Day 5 July 10 Part 2

The days seem to be flying and full. As Cheyenne indicated, the homestays were quite successful and the kids really enjoyed themselves. Up early afterward, we headed straight to Ise by train with a number of Miyoko's students and her current teacher Lacey, from Grand Rapids, MI, as our kanji/tour guide extraordinaire.

Ise greeted us with sunshine and humidity. Charlie greeted us with news and information about the grounds at Ise as he studied it prior to our departure from Cincinnati. With over 600 shrines on the grounds at Ise and a multitude of trees that would remind you of the CA Redwoods, Ise proudly presents opportunities for sight-seers to pray, show respect for the trees that grow and a place for enjoying peace and serenity.

Serenity also comes with good music. And while we thought that is what we were moving toward, we were instead move to the carpenters. Listen to the men in white below as they attempt to smooth the wood. So entertaining.

After stepping from the shrine area, we progressed up the Ise promenade and enjoyed one of my favorite tourist sites- endless shopping, food and cultural event activities.











Enjoying ourselves but moving swiftly to get to our transport to Komono station, we scurried back to enjoy a Komono neighborhood festival. In Paul's words, "It was like a big neighborhood block party." While sweaty with no chance for a shower until morning, our party-going began with curry rice, vegetables and corn. Kids played soccer and tag while the adults mingled in short and fragmented communication. Great fun actually.

Once dark, the evening continued with bingo and other games where everyone enjoyed prizes of bouncy balls and other carnival fare. Fireworks ensued and then it was bedtime on tatemi mats in the communal room. Morning came swiftly and we awoke, organized, did calisthenics and participated in a breakfast of cucumbers, carrots, rice, miso soup, corn, beef, sausages and tea. Yum!








Another day of rain was upon us now but that wasn't stopping our plans of heading to Suzuka Mountain and the Myazuma Gorge for some good ole bouldering, river hiking and cliff jumping.
Everyone was awesome, cared less for the leaches and was chilled by the frigid water but unstoppable nonetheless. Enjoy the pictures and videos, it was gorgeous and fun. Once complete, nearly all of us retreated to the local hotspring for a body cleansing and warm dip.



Now, we are resting until we head out this evening for an opportunity to experience more Japanese culture and Japanese banjo instruction.

Off to Kyoto and Nara tomorrow by 8. All be well.