We decided to take a walk to Mikasa Park this morning. Mikasa Park is named after the Mikasa Battleship. I borrowed the following info from the GW's web page:
Mikasa, the flagship of the Japanese Imperial Navy, is permanently “docked” in Yokosuka and visitors come from all areas to visit this memorial and museum. Exhibits showing major events in Mikasa’s history and the Russo-Japanese War are numerous and even Vice Admiral Togo’s cabin has been preserved.
The Mikasa’s story is a heroic one. During the afternoon of May 27, 1905, Vice Admiral Heihachiro Togo, Commander-in-Chief of the Japanese Grand Fleet, opened fire against the Russian Fleet in the battle of the Tsushima Straits, which was fought during the Russo-Japanese War of 1904-1905. The Mikasa had always been superb, but she added further glory for herself and to the Imperial Navy by gaining total victory over the Russian Baltic Fleet. Japan became a world power because of the victory in the Tsushima Straits and the defeat of the Russian Navy. While the Mikasa was visiting Sasebo on September 11, 1905, an explosion caused by an exploding magazine ripped holes in her hull and she sank in 11 meters of water. She was refloated, but again sustained damages caused by the Great Kanto Earthquake of September 1, 1923, when the waters of the Yokosuka Harbor smashed her into the side of a pier. After valiantly serving her country, the Mikasa was preserved as a historical relic in 1926, but was ordered stripped down and scrapped by occupation forces in 1945. The ship was all but forgotten, until a great movement seeking the restoration of the Mikasa began and sympathetic ears listened. Mikasa was restored to her original condition from funds appropriated by the Japanese Government and donated by the people, as well as through financial support from the U.S. Navy.
We primarily went to Mikasa Park to play at the playground in the park and watch the dancing fountains. Of course, it was just our luck that the dancing fountains were sidelined for injuries (repairs). But, we still got a good walk in and some good playing.
Tonight, we walked to Akaoni for Yakiniku and Shabu-Shabu. Yakiniku is grilling meats and veges at your table. Shabu-Shabu is cooking meats and vegetables in simmering water at your table. Akaoni is all you can eat for 90 minutes. Dad didn't think too much of it, but Mom liked it and Jip and I liked it, as always. Ryleigh loved the chocolate mousse cake at the end. RJ loved the little plastic toy from the vending machine at, yes AT, the table. Five out of 6 isn't bad.
All-in-all it was a good day. Tomorrow, we're going to play tourist in Tokyo and enjoy the SRF Christmas Party at the New Sanno Hotel in Tokyo.
We sure are enjoying having The Papas here!
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