Today would be a personal day for me. I had the opportunity to meet up with my sister-in-law's family. It was great her mother, sister, brother in-law, and niece all came by the docks to visit. They were able to get a tour of the canoe, and a brief history. It was really refreshing to see familiar faces on such a distant voyage. We went to an Italian restaurant near the docks for lunch. Had a great asian-italian meal. Aya's grandfather speaks English, and was the main translator for me to communicate with the family. Although, everyone else understood English really well, they had a harder time expressing. We managed to get by it through sign language somehow.

After lunch they wanted to take me on tour of Japan. They decided to take me to Iwakuni, and show me Kintaikyo Bridge. This is one of the top three most reknown bridges in Japan, built in 1673. It spans across a river about 200 meters long, with 5 continuous arches. The points that touch the river are made of stone, and the arches are wooden, with the steps over the arch made of planks of wood. Looking down, you can see a fisherman fishing, with his pointed hat that comes done like a wide upside down cone. On one side of the river you see several smaller fishing vessels. As you come over the bridge, you enter the city. This was a quaint little town, with bright red and green banners. As you walk through town you can see small mom and pop stores selling fruits, and even an ice cream store with over 100 flavors.

Now they were taking me to a special place. Here is the place of the White Snake. Apparently, there is a population of albino snakes that evolved naturally in Iwakuni, and based on what the poster display said, this is very rare. Aya's family told me coming here would be good luck, and gave me an omomori, with a white (fake, not alive) snake, and told me this would be a special one because it would be one that was meant for the sea and voyaging. I was so touched by this, you could not imagine.

They then took me to their home, which is absolutely beautiful. It is nestled up in the mountains, with a large river running in the back. They have a ice patty area. Aya's dad took me on the tour of their garden. He told me just like your dad I too have a garden area. I was very touched. He had cucumber, potatoes, olive trees, citrus plants, eggplant, and many other fruits and vegetables. They cooked me dinner, much of which was from the garden, and had sashimi. It was nice to be in a relaxed environment. They made me feel like I was at my own home, but it was in Japan. Thanks to al of you for that special day