Haiga, Haibun and Haiku in the Time of Coronavirus

My plan to return to Japan this month has been postponed due to the coronavirus. I was all set to return for three months - one in Kyoto for the Lafcadio Hearn April 22-25 and then Tokyo for a month to be with kamishibai friends before back for another month in Kansai. How quickly the …

On Haiku, Bamboo, Poetry Writing, Conservation Work in Japan, and Some Contests Too

A variety of opportunities to appreciate and write haiku poetry are to be found in Japan. A few of my favorite experiences, from the Arashiyama Bamboo forest composure strolls to books, to haiku competitions.

Birthday at Kyoto Gyoen

Writers in Kyoto had its annual writing contest for a piece 300 words or less. Here is my submission! I won just by entering! I won just by writing, because it's so healing and so much fun! I am grateful to my Sensei Masasihi Nakamura for these adventures in Japanese philosophy and nature! Part of …

Kyobashi – A Visual Poem to Keep Article 9 in Japan’s Constitution

I am back home in Osaka, Japan after a two week delay from typhoon Jebi earlier this month. I'm back just in time for the next typhoon Trami coming our way, expected to his here Sunday night! We are stocked up with food and water, and my camera is ready! Let's hope for the best …

Zen and the Art of Relaxing My Body and Mind with Shodō, Japanese Calligraphy

This art-form Shodō that is also a way of life and has its own philosophy was working its power on me. It was all very Zen.

Pearls, A Film Poem Made After Visiting Mikimoto Pearl Island

Pearls, a film poem by Sydney Solis, featuring Pearl Divers from Mikimoto Pearl Island, Japan.

Writers in Kyoto Annual Poetry Reading, Plus Jazz June 24

You are cordially invited to the Writers in Kyoto Annual Poetry Reading on June 24. It will feature jazz accompanying the Kansai region's many talented poets who are gathering at the The Gnome, at Nijo Kawaramachi in Kyoto  (For map see here.) Happy to say that I, Sydney Solis, am master of ceremonies, humble poet that I am. …