Photographic Meanderings/Tauck Essence of Japan

We awoke to a beautiful but warm day, the poignancy of our visit to Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum capturing our thoughts. It is a wonder that these Japanese can forgive such devastation, and then accept our help to rebuild. “Accept” is not exactly the term, as Japan was to undergo an imposed transformation involving its government, finances, and commerce: http://history.state.gov/milestones/1945-1952/japan-reconstruction .

Our first stop was the Osaka Castle, one of the popular landmark sites which has been destroyed and restored several times. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Osaka_Castle It is remarkable for its massive cut stone walls and for the reconstructed castle itself which houses a museum.  Then we were bussed to Dotonbori Street for an hour stroll along the canal. Amazing place with Times Square like illuminated signs, street performers, packed with tourists.  http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dōtonbori

Following lunch, we were off to Kyoto.

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