Friday, March 16, 2012

People Watching......

I don't know about you, but sometimes half the fun of being out and about is people watching, especially in a foreign country!!

Although, sometimes people watching can take place right in our own vehicle!! ;0)

At the Sakura Matsuri, there were PLENTY of people to watch!!

These young ladies were practicing for a performance. Sadly, it wasn't while we were there.
 

You always have to remember that sometimes you might be the people being watched!!


She was playing the sanshin and singing before the taiko drums show.
 

While waiting for the drum show... the lady in the dark brown hat actually spoke very good English!

Waiting for the drums to start......
 
  
 
 
 

Yep--- "GLORY YOUR POP".... But, hey, they're English words!!
 
 


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Wednesday, March 14, 2012

Sakura Matsuri!!

Cherry Blossom Festival!!!

The Sakura Matsuri sign above the ticket booth. The taiko drummers are getting ready for their show.

Tents set up for vendors to sell their wares during the festival.
 

We finished our walk around the castle grounds just in time to catch a front row seat for the taiko drummers and dancers.... Ready, set, GO!!
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

It was a great presentation!!! The Okinawan drums and music are very memorable to hear :)

Next up --- People Watching!!
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Tuesday, March 13, 2012

Cherry Blossom Bride and Groom


As we approached the entrance to the castle grounds, we saw this beautiful sign. And, yes, those are live flowers!

Climbing the stairwell, I looked up and there they were ~ the Japanese bride and groom!
They obviously chose traditional dress for their wedding, but many are choosing the western tradition of white dress and tuxedo.

Great place for a receiving line... even for a dog :)

Her kimono is quite lovely!

Off to begin their new life together.....

Then, at the top of the stairs --- what I would call the equivalent of the flower girl and ring bearer --- KAWAII!!! (ka-wa-ee = cute)

Next up -- Sakura Matsuri!!
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Monday, March 12, 2012

Sakura!! (aka: Japanese Cherry Blossoms)

I think most of these will speak for themselves :)
 

Nakijin Castle site
 
 
 
 

ocean view lookout
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

See the honeybees collecting the pollen??
 

I couldn't post these pictures without including one of our sweet friends we enjoyed the day with--- the Baileys.

Next up--- Sakura wedding!!
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