One of the things I Really miss about living in Japan are the festivals. Of all the festivals, I think one of my favourites is the Cherry Blossom Festival. In Iwakuni, the festival took place around Kintai-kyo. Kintai-kyo (or Kintai Bridge, as we all called it) is a bridge that was built in 1673 by a japanese warlord. What’s the real big deal? It was originally made without nails! Around this bridge, people would set up “camp” and get ready to party. You’d also find tons of stands with food, candy, toys, you name it.

Those were some great days, and let me tell you, the food was the greatest. I remember buying grilled corn on the cob, flavoured with good ol’ soy sauce, that’s pretty much it. takoyaki, another one of my favourites during a lot of festivals, always makes an appearance. I just love festival food.

Just walking around, the people were so friendly, and would often call you to their area to have some fun, a few drinks, and laughs. I remember a few guys dressed up in kimonos and make up, acting like Geisha. That was particularly a lot of fun I remember, because a few of my friends were Really reluctant to go say hello to them.

If you ever get a chance to go to Japan, I’d Really recommend not going during the festival times, because of the business of travel and such. At the same time though, you almost can’t miss a festival in Japan.

[tags]Memory Monday, Iwakuni, Kintai-kyo, Takoyaki[/tags]