We arrived at Miyakonojō station around 2 p.m. and walked to the hotel Katsunari had booked for us. Just two years old, the hotel was only minutes away from Old Earth. Being early, I relaxed with a beer in the serene inner garden, enjoying this new part of Japan, which reminded me slightly of Okinawa.
My friend Johan was also on his way to Miyakonojō after spending some time exploring Kagoshima. He would join me for the two days at Old Earth. Around 4 p.m., Shunichi and I walked to the venue to meet Katsunari and rehearse. For these shows, Katsunari invited bassist Tomowo Sakito. It was exciting to finally meet Katsunari in person after planning this tour together for so long. Following our time at Old Earth, Katsunari would join us for three more dates in Kurashiki, Kusatsu, and Osaka following after these 2 days.
Old Earth is a gem of a club, brimming with character. The building stands out with its colorful lighting, and the interior is warm and inviting, radiating a personal touch. When Tomowo arrived, we had a quick soundcheck and played through some tunes. Afterward, I returned to the hotel to change, as showtime was at 7:30 p.m.
At the hotel, I caught up with Johan, who had just arrived. Together, we walked back to Old Earth, where the crowd was already gathering. By 8 p.m., the first set began. It was a full house, and the atmosphere was electric. Katsunari’s drumming brought immense energy, and we instantly clicked as a group.
Between sets, I mingled with the audience. Many tried their best to speak English, and Johan, with his solid Japanese skills, stepped in as my unofficial translator. The night ended on a high note, with us pouring everything into our performance.
Waiting for us afterward was a steaming pot of shabu-shabu—a Japanese hotpot dish of thinly sliced meat, mushrooms, and vegetables cooked piece by piece at the table. It’s savory and less sweet than sukiyaki, another hotpot dish. Katsunari generously invited Johan to join us, making it a memorable meal.
As the night wound down, Johan and I walked back to the hotel. Once in my room, I realized I’d left a bag at the venue. The streets were silent and the sky clear as I made my way back. Old Earth was still open, though empty, and I retrieved my bag.
With plans to visit a waterfall with Johan the next day, I returned to the hotel and went straight to bed, ready for another day of discovery.
