Dear Friends and Family,
Konichiwa!
Okayama, on a rainy day, gave us a chance to rest and relax after six weeks of travel. We had dinner with a young Japanese man and his American girlfriend. We shared sake, several traditional dishes, and wonderful conversation with Takayawada and Astrid, an English teacher. They’re planning to teach English in China, save money, and travel abroad for several years.
The next day was a perfect spring day for exploring the area. We visited the Korakuen gardens, Okayama Castle, and old-town Kurashiki. Okayama Castle is a reconstruction of the original castle built in 1597. It is surrounded by the Asahi River. The river used to serve as the castle moat. It is filled with kayaking sightseers today. The castles overlooks the beautiful Korakuen Gardens. The sakura (cherry blossoms) was in bloom, the bamboo was the tallest we’ve ever seen. There were some really lovely reflective ponds. We took a train to old-town Kurashiki, where traditional homes and businesses have been preserved. Tourists and tourist venues are everywhere.
We’re spending our last two days in Osaka before flying home to California. In a few weeks, we’ll have our own cherry blossoms back home on the river. We look forward to seeing you soon, dear family and friends.
Sayonara, BnL
bnlmos 
Bruce and Linda,
Thank you very much for many beautiful pictures. They look like postcards.
When I went to the Korakuen garden
around March 20 two years ago
there were no cherry blossoms,
no green grass.
I asked a taxi driver and he answered
the park is beautiful all year round except around that time.
You chose the very best days, which was
wonderful and I am happy.
I have never been to Kurashiki and some day I will go there.
Enjoy the rest of your trip.
Minoru
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Thank you Minoru! We spent our last day walking Tenjinbashi shopping street. Thank you for recommending the Toyoko Inn near the shopping street. We especially like eating bowls of freshly prepared udon noodle with sides of chicken and shrimp tempura. Oishi des, ne? BnL
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Wow Sis! I have just loved reading your travels through Japan! I love all the unique details. Once again, the pictures are exquisite!! 💜
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Thanks Sissie! One of these days we have to get Sierra to Japan. It has been terrific. ❤️See y’all soon!
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Wow! Pictures are overwhelming! Beautiful blossoms! Hurry home and be safe! Rita
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Wonderful way and place to end your journey.
Great pics!
I love bullet trains!
😎
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