Have you heard about the three biggest festivals in Kyoto? One is Aoi Matsuri (葵祭) in May, the other is Gion Matsuri (祇園祭) in July, and another is Jidai Matsuri (時代祭) in October. First of all, Aoi Matsuri is the oldest of the three biggest festivals. This ceremony shows costumes of the Heian Period (794-1185) and things that are decorated with hollyhock flowers that originated from this festival. Next, Gion Matsuri has more than 1,000 years of history. The highlights of this festivals are Yoiyama and Yamaboko Junko. Everyone can see unique floats and eat some food at the stands. Finally, Jidai Matsuri is held for the celebration of the Heian Jingu Shrine which is one of the shrines in Kyoto. This festival has a parade displaying traditional costumes. In this presentation, the presenter will explain the characteristics and origins of the three festivals represented by Kyoto.
I had a good time visiting the Southwest USA with Extension students from 15 to 21, October. It was an education trip and I experienced new things and there was a lot of nature which is comfortable for me. I was looking forward to going on the Southwest trip for a long time. I have image that the Southwest is very hot but this place was cold than Spokane. It was interesting that the temperature was totally different in the same place. There were three emotions that I experienced on this trip. First, I was moved by the beautiful landscape of the Grand Canyon. It is absolutely enormous. When I look down the cliff, I remembered the teacher's caution for us that there are lots of people who die and I scared. I and my roommate wanted to see the sunrise so we tried to got up at 4:00 a.m. and then we could see the sunrise which was really fabulous. After that, we decided to rent a bicycle but we changed our mind and because we had lots of time. Surprisingly, we walked 10 miles aro...