Kofun at Shizuoka Sengen Shrine

After our delicious, historical treat at Sekibeya, my friends and I continued on to Shizuoka Sengen Shrine. While the shrine itself is interesting and beautiful, our mission was not to see the shrine. These two friends and I are interested in the ancient (third - seventh centuries) Japanese burial mounds called kofun or tumulus. One of the friends learned there was one either near or on the Sengen Shrine grounds.

Of course, there were many steps involved in getting to the kofun!

You think you are at the top, but, no! There are more steps.

Almost there!

Finally! We found it. You can’t go inside, but there is a model and information. You can look from a gated entrance, but it’s dark inside.

This is an interesting place and I highly recommend visiting! History is fascinating!

Friday Finish - Zipper Pouch

I am quite pleased with this finish. It is totally hand stitched. I am especially happy with way the zipper finished. 

Both sides

Bottom

Inside

Zipper - open and closed

Sekibeya

I met two friends at Shizuoka Station, and from there we took a bus to get to Sekibeya, a 200 year old traditional Japanese sweets shop. It is located near the Abe River and is open 9 am - 5 pm every day except Thursday. I never would have found this place on my own.

This display shows the sweets that can be ordered.

This place is like going back in history.

All three of us ordered the same thing - mochi with anko and mochi with kinako and sugar, with Japanese tea for 800 yen. What a wonderful treat!

Work In Progress Wednesday

Zipper Pouch progress (all hand stitched)

More cross stitch on leftover fabric (to be finished into ornaments later)

Lunch and Roses

Last week, I met with friends at the home of one of them. We had a delicious lunch and chatted about many things. 

After lunch, we walked to a nearby park, where the Rose Festival was being held. There were many varieties and colors.

I always appreciate getting together with these friends.