Now Is the Perfect Time to Start

A Hidden Gem They say the Sapporo Clock Tower is one of the three biggest disappointments among tourist sites in Japan. The clock tower is located between tall buildings, making it look small and unimposing. But if you know the history of the clock tower, you will find it worth visiting. Martial Arts Training Hall In 1876, Dr. William S. Clark, the first vice president of Sapporo Agricultural College, introduced a curriculum that included military and martial arts training, similar to that of the Massachusetts Agricultural College. The aim was for students to develop strong physical and mental strength as pioneering leaders and to become leaders of agricultural soldiers in case of an emergency. He advocated for the construction of a training hall, which was later called the Clock Tower. Central Auditorium The construction of the training hall was completed on October 16, 1878. The first floor contained laboratories, lecture rooms, and a natural history specimen room. The second floor w

  I started the English Club in the Sapporo Senior Network this April. The name of the club is "City Talk in English Club," but we call it "Hello Club" for short. Our regular meetings are held on the fourth Monday of every month. Around 20 members gather each time to learn how to guide tours around Sapporo in English. We also have free discussions in English on the topic of the day. So far, we have chosen four places to practice: Sapporo Clock Tower, Former Hokkaido Government Office Building (Red Brick Office), a Japanese restaurant in a department store, and Sapporo TV Tower. I will introduce these places here on my blog.

  Thirty years ago, I worked as a scientist at the University of Wisconsin in the U.S. After returning to Japan, I worked as a scientist at a national research institute and a University. I am currently a translator and a nationally licensed guide interpreter. I live with my wife and our son, who has a severe developmental disability. He requires round-the-clock care. My wife and I take turns caring for him, so our free time is very limited. We have made many sacrifices, but even in these circumstances, we find opportunities to start new things.

  Since last October, I've been learning gospel songs and singing the tenor part. Although I only have lessons twice a month, it suits me because it takes around two weeks to memorize the lyrics and melodies of new songs. Recently, I had the opportunity to perform on stage in front of a large audience. I sang with the Bright Sapporo Community Choir at the Lilac Festival in Sapporo Odori Park in May.

 I am an elderly Japanese person. I feel that my physical and intellectual abilities are declining day by day. Maybe it is too late to start new things, like writing a blog in a foreign language. But they say it's never too late to start anew, so I have begun this blog in English.  I will try not to use a translation app but will ask AI to correct my English before uploading.