Naginata at the Byodoin Festival

The yearly Byodoin Obon Festival at Valley of the Temples Memorial Park.
Cross the bridge into a different world.

There were cheery lanterns hanging everywhere.

For the Flower Lantern Floating Ceremony to be held later, you can write the names of your deceased loved ones on the petals for remembrance.  The flowers will be set afloat on the pond in front of the temple at no charge. 

Trying to strike the bell evenly takes practice.

Sensei and Sempais did the Shihogiri, a blessing kata, as part of the opening ceremonies.
A Nichiren priest, Reverend Yamamura, sang Ave Maria beautifully in his robes also.

The beautiful moss covered boulder.

We've been doing naginata demonstrations here for over six years and it's nice to see the carp and black swans doing so well.

There were food booths and free shaved ice and popcorn.

Kokochan enjoying cotton candy.

Practicing our kata.

Opening bow

It was nice to have a big tent to ward off the sun and rain,
just in case.

There was also a great Taiko performance by the Dragon Drum Beat Group, Aikido demonstration, Okinawan Dance and Music, Bon dancing and Gagaku.

It's  a great feeling to be surrounded by the lush tropical greenery of  the Koolaus, and then hear the Taiko drums and the ringing of the great bell.