Osaka Castle

Wow! Don't ask me how I am doing this - this keyboard is all in Japanese! We went to Osaka Castle today and toured this historic, magnificent 7th century structure. surrounded by a moat. You could feel the samurai spirits around us. All 9 floors housed artifacts and dioramas that were centuries old.

Osaka Castle was originally started in 1583 and was destroyed by Tokugawa troops in 1615. The castle was rebuilt by Tokugawa Hidetada in 1620 and burned down after a lightening strike in 1665. I 1931 the present structure was built and the museum now holds artifacts of Toyotami Hideyoshi and castle history.

We are getting a real history lesson on Buddhism and Shintoism!On August 13th, 14th, and 15th the Obon Festival takes place in Japan when the Obon Festival takes place in Japan when the Japanese pay their respects to their ancestors by lighting lanterns for the spirits, and dancing to entertain the spirits. We then went to watch the bonfires on the mountainside from the roof of the hotel. This represents sending the spirits and ancestors back home at the end of the Obon Festival.

Oh by the way we did all this trekking around in 111 degree heat! No Kidding! There are vending machines all over to purchase water and Gatorade type drinks. We use or umbrellas for shade. It is all so historic and beautiful, and so much to take in! Our tour guide Christian is originally from San Francisco and has been terrific. He is arranging everything for us perfectly.