I may not be able to get lost in a new city due to the pandemic, but I can get lost in a new project.
I love to make things, and because of Japan’s commitment to keep traditional crafts alive I have been learning to make Japanese armor for the past five years.
Not long after arriving I learned of a Japanese armor creation course at one of the culture centers in Nagoya City, my hometown in Japan.
The next thing I knew I was on my way to crafting my first helmet.
I’m sure my neighbors weren’t so excited about my new hobby!
Imagine watching your neighbor carrying an anvil into their apartment!
Every class I learn something new.
There is always a new step I was not aware of, or I learn a new way to use my tools.
It is exciting to know that I am learning a craft that not only goes back centuries but endures to this day.
Making armor requires patience, and an eye for detail.
Now when I visit a museum, I can look at a suit of armor on display and have a much deeper understanding of the craftsmanship that goes into each piece.
I often wonder if the armorers of old felt the same joy that I do when I finish a new piece of armor.
The best part however is not the creation of each new piece of armor.
It has been the friendships that I have cultivated and the wonderful people I have met because of taking these classes.
Moving to and living in a different country can be very lonely if you let it and getting involved in a craft class is a wonderful way to make new friends and meet like-minded people.

I’ve been living in Nagoya for sometime now, and frankly, I find Nagoya a great city to live in.
One of my favorite places in Nagoya is the Koshoji Temple, in Yagoto.
Quite a picturesque place all year round.
It is an easy walk from either Yagoto or Irinaka stations, and many universities, surround it.
I love taking walks at Koshoji, and sometimes on weekends there is a farmer’s market.
Meandering through the temple is the graveyard, depending on the season and time of day it can be a little eerie, but worth taking the time to see.
The temple is a good place to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city, while still being inside the city.
I find this place unique because it is in the middle of a bustling, urban area.
Coming from Manila, we have parks, but not in the middle of the central business area.
In my country people unwind in malls, or parks inside malls.
But in Koshoji, I can enjoy nature, without being tempted to go shopping.
Another thing I love about Koshoji is that it’s just so peaceful.
The little, tree shaded paths that snake around the grounds, remind me of hiking paths, and I really love hiking.
For me, Koshoji is my mini-hike, secret garden place. It is a calming influence, in the middle of the city.
It makes me happy to live in Nagoya, because of places like Koshoji Temple.