Driving along... not really having a plan in mind... Tetsu and I came across the Fukushima (Aizuwakamatsu) Tsuruga Castle. That sounds interesting. Let's go see what that's all about.
In Japanese history there were samurai lords and clans that built castles and ruled the countryside engaging in battles, directing the peasants and farmers. In many cities, the stone castle walls can still be seen, usually turned into city parks and cultural areas. A few cities have rebuilt the castles and allow people inside and up to the top battlements.
Like many castles, Tsurugajo (castle) is surrounded by a moat.
Moat and me.
My samurai.
The castle has been turned into a very well cared for museum filled with artifacts and implements, explanations (in English...) and things for people to enjoy. Here is Tetsu sitting at a lord's place overseeing his castle.
Oh my! I want to be a lady in waiting! The kimono was just set in the alcove with an invitation for anyone to try it on. I felt a little silly posing while people passed by on all sides but if was fun for me and fun for people bowing to me and playing along with the scenario.
From the top of the castle looking down on the city.
And the castle itself.
As we were leaving a samurai warrior recruited me. Do I make a better warrior or lady in waiting?
12 comments:
Tanya, you look beautiful in the kimono!
You make a better Lady in Waiting... that is a beautiful kimono.... and Tetsu's kids have to get a laugh out of his it be cool T shirt as lord of the castle....
You have such a unique way of "seeing and presenting" life in Japan... I enjoy your posts very much.
You make a gorgeous lady in waiting! And, I think Tetsu's shirt "It Be Cool" is a blast. So perfect while he is sitting in that chair overseeing his domain. :))) Great post!
What a lovely place - and I think you make an awesome lady in waiting!!! That kimono is too gorgeous for words!
It looks far too pretty to be a castle. We love visiting castles wherever we visit, and it would be great to be able to add a Japanese castle to the list. And what a wonderful view from the top.
The Kimono is so beautiful, you model it so well. Tetsu, is there only one arm rest as you sit on the cushion?? Maybe for a special reason.The castle looks very impressive,I wonder how long it took to be built? Cheers from Jean
Let's see ... a combination ...
A beautiful lady in waiting who is a secret samuray when things get tough and I like to think that the sword is the sword of the Holy Spirit that you use in prayer for those who are on your intercession list.
All your posts are so interesting but for me this is a ten out of ten.
What fun you and your samurai have on your weekend jaunts..and your kimono is lovely...can you imagine doing housework, shopping, etc., in a kimono..giggle...hugs, Pat in IN
Definitely the Lady in Waiting. I think the problem with the Samurai Warrior outfit is one, you'd definitely end up with 'hat hair' which is not pretty and two, you hold the sword like a girl...not very threatening. (LOL) You do make a beautiful lady in waiting.
I think you make a better 'lady in waiting'. This was a great post, as most of your blogging. Even if I don't have time to visit my own country side, I get a chance to see your's. Thanks so much for sharing.
cindy
yes, yes to all of the above comments. Question: Is the Samurai's chest protection stuffed fabric?
Hi Tanya,
The colours of that Kimono are perfect for you. Very beautiful with your curls!
My sis has just been here for 2 weeks from Alaska. We were visiting York the other day and passed a young Japanese couple. I thought of you then with your recent posts about kimono wearing as the young lady was dressed in kimono. It was too crowded as we passed by to see what she was wearing as footwear. It has been very rainy here, so I am not sure the sandal type shoe would be the best choice on the slippery cobble streets of York!
Sandy in the UK
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