Measuring my wedding ring. I already forgot what size it is; ring sizes are the same as shoe sizes – there’s a bunch of different systems. They really should standardize that shit.

Courtesy of the G-man, who declares, “I LUV OSAKA.” ($100/hour fine for unauthorized parking)

A garbage can we found in the parking lot of a town hall/ancient waterfall way out in the sticks. The marking indicates it’s for disposing of leftover soup?!?

We walked up to the top of Hatsuo dam and found the newest levee, a massive concrete wall currently only controlling a trickle of water. The harsh whiteness of the walls stands out like a scar viewed against the surrounding forest environment. This is a washed out photo of the No Trespassing sign adorning it.

Traditional Japanese tricycle used by warabi mochi vendors. I think this was taken in front of the guy’s house! The trike was just parked on the street in front of the house, and the front door was open.

I was shocked to see they are building a new ferris wheel at the Awaji parking area close to the big bridge. That’s just what this island needs! A new ferris wheel (there’s already one at Onokoro amusement park). That’s it, fuckers – take my tax money and RUN!

The skinniest fugu in the world, seen in the fish tank of a Chinese restaurant in Tenri.

Cleaning out Nam’s locker at Osaka U. 7 years of notes and papers!

This is like the coolest invention of the month – a disposable cigarette lighter with a battery-powered LED lamp embedded in the bottom for use as a small flashlight. The label on the side says it can be used 1,000 times for 5 second bursts.