We just got back last night from our Christmas/New Years break holiday. We didn't do anything outrageous (we realized how difficult it is to plan with the language barrier), but it was nice just to get away. On Wednesday, we woke up at about 5 am to catch the early train to Hiroshima. After a 4 1/2 hour train ride, we arrived at the city where the first atomic bomb in history was released. On August 6, 1945, an area of over 2 km radius was turned to ash, temperatures reached between 3,000 and 4,000 degrees Celsius, and over 200,000 people were killed (immediately and as after-effects). Seeing the "A-Dome", the only surviving building from the blast, walking along the Memorial Park, and spending time in the museum were all very sobering and eye-opening. It was more than interesting to see the end of the war from a perspective that is not often taught or discussed. It was, as Rod said, an "intense" experience.
The next day we took the ferry to Miyajima Island, considered to be one of the three most beautiful areas in Japan. It was a wonderful day to relax and enjoy the sights and culture. We went for a hike to the highest point in the island and were able to enjoy the scenery from there, which was one of our highlights (but am I ever feeling it now)!
Yesterday, after a nice leisurely breakfast and time spent in the Atomic Bomb Memorial Hall, we returned home, and back to reality!
3 comments:
vbWe are happy to see you to having a good time . You are seeing lots of new things and enjoying it makes being so far away a little more bareable. Keep up the great bloging we really enjoy reading about your life . T ake care love Dad
I'm sure seeing this must touch you, maybe more so when you realize that the powers of evil have put Iran in their cross hairs to be next.
It is sad to see so many people with their heads in the sand. The reality, when it becomes inescapable, will hit them without forgiveness.
So, heads-up Rod and Rebecca, and all the best!
http://johnvroegryk.blogspot.com/
Great to have you two back!
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