Visiting Ancient Capital

Horyuji
Originally uploaded by shoko.

It is terribly hot this summer. I personally think it's one of the outcome of ongoing global warming, but whatever the reason is, memory of my summer vacation is "Hottest!!". Considering my financial condition, I gave up to go abroad, instead I went to the trip visiting national history. One of my friend's granma living in Nara, the ancient capital of Japan (6-8century). From nothing, some great people made this field into a country ruled by low. In Nara, we could find lots of evidences they tried to structure the country with the help of Buddism. Of course, we enjoy the trip just as entertainment, eating tasty foods and enjoying lantern festival. Anyway, I learned one important thing, don't visit Nara in Summer.(laughter)

Fireworks!!

Fireworks
Originally uploaded by shoko.

In summer, fireworks exhibitions are seasonal tradition in Japan. When I was a kid, I was really looking forward to the night of mid-summer, usually held near river, along the bank there were lots of night stalls which were quite tempting.
It has long been since I moved from my hometown located near river, this summer, I went to fireworks exhibitioins with friends for the first time since then. It was a surprise for me that they blasted off nothing to do with edge of water, though it might be common for inland cities... In huge fields usually used as race course, number of people, families, friends, are sitting around chatting, eating, and even drinking. It was fun night!