Life is what happens when you are making other plans~ John Lennon
An eye for an eye will make the whole world blind~Gandhi
The time is always right to do what is right~ Martin Luther King Jr.


Thursday, October 23, 2025

Celebs Who Passed Away on Set

Sometimes accidents happen. Sometimes things happen unexpectedly. When celebrities pass away, it can be shocking to all. And, though it is sad they passed away, their loss had inspired stricter changes in safety. But, the the thing here is-these protocols should have already been in place. No one should have to lose their life for changes to be put into place. Hrvoje Milakovic is a writer for MSN.com page Fiction Horizon. They put together a list of celebs who died on set or on stage

Tommy Cooper

-A massively successful British comedian, he suffered from a massive heart attack while appearing on a 1984 episode of the ITV variety show Live from Her Majesty's in London. He was known for his slapstick humor, which included physical collapsing. Many in the audience thought his fall was part of his routine, and the curtain drawn. Some realized it was not part of his routine and paramedics swarmed in

-When he passed away, it became one of the most heavily talked about events in British television history. This shock made people introduce new rules and regulations and medical preparedness. Fans and fellow comedians remember Cooper as one of those once in a generation comedians whose comedic timing and inspiration still hold strong today

Redd Foxx

-Known best for his appearance on the television program Sanford & Son, saying "You big dummy!" During a 1991 rehearsal for the CBS program The Royal Family, Foxx suffered from a heart attack and collapsed on set. Colleagues thought it was a bit weird considering on Sanford & Son he would always grab his chest as if having a heart attack and say something to the effect of "I'm coming to see ya, Elizabeth". His colleagues quickly realized this was no routine-it was real

-He unfortunately passed away and his death shocked many. His death sparked a new regulation on on-site medical staff for any medical emergencies. It also showed that sometimes the line between reality and art can become blurry, especially when some comedians use mortality as part of their routine

John Ritter

-This one still breaks a lot of people's hearts. For those who grew up watching Three's Company or 8 Simple Rules, the passing of John Ritter is still heartbreaking. He was working on the set of the 2003 ABC program 8 Simple Rules when he experienced a sudden cardiac event and was rushed to the nearby hospital. He unfortunately died at the hospital. His fellow cast mates, crew and viewers were left grieving his loss

-With his passing, this brought new awareness of aortic conditions and their warning signs. The show made an adjustment to honor his life and his colleagues remember him for his ability to make any set feel like a family home, his professional demeanor and his incredible kindness

Brandon Lee

-The son of martial artist / actor Bruce Lee, Brandon Lee's death came as a result of an accident. While filming the 1993 film The Crow, he was fatally wounded by a prop firearm that was mishandled. The prop gun had an actual bullet in it, along with a blank cartridge and when fired, the actual bullet hit him in his abdomen. His passing inspired far stricter protocols on handling functional firearms on set.

-As an eerie side note, almost the exact same type of situation happened later on, with actor Alec Baldwin. He was on the set of one of his movies and there was a scene requiring the use of a firearm. He thought there were blanks in the gun, not knowing that some of the crew were messing around with the guns, using real bullets for target practice and leaving one of the live bullets in the gun. Alec goes to shoot the gun and someone actually does die. He was brought into court for a long while until it was decided he was innocent, that he truly didn't know there was a live round in the gun he used. It was later discovered the crew had been using the prop gun for target practice, but left one of the live rounds in the chamber

Vic Morrow

-While filming a Vietnam segment for the 1982 film Twilight Zone: The Movie, he died in a helicopter incident, which involved him trying to save two Vietnamese children. The child actors were also killed and this tragedy led to stricter rules on set safety, including stunts, special effects and child actors

-With this incident, people started thinking about how to make sets and stunts safer for the people performing them

Jon-Erik Hexum

-While on the set of the 1984 TV program Cover Up, he, as a joke, put a blank-loaded prop gun to his head and pulled the trigger. He was unaware that the force of a blank at point blank range can be dangerous because of the concussive force. It killed him immediately. His death became the inspiration for stricter protocols on firearms on sets. That blanks are not toys and "cold" guns, also known as prop guns, require strict training in operation, safety and also respect

Steve Irwin

-Animal lovers still mourn the loss of "The Crocodile Hunter." He was filming one of his usual wildlife documentaries in 2006 when he startled a stingray, who threw up its deadly tail straight into his heart. Despite the best efforts by his crew, he passed away from the stingray venom. Fans and crew alike knew that, while he was fearless, he had a deep love and respect for animals. And that this was a simple accident. This led to the idea that nature documentaries need more protocols on safety, that there should be a discussion about risk and safety. His mission for conservation continues to this day through his family and the various institutions he's championed

Roy Kinnear

-He was what is called a character actor. While filming the 1988 film The Return of the Musketeers, he fell off of his horse and sustained injuries that would later prove to be fatal. The production of the film halted while fellow cast and crew processed the loss and tried to figure out how the accident occurred. He was known for his warmth and kindness, putting a dash of comedy into his roles. With his passing, scenes involving horse riding were now being evaluated a lot better to assess any risks there may be, especially when rough terrain and bad weather create additional hazards for the cast, crew, stunt doubles and rehearsals

Paul Mantz

-A legendary name in flying, he was a passionate aviator and stunt pilot. He died after performing a highly complex landing maneuver for the film The Flight of the Phoenix. His aircraft was a cobbled-together Frankenstein concoction made to resemble a desert airplane. While flying, he clipped some of the terrain crashed the plane, dying on impact

-His strong expertise in flying had raised the levels of aerial cinematography and with his passing, it showed the razor thin levels of safety in practical flying scenes. Stricter risk assessments were put into place involving airplanes on set and new specialized coordination between pilots, directors and camera teams went into place to protect everything and everyone

Leonard Warren

-The highly celebrated baritone opera singer Leonard Warren died in 1960 during a performance at the Metropolitan Opera House. He was singing "La forza del destino". When the audience realized what happened, the evening was cancelled immediately. With his passing, it echoed throughout the opera world, prompting the need for an overhaul in emergency response regulations. He's lovingly remembered for his stunningly beautiful voice and setting the normal standards for any singer looking to interpret Verdi

Richard Versalle

-During a 1996 performance at the Met, tenor singer Richard Versalle passed away on stage during a performance of The Makropulos Case. He was on a ladder, but fell after delivering his opening line. The show was halted while medical professionals tried to save him. His passing brought about sweeping changes regarding risk assessment, with regards to ladders, rakes and any sort of elevated platform combined with singing. Fellow cast members remember Versalle for his artistry and integrity, putting strong emphasis on safety always being matched with stage talent

Giuseppe Sinopoli

-While leading a score called "Aida" in Berlin in 2001, conductor Giuseppe Sinopoli suffered a massive heart attack that proved to be fatal. The suddenness of the occurrence left the audience stunned speechless along with the orchestra, who had to stop mid-performance. Sinopoli was also a medical doctor and composer. He leaves behind a large legacy. With his passing, it prompted the need to have in-house heart defibrillators and response drills that can help shorten time in emergencies

Mark Sandman

-Lead singer and bass player for band Morphine, Mark Sandman collapsed on stage during a show in Palestrina, Italy in 1999. He suffered from a massive heart attack and unfortunately couldn't be revived. The band was known for simple stage sets and low sound. The audience didn't understand that something real was going on. After his death, venues took a hard look at their protocols for emergencies for festivals and outdoor concerts

"Dimebag" Darrell Abbott

-Any fan of Pantera knows this name. For one thing, his own brother, who goes by the name Vinnie Paul, was the drummer for this band. "Dimebag" Darrell Abbott was a guitarist for thrash metal band Pantera and Damageplan. While performing in Columbus, Ohio in 2004 with his band Damageplan, a gunman with mental health issues rushed the stage and killed not only Abbott, but several others. This murder shook many metal fans to their absolute core and made venues put into place new protocols for security. This includes entry screening to rapid response to emergencies. Fans honor and remember the influence Abbott had on the world of metal

Nick Menza

-A former drummer for Megadeth, he died on stage in 2016 during a set with OHM at a Los Angeles venue called The Baked Potato. He suffered from a sudden medical emergency during the concert and paramedics on scene couldn't save him. He was known for his powerful yet precise drumming, and his death was a reminder to clubs and small venues that there should be strict emergency response regulations in place, including the importance of emergency equipment and clear access to responders, especially in small, intimate venues, to prevent this sort of thing from happening again

Les Harvey

-A guitarist with Stone the Crows, he was fatally electrocuted on stage in 1972 at a concert in Swansea, Wales after he touched a microphone that was improperly grounded. Concert goers witnessed his death on stage. This incident prompted new and stricter regulations for electrical equipment for live shows, including regular PAT testing to mandatory grounding checks. His talent is still talked about to this day

Tiny Tim

-This often quirky musician, with his high pitched voice, is known for singing "Tiptoe Through the Tulips." While performing at a benefit concert in 1996, he collapsed on stage and died moments later. He was known for having cardiac concerns but still insisted on performing, a decision that seems to be a debate by those close to him. After his death, venues started adopting regulations regarding health policies for those whose health might be questionable

Ian Cognito

-This British comedian, who often joked about health, collapsed on stage during his show in Bicester in 2019. Minutes prior, he had been joking about having a stroke. When he collapsed on stage, the audience thought it was part of the act. His death signaled a unique risk that comes with comedy-that the audience and even the comedians themselves can sometimes misinterpret genuine medical emergencies as part of their shows. Clubs and venues made new revisions to their regulations for stopping shows, getting medical assistance as soon as possible and checking unresponsive performers to avoid this sort of incident from repeating itself

Mitsuharu Misawa

-This legendary Japanese professional wrestler incurred a cervical injury that proved to be fatal during a 2009 match in Hiroshima. The bout was stopped as medical professionals did what they could, including rushing him to the hospital. But it was too late. He died en route to the hospital. His death highlighted the need for ring safety, move sets and the need for trained medical professionals at the shows. His wrestling abilities are still talked about to this day

Perro Aguayo Jr

-This Mexican Lucha Libre (Mexican Wrestling) star died after he sustained a cervical injury during a 2015 bout in Tijuana that involved Rey Mysterio. There is video of the incident that brings up hard questions about delays in recognizing a genuine medical emergency. This error highlights the need for medical personnel to be on site during wrestling bouts, along with clear communication between wrestlers, referees and the doctors. He was known for his charisma and entertaining performances all across Mexico

Owen Hart

-This one still shocks many to this day. Owen Hart is the younger brother of Bret "The Hitman" Hart. In fact, the whole Hart family is practically wrestling royalty. During a 1999 pay-per-view "Over the Edge" performance, Owen Hart fell 78 feet from the rafters during a dramatic entrance to the ring. He was initially attached to a harness and was lowered into the ring, but the quick release mechanism activated too early and he fell the 78 remaining feet to the ring, sustaining blunt force injuries that would later prove to be fatal. It would be considered controversial, but the show went on as planned

-His death signaled a need for reviewing aerial stunts and stricter harness regulations in live wrestling and more. Fans and fellow wrestlers celebrate his life, keeping his memory alive through various foundations and tributes

Godfrey Gao

-While filming the 2019 Chinese reality competition show Chase Me, actor and model Godfrey Gao collapsed. After being rushed to a nearby hospital, he died. The show suffered mass scrutiny and inspired conversations about the grueling and or often punishing schedules. This prompted the need for on-site medical personnel and the risks associated with high-stakes variety shows. Fans remember him best for his graciousness with fans

Costa Titch

-This South African rapper collapsed on the stage during a concert in 2023 in Johannesburg. He died not long afterwards. Video showed the event playing out before fans eyes as dancers and other crew realized something wasn't right. With his death, this created the need to create new regulations regarding heat, fatigue and cardiac events at high energy concerts, especially given the intense stage lighting and staging. The tributes were overwhelming and showing an artist whose career was rising fast and crossover appeal was becoming quickly visible

Tuesday, October 21, 2025

The Recruit (2003)

This spy thriller, starring Al Pacino, Colin Farrell and Bridget Moynahan, center around a CIA recruit whose sole mission it is to find a mole within the agency

Summary

-An MIT hacker who joins the CIA is given the mission by his mentor to help ferret out a mole within the agency





Cast

-Colin Farrell: James Clayton

-Al Pacino: Walter Burke

-Bridget Moynahan: Layla

-Gabriel Macht: Zack

-Kenneth Mitchell: Alan

-Mike Realba: Ronnie

-Ron Lea: Dell Rep

-Karl Pruner: Dennis Slayne

Did You Know?

-In the scene where Colin Farrell's character is given a mission to pick up a girl in the Blue Ridge Bar, he tells the girl he just got out of jail. This was Colin Farrell's idea. He stated he used it on a girl one time he was trying to pick up in a bar and the producers loved it. They let him use it in the film

-During the opening credits, the photos showing the man and small boy are supposed to be that of James and his father. In real life, those are pictures actually of Colin Farrell and his father

-When Colin's character James and Al's character Walter go to meet up at a restaurant, Al accidentally damaged the car. This damage is visible when they pull up to this restaurant

-During the scene where James and the guys are playing poker, he talks to Zack, who was a former cop in Miami. He calls Zack "Sonny Crockett", a reference to the TV show Miami Vice. Ironically, in 2006, Colin Farrell would star in the film version of the movie, playing Sonny Crockett

-At the Blue Ridge Bar, the band playing onstage is a Canadian band called Wide Mouth Mason

-At the MIT fair, there was a booth for Alias Maya, now known as Autodesk Maya. It's a highly advanced 3-D CG software used for non-technical design. It was used to help make the Lord of the Rings series. In 2003, this software was costing around $8,000 a seat. Because of its high complexity, there is a find function to locate menu items and only a few people could master only one or two parts. This was used in a scene showing extremely high skilled hacking software

-All of the mobile phones used in the film were Motorola phones. In the end scenes, the phone Burke talks on at The Farm has a clear Verizon logo

-During the interrogation scene where he is hooked up to a lie detector, the CIA questioner asks James "Would you rather ride on a train, dance in the rain or feel no pain?" This is a reference to later scenes. James chases a fugitive through and under a train. This "fugitive" turns out to be his friend Zack. When he is chasing Layla, it is raining. And when he is kidnapped and tortured, it tests his limits on pain

Thursday, October 16, 2025

21 Budget-Friendly Tips to See the Best of Japan

Japan is one of those countries that are on quite a few people's travel bucket lists, mine included. Whether it be the rich, unique culture, the fascinating history or the beautiful landscape, there is something that draws many to this land, known as the Land of the Rising Sun. Kevin Wong is a writer for MSN.com page Family Vacations U.S. and he compiled a list of 21 budget-friendly tips to see Japan and get the most out of your trip

1. Use the JR Pass wisely

-For those planning on traveling throughout Japan, the JR Pass would be an ideal item to have. Prior to purchasing a map, plan out your itinerary to see if it aligns with areas covered by the JR Pass. This pass provides almost unlimited travel on most trains, including the Shinkansen (bullet train), making it the ideal choice for long distance traveling. Keep in mind that not all routes are covered, so double check your itinerary. Consider starting your JR Pass on the day you intend to start most of your traveling, to get the most use out of the pass. This strategic move will save you bundles of money rather than buying individual tickets

2. Stay in capsule hotels

-WARNING: If you are claustrophobic, this is not the best option for you!

-These are a unique budget-friendly option for accommodation. They are often found in major cities and come complete with free Wi-Fi and shared bathrooms. Definitely not ideal for those with claustrophobia, they are perfect for single travelers or those looking for a distinct, unique or even quirky Japanese experience. The communal areas offered at capsule hotels offers options for lounging and dining, a chance to meet other travelers. Choosing a capsule hotel can often cut costs for accommodation in half or more, allowing your budget to be spent on other experiences. Book a room in advance, as they tend to fill up fast

3. Eat at konbini

-Konbini, or convenience stores, are almost literal treasure troves for food and more. They are scattered all throughout Japan and offer a wide variety of delicious and affordable food. Ranging from Japanese bento boxes to fresh sushi, these stores provide meals for all times of day and night. Unlike most convenience stores people are familiar with, where the the food's quality might be questionable at best, Japanese convenience stores pride themselves on offering excellent quality and variety. The food is affordable and friendly for budgets. It's satisfying, meaning you won't have to worry about being hungry almost immediately afterwards. And they make perfect on-the-go meals. These stores also sell travel essentials, like toiletries, snacks and more. These konbini are one stop shops for travelers on the go who are looking to save money

4. Travel during the off season

-It's widely known that Japan can be expensive. Especially during certain times of the year. During the spring, when the cherry blossoms start to bloom, during the fall when autumn foliage starts to change, are two of the busiest times of the time. It's highly recommended to travel during the off-peak seasons, such as autumn or late winter because you will be able to save a lot of money, as most travelers prefer not to travel in winter or autumn. Airfare and accommodations costs will drop in price, popular attractions will have less people and allow for a more relaxed feeling. The cooler weather is also more refreshing, offering a better chance to go exploring without getting overheated by the summer heat and humidity Japan often faces. If you travel to Japan during the off-peak times, you can enjoy all that Japan has to offer without paying high fees. Not only that, but traveling during the off-season means better rates at accommodations, higher availability for tours and other attractions and more flexibility in your travel plans

5. Take advantage of the free attractions

-Japan offers numerous attractions free of charge. Tranquil parks and gardens to the historic temples and shrines to the vibrant, lively markets. While in Tokyo, visit the unique Shibuya Crossing or the lovely Meiji Shrine for free. While in Kyoto, take a walk with nature and see nature at its finest or observe the unique architecture of buildings for free. Research all free offerings in the cities you plan to visit prior to traveling to get the most out of your trip. Utilizing these locations will not only keep you on budget but also give you a deep dive in to the local culture and history. These experiences can be just as good as the attractions you pay for, if not better

6. Purchase a Suica / Pasmo Card

-This is a cost-friendly option for public transportation. These prepaid cards are used for buses, trains and even some taxis. They save money for you rather than buying individual tickets each time. They can be recharged at stations, used in stores and even vending machines. Cardholders will be offered discounts and promotions. Carrying one card and using it for multiple sources slashes the need to carry cash and will streamline your travel, making it far easier. This handy little card will make navigating the Japanese transportation system a breeze


7. Dine at Kaiten Sushi

-Those hungry for a unique, but affordable sushi option need to look into kaiten sushi restaurants. Plates of sushi will glide past your seat, allowing you to choose what looks appealing. Price is determined by plate color, meaning your budget can be adjusted easily. These types of restaurants are very common in cities and provide an interesting chance to sample local, fresh seafood. Watching the chefs lovingly prepare the meals in front of you and having a wealth of options to choose from adds more fun to the experience. It's a casual, easy way to experience Japan's unique cuisine without shelling out major money

8. Use overnight buses

-These overnight buses offer a unique advantage. They save you money on accommodation while taking you to other cities. These buses are state-of-the-art hotels on wheels that come fully equipped with Wi-Fi, reclining seats, blankets. They are far more affordable than train travel, especially if you plan on traveling long-distance. Traveling overnight means you can sleep while the bus is wheeling its way to your destination. You'll wake up refreshed, recharged and ready to explore, making the most of your time in Japan. Book in advance to get the maximum amount of savings. This option is not only budget-friendly and will allow you to stretch your yen, but it will also give you a look into the unique and sometimes quirky but efficient transportation systems of Japan

9. Visit 100 Yen Shops

-These are the Japanese relative to the 99 cent stores that many places in the US have. Here you can find everyday essentials and unique souvenirs for the budget-conscious traveler. Everything comes at an affordable price. Despite the low price, the items available are of the highest quality. You can purchase nearly anything here, from kitchenware to snacks to clothing and more. It's both useful and entertaining to check out these shops, and you might find unique or even quirky items that add to your trip

10. Explore the neighborhood izakayas

-Izakayas, or Japanese bars, are a good choice for dining because not only is the food good, it's reasonably priced. They offer small dishes perfect for sharing, along with drinks. Travelers can dive headlong into local culture while eating at a reasonable cost. The casual atmosphere allows for interactions with locals, who can provide more insight into local sights and sounds than a travel guide would. These izakayas will often feature local cuisine native to that area, making each one distinct

11. Rent a bicycle

-You can explore the cities and countryside at a slow pace by renting a bicycle. Many of the cities in Japan offer a bicycle service with very reasonable daily rates. Choosing to rent a bicycle allows for flexibility in travel, meaning you can leave the beaten path made by other travelers and discover hidden gems not visible to those in the know. Riding through the neighborhoods provides a peek into daily Japanese life. Not only that, but it's a healthy option and eco-friendly. Just learn the local bike routes and etiquette

12. Attend a free festival

-Throughout the year, Japan hosts plenty of festivals, some of which are free and some of which are not. These festivals offer an education into the local culture and heritage. They feature stalls selling food, live performances, parades that are an overload of the senses. You can take part in these festivals and it will provide a unique one on one experience with the locals and witness traditions first hand. Research the schedules ahead of time to see if any line up with your travel itinerary

13. Utilize any discount passes

-There are discount passes that can be used to slash the price in half or more for attractions. These passes can cover multiple things in a city or region and save a lot of money rather than buying individual tickets. These discounts can often include public transportation discounts. There are options like the Tokyo Grutto Pass, Osaka Amazing Pass that provide access to museum, various landmarks and more items than you can imagine. If you plan your activities around these types of passes or discounts, you'll save the maximum amount of money while also getting the maximum amount of experience in your trip. Check local tourism websites or visitor centers to see if they offer discount passes

14. Stay in a ryokan / minshuku

-For a deep dive into local Japanese culture, stay in a ryokan or minshuku. These are traditionally Japanese accommodations that offer tatami mat rooms, futon beds and local food. Some can be pricey, but there are budget-conscious options available as well. A stay at a ryokan or minshuku will include meals, heightening the experience. The serene atmosphere and service that feels personalized will make for good memories. Book during the off-season or share a room with people to further slash costs

15. Shop at local markets

-Local markets are nothing short of absolute nirvana for discovering fresh produce and specialties native to that region. The Tsukiji Market in Tokyo or Nishiki Market in Kyoto allow travelers to taste the local foods at a reasonable price. They offer everything, ranging from street food to freshly caught seafood. Talking with vendors provides a unique look into the local cuisine scene. Trying these different foods allows you to get a unique look into the local culinary scene without overstuffing yourself with a meal. It's a cost-friendly way to explore the uniquely culinary world of Japan

16. Use technology to score deals

-Technology can be a good thing in terms of travel. Using technology in your travel plans can slash costs by half or more. There are numerous apps and websites offering deals on accommodations, dining and attractions, along with special offers. Using translation apps can help close the language gap, leading to better offers and deals while also interacting with the locals. When you stay connected via technology, it keeps you informed about sales that pop up and last minute perks. By utilizing technology, you add to your travel experience and make it far more affordable while also enjoying all that Japan has to offer

17. Enjoy walks along nature trails

-Japan is one of the most beautiful countries in the world. The nature there is not found elsewhere. As such, there are tons of nature paths for people to hike along and enjoy the beautiful scenery. There are spiritual paths such as Kumano Kodo to natural parks like Nikko National Park. Hiking trails offer beautiful scenery, are free of cost and offer an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. These paths offer a chance to witness the vast diversity of Japan's ecosystems. Pack a picnic for a grand day out, free from the price of dining

18. Take part in a cultural workshop

-These hands-on experiences only heighten your trip to Japan. They add a rich, unique understanding of Japanese culture. Experiences such as tea ceremonies, calligraphy or cooking classes are often very reasonably priced and they provide a good look at the culture. These workshops are available in many cities and can also be found in the local cultural centers and even online. Taking part in these cultural workshops allows you the chance to engage with the artisans and instructors, getting an education and valuable new skills. It's a unique, memorable way to learn about the culture in addition to sightseeing. Not only that, but now you have a unique handmade souvenir or new skill, only adding to your travel memories

19. Go for street food

-Street food is the best option for budget friendly travelers. Not only is it budget friendly, but it is also delicious. Cities like Osaka and Fukuoka are world renowned for their street food. These street food stalls are the perfect chance to sample local cuisine on the go. These street food vendors are almost always located near popular attractions, making it fast and easy to grab a quick meal. Eating at these food carts or street stalls provides a chance to eat while sampling local cuisine

20. Use any free Wi-Fi spots

-Free Wi-Fi is a major thing in Japan. It's common to find Free Wi-Fi signs in urban areas and tourist attractions. Many of the convenience stores, cafes and public transportation spots will have a Free Wi-Fi sign, stating they offer free wi-fi. Utilize these hotspots to stay connected digitally without running up international roaming charges. Having access to wi-fi allows you to plan your day's itinerary, research nearby attractions and keep in touch with loved ones back home. Carry a portable charger with you to guarantee you stay charged up on your devices. If you can stay connected digitally, you'll slash costs in half or more while also navigating throughout Japan

21. Take part in a silent zen tea ceremony

-While in Kyoto, you can take part in a silent zen tea ceremony. Nothing is more peaceful and tranquil than a tea ceremony. This centuries old tradition invites you to learn how to not only prepare tea, but to connect with the surroundings and even yourself. It's a combination of tea ceremony and meditation. This ceremony puts emphasis on mindfulness and appreciation for the simple moments. It offers you a break from the stress of travel. It doesn't matter whether you're a seasoned professional traveler or new to Japan, this activity will provide you the chance to reflect deeply while also relaxing and ridding yourself of worry. This is a budget friendly way to connect you right to Japan's cultural heart