Kochi

Often, when arriving at a port, we are greeted with some type of performance. Similarly, at times of departure, we are bid farewell with a performance. A Japanese drumming and flag group greeted us in Kochi.

Our tour that day started with a visit to Katsurahama Beach, which was really lovely. We were warned to stay away from the water, as the sea is very treacherous here.

A large bronze statue is on a high point above the beach. This is Samurai Sakamoto Ryoma, who was a "visionary who dreamt of an independent Japan without feudal trappings. He read about the West and was inspired by the example of the United States where 'all men are created equal.'" (If only!)

These flowers, very much like morning glories, were growing in the sand along the beach.

Next, we went to see Kochi Castle.

I loved seeing these figures, decorated in bright red, near the castle. Very whimsical, though that may not have been the intent.

On the way back to the tour bus, we encountered these darling children. They were there with their mother and grandmother, but because they had been dressed in kimonos for the day, everyone was stopping them for photographs. They were absolutely charming.

The older of the two seemed to really get into the posing. You can see how she really "played to the camera" for me.

For lunch, we were "turned loose" at the Hirome-ichiba Market. I found some really good rice with vegetables. I might also have enjoyed a beer.

After lunch, we toured the Chikurin-ji Temple.

I liked the view from the top. We had to remove our shoes to tour the castle itself, and navigating some very steep wooden stairs didn't feel all that comfortable in stocking feet. I have always liked seeing flags and banners and other colorful displays. The Japanese flag was flying not far away, so I got this shot.

Wish I had a dollar for every one of these vending machines we have seen since we arrived at the Tokyo airport ten days ago. They are literally everywhere.

Like I said, we are often treated to a performance of some type at the times of our departure from port. This dance group was already performing when we arrived back at the ship.

I made a video of them from our cabin's veranda as we sailed away.