
SAT is a test of only English and Maths. But Center Shiken has a wide variety of subjects.
For example:
Japanese,
English,
Mathematics,
Physics,
Chemistry,
Biology,
Geography,
Japanese History,
World History
All the national universities and many private universities in Japan join the Center Shiken system: so many students take it.
Good luck, everyone!
The test is called Center Shiken because National Center for University Entrance Examinations administers it.
It is similar to Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) in the United States.
SAT is a test of only English and Maths. But Center Shiken has a wide variety of subjects.
For example:
Japanese,
English,
Mathematics,
Physics,
Chemistry,
Biology,
Geography,
Japanese History,
World History
All the national universities and many private universities in Japan join the Center Shiken system: so many students take it.
Good luck, everyone!
Friday 16 January 2009
myYearbook
I registered and started to use MyYearbook few days ago. It is an American social network service, which is the 3rd biggest in the United States. The SNS is popular especially among teenagers.
Its servers are perhaps in the US and data come through submarine cables on the bed of the Pacific Ocean; so I know it takes much time to load MyYearbook. But sometimes I feel frustrated.
Huh, calm down, Sakuya.
Its servers are perhaps in the US and data come through submarine cables on the bed of the Pacific Ocean; so I know it takes much time to load MyYearbook. But sometimes I feel frustrated.
Huh, calm down, Sakuya.
Monday 12 January 2009
Seijinshiki
Today, 12 January, is one of the Japanese national holidays 成人の日 (Seijin no Hi). It is Coming of Age Day in Japan, and people celebrate new 20-year-olds.
Oxford Guide to British & American Culture says coming of age is "a person's 18th birthday, when they become legally an adult". But the coming of age in Japan is 20.
Local governments invite new 20-year-olds to their ceremonies called 成人式 (Seijin-shiki). The new 20-year-olds dress up and go to parties. A lot of girls wear kimono, because they don't usually wear kimono. (Kimono is now a dress for special occasions such as Seijin-shiki and marriages.) On the other hand, boys wear suits or hakama.
Seijin-shiki also has a perspective of alumni meetings. They can see friends from junior high and senior high again.
Oxford Guide to British & American Culture says coming of age is "a person's 18th birthday, when they become legally an adult". But the coming of age in Japan is 20.
Local governments invite new 20-year-olds to their ceremonies called 成人式 (Seijin-shiki). The new 20-year-olds dress up and go to parties. A lot of girls wear kimono, because they don't usually wear kimono. (Kimono is now a dress for special occasions such as Seijin-shiki and marriages.) On the other hand, boys wear suits or hakama.
Seijin-shiki also has a perspective of alumni meetings. They can see friends from junior high and senior high again.
Sunday 11 January 2009
Easter Bunny
In computer field, "Easter eggs" mean a kind of play or humour by programmers. I searched and found a cute one. Google's Easter Bunny is simple but so pretty.
It's a game to make the word "Google":
・The bunny moves along you move your mouse
・Eggs with alphabet (Latin characters) fall down
・Catch the eggs in order of G-O-O-G-L-E
The Stage 2 will begin if you finish Stage 1.
Enjoy it!
It's a game to make the word "Google":
・The bunny moves along you move your mouse
・Eggs with alphabet (Latin characters) fall down
・Catch the eggs in order of G-O-O-G-L-E
The Stage 2 will begin if you finish Stage 1.
Enjoy it!
Saturday 10 January 2009
Access Counter
I started to use Google Analytics to know how many people visited my blog. I'm not sure whether an access counter will appear or not, but I believe it'll be useful for me.
P.S. I checked and recognized Google Analytics doesn't show access counters.
P.S. I checked and recognized Google Analytics doesn't show access counters.
Friday 9 January 2009
Online Encyclopaedias
There are a lot of encyclopaedias on the Internet: free ones and paid ones.
The most famous encyclopaedia, I believe, is Encyclopaedia Britannica. I'm sure it's subscribed. I've used English book version many times at university. I think it's the best encyclopaedia in the world.
Well, the most used online encyclopaedia is maybe Wikipedia. Of course it's free! We often see its articles around the top of search results when we search on Google or Yahoo!. Wikipedia has a wide variety of articles, but it's written by anyone. So I don't think it always provides us right information.
Some people parted from Wikipedia and started a new project called Citizendium. Citizendium is pronounced as /sɪtɪ'zəndɪʌm/ on International Phonetic Alphabet (my college teacher says so). It's edited by some experts, so Citizendium says it's trustful and has high quality. The teacher of mine says it's OK to use its articles as a reference when writing essays and papers at university.
Google also launched a new project inspired by others. The project is called Knol. Knol has an original feature that others don't have: it contains more than 1 article for 1 thing (or rather phenomenon). We can create articles on the same thing each other, and people compare them and choose the best.
I tried writing this entry continuously without beginning a new line in 1 paragraph.
The most famous encyclopaedia, I believe, is Encyclopaedia Britannica. I'm sure it's subscribed. I've used English book version many times at university. I think it's the best encyclopaedia in the world.
Well, the most used online encyclopaedia is maybe Wikipedia. Of course it's free! We often see its articles around the top of search results when we search on Google or Yahoo!. Wikipedia has a wide variety of articles, but it's written by anyone. So I don't think it always provides us right information.
Some people parted from Wikipedia and started a new project called Citizendium. Citizendium is pronounced as /sɪtɪ'zəndɪʌm/ on International Phonetic Alphabet (my college teacher says so). It's edited by some experts, so Citizendium says it's trustful and has high quality. The teacher of mine says it's OK to use its articles as a reference when writing essays and papers at university.
Google also launched a new project inspired by others. The project is called Knol. Knol has an original feature that others don't have: it contains more than 1 article for 1 thing (or rather phenomenon). We can create articles on the same thing each other, and people compare them and choose the best.
I tried writing this entry continuously without beginning a new line in 1 paragraph.
Wednesday 7 January 2009
Internet Archive
It's usual that we get the message "Not Available" when surfing the Net.
Sometimes Internet Archive provides us with the no-longer-available pages.
Perhaps you've seen it somewhere: some of the Wikipedia articles shows links to its web pages.
The archive is a huge database of multimedia on the Internet.
How to use it is the following:
・Type or copy and paste URL on the address corner
・Press "Take Me Back" button
・The Search Results will appear, if you're lucky
・Click the time you want to see
It's easy enough to handle the database, I believe.
Try using it!
Sometimes Internet Archive provides us with the no-longer-available pages.
Perhaps you've seen it somewhere: some of the Wikipedia articles shows links to its web pages.
The archive is a huge database of multimedia on the Internet.
How to use it is the following:
・Type or copy and paste URL on the address corner
・Press "Take Me Back" button
・The Search Results will appear, if you're lucky
・Click the time you want to see
It's easy enough to handle the database, I believe.
Try using it!
Sunday 4 January 2009
Twister Alternative
I was on Twitter at fisrt.
Next moment I was on Twister Alternative.
It's funny that I found the service.
The Japanese company who runs コトノハ (Kotonoha), a Japanese social networking service, developed Twister.
It's just like a combination of Kotonoha and Timelog and Twitter.
Twister links to Twitter, and comments posted on Twister also appear on Twitter.
Next moment I was on Twister Alternative.
It's funny that I found the service.
The Japanese company who runs コトノハ (Kotonoha), a Japanese social networking service, developed Twister.
It's just like a combination of Kotonoha and Timelog and Twitter.
Twister links to Twitter, and comments posted on Twister also appear on Twitter.
Saturday 3 January 2009
Happy New Year
Happy New Year!
I started FriendFeed few days ago, so I'm going to frequently update this blog, as well as other Japanese blogs.
And also, I began to use Twitter.
(I'm now using Timelog, a Japanese Twitter-like microblog, to chat with my friends.)
Maybe I will make comments in Japanese, though.
May you have a nice year.
I started FriendFeed few days ago, so I'm going to frequently update this blog, as well as other Japanese blogs.
And also, I began to use Twitter.
(I'm now using Timelog, a Japanese Twitter-like microblog, to chat with my friends.)
Maybe I will make comments in Japanese, though.
May you have a nice year.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
