The next episode of ‘Tokyo’
Recently I returned to Melbourne after my third trip to Japan. This time around I was lucky enough to be introduced to more of Tokyo’s nightlife and Shibari culture. Most evenings were spent at different clubs, bars or salons, always with Shibari/Kinbaku as the main event. Each day in Tokyo was filled with action and purpose.
My main purpose to visit Tokyo was to further my Kinbaku learning with Yukimura Ryu.
It can be deceptive to look at pictures of Yukimura Sensei’s tying and think that it looks ‘easy’ and that it’s just a simple task of wrapping a model in rope. That is so not true. Every single movement can either add or take intensity, or intent, from a Kinbaku experience. I am beginning to understand this more each trip, each lesson, and each tie.
This trip was a very special one for me. Yukimura Sensei presented me a calligraphy containing my bakushi name 春蜜 (Harumitsu) which means ‘Spring Honey’. This also means I am now officially part of Yukimura Ryu, and honoured to be the first female outside of Japan to be name by Yukimura Sensei.
I will use Harumitsu as my Japanese Mistress name, and it will also be used in chosen professional and personal Shibari sessions.
I am very much looking forward to what the future brings with each new season!
Alex Vicia
春蜜
Harumitsu
March 3rd 2014