Getting excited for Neputa

Neputa is just around the corner, actually about 8 days away. This is the time of year when the biggest festival in Aomori takes place. In Hirosaki, we have floats that are carried and rolled through the streets while groups play music and dance. It is really exciting. In Aomori they also have jumpers and it is more active, and goes by Nebuta. In Goshogarawa they have 4 story Tachi-Neputa. Last Monday I went to Goshogarawa to see the Tachi-Neputa at their museum and may actually go to see them in action this year. I have included pictures of the huge door used to bring them out as well as a model of the 3 different Neputas/Nebuta. Here's a taste...

The lighthouse

As if seeing horses along the sea wasn't enough. Their home is on the same land as a famous lighthouse...I am lucky to live in Aomori.

Wild Horses pt. 2

Although the horses seemed quite calm, a sense of awe took over me as I was amazed by their raw power. I couldn't help but think that at any time they could become aggressive. They didn't, but this Japanese man had to run around his car to get back inside. 

Wild Horses pt. 1

These horses are not much different than what I've seen before other than that they seem much more powerful. I don't know if it's because they are wild or because of their huge legs. The weather turned out some great photos as the horses are in sunlight while the sky is grey and the grass is so green. 

Drive to Mutsu

Last Monday I took a trip to the Mutsu area of Aomori, which is the axe at the north of the prefecture. The purpose was to visit some famous wild horses that live near a lighthouse. It was far better than anything I could have imagined. The scenery along the way was breathtaking, while the horses(as you will see soon) and the lighthouse were magnificent in their own way. My dad likes lighthouses so I hope he can enjoy these photos.

I'm Huge in Japan

After 1 year in Hirosaki, there is still quite a lot that I haven't seen. Today my friend showed me the rest of the city. Some of it I wish my parents could have seen when they came to visit...I guess they need to come again!