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Revision as of 05:51, 6 April 2022
This archive page contains blog posts released from Jan 1, 2021 until December 31, 2021. Blogs and links to the other archives can be found on the Troupe Member Blog page.
Blog Posts
January 2021
Viewing Period: 1 Jan 21 to 3 Jan 21
Sakyo Furuichi of Autumn Troupe here.
Happy New Year.
As you can see from the picture above, we had a lively new year. Citron said on our group chat that he really wanted to hold a mochi pounding party, and because of that, some of us returned to the dorm just to participate in that event.
Even though the party was held so suddenly, the preparation went surprisingly well--from the signboard to the kimono. Now that I think about it again, perhaps we all had arranged it from the beginning in case Citron brought it up.
Now that we have learned a taste of this event, I feel like we're going to hold it again next year.
...That aside, Miyoshi suggested for me to attach a picture and give some "casual, pop-style" updates to you all for our New Year greeting. I tried to do it, but it didn't suit me and made me uncomfortable.
It might be a little stiff, but I want to wrap up this properly.
Once again, Happy New Year. Thank you all for your support last year. We intend to actively deliver plays this year as well, so please keep supporting us.
Translator: nids.
Viewing Period: 4 Jan 21 to 7 Jan 21
Viewing Period: 14 Jan 21 to 16 Jan 21
Relay Blog Project 2021
Viewing Period: 18 Jan 21
Hello, everyone! Muku Sakisaka from Summer Troupe here!
First things first, Happy New Year. I'm sorry it took me a while to say this!
This year, I'll continue to do my very best so that you all will come watch our shows!
These days, we've been trying a lot of things to make ourselves known to more people, like holding an IB Live stream, handing out free newspapers about our theater troupe and so on.
We've also been trying to come up with an idea that you all, who have been supporting us all this time, can enjoy.
And so... For our relay blog this year, we've decided to do an art shiritori! We all made up the rules ourselves which are:
You can only draw with black pen.
You can only look at the previous poster's drawing until the last update is posted.
We decided on the order by lottery and...
Never would have I thought I'd be the first one!
There's a special rule for the first person, and that is...
You have to draw "something that you like".
Hearing that, I decided what I wanted to draw right away.
How is it...? I'm sure everyone in the company likes this as well!
With that, I'm going to hand the baton to the next person.
Hope Hisoka-san knows what I mean...!
Hisoka Mikage from Winter Troupe here.
I looked at Muku's drawing and got told to participate in the same, so I gave it a try.
...It's easy to understand Muku's drawing.
He kept saying how worried he was that the next person wouldn't be able to tell, but...
I'm more worried about the next poster's drawing.
It wasn't as bad as how Muku would be when he's worried, so it's fine.
The answer must be that. That's why I drew this.
I saw a lot of these since the New Year.
Who's the next poster again...
Well, he should be able to understand what it is... I think.
Translator: nids.
Viewing Period: 19 Jan 21
Juza Hyodo of Autumn Troupe here.
I'm chosen to be the third drawer in this art shiritori game.
Looking at Hisoka-san's drawing, I think I have an idea what it is.
But the problem is, even if I try drawing what comes to my mind,
I doubt I can draw it well. I don't know what I should draw.
Then, I remember when we discussed this art shiritori game, we decided that the first poster had to draw "something that they like".
Assuming it'd be easier to draw something that I like, I decided to draw this.
...It might not look like the real thing, but I feel like I put enough details into this drawing.
Itaru-san is the next poster, right? I'm sure he will get it.
Hello. Itaru Chigasaki from Spring Troupe here.
I was chosen to be the fourth drawer in our art shiritori game.
...With that said, I took a look at Juza's drawing. It was harder than I thought.
I figured I could get a clue if I looked at Muku and Hisoka's drawings as well, but that's against the rules.
Looking at it again, I guess it might be food? Judging from the plate and all.
Now that I think about it again, Juza often eats that secretly late at night...
Though this art shiritori has somewhat turned into an absolutely-impossible-to-beat kind of game, I'm sure the answer must be that...Therefore, I drew this.
Cheating? No, I'm not. This is a part of my strategy.
This is an art shiritori game. It's not only about connecting words to words.
We also have to make sure other players understand what we draw.
Speaking of which, Juza didn't put a title again, huh.
While I like that side of him, I figured I'd put something in the title or else that person will get mad once he reads this post.
I'm looking forward to see how the next drawer connects this.
Translator: nids
Viewing Period: 20 Jan 21
Taichi Nanao of Autumn Troupe here!
I know this is kinda late but HNY~ (≧▽≦)
Please keep supporting me, Autumn Troupe, and MANKAI Company!
Now, let's go straight ahead to out art shiritori game!
I've been waiting for my turn to come all this time (^o^)v
...Yet, Itaru-san basically cheated with his drawing, didn't he!?
I never thought he'd draw a one-letter thing...![1]
While I'm grateful that he drew something that I could understand easily,
I wished he drew something more difficult~! (>_<)
Anyway, without any problem whatsoever, this is my drawing!
It came out really good, I'm so proud of it!
Try to guess it as well, guys! Oh, and I'll be grateful if you can leave a comment on my drawing!
Next up is my great teacher whom I can't live without!
He always helps me study with his super nice explanations!
Don't close the page! Scroll down to see his post~!
Hello. Tsumugi Tsukioka from Winter Troupe here.
Are you all having fun with our art shiritori game?
While I'm only allowed to look at Taichi-kun's drawing this time around, I can't wait to see the others' drawings once this is all done.
By the way, Taichi-kun is really good at drawing, huh.
It looks kind of adorable it made me smile.
It also kind of put a pressure on me, but I did my best to draw.
Without further ado, this is my drawing.
I tried to make it as easy to understand as possible. What do you think...?
I hope both the next poster and you guys can guess it correctly.
Next up is an energetic boy who loves his brother so much.
Look forward to tomorrow's update.
That's all from me, Tsumugi Tsukioka of Winter Troupe.
Translator: nids
Viewing Period: 21 Jan 21
Kumon Hyodo from Summer Troupe here!
I'm so happy I get to participate in the relay blog early this time! I'm usually in the later group, you see.
I also can't wait to see the others' drawings, especially Nii-chan's~!
Let's go straight to our art shiritori game!
Tsumugi-san's drawing is so soft and cute and super healing! (^^)
It's very understandable too, of course!
After much thinking about what I should draw, I chose this! Ta-dah!
Is it too simple? But what's important here is to make sure the next person gets what we draw!
I like mixing this with coffee, and Nii-chan loves the strawberry flavor.
How about you guys? Tell me if you have any recommended flavors!
With that said, the next person after me is really fit and super passionate about acting☆
Scroll down to read the post!
Tasuku Takato of Winter Troupe here.
We've entered the fourth day of the art shiritori game, do you have any ideas of the drawings that have been posted so far?
Still, I still can't believe we're doing an art shiritori for our relay blog...
I figured I should just see this as a way to take a break.
In any case, I'm thankful Hyodo Jr. drew something I could understand easily.
It tastes great when you drink it after a bath.
Now, this is what I drew.
It should be easy, but because it's not simply a round thing I had quite a hard time drawing this.
This is a kind of food that's good to prevent heatstroke due to its amount of salt.
The next person's Japanese is somewhat strange, but he loves Japan.
I'm kind of worried if he'll get this...
Tasuku Takato, Winter Troupe, MANKAI Company
Translator: nids
Viewing Period: 22 Jan 21
Citron from Spring Troupe here △
A bit late but HNY △
Writing the post with Misumitoday △
For our pair name put △ and you have Citr△n
Read it as Citron .
Misumi, too good as a partner !
Still, I'm going to follow your example △
I'll move on to the fart shiritori ~ .
Tasuku's drawing, bad, but I gto wht he ment △
So I drew this .
Misumi, catch my burning△passion !
△▽△▽△▽
Thanks, Citron~ △
Summer Troupe's Misumi Ikaruga will be taking over now!
It's cold, right?
Mochi is tasty, right?
How are you all today? I'm feeling super fine so I went to look for triangles~△
I also found 2 triangles while helping Citron with his blog post~ I'm on a roll today△△
As much as I wanted to show off the triangles I found today, I'll hold back and show you the triangles I drew instead!
Citron is so good at drawing so I could get it easily~
You see it a lot at the shopping district these days!
Will the next person after me get what I drew~?
I'll give him a Super Sankaku-kun if he guesses it right△
△△△
Translator: nids
Viewing Period: 23 Jan 21
Hello.
Tsuzuru Minagi from Spring Troupe here.
Playing art shiritori through relay blog sure is interesting, huh.
I hope you also have fun like us.
Moving on, Ikaruga-san's drawing is...
Just what is going on in this picture?
His usual character has such a great presence here...
Though that shouldn't be a problem since I get what he drew.
With that being said, here's my drawing.
Is this easy to understand?
I do hope it's easy to understand.
Sorry, Fushimi-san! I leave the rest to you.
Hello, Omi Fushimi from Autumn Troupe here.
Looks like our art shiritori has gotten livelier, huh.
I can't wait 'til the day comes when we're allowed to look at the others' drawings. I barely know what they drew.
While I was thankful Tsuzuru drew something easy, I was stuck between two choices...
I could only follow my intuition for now since I wasn't allowed to look at the others' drawings beside Tsuzuru's.
I'm not that confident in drawing, but I hope the next poster gets what it is...
Feel free to try and take a guess too, guys.
The next update will be posted by someone who has a dual role in this company and has been supporting the troupe with his dexterity and great sense.
Look forward to tomorrow's update.
Translator: nids
Viewing Period: 24 Jan 21
Yuki Rurikawa from Summer Troupe here.
I know it's a little bit different than our previous relay blogs, but are you guys having fun with it?
While I'm pretty much used to drawing due to all the designs I work on, most of the guys here are not.
I guess you can say we all have quite a hard time, though despite that, I can somewhat tell they are having fun.
In any case, I'm glad Omi drew something easy to understand yesterday.
It's not exactly cute but at least it's not too abstract either.
Now, here's my drawing.
What do you think? It's cute, right?
I have some answers in mind, but at the end of the day, I prefer drawing something cute.
That's all from me.
Next up will be Masumi. Bye bye.
Masumi Usui from Spring Troupe here.
Playing art shiritori through relay blogs is just too weird.
But I tried giving my all in drawing since Director said she's interested in this.
It's not like I'm super good at drawing, but I'm somewhat confident I drew much better than those guys.
You should be able to tell who I'm referring to by looking at the posts.
...And 1 of them just so happens to be posting the next update tomorrow.
Translator: nids
Viewing Period: 25 Jan 21
In this severe winter...
It appears that I, Homare Arisugawa from Winter Troupe, have kept you all waiting.
I wrote this post as the warmth from the kotatsu ran through my limbs.
Moving on to our relay blog this year, "Art Shiritori"...
Never would I have thought they'd come up with something that's perfect for me.
As some of you may have already known, my main occupation is a writer. Despite that, I plan to enjoy every kind of art on a daily basis.
It was never my intention to announce it in this way, but I think this is what you call fate.
In any case...Hmm...
Masumi-kun's drawing is too easy to understand. That is to be expected, though.
He is someone who enjoys art in the form of music.
Now, I shall try to connect the piece.
Oh my. It seems I spent too much time in the introduction.
Now, without delaying it any longer, please enjoy my drawing to your heart's content.
I shall pass the baton to the next person.
I'm counting on you, Azami-kun.
Azami Izumida from Autumn Troupe here.
"I'm counting on you," my butt.
What the heck is this drawing???
And where in the hell did you get all the confidence to show something like this...
I somewhat have an idea what it is. But since I don't have any hints at all, I'm not 100% sure.
I don't know if this is right or not but lemme try to interpret his drawing and answer from there.
I guess this kind of thing happens a lot in shiritori?
Oh well, even if I'm wrong, this totes ain't my fault. At all.
The next person is someone who's good at magic.
See you next time.
Translator: nids
Viewing Period: 26 Jan 21
Chikage Utsuki from Spring Troupe here.
I can't believe we're doing an art shiritori for our first blog posts of the year.
Just the day before yesterday, I saw Azami drawing something while looking like he had a massive headache...
As much as I wanted to take a look, it was against the rules so I just left him alone.
Then, after looking at what he drew, this is my drawing.
I didn't have any problems whatsoever since his drawing was pretty easy to understand.
I'm sure the next person would get it as well.
I hope we could make use of the teamwork we've built through escape games.
I'm counting on you, Banri.
Banri Settsu from Autumn Troupe here.
Man...Chikage-san, the way you passed the baton just now was so original.
Well, it's true that sometimes we've gotta answer riddles by drawing whenever we go play escape games...
And that person always draws unrecognisable things.
So I guess you can say I'm kinda used to it.
Am I really, though?
Anyway, here's my drawing.
It's much easier to understand than Chikage-san's drawing, right?
Bet the others will get it as well.
Look forward to our next update.
Bye.
Translator: nids
Viewing Period: 27 Jan 21
Thank you for your support all this time!
Sakuya Sakuma from Spring Troupe here!
Are you guys having fun with our art shiritori game...?
Today is my turn, and even though I'm a little bit nervous to draw, I'll do my best!
I could not see the others' drawings beside Banri-kun's, and when I looked at it...
It made me go like, "Wow, even his way of thinking is so cool! That's Banri-kun for you!"
I tried hard to make my drawing be understandable as well.
I have a lot of things I could draw to connect the piece, but in the end, I decided to draw this in hopes that this company could move forward by stepping into the unknown worlds.
Even this project is one of our new challenges, which I believe will be the key to enter the future.
...Oops, did I write too much?
I hope the next person gets what I drew...
Now, let's pass the baton to him!
Sakyo Furuichi from Autumn Troupe here.
The art shiritori project is approaching its end soon.
Based on the rule of this game, I'm not allowed to see other posts beside Sakuma's.
Because of that, there might be some awful posts being uploaded to the blog during this time. Please bear with it.
Sakuma's drawing is not only easy to understand, but it's also filled with hopes.
He sure said some pretty great things there.
Thus, in order to realise that wish, we, MANKAI Company, would like to challenge more things in the future.
However, while Sakuma's drawing is easy to understand, it's hard to guess the exact word he drew.
Thinking what it most likely is, I decided to draw this.
I'll check whether I could successfully connect the piece when the project comes to an end.
I see, the next person is that guy.
In that case, I'm sure he will get what this drawing is.
Translator: nids
Viewing Period: 28 Jan 21
Guy from Winter Troupe here.
I see the title of my relay blog post this year is longer than usual.
Citronia said I'd get what he wrote if I give it some thought. Unfortunately, as much as I wanted to, I didn't understand at all.
Moving on to our art shiritori...
One thing came to my mind the moment I looked at Furuichi's drawing.
He made a nice choice to draw the dots to represent the overall ambience.
Without further ado, this is my drawing.
I hope my drawing is easy to understand since I'm not someone who draws on a daily basis...
Now, I shall entrust this to the next person, a beloved leader who tries his best in both acting and school.
Tenma Sumeragi from Summer Troupe here.
Our art shiritori project is coming to an end soon.
Just like everyone else, I wasn't allowed to take a look at the others' drawings beside Guy-san's. While a part of me wants to see them as soon as possible, I also have a little bit of hesitation about that...
Putting that aside, don't you think Guy-san's drawing is just too good?
It looks real and delicious.
I'm glad it wasn't something confusing.
Because I can't make a mistake here, I gave my all and drew this.
I'm pretty satisfied with this, though I'm sure it'll be easier to understand if I can color it.
You guys probably already have an idea who's going to post next since we only have 2 members left...
It's someone who has sex appeal in our company. Do you know who it is?
Thanks for reading.
Enjoy our project until the end.
Translator: nids.
Viewing Period: 29 Jan 21
Azuma Yukishiro from Winter Troupe here.
Today is the last day of our relay blog.
It's kind of sad to see it ending, but please enjoy it until the end. We all are looking forward to see our answers, after all.
Now then, moving on to Tenma's drawing...
I'm a little bit lost whether I should just see it as it is or twist it a little.
Since this is the straightforward and hardworking Tenma we're talking about, he must have thought really hard about what to draw.
Putting that into consideration, I drew this.
It's time to pass the baton to the last person...
Kazunari, I hope you can take us to a wonderful goal line.
Yo, yo! Kazunari Miyoshi from Summer Troupe serving as the last artist for our relay blog ♪
Azu's drawing is totes easy to understand, don't you think so!? Thanks a ton, man★
Say, remember what Muku drew at the beginning of this project?
Yup, that's right! "Something that you like." That's why I...
This is the goal for all 24 of us ♪
Now, without further ado! Let's check out if our answers are connected!
[2]Muku★MANKAI Theater → Hisoka★Cow → Juza★Chiffon cake → Itaru★Tree → Taichi★Dinosaurs → Tsumugi★Rabbit → Kumon★Milk → Tasuku★Umeboshi[3] → Citron★Lion dance → Misumi★India (Camel) → Tsuzuru★Diamond (Ruby) → Omi★Dog → Yuki★Plushies → Masumi★Honeybee → Homare★Chimpanzee (Gorilla) → Azami★Trumpet → Chikage★Pineapple → Banri★Roulette → Sakuya★Door (Door [in English])[4] → Sakyo★Ant (Morse code) → Guy★Eel rice box → Tenma★Ukiyo-e[5] → Azuma★Ema[6] → Kazunari★MANKAI Dorm
I only knew what their answers were as I was typing this post...Dang, so close!
Oh, BTW, the ones in () are what the next person thought the drawing was ♪
Both their drawings and answers really showed their personalities (≧▽≦)
MANKAI Company has delivered a lot of shows up until now. It was really fun and hard at the same time!
We've gotta put our feelings into the baton we received from the previous performers, and make sure that it reaches the next performers.
After meeting the first-gen members and hearing their stories, we've come to hope that we'll all still be connected even in the future.
...And that's how Director-chan came up with this project ♪
It's such a shame our drawings were not connected to each other, but I figured it's not something you can do easily~.
It might only be a game, but it's still important! I guess we all found another important thing, not just the depth of art, through this chance.
OMG! Sorry! This blog has gotten super long ><
TYSM for reading until the end!
While doing art has always been my goal, I've still gotta try hard to connect our baton called acting! Our goal is still very far ahead!
Since we all are still gonna deliver shows with all our might, do continue to support us, 'kay?★
That's all from me, Kazunari Miyoshi! See ya｜ゝ３ • ) ~ ♪
Translator: nids. and Dita (T/Ns)
February 2021
Viewing Period: 2 Feb 21 to 4 Feb 21
I’m making an appearance yet again♪
It’s me, the Summer Troupe’s Kazunari Miyoshi!
I was the last person for the relay blog so,
I betcha didn’t think I’d be coming so soon, am I right?
…Well, putting that aside, after learning the correct answers from the relay blog
The MANKAI dorms got all lively~☆
Tsuzurun was like
“How was I supposed to get that?!” on Sumi’s drawing,
And then people like Ronron to Takusu and Azu to Tenten
Were talking about how they understood their drawings very well (* ^▽^ *)
After ending such a fun project, February already got here in a flash!
And February means… Valentine’s day♪
Has everybody already started preparing?
As for me, I’m still thinking about what I should do for friend chocolates this year.
I keep thinking “That one’s good~” and “This one’s good too~”
So I have a hard time deciding with all these options.
I’m thinking of going through with my investigations so I could give them the best stuff on the day!
I hope that every one of y'all
Will have a miraculously happy valentine’s day♪
Anywho, this has been Kazunari Miyoshi!
See ya｜ω ･。）ノシ~☆
Translator: meganedolaon
Viewing Period: 7 Feb 21 to 9 Feb 21
Winter Troupe, Hisoka Mikage
Today’s cold, too.
Since this morning, the kotatsu futon had to be washed, so I was driven out of it.
Even if I had the heater to warm me up, the window was opened for ventilation.
It was so cold that my hands grew numb, enough for me to drop the marshmallow.
And then, Tasuku told me “you should go out to the courtyard, too."
Muku and Taichi were doing stretches.
Along with Tasuku and Guy, those four are going to the town’s long-distance relay contest.
That’s what they’re training for.
Speaking of that, Sakyo said that I should go since there was a fancy prize.
But, there weren’t any marshmallows so I refused.
As for Taichi, Sakuya couldn’t come since he has a part-time job.
It seems that Taichi came in his place.
I don’t like exercising nor being out in the cold,
But those two kept inviting me, so I only tried doing the warm-ups and stretches with them.
And before I knew it, my body felt all nice and warm, it was a good feeling.
I think moving my body once in a while might be good in these cold times.
…But only when there isn’t a kotatsu or heater, though.
Translator: meganedolaon
Viewing Period: 12 Feb 21 to 15 Feb 21
Viewing Period: 16 Feb 21 to 18 Feb 21
Viewing Period: 23 Feb 21 to 25 Feb 21
Hello, everyone!
This is Muku Sakisaka from the Summer Troupe!
Yesterday was 2/22 which means it was cat day and...
The Winter Troupe’s Tasuku-san’s birthday! Happy birthday.（* ^^ *）
Since I know Tasuku-san always goes running every morning,
I woke up early this morning to go running with him, but to my surprise,
Besides me, even Tenma-kun, Sakuya-kun, Tsuzuru-san, and Omi-san were at the entrance!
In the middle of our running, we had a street act on the early streets of Veludo Way.
And on the way back, we ate a chinese steamed bun from a convenience store.
It was a super refreshing and fun morning♪
And after that, we played soccer, in a game and in real life.
We also did weight training… Ah, we’ve done nothing but move our bodies…!
It really seems like it’s Tasuku-san’s birthday in this place.（^^）
We also held a party at night...
This year, Kazu-kun attempted to put cat ears on Tasuku-san again for “Operation: Takusu Nyan☆”
Regrettably, it ended in a failure...
So then, Arisu-san said “Well, the Winter Troupe is bound by destiny,” and as a substitute,
He wore the cat ears! He was even particular on the composition.
As expected from Arisu-san, it fit him well and he looked wonderful.
But, next year, those cat ears will definitely be on Tasuku-san…! I’ll do my best with Kazu-kun and everyone!
And with that, thank you for reading until the end!
Translator: meganedolaon
Viewing Period: 26 Feb 21 to 28 Feb 21
March 2021
Viewing Period: 1 Mar 21 to 3 Mar 21
Viewing Period: 7 Mar 21 to 9 Mar 21
Hello. This is Winter troupe’s Tsukioka Tsumugi.
The number of warm days has started to increase, and it feels like the arrival of spring.
When spring comes, I feel relieved, and I feel at ease…
It’s a pretty mysterious season, isn’t it?
On the topic of spring.
I saw a very beautiful spring view the other day.
The title is: “Spring’s Triangle △”
By the way, Misumi-kun named it.
…Everyone, did you all wonder “who took this picture”?
The photographer was, of course, yours truly.
Summer troupe’s Kazunari-kun patiently explained everything to me, from the camera app, to tips on how to shoot the photo.
Reflecting the canola flowers in the foreground, and linking Misumi-kun’s triangle with the mountain in the background…
All of it was directed by Kazunari-kun.
All I did was simply hold my smartphone and press the shutter button…
But I feel like I kind of got the hang of it!
The cherry blossoms will be in full bloom in a month or so, so I will be practicing in order to take lots of pretty pictures of them.
Well then, it’s been Winter troupe’s Tsukioka Tsumugi.
Translator: Anna
Viewing Period: 12 Mar 21 to 14 Mar 21
Winter Troupe, Guy here.
We just had an event at a theme park the other day. Thank you to everyone who made the journey to see us.
For this performance we took on the challenge of performing in full professional make up. As always, Azami’s make up skills did not disappoint and went above and beyond any and all expectations.
This collaboration was to promote a new line of eye shadow. We each showed off the various colours such as violet, wine, cassis, and lime. I am sure one would easily be able to find a colour that would suit them.
I took this event as a chance to study more about make up. I would be happy to know that everyone else enjoyed the performance as well.
Rurikawa is the one who designed our costumes that were a mix of white and blue tones to fit the theme of White Day. I am also offering a limited time exclusive cocktail and juice at my bar for White Day. I hope everyone can visit.
Winter Troupe, Guy.
Translator: ranka
Viewing Period: 16 Mar 21 to 18 Mar 21
Viewing Period: 20 Mar 21 to 22 Mar 21
Summer Troupe’s Tenma Sumeragi.
Lately, I’ve been busy with filming and to be honest, I haven’t found the time to update on the blog nor did I have anything to talk about anyway. So, I wanted to get someone else’s thoughts on the matter and... Kazunari said “Make something up then”.
And while I was thinking about it...
Kazunari shouted “Botamochi[7] Party!”
It’s popular on Inste apparently? I was a little cautious at first, but Omi-san helped out with making them.
And so after a long and tiring photoshoot, Alice-san brought some tea and we drank it with the botamochi. I heard Azuma-san provided the tea leaves.
Thanks to the botamochi party, I actually had something to write about for this blog post. So I guess I’ll forgive them this time since I was able to eat the botamochi too. I’ve also been too busy with work to notice just how much Spring has been blossoming in so far, but I could feel it this time around.
The season’s changing, everyone please take care of yourselves.
Thank you for reading.
Translator: petenuso
Viewing Period: 26 Mar 21 to 28 Mar 21
Our performances for our 9th mixed play ‘Senribana Monogatari’ have finished! I am so thankful to everyone for your support.
I am sure many people already know, but I was actually born and raised in The Kingdom of Zahra.
It is country where the sea is blue, the night sky is purple, and the white jasmine fields are beautiful.
Those are all things I love about Zahra and the things I feel are the pride of my country.
However, there have been days when I have yearned to see something beyond my tiny island.
I would read guide books, maps, picture books, and watch foreign programmes and movies on TV. Even if it was only for a short while, I let my imagination run wild as I yearned for those places far far away.
I will never forget the first time I came to Japan. It took all my courage to leave everything behind and take the leap into the unknown. I will always remember the smell of the fresh air, the pink of the sakura blossoms, and the beauty of the blue sky.
What I felt was more than just the realisation of my yearning for a land overseas. I felt something more. Something I could only describe as a feeling greater than anyone could have ever imagined. From my homeland, all of things I had seen and read were always confined to the edges of my television or the pages of my books. I could have never imagined how big the world really was until I took those first steps outside of my homeland. I was a small fish in a big pond and at last I could experience all the things that movies and books could never show me.
I was reminded of my first experience abroad through this performance. I would like to express my gratitude once again for all of the support I received from my beloved friends and family with which allowed me to come to Japan. It feel truly loved with all of your support.
I hope our performance has inspired all who came, especially the children of Zahra who will shape our country's future. I am happy to have had this opportunity to support the dreams of others.
Spring Troupe Citron (Amanuensis: ???)
Translator: ranka
April 2021
Viewing Period: 1 Apr 21 to 1 Apr 21
Viewing Period: 4 Apr 21 to 6 Apr 21
It’s already the warm season.
Is everyone having a fun spring~?
I drove Muku and Kumon to see the cherry blossoms together!
Actually, I invited Tenma, Yuki, and Kazu too but...
They couldn’t come along~ It’s a shame.
But, we promised that everyone will definitely go next time!
Earlier, the three of us took a walk on the cherry blossom-covered road.
And when we switched to driving, “Sumi-san has leveled up!”
Is what Kumon told me~
Have I leveled up?
I’ve done a bunch of other stuff recently, too~
Like a task where I had to make a document for something I wanted to make.
I presented it in front of everyone△
It was a tiny bit hard but I still had a lot of fun!
What kind of data it was is still a secret though.
It’d be nice if it’ll make everyone smile.
Until then, please look forward to it!
△△△
Translator: meganedolaon
Viewing Period: 9 Apr 21 to 11 Apr 21
Thank you for always supporting us!
This is Sakuya Sakuma of the Spring Troupe!
It’s completely the spring season now.
Just seeing the cherry blossoms bloom around me while walking on the streets,
Somehow it made me feel warm inside.
Speaking of, everyone in the company went cherry blossom viewing the other day!
Omi-san and the others prepared a lot of food and sweets this year as well.
It turned into a very fancy banquet though.
Only the sake ran out much more than expected.
Muku-kun and Kumon-kun said “This must be the work of a god or a fairy!”
Everybody got all worked up...
In the end, the cause was found to be Citron-san and Azuma-san
Who were secretly having a drinking competition.
Those two don’t merely just drink a lot,
But they seriously appreciate and enjoy drinking sake, it’s wonderful!
Lastly, we have a very lovely photo. I'll post it here.
When Citron-san went to buy sake with Azuma-san,
This was a picture he sent.
I’m very happy to do cherry blossom viewing with everyone again this year!
I’ll pray for the cherry blossoms in our courtyard so we can do this again next year!
Well then, please look forward to the next update!
Translator: meganedolaon
Viewing Period: 13 Apr 21 to 15 Apr 21
Viewing Period: 17 Apr 21 to 19 Apr 21
Viewing Period: 24 Apr 21 to 26 Apr 21
Spring Troupe’s Usui Masumi.
It was a holiday today so the whole dorm was noisy and full of people.
But the weather was nice and felt good, so I used my headphones to reduce the noise and took a nap in the courtyard.
But I could still hear Citron and Kazunari’s ridiculously loud voices even then.
When I woke up after that, it was close to evening, and it seemed like I slept better than I thought I would.
I felt refreshed, but I felt like something was off for some reason. And when I looked around, none of the other guys were there except Hisoka who was sleeping on the bench.
It was finally quiet so I thought I would go back to sleep, but a weird picture was sent to the LIME’s group chat.
Apparently… The guys who were free went for a drive to a seaside town. Citron was so excited about the port view that he was about to climb over the bridge, and Tasuku was trying his best to stop him.
They’re noisy guys, even in photos.
Translator: Anna
Viewing Period: 28 Apr 21 to 30 Apr 21
May 2021
Viewing Period: 4 May 21 to 6 May 21
Viewing Period: 8 May 21 to 10 May 21
Viewing Period: 14 May 21 to 16 May 21
Viewing Period: 17 May 21 to 20 May 21
Viewing Period: 22 May 21 to 24 May 21
Hello. Yuki Rurikawa form Summer Troupe's here.
I feel rather drained since we entered May. It's not like I want to take a long break, but it's just, I feel like I don't really have the energy to do anything. Oh, well. I guess this much is fine since we have someone who slacks off all year long in the dorm.
The other day, I couldn't concentrate on work at all because those guys were so noisy. But the weather was so nice that I wanted to just laze around in my room. I didn't do that, though. Instead, I decided to do my homework in the courtyard, before Misumi caught me and dragged me outside.
Several other guys and I were forced to go look for a cat in our neighbourhood that went missing. After nearly two hours of looking, we found it safe and sound here.
Citron sent us a photo on LIME saying, "Afternoon nap with an angel♪" (decrypted). The cat in that photo looked exactly the same as the cat we were looking for.
I made a new collar with a name tag for the cat after that. While I had less time to do my homework due to that, it was a nice change of pace. I got to exercise too that way, and the cat was cute.
Translator: nids.
Viewing Period: 28 May 21 to 30 May 21
June 2021
Viewing Period: 1 Jun 21 to 3 Jun 21
Viewing Period: 5 Jun 21 to 7 Jun 21
Autumn troupe’s Settsu Banri.
June’s here.
And that means we’ve also entered the rainy season.
When it’s this time of the year, the guys at the Theatre also feel reluctant to go out, and they naturally gather in the lounge…
When I got home from uni, I was surprised to see Masumi quietly making some overly fancy decorations. It’s way too rare.
Apparently, they were makin’ decorations with a rainy season motif for the kids to display at Sakuya’s part-time job.
But there was no one ‘cept Masumi who could make them according to the sample picture…
Some were overly arranged, some were technically flawed to begin with, and some were mysteriously artistic.
They even got me to help out before I realized.
After we finished making them, we started doodlin’ in the condensation on the windows. And some fine rainy season art was completed at the dorm too.
But the set ended when Manager got flustered saying, "they're going to leave marks.”
Well, that’s just a rainy season tradition at the MANKAI dorm.
I’ll post our rainy season art to inste next time.
Alright then, ‘til next time.
Translator: Anna
Viewing Period: 11 Jun 21 to 13 Jun 21
Viewing Period: 15 Jun 21 to 17 Jun 21
Viewing Period: 20 Jun 21 to 22 Jun 21
It's been getting hot and humid lately.
Make sure you drink enough water and salt so you don't collapse.
A while ago, there was a bit of a commotion in the dormitory.
Kamekichi, a parrot living in the dormitory, had a fight with his girlfriend, so Miyoshi and Nanao came up with a plan to "make up".
At first, Kamekichi seems a little depressed, but...
Once the preparations for the event began, he seemed to regain some of his energy.
I wasn't at the dorm that day...
Kamekichi wore the clothes that Rurikawa had made for him.
It seemed that Tsumugi had helped him pick out flowers to give to his partner.
Since there were many members who were not in the dormitory that day, we received reports from Nanao on the LIME group chat.
Here are some pictures from the event:
By the time I got back, everything was over, but...
I heard that they were able to make up safely.
In addition to this picture, there are other pictures that Miyoshi and Nanao took with Kamekichi.
But they said they would post them on Inste, so wait for them.
MANKAI Company Winter Troupe, Tasuku Takato.
Translator: Lily
Viewing Period: 25 Jun 21 to 27 Jun 21
July 2021
Viewing Period: 1 Jul 21 to 3 Jul 21
Hello, everyone!
Muku Sakisaka from Summer Troupe here.
We've entered July starting from today...!
Because my summer break is coming soon, I hope I get to do a lot of summer-like things this year!（*＾v＾*）
Speaking of summer-like things...
Sakyo-san and Chikage-san went to the beer garden together a few days ago!
Tsuzuru-san and Banri-san worked part-time there before.
When Sakyo-san told me about it, I said I wanted to see what kind of place it is since I'm still too young to go there. Then, as if he remembered what I said...
Sakyo-san sent me some pictures from his outing.
I'll upload one of them here.
To tell you the truth... I asked him to take pics with Chikage-san!
Besides this one, he also sent me some photos of the beer garden itself. I really appreciate it ♪
Looking at the pictures, the beer garden seems like a very fun place. When I grow up, I want to go to the beer garden with Sakyo-san and Chikage-san...!
Thank you for reading until the end!
Translator: nids.
Viewing Period: 12 Jul 21 to 14 Jul 21
Viewing Period: 19 Jul 21 to 21 Jul 21
Viewing Period: 24 Jul 21 to 26 Jul 21
Viewing Period: 28 Jul 21 to 30 Jul 21
August 2021
Viewing Period: 1 Aug 21 to 3 Aug 21
Viewing Period: 8 Aug 21 to 10 Aug 21
It was really hot the other day so everyone ended up eating shaved ice.
I searched around the dorm for shaved ice machines with Taichi, but we didn’t expect to find three of them.
Omi prepared quite a bit of syrup and topping for the occasion, so I made my shaved ice to my liking. It was super delicious.
Along the way, Kazunari-san started a “Shaved Ice Topping Competition”, and I got to enjoy a variety of flavors and toppings.
The ones with just fizzy drinks added were also unexpectedly delicious.
Settsu’s shaved ice won the competition.
Taichi took a picture of that moment and wanted it up on the blog, so here it is.
It’s frustrating to admit, but its flavor was really balanced and turned out really delicious.
On the other hand my shaved ice was apparently too sweet.
Was wondering if I got the balance just right, but it wasn’t that simple.
I guess I should take note of that if there ever is another “Shaved Ice Topping Competition”.
8 August Autumn Troupe Hyodo Juza
Translator: Mayu
Viewing Period: 11 Aug 21 to 13 Aug 21
Viewing Period: 21 Aug 21 to 23 Aug 21
Autumn Troupe, Settsu Banri, here.
Ever since I got my driver’s license, my sister has been dragging me around with her on her shopping trips a whole lot. It’s fine, though, I guess, since the stores she selects are pretty good ones anyway. I do kinda like shopping as well, myself.
Today we had gone out again, but…
It wasn’t like the usual shopping trips.
Usually, we’d buy lots of stuff like clothes or sneakers, but for some reason, I ended up buying this one picture postcard.
It feels like it’s the first time I bought a picture postcard myself though… I’m not really sure, but it probably is.
It just happens these things were being sold at the shop I went to, so I ended up picking it up before I realized it. Now this is just me guessing, but… It might be because, a while back, I received a picture postcard from that person as well. Instead of receiving texts or LIME messages, being able to see someone’s handwriting in this form every once in a while isn’t so bad either, I thought.
Even if I can’t see someone in person, I can just imagine the look of their faces…. That kind of feeling.
...Actually, even what I’ve been writing ‘till now is unusual of me.
Anyways, the gist is I went and bought that postcard, but I still don’t really have any plans to do anything with it just yet. Might even be awhile before this thing gets taken out and be used at all. If there ever comes a time where I have someone to send this too, I’m itching to see what sort of stuff I’ll end up writing along with this.
That’s it for now. Laters.
Translator: Dita
Viewing Period: 30 Aug 21 to 1 Sep 21
September 2021
Viewing Period: 3 Sep 21 to 5 Sep 21
Viewing Period: 10 Sep 21 to 12 Sep 21
Viewing Period: 15 Sep 21 to 17 Sep 21
Viewing Period: 19 Sep 21 to 21 Sep 21
Viewing Period: 27 Sep 21 to 29 Sep 21
Masumi Usui from Spring Troupe here.
Because today is Juza's birthday, we held a birthday party for him with Muku and Kumon doing the planning.
We woke up in the morning and decorated the room. I also put some stars on the wall. It felt great to be able to help.
I guess you can get the birthday party vibes by seeing this picture.
Kumon told me to attach this photo. I guess they made a 10-shaped cake because it's Juza's birthday.[8] Maybe Omi was the one who took this photo and made the cake.
Happy birthday, Juza. I'd just like to tell you that.
Putting that aside, they get too hyped whenever someone's birthday is coming. All those guys sure like this kind of event.
Translator: nids.
Viewing Period: 30 Sep 21 to 2 Oct 21
Good morning. Itaru Chigasaki from Spring Troupe here. I'd like to express my gratitude to all the people who came all the way here to watch "SSR Family", Spring Troupe's first play since our cherished theater building's renewal. Together with my strongest family ever, we were able to deliver the performance right until the end.
Even though I struggled a lot when we were rehearsing the sword-fight scenes, it never got to the point where I got depressed. Not even once. I figured it was because my fellow trustworthy Spring Troupe members were here with me. Hmm~... I guess you can say the happiness I felt by being together with them took over all the depression I should have had.
For our play, the story revolved around the virtual world, a place where we could turn away from the tedious reality and reset ourselves. However, it's said that the feelings and bonds you made with the people you met there aren't real--that they don't have any worth. Not a few called it a world full of lies, but who knows? Maybe five, ten years later, or more... there will come a day when having a virtual family isn't something uncommon. We're all free to choose what kind of place we want to live in, and what kind of people we want to cherish. On a serious note, for me, the strong bond you have with your virtual friends, one that is as deeps as a bond between family members, is a beautiful thing.
It looks like I have written more than enough, so I will stop here. Thank you for all the letters and gifts. I had fun rereading them all and basked in the afterglow of our performances, but I have to focus on the future now. I'll pass the baton to Summer Troupe. Look forward to our next play.
Itaru Chigasaki of Spring Troupe.[9]
Translator: nids.
October 2021
Viewing Period: 3 Oct 21 to 5 Oct 21
Now that we've entered October, the leaves around our dorm have begun to change colors.
Me and the other troupe members have been talking about this lately. Fushimi, Hyodo and I even made plans to go on an autumn touring soon. It's not every day you get the chance to ride a bike in such nice weather like this, so I'm looking forward to it.
Speaking of which, we've also been talking about the new Halloween event that will be held in Veludo Way.
I haven't seen the poster myself even though it's all around the town. But from what I heard, it'll be different from the usual Halloween event.
I wonder what kind of event it will be. Guess I should read the poster when I find one.
Tasuku Takato of Winter Troupe.
Translator: nids.
Viewing Period: 7 Oct 21 to 9 Oct 21
Hey there. This is Autumn Troupe’s Fushimi Omi.
A while back, I went to my alma mater’s cultural festival.
I went around the stalls together with Tsuzuru, and we enjoyed partaking in food like yakisoba and karaage.
We also went and experienced this huge maze, and I even got to see the Photography Club’s exhibition, too.
It was tons of fun. The sweet Japanese-style parfaits that we ate at the sweets teahouse during our break were also really good.
Speaking of, while we were going around, one of the underclassmen of the Photography Club bumped into us and took a photo while they were there.
Having been part of the Photography Club as well, I also took a ton of photos around the university back then… But to think I’d be the one who’d have his photo taken during a cultural festival instead—it was new for me.
It hasn’t been that long since I graduated, and yet when I went to the festival, I started thinking back on all the memories I made from college life. I couldn’t help but feel all nostalgic.
If I ever get the chance again, it’d be good to bring my own camera along with me so I can take some photos of the Photography Club’s underclassmen, too.
Translator: Dita
Viewing Period: 12 Oct 21 to 14 Oct 21
Viewing Period: 16 Oct 21 to 18 Oct 21
Viewing Period: 20 Oct 21 to 22 Oct 21
Hello there. This is Tsukioka Tsumugi of the Winter Troupe.
The taste of autumn has become a season to enjoy, hasn’t it?
What sort of autumn foods did everyone get to enjoy so far?
If you have eaten some, please do tell me all about it.
While we’re talking about the taste of autumn...
Some time ago, the Winter Troupe was able to go to this megastore supermarket; we were able to buy some really large chum salmon there.
I think it was about as large as two whole heads— I was astonished.
Each one of the other products we bought was plenty big too. I really was surprised.
This huge pack of marshmallows, for example, is much bigger than Homare-san’s face!
Though, I’m certain Hisoka-kun would be able to eat all of it.
I also bought some cookies to try out for myself, but…
Because there’s so much in the package, I’m already a little worried about how to eat it all.
I suppose if I can’t finish it all, I’ll give and share them with everyone.
Because the store was so huge, we didn’t get to go around the whole place.
I’d like to be able to go there again to see it all next time, along with everyone from Winter Troupe.
If we ever do, I’ll be sure to make a report thru a blog again.
With that, this was Tsukioka Tsumugi. Thank you for reading.
Translator: Dita
Viewing Period: 28 Oct 21 to 30 Oct 21
November 2021
Viewing Period: 1 Nov 21 to 3 Nov 21
Viewing Period: 7 Nov 21 to 9 Nov 21
Otsu-pikochan ☆
Two months since his last update, here comes Miyoshi Kazunari ♪
To think it’s already November! Isn’t time flying too fast!?
Before we know it, it’s going to be the next year already（＞＜）
But! Because of that, we gotta keep living every day to the fullest, don’t we~!
Speaking of, I had some free time a while back, so me and Settsuar went to a cafe together.
Since it’s that time of the year, we wondered if any shops were starting to put up some special menus for the winter season.
There’s no other time to enjoy these kinds of things except now, so we just had to ask around~
And because of that, the drink I had for today was… This!
A cup of winter special: Marshmallow Cocoa!
With that, here’s a question（◻-◻）
Just as we saw this menu item, what do you think was the very first thing that me and Settsuar said…?!
The correct answer is…
“Seems like something Hiso-Hiso would like!” ☆
I wondered if I should invite Hiso-Hiso over here for next time~
If I get to successfully go to the cafe again with him, I’ll definitely report it to y’all, so you can look
forward to that!（*＇▽＇*）
Oh, and the Marshmallow Cocoa was super amazing, so I totes recommend it!
Even if you don’t have enough time on your hands to go to cafes, it’s real easy to make at home!
Hope everyone gets to try it then~! Feel free to comment and let me know what are your thoughts ☆
And with that, this was Kazunari Miyoshi!
TTYL guys~
Translator: Dita
Viewing Period: 11 Nov 21 to 13 Nov 21
Spring Troupe’s Usui Masumi.
We did a play on a luxury cruise ship the other day.
It was an unfamiliar way of doing things, and both the direction and script changed suddenly. But we managed to pull it off.
Later that night, the evening view we saw from the ship was really beautiful.
Even though I was just gazing at the regular city I live in from afar, it felt like a different place.
I took some pictures, but I won't post them this time even if you ask me to.
The other guys asked me to show them my photos too. But Kumon and Azuma also took pictures so I bet they’ll upload them to instablam.
Those who want to see them can look there.
That's why I'm not posting mine.
They’re my precious treasures after all.
Translator: Anna
Viewing Period: 15 Nov 21 to 17 Nov 21
Viewing Period: 19 Nov 21 to 21 Nov 21
This is Kumon Hyodo from Summer Troupe!
Hey guys, did you know?!
November 17 is when Shogi Day is celebrated!
That’s why the guys from MANKAI Company’s Shogi Club hosted our very first “Grand Shogi Yama-Kuzushi Tournament!”
I really thought we would end up playing an actual shogi tournament, but…
Since there’s members who aren’t familiar with the rules of the real game, they decided to do it yama-kuzushi[10] style instead!
I asked Sumi-san about it, and it seems this kind of game makes it easy for anyone to play shogi this way, so we just went ahead and competed against each other~
“If it’s just yama-kuzushi, then even someone like me would be able to do it!”
…Is what I thought, but I was completely defeated in my first match（＞＜）
I wasn’t able to play without making a single sound at all…
Then there’s these 2 guys who ended up as our finalists!
It was Itaru-san and Tasuku-san!
It was such a tense battle but, in the end… It was none other than Shogi Club member Itaru-san who won!
Right at the very last moment, Tasuku-san ended up making a sound while moving his piece. Still, I thought both of them were really amazing...
It was such a heated battle that even I got nervous just watching!
I want to be able to participate again next time, so I’m going to practice lots with Azami until then!
Everyone, you should all try playing yama-kuzushi too!
Translator: Dita
Viewing Period: 25 Nov 21 to 27 Nov 21
With the finale of “South Hill Prison,” everything’s wrapped up. I’ve never been as relieved to reach the finale of a show than I am now. This performance brought me a lot of joy, but it was also the first time I’ve felt such fear on stage.
There was a big accident during my role before this one. It’s been a while since I’ve messed up like that, and the disappointment made my footsteps feel heavy. I thought I’d never bounce back to my old self again.
That’s why I asked for a script where I’d play someone completely and utterly unlike me, like a narrative foil to the life I’ve made. I wanted to compare my current self with this version of myself that could only exist in another universe. By doing that, I’d be able to find joy in who I already was. My foil would teach me something.
This play let me live through the eyes of Shaw. What I realized was that even though I’d always wanted to be anyone else in the world, once I set foot on stage I knew in my soul that this is who and what I want to be. A life without the stage is unthinkable.
All this thinking about the play and my career has made me realize how blessed I am in being able to pursue theatre. I can now look at myself and see a man with worth. I don’t need to become anyone else. I think I owe this strength to everyone in Mankai, my precious little brother, and everyone who came out to support me in this play.
There are people who have praised my acting. Somehow, I could never really believe their words, and I didn’t properly acknowledge them until now. I’m now able to take their compliments to heart. I’ve been able to reevaluate myself. It was so refreshing that I managed to reread all my past fan letters.
I think I can finally understand and accept the praise from those around me. And I’ve learned to love the man called Hyodo Juza. I may not be all the way there yet, but I think I’ll slowly be able to understand just how amazing this Juza guy can be.
…Oh man, this is getting too long. I spent the whole day writing again. I started recording my thoughts in a diary, to thoroughly understand myself and to leave messages for my future self. It’s taking up a lot of time to write everything down. I’m a clumsy person, so I can only progress little by little. But… someday, I’ll get there.
I’m on the right track now, I think. Even if I get scared, I won’t let that fear stop me. Guided by the spotlight, I will not falter. I will not wander astray. All I need to do is put one foot in front of the other, day by day, so I can gradually improve.
To anyone reading this, I hope you can watch over me as I grow. And once again, I wanna thank you all so much for coming.
November 25th. Autumn Troupe. Hyodo Juza.
Translator: ranka
December 2021
Viewing Period: 4 Dec 21 to 6 Dec 21
Viewing Period: 11 Dec 21 to 13 Dec 21
This is Summer Troupe’s Sumeragi Tenma.
Thankfully, I’ve been busy this year too, but because of that I haven’t been able to spend much time at the dorms lately. The other day, though, Misumi gave me a crocheted plush. He said Omi taught him how to make them.
Apparently Kazunari was taking pictures of Misumi making it, so I asked him to send one to me.
As you can tell from the photo, all the plushies Misumi made were Sankaku-kun. I don’t know much about crocheted plushies, but they seem pretty well made.
He told me to take the plush Sankaku-kun with me next time I have to leave the dorms for work, but….
Well…maybe I can take him with me at least once.
We’ve almost reached the end of another year.
It’s supposed to be colder than usual, so take care of yourselves, everyone.
Thank you for reading.
Translator: Bayli
Viewing Period: 15 Dec 21 to 17 Dec 21
Viewing Period: 19 Dec 21 to 21 Dec 21
Viewing Period: 24 Dec 21 to 26 Dec 21
Viewing Period: 29 Dec 21 to 31 Dec 21
Notes
- ↑ Itaru drew a tree, which is 木(ki) in Japanese
- ↑ More info about the art shiritori can be found in Dita's summary thread
- ↑ 梅干し(umeboshi) are pickled plums
- ↑ Sakuya had meant 扉(tobira), but it was interpreted as ドア(doa) instead, the katakana version
- ↑ 浮世絵(ukiyo-e) lit. means "pictures of the floating world" and are often referring to a genre of Japanese woodblock art that was popular during the Edo period. One of the commonly depicted art subjects is that of landscapes, and especially mountain peaks
- ↑ 絵馬(ema) are small wooden plaques where people would write their wishes/prayers at a Shinto or Buddhist shrine
- ↑ Botamochi (ぼたもち) is a Japanese rice cake made with sweet red bean paste
- ↑ Juza's name (十座) contains the kanji for 10 (十), hence the 10-shaped cake.
- ↑ From the original JP blog post, the first characters of each line actually form a secret message! It's a jumble of onyomi and kunyomi readings (some even just taking the prefixes), but altogether they form お姉様ご結婚おめでとうございます 愚弟より (onee-sama go kekkon omedetougozaimasu. gutei yori), which translates to "Congratulations on your wedding, sister. From your foolish lil bro."
- ↑ Yama-kuzushi (山崩し), a.k.a. shogi-kuzushi (将棋崩し), is a variant game of shogi where players take out pieces from the mountain pile without making a sound. It's a popular game for beginners without the need to learn the rules of regular shogi. It's also a way for children to familiarize themselves with the kanji of each piece.
