Trip to Kochi and Muroto

Trip to Kochi and Muroto -

This past winter we took a brief three day trip to visit the beaches of Muroto and then onto the city of Kochi. These cities are located on Shikoku island which is south of Honshu, the island where we live. This was the second time we have been to Shikoku but this time we drove down the Pacific Ocean side which lead us onto Awaji Island and then onto Shikoku island.

I mention this because the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge bridge between Awaji Island and Shikoku which crosses the Akashi Strait, is the longest central span of any suspension bridge in the world measuring 1,991 meters, 6,532 feet or 1.237 miles. It was truly a sight to behold and the tide going in and out of this location crates some very large and strong whirl pools.

Akashi Kaikyo Bridge

It was cold and windy while we were there so we were bundled up in sweaters and coats but the landscape was still beautiful and the beaches were much different than the beaches we have experienced along the Sea of Japan side. While along the coast of Muroto we did some beach combing, visited a sea turtle museum and also a dolphin training facility.

We spent the last day of our trip in Kochi city visiting the Kochi Castle, doing some hiking and touring the street markets in town.

Chadduck House Nameplate-

It is customary in Japan to have a family name plate on the front of one’s house. We did not have one for the first year we lived in Japan but recently ordered one and Bob installed it on the front near our gate. Because there is no Kanji for our name, it is written in Katakana which is used to write foreign words in Japanese.

I just learned to read Katakana this fall and our name in Katakana is pronounced Chadaku.

Heguri Basketball Team Graduation-

Last spring Stephanie graduated from the Heguri Mini Basketball team and we were blessed to be part of a wonderful graduation ceremony. The event lasted most of the day with an actual graduation ceremony and gifts exchanged between the players, parents and coaches.

Parents of graduating girls were asked to give a brief speech to the families, teammates and coaches. Bob presented his speech in Japanese while I had a translator for my portion. It was a very special and moving event since Mini Basketball is much like close family friendships. The players performed dances, played games and were presented with elaborate picture books of the season while the coaches spoke about the graduating girls and their contribution to the team.

Mini Basketball Graduation Celebration

That night all graduating families went to yakiniku and celebrated with the coaches. It was a wonderful experience and meant a lot to our family to be included in such an event. Though the mini basketball season goes all year long and is a big commitment, the friendships and activities with this group have enriched our experience in Japan tremendously. We are very grateful to have been welcomed into this fun loving and wonderful group.

Thank you for following our adventure in Japan. We are grateful for your  prayers, support, and investment in our ministry.

In Christ,

K. Chadduck