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The Kyoto International Conference Centre, on lake Takaragaike

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

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

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The beautiful floral centrepiece at the welcome reception

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Japanese treats at the welcome reception

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A variety of sake at the welcome reception

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

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

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His Imperial Highness Prince Takamado giving the welcome address.

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President of WACS

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Vice-President of WACS

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Secretary General for WACS

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Treasurer for WACS

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Continental Director for the Americas

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Continental Director for the Pacific Region

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Honourary Ambassador for WACS, Bill Gallagher

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Continental Director for Africa/Middle East

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Continental Director for Asia

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The Singapore contingent.

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

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The Azerbaijan contingent.

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Visual treats to begin the parade.

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

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Chefs stopping traffic in Kyoto

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Chefs from the All Japan Cooks Societies

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The Irish team presenting Mr Deguchi with a commemorative gift

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Participants in the first ever WACS Junior Chefs Forum

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

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An entertaining sushi presentation on stage.

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