Robert Cullen 2003
Recovering
from the previous night's late explorations of Kyoto, we stood in the queue
for a quiet but hearty breakfast and then boarded the bus for the journey
to Matsushita Electric.
A warm greeting from Mr. Makoto Nishikawa and Ms Yoko Nakamizu included a
gift each of a torch key ring and a refreshing orange drink. Mr. Nishikawa
explained the history behind the company we know as Panasonic. He touched
on the reason Matsushita had not been kept as the company name and reflected
on its foundation in 1918 when Konosuke Matsushita started a small workshop
with his wife and brother-in-law. The Matsushita group of companies is now
a worldwide manufacturer of household products from TVs to healthcare products.
We watched a short video about the company and were amused when they had trouble
getting it started showing that irony is always best viewed from the appropriate
distance.
The guided tour that followed ranged from the original attachment plug to
the latest toilet that can advise on diet.
On the coach to the airport we enjoyed the sunshine and each other's company;
at the airport, pizza and the observation deck. Bingo and sleeping were the
order of the day on the short flight to Naha. From the airport we travelled
by coach to the Fuji Hotel, where after a quick unpack and wash, we were ready
for dinner. Another enjoyable meal later and we were walking to the town centre.
We stopped to applaud two girls playing the guitar and bought CDs. I can't
wait to play this when I get home. After a quick beer we left the bright lights
and delicious aromas of Kokusai Doori and headed back for bed.
Another day over but with memories to last a lifetime: thank you, Japan.
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A Delicate
Process
Playing
Games!
Smile
everyone!