“On Monday we have a holiday because of the Respect for the Aged Day. The purpose of the holiday is self-explanatory; it is to respect the elderly and to celebrate longevity. In Japan, the influence of Confucianism from the ancient eras is still prominent, and it is embedded in the culture to pay respects to the elderly for their wisdom and longevity. It is believed that the Respect for the Aged Day originated when the ruler Shotoku-taishi set up a ‘nursing home’ on September 15th of 593 A.D. for elders who were without family to care for them. On this holiday, families tend to go out for a nice meal or show their respects to the elderly by giving a massage. People who live away from their grandparents typically pay visits or call to say hi. ”
I feel pretty aged but no one came by to give me a massage.
I had intended a big, boat, diving, fishing day but the wind and weather were against it.
So I revert to my usual Okinawan pastime – rambling around looking at things.
So much to see.