Tsuwano in Summer - Day 1 - 7/27/11

It's early Wednesday morning and we're on Rt 2 in Iwakuni headed for Tsuwano today. I think it's about 4 hours or so, but we'll make a few stops & we're never in a hurry. We'll be there for lunch. Today is the Gion Matsuri - summer festival. The highlight of which is the Sagi Mai - dance by peoople disguised as heron. We've heard about it for years, but we're always out of the country during July . . . but not this year.


50 is the top speed we'll be going today on regular highways - that's 50 kmph, which is only 31 mph, but plenty fast enough for this narrow, curvy road. And besides, we get to enjoy the gorgeous view!


It's cloudy this morning with low-hanging mist, but that's OK - just means it will be a little cooler for the drive.


Sign on Rt 2 for the famous Sanzoku - "Chicken Shack" restaurant. It's quite a famous place & a "must-see" for visitors.


Up ahead is the turn-off for Hwy 187. Most of our trip to Tsuwano will be on 187 today. It's a beautiful drive along the Nishiki River.


Stone torri gate near someone's house.


On the left - where the sidewalk begins . . .


Beautiful morning mist hangs over the top of the mountains with a riverside village below.