Nice Weather for Our P-Day Visit to Kintai Bridge and Iwakuni Castle

Yesterday was clearly the nicest weather we have seen since we arrived.  it was a beautiful sunny day with temperatures in the 70s.  It was both a Japanese holiday, Sports Day (yes, that's a real thing here) and Columbus Day for the base.

We decided to do a bit of exploring so we headed to the most famous tourist site here, Kentai Bridge and Iwakuni Castle.  The bridge was built in 1673 over the Nishiki River and consists of 5 wooden arches.  

This a classic Japanese tourist family photograph.  For some reason the men in the family never seem to be happy.

Iwakuni Castle was built in 1601-1608 but was dismantled in 1650 by the Shogunate as per the ikkoku-ichijo order (one castle per province)  of 1615 by the Tukugawa.  It is considered one of the 100 great castles in Japan.  What remains is the keep on the top of the mountain.

As we pulled into the parking lot and paid the fee, the attendant read our name badges which said The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Japanese.  He became very excited and kept repeating the name Jesus Christ.  He then crossed himself several times indicating that he too was a Christian. It was very nice, and a good reminder of the responsibility we hold as members of his church to always represent him well.

As we crossed the bridge we saw a small group of American tourists.  When they saw us and our name tags, they asked where we were from.  Turns out they were from Highland, Utah.  They then took several pictures of Geri and me.  I didn't realize that as missionaries on P-Day we could be a tourist attraction too.  Again, a reminder for us to always make sure that we are representing him whose name we have taken upon us in the most positive light.

It was a really nice day to enjoy being outdoors in such a beautiful location, and only about 15 minutes from our home.  If you follow the river back and to the left, that is where the MCAS Iwakuni is located.

  Inside of the castle keep there was an interesting display of old samurai swords and armor.  This is a real sword!

Came across a little girl all dressed up for the day.  Too cute!

Tried Iwakuni-style sushi for lunch.  It was different and not what would consider sushi.  Tasted good but not very special.

All else is going well, with lots of activity in our home, with early morning seminary, missionary transfer farewell party,  General Conference viewing, and YSA FHE.

We are truly blessed with this opportunity to serve. 

"And he saith unto them, Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men."  Matthew 4:19