Astronauci2026/02/22 03:22

Book Review
No Reply from Venus / Astronauci (Stanisław Herman Lem, 1951)

    This 75‑year‑old science‑fiction novel remains fascinating thanks to its enduring theme: “Encounter with the Unknown.”

    Humanity discovers that the Tunguska explosion was caused by an AI probe from Venus, and a crew of astronauts sets out on an atomic powered spaceship to investigate. 
    When they finally reach the planet, however, they find no alien civilization—Venusian had already perished long before their arrival.

    From today’s perspective, the description of the planet is clearly outdated, yet the sense of wonder that permeates the novel feels remarkably fresh.  
Lem’s faith in human potential and cooperation still resonates strongly even now.


Lem


Rakugo Show2026/02/22 21:57

Rakugo Lecture & Show

  I attended a rakugo lecture and comic storytelling performance at the Kashiwa Community Center. 
  Shinoharu Tachikawa, a master rakugo storyteller, talked about his background and then performed a classic rakugo piece called “Cha-no-Yu (Tea Ceremony).” 
  His life story was fascinating, and his performance had the entire audience laughing. According to his talk, he also performs rakugo in English. I would love to see his English rakugo someday.


Kashiwa Community Center


Takeyabu Soba2026/02/22 22:55

An Established Soba Restaurant

    I visited Takeyabu soba noodle restaurant by Lake Teganuma for the first time in a few years. The soba—and the side dishes like stewed herring, tempura and wild mountain vegetables—tasted exactly as I remembered.
      Perfect!


Takeyabu
Takeyabu
Takeabu