PGWE 5–51 – Actions on the Street
Directions Game
A communications game to be used at my Shimamoto (near Kyoto-shi) class.

Adapted from a site: https://games4esl.com/activities-to-teach-directions/
PGWE 3 – 15 – Spot the Differences

PGWE 3 – 63 – Observation 4 – Gangsters

PGWE 2 – 42 – SPOT THE DIFFERENCE 3 – House chores

Used in my SUITA class.
BCG-33 – Restaurant Game

a Beginner’s Communication Game soon to be used in my Shimamoto class.
EP-24 – HOW OLD ARE THEY

Used in my Saturday Suita class.
Ema at Wakayama Shrine
Ema at Wakayama Shrine
I’m going to talk about the ema at Wakayama Shrine.

An ema is a small wooden votive (prayer) plaque found in Shinto shrines; it means picture horse.

The ema at Wakayama Shrine have a long history. During olden wars, the small ema were burned and lost. Today, only five large ema from the Edo period remain.
- Hikiumazu Ema (Picture of Leading a Horse)
This is the largest ema that still exists. It shows a strong scene of people leading a horse. We can feel the strong wishes and deep faith of the people. The traditional style makes it immensely powerful. - Hikiumazu Ema (Picture of Leading a Horse)
This ema shows a groom calmly controlling a horse. The horse and the people look relaxed and peaceful. The painting has a soft and gentle style. Family crests are painted, showing a connection to the shrine. - Enkō Jōba Ema (Monkey Riding a Horse)
A monkey dressed like a priest is riding a horse. This is an incredibly unique and interesting idea. The details are carefully painted. We can feel humor and creativity from the Edo period. - Taketora Ema (Bamboo and Tiger)
This ema is drawn in a round shape, which is different from the others. It shows a tiger in a bamboo forest. Bamboo and tiger are lucky symbols. This picture may also mean protection from evil. - Todai-ji Village Okage Odori Ema
Todai-ji Village was located around today’s Shimamoto Town. This ema shows people dancing to the sound of drums and flutes. The villagers wear distinct kinds of clothes. They look happy and full of energy. The dancers are moving in a lengthy line, like a parade. From this picture, we can feel how lively the village was in those days.

This concludes my explanation of the large ema.
3000 phrases

3000 English Phrases to Use When You See a Foreigner in Japan
The First Words to Offer Help to a Foreign Tourist Who Seems Lost or in Trouble
To be used in my Shimamoto class.