Wednesday, May 01, 2013

Finally made it to Kintai Castle...


Rodney's squadron commanding officer and his wife, Rebecca, came from Okinawa to Iwakuni for a short visit. I played tour guide this afternoon, showing Rebecca around the Kintai Bridge area, and finally got to see the Kintai Castle (pictured on the top of the hill, overlooking the bridge) up close and personal. Spring is the perfect time to go; the weather was gorgeous and the foliage and flowers even more so...






We got a quick picture with Joe. Joe is a Japanese national who was eager to talk with us. He worked aboard MCAS Iwakuni for 40 years and is now retired. He said  he doesn't have an opportunity to practice his English, so he talked with us for about 10 minutes, practicing. I've experienced this a lot, Japanese people wanting to practice their English, but Rebecca said this is not common in Okinawa at all.


There is a hiking trail up to the castle, but we chose the faster, and easier, ropeway.





The view from the top of the castle... the tallest white structure is the air traffic control tower aboard the air station. Closer to the castle slightly, and to the left, you can see my midrise, slightly hidden by the midrise behind ours.



If nothing else, the cost of the ride up and castle entry fee is worth the amazing view of the area. Just make sure to go on a clear day!

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