Tsutsuji Matsuri - The Azalea Festival

This floral festivities happens the whole month of March. The Azaleas are part of the genus Rhododendron, with these particular flower being part of the sub genus Tsutsuji. Which is why this is called The Azalea Festival. During this time, there are some performances from the Nishihara Band (maybe a school band), some martial arts and Eisa Drummers. 

This Festival is more like a nature walk for those who appreciate nature, flowers or are just proud of their country. Many local Okinawans, mainland Japanese and tourists come and just enjoy the beauty of the flowers. The photo above is a bridge that does not have any pillars or wires to hold this up. So, you can feel it bounce a little but it's strong.

Hagashi was not that long of a drive. On the way towards the festival, I drove by some Angel Trumpets *it was not part of the festival* but they are an amazing flower. Once you go through the 2 tunnels you should see it on your right side. It's a small patch, so if you dont keep an eye out, you'll miss it but when you are heading home. You wont miss it. Other than that, seeing the beaches and the tiny islands and the Okinawan landscape is a plus too. 

MOOD-Tourist, Explorer & Botanist
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