Saturday was a special day for Zach—his 16th birthday!!! He was surprised at lunch with a birthday cake lit with sparklers. The cake was delicious. Many thanks to his mom for providing this celebration treat and to our host, Naoko for making all the arrangements.
Next the guys and gals went separate ways to dress in their yukatas (kimonos). The gals were pampered by several ladies fitting the yukata just right and tying the obi in many different ways. Handmade flowers were also styled in our hair. The guys and gals joined back together in a room next to the castle for a Japanese dance lesson. Our dance was a song about the Aoi Cherry Blossoms and we used fans to tell the story. The dance teacher was so patient and sweet. We really enjoyed learning about Japanese traditional dance. Many photos were taken!!!
Our day concluded with a traditional Japanese dinner.
Next the guys and gals went separate ways to dress in their yukatas (kimonos). The gals were pampered by several ladies fitting the yukata just right and tying the obi in many different ways. Handmade flowers were also styled in our hair. The guys and gals joined back together in a room next to the castle for a Japanese dance lesson. Our dance was a song about the Aoi Cherry Blossoms and we used fans to tell the story. The dance teacher was so patient and sweet. We really enjoyed learning about Japanese traditional dance. Many photos were taken!!!
Our day concluded with a traditional Japanese dinner.