Today was the long-awaited seminar led by Suganuma Sensei.

The seminar was scheduled to begin at 1:30 PM, so after enjoying a relaxed breakfast at the hotel with A-san, we each spent the morning freely. While we stayed in to check on some work, A-san—who was returning home the next morning—kindly went to the station to pick up the airport bus timetable.

Her thoughtfulness is always appreciated. Thank you, A-san.

The intense summer heat in Japan has finally subsided. While the afternoons can still be warm, mornings and evenings have become pleasantly comfortable.

In this guide, we’re pleased to introduce seven Aikido seminars scheduled to take place across Japan from October through March.

Please note that the following two events are not included in this list:
– The “Aikido Saku Dojo Yudansha Kimusubi Keiko-kai” happening tomorrow. 

– The “2nd IAF International Aikido Seminar for Young Adults,” which has already closed registration 

After a light breakfast in my room, I met up with A-san.

Today, we’re heading back to Kochi City to prepare for tomorrow’s seminar with Suganuma Sensei.

Before leaving, we stopped by a local product market near the Nakamura Daiichi Hotel where we had stayed.

The product center “Sunriver Shimanto”  is located on the same premises as the hotel.

Inside, there was a wide selection of local foods. A-san picked up a delicious-looking simmered rice dish with Hatchikin chicken and ginger, while I grabbed some fresh seasonal strawberries.

From Kochi City, we headed straight down Route 56 toward Nakamura Dojo in Shimanto City.

With full stomachs and the gentle rocking of the car, it would have been easy to doze off—but this was a trip with three friends. Conversation flowed, spirits were high, and the drive was lively and fun.

On the way, we came across Michi-no-Eki Kawauso-no-Sato Susaki and decided to stop for a break.

I never used to care much about souvenirs, but now I find myself drawn to the fresh local produce and specialty foods that are hard to come by in Tokyo. Every roadside station feels like a little treasure hunt.