Over the last 12 months I’ve bought no less than 7 books relating to learning various components of the Japanese Language and I’ve learnt one major lesson, just having them in the same room as me isn’t enough.
Hoping the “learning” will magically jump from the books into my head was a nice thought but all these books really need to be opened, read and studied ….. easier said than done.
I guess I’m disappointed in my current level of Japanese and can easily highlight the reason why, my own laziness, i`m sure this will reflect in the JLPT results from this year.
The thought of coming home from a long day and opening up a book just doesn’t appeal to me and it probably never will. Of the books i own and know Friends use, these are pretty much a good place to start.
I also know my own strengths in learning and this isn’t the most effective for me, i can read it all day long but if i don’t get it i just don’t get it.
Word or Warning: Pictures contained within are probably NSFW.
The Japanese version of the Kamasutra is known as the Shijuhatte (しじゅうはって or 四十八手) and is comprised of 48 positions, 96 if you count the opposites as well. That said, there seems to be 96 uniquely named positions so really, i have no idea.
I first heard about the shijuhatte in one of my “real life” language lessons over dinner at Otafuku the other night, much more relevant and interesting that hearing about biji-san buying 3 big red apples and naturally it was something i want to look into a little more.
Let me first say, research on said topic is better done in the comfort of ones home as it returns some interesting results when searching through google. One being, according to wikipediaMaria Ozawa , bought a book herself many years ago to learn the 48 positions, a handy purchase for her line of work, maybe even tax deductible i dare say.
All interesting information, however, preferring visual aids myself the site that was of most interest was the one with the manikins engaging in the various positions.
If you’re looking for Books and DVD’s on the Kamasutra then you can try here, if you just want some pictures then keep on reading.
Take this one for example, the Anvil (Kinuta)
The translation of the names is quite funny, positions such as the “Cuddled tea Grinding Mill” Treasure Boat” and “Perpendicular Pine Needles” all caught my eye.
Contrary to popular opinion, It’s not all rice and sushi in Japan and it’s not always super expensive either, some of the foods in Japan are pretty similar to what i would eat back home.
Take this place for example, レソトラン ソルタナ (Restaurant Sultana?) i walk past it every day on my way home from the station, i’m in and out in less than 15 minutes and i even get to use a knife and fork to eat with.
Fried Chicken with potato salad, lettuce and cabbage for 550 yen.
