Fun at the castle

On our first touristy day, Ruben led us to the Osaka Castle. Good choice, Ruben! He makes such a good tour guide. Eight of us got to be silly for a day, as well as learn about some Japanese history.

This was the poster at the museum. Jason managed to sweet-talk the last one out of the staff (after they told us they didn't have any, and they weren't for sale).

This is me at the entrance to the castle, which was a beautiful walk through a park and across a bridge.

The castle is so picturesque, and filled with eight floors of museum displays.

The top floor is an observation deck. From here, we could see the school children below gathering for their class tour of the castle. I like the dragon-fish on the turrets.

For a small fee, we dressed up as Japanese warriors and had sword fights in the museum. We were not the only ones laughing and taking pictures of our antics! This is Michele (left), Kat (center), and Cheryl (right).

Group shot at the castle entrance, surrounding the cannon. (Left to right) Diana, Michele, Cheryl, Jukka, Jason, Kat, Ruben, and Tess (in front).

We took turns at the cutouts. This is (left to right) Ruben, Diana, Kat, and Jukka.