Matsumoto and Shimosuwa

   On Wednesday, Aug 9th, Traci had the day off, so we took the opportunity to go to Matsumoto.  After traveling by local train, we took the town "sneaker bus" to the castle. This is the oldest original castle in Japan, over 400 years old.  Originally surrounded by 3 moats, as part of it's defense, it never saw a battle.  The newer castle addition is known as the "moon viewing room" and is now used as a performance platform during festivals.
   We were very happy to have a volunteer tour guide (his name was actually Mr. Matsumoto!) who spoke lovely English.  He explained the architecture and history of the castle as we went to each floor.  There are 6 floors, but one is "hidden" and without windows, to trick the enemy.  Steep wooden stairs lead to each floor, and the top floor boasts a great 360-degree view.
   On Thursday we saw more of Shimosuwa.  There are 2 shrines - Akimiya "autumn" shrine, and Harumiya "spring shrine".  Akimiya boasts the largest rice straw ropes in Japan.  Now that I have seen what harvested rice fields look like, I understand where they get "rice straw".
   Shimosuwa is known for music boxes, and they have a museum.  It was so interesting to see music boxes (and listen to them) of all sizes from Switzerland, Germany, the US and Japan. There was a demonstration of some different styles of music boxes and a street organ, like an organ grinder would use.  We all got to try our hand at that one; it's a good thing I don't own a monkey, because I wouldn't make much money at it--it was difficult to make the music play smoothly!  They also demonstrated a large, 5 ft tall, disc-playing Japanese model, and the newest disc they have is "Let It Go" from the movie Frozen.  We really enjoyed it - so beautiful!

Rice straw rope

American tourists always getting in the photo.

Cedar trees and ceremonial log at Harumiya.