.....House of Bamboo. Most people believe that its Oriental intrigue ends with the title. Little do they realize that beyond its mystic facade stands the Bamboo walls, witness to centuries of social history.
.....It is said that the old dowager who came here first, left behind a huge treasure. Somewhere deeply hidden within the confines of this palace exists a treasure so enormous that it rivals that of the King of Siam. Day and night, there is always someone diligently searching for the prize.
.....One immediately feels the pulse of the Bamboo puzzle as he steps upon the pre-Confucian style front portico. Three ivory pillars bear the entire weight of the thirteen room pagoda. As one passes through the vaulted gates he enters another world. Pulsating emerald walls and a shimmering pleasure dome complement a well trodden teak floor. The air of mystery now surrounds you completely. The fluorescent lighting is the only contemporary convenience apparent to the naive Occidental eye. Haiku images proudly adorn the mantled fireplace. Western ears (wide open to the melodies emanating from any of the sixteen speakers strategically positioned throughout) will easily descend modern sounds from the ancient more primordial tones.
.....To the right is the sitting room of elders. Within, the men of Bamboo, each garbled in his obi, sit and gather their thoughts as meditation occurs on such subjects as the nature of man, the nature of woman and the products thereof.
.....Two more levels remain to be explored. As we ascend the jewel spiral staircase, we marvel at the nine bedrooms and two baths. Some of the doors are closed. Garbled voices find their way. through the openings under the doors. At this point it is obvious that the never-ending search for the treasure is on. The bedroom we are now in is tantalizing dark. A shaft of lighting can be produced in either of two methods, and is often accompanied by thunder. One may use the conventional electric light bulb or the infinitely more romantic gas lamp. Our bedrooms are fit for the Khan. Grounded magical carpets conceal the naked floors. Clean white sheets, multicolored blankets and fluffy pillows make the search all the more tempting.
.....Ascending to the third story we find ourselves in a mysterious cubicle frequented by both members and alumni. Countless personal treasures have been deposited here. Could the prize of the old dowager be far?

Reference: Dowager:
1. A widow who holds a title or property derived from her deceased husband.
2. An elderly woman of high social station.