Birthday "Chirashi" Sushi Cake, デコちら

It is always nice to have something special for a birthday. A pleasant surprise for a special occasion. That is something I can do and I am always so happy to do.
Doesn't matter what it is. We, chefs, are entertainers in a way and will give 100% to make our guests happy.

So, here is something I have prepared for my guests' birthday dinner. Instead of just giving away an ordinary, common birthday cake, I made a cake looking "Chirashi" sushi.
The birthday lady and her family were so surprised and happy.

Dazu -a day off in Chongqing- 大足石刻

The General Manger of JW Marriott Chongqing has told me about the great rock carving site in Dazu right after we have arranged the schedule of my task force in Chongqing. He was generous enough to offer me a day trip to Dazu Rock Carving site on my day off.

Dazu country is located 60km west from the central city of Chongqing.

It was heavy traffic on Monday morning, of course, and it took 2.5 hour drive to the rock carving site on Mount Baoding! But, I must say, it worth spending the time.

Those carvings were begun back in 6th century AD, during the early Tang Dynasty, influenced by Buddhist, Confucian and Taoist beliefs. And the carvings were listed as a World Heritage Site in 1999.

Unfortunately, the sculpture of Bodhisattva with Thousands Golden Hands was under preservation process and could not see clearly this time... but, other than that, all the carvings are stunningly beautiful and it made me think of the people who made those sculptures over 1,000 years ago... 

Rock carvings of Buddhas and Circle of Life 

Buddha, Entering Nirvana