Tim and I stayed quite busy while he was home this summer. This post attempts to chronicle our escapades!
Yokohama Baystars Baseball Game
Lunch before the game
We waisted no time buying our Baystars gear
L-R: Becca, Tim, Kyle, Lauren, Alex
Lauren and Kyle
Becca
Tim, Kyle, Alex
Lauren
Japanese baseball fans have a far different experience than in America. For starters, each team has specific chants and sit on opposite sides of the stadium.
This Baystars fan was clearly sitting on the wrong side of the stadium.
Hiroshima Carps
Oysters in Yokohama
Bay Quarter
L-R: Megan, Alex, Lauren, Kyle and Tim
Kamakura
Tim and I spent Labor Day exploring Kamakura, a seaside town full of temples and shrines.
We only went to two on this trip.
Daibutsu (Great Buddha) at Kotoku-in Temple
The 2nd largest Buddha in Japan, the Daibutsu was built in 1252.
Tim cleanses himself before entering the temple
11.4m tall, cast in bronze
Inside the head of Daibatsu
Hase-Dera Temple
Built in 721 AD, the temple houses the statue of an eleven-headed Kannon (pictures not allowed).
View of Sagami Bay
We ended the day on Enoshima island where we enjoyed a cocktail at EnoSpa.
Sunset behind Fuji
Change of Command Dinner
The New Sanno, Tokyo
Yasukuni Shrine
A Shinto Shrine commemorating the Japanese that have died during war, Yasukuni is quite controversial. Fourteen war criminals are enshrined here. Recently, several Japanese prime ministers have visited the shrine, causing concern for separation of church and state.
After visiting the shrine, we went to Yushukan, a museum displaying war documents and memorabilia.
HSL-51 Wardroom. Skipper Walt (previous CO) is in the blue stripes and Skipper Loo (current CO) is on the right in blue.
Dinner the following night in Tokyo at Gonpachi - this restaurant inspired a fight scene in the movie 'Kill Bill'.
Tim's Departure
On September 6th, Tim flew to the boat for his underway. I was in prime location to watch him go.
We had a pleasant summer. I look forward to more adventures upon Tim's return!
