JAPAN: A few misc highlights

[Cobrajet]

I first deployed to Japan (Atsugi) in 1974, and flew in and out for 2 1/2 years. Did a bit of travelling, and took a LOT of pictures with my 35mm Canon EF. All slides...they're in boxes somewhere in a closet. I loved Japan.

My wife and I took a vacation to Tokyo while we were stationed in Okinawa in 1989. We climbed Mt Fuji! I actually reached the summit, and then proceeded to leave my prized climbing stick up there. But, I had video of the entire climb (until my wife copied over it to make a Red Cross training video!) The video camera died right after that trip due to all the volcanic ash it sucked up. Bottom line...I've got nothing but memories of that climb. I would love to do it again, but I'm just too old and out of shape.

Back in the mid-70's the exchange rate was as high as 300 yen to the dollar, so it was an awesome time to buy stereo and camera equipment. (Still couldn't afford that Nakamichi deck.) I still have my Sansui QRX-9001, Akai GX-630D-SS, and Technics SL1300. But, that was nothing compared to some of the really high-end gear available at the Akihabara. Drool city!

Good times! Thanks for the memories!

[Triathlete]

Early 80's when I was there my first time the yen rate was still at 300...mid 80's 2nd trip it had dropped to 120.

[Riff Raff]

Bart--- Cool pix, thanx for sharing. BTW; I concur, Heinekin Beer is the absolute worst tasting rot-gut beer made (followed closely by Beck's Beer in 2nd place).

CobraJet--- I too was in Tokyo & Yokohama in the Summer of 1974 during a High School Student Exchange Program, and I also climbed Mt. Fuji (I was 15 years old). I really tried to lose my virginity to a good lookin' young daughter of one of my host Japan family, but her Parents had a too watchful and protective eye (almost made it happen though). BTW; later when I was in the Army and stationed in Korea in the late 80's, I bought the coveted Nakamichi Dragon cassette deck (still have it and it's in prestine condition in my A/V rack). My current AVR is the new Pioneer Elite SC-09TX (aka "Susano").

[vt_maverick]

I really tried to lose my virginity to a good lookin' young daughter of one of my host Japan family, but her Parents had a too watchful and protective eye (almost made it happen though).

TMI... la la la...