The Kyoto International Conference Centre, on lake Takaragaike

Flute master Meisho Tosha performing 'the landing of the crane.'

"Kanpai!" The Japanese equivalent of "Cheers, and bottoms up!"

The beautiful floral centrepiece at the welcome reception

Japanese treats at the welcome reception

A variety of sake at the welcome reception

Taiko Drums to celebrate the the congress launch - that was some muscle display!

A much more broody and intimidating rendition of the familiar lion dance.

His Imperial Highness Prince Takamado giving the welcome address.

President of WACS

Vice president of WACS

Secretary General for WACS

Treasurer for WACS

Continental Director for the Americas

Continental Director for the Pacific Region

Honourary Ambassador for WACS, Bill Gallagher.

Continental Director for Africa/Middle East

Continental Director for Asia

The Singapore contingent.

Lining up for a massive ariel photograph at the Kyoto Heian Shrine.

The Azerbaijan contingent.

Visual treats to begin the parade.

Delegates embarking on the chefs parade which started at the Heian shrine and ended in Kyoto City Hall.

Chefs stopping traffic in Kyoto

Chefs from the All Japan Cooks Societies

The Irish team presenting Mr Deguchi with a commemorative gift

 

Participants in the first ever WACS Junior Chefs Forum

Soshi Sen, from a family tradition of 'the way of tea', giving a lecture on The Art of Hospitality

An entertaining sushi presentation on stage.

"Thank you to all my sponsors!" (As you can clearly see written all over me.)