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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