While in Tokyo, the rain was coming down in buckets.
It was our first time attending an o-wakarekai(oh-wha-kah-ray-kah-ee=farewell gathering) for Satoshi's friend, Gen, who passed away this summer.
Most times, Japanese have funerals and wakes but these days families are often opting for private services, so these farewell gatherings are getting somewhat "popular".
I am glad we were able to pay our respects to Gen's family and also spend some time with Satoshi's college baseball alumni.
Since the funerals and wakes here can be a bit too formal, it is nice that there are these somewhat casual type of gatherings even if it is to say goodbye.
The photo above was the beautiful quilt that was in the lobby area of the hotel.
Thank you Gen for your friendship, you will be missed.
sorry to hear about the Satoshi's friend, it's never easy to say goodbye.
ReplyDeleteSaddened that Satoshi's friend passed away but glad that you guys were able to have that farewell.
ReplyDeleteThank you for your informative tidbits about Japanese culture and customs.
V
so true Rowena!
ReplyDeletewe were glad to be able to attend V!
Take care you two.
Kat
That's so sad.....our deepest sympathies.
ReplyDeleteI saw an episode of Document 72 Hours on NHK called Small Funerals in a Big City that showed what you describe. I thought it was very interesting, but was shocked that the facility and the families allowed the filming, being that the culture there is normally so rigid and strict. Deepest condolences to you and Satoshi.
ReplyDeleteThanks Kirk!
ReplyDeleteTake care.
Kat
Thanks Jalna, interesting that they allowed filming, yeah?!
ReplyDeleteTake care.
Kat