Jinja and Shoga: Life in the Land of the Rising Sun

                   Yes, sadly, construction on the empty lot next to us has begun. Meaning that not only are quiet mornings a thing of the past, but our lovely view of Mt. Fuji now has a limited number of days left. Sniff, sniff.
  As is customary here, the housing agency left us a token gift along with a note detailing the construction dates. The theory being that the surrounding neighbors should get something in return for being hassled by the construction. Or maybe it's just so they're less likely to complain about the noise. Anyway, this time we got a box of aluminum foil. Eh. I'd rather have Mt. Fuji, thanks!

                                          
                                       Cememony to bless the land before construction begins

                                  Pathetic substitute for Mt. Fuji