Irei no hi
My first full day here was spent sweating in the
full-on sun at the Irei no Hi (Memorial Day) festivities. This is the fourth
time I've been in Okinawa for Irei no hi, but unlike previous times, I skipped
most of the formal ceremonies. Instead, I wandered around the Cornerstone of
Peace (Heiwa no Ishiji) monument, the Peace Memorial Museum, and the general
grounds at the Peace Park. Prime Minister Koizumi came again this year and gave
a short, predictable speech. No doubt he came because of the upcoming (7/11)
national elections. I still think the entire Peace Park, overlooking the Pacific
Ocean, is truly a peaceful and calming area. It's more contemplative without
the big crowds, however.
Posted: Thu - June 24, 2004 at 11:00 PM
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