Mary and Lily serve incorrectly labelled Phillipines curry.
On a rather sunny Sunday morning, a few of the ALTs popped over to Megijima to help out at the annual local curry festival.
Megijima is one of the many Seto inland sea islands, along with Naoshima and Shodoshima, which I've mentioned a few times before. I'd never been to the island yet, despite it being the closest of these islands to Takamatsu, so I was looking forward to making my way over. I was busy during the morning, however, but I managed to pop over just around about lunch time around about the time the festival kicked off. The JETs who had arrived prior had managed to squeeze in a small trip to the famous caves that are filled with statues of demons (!), which are inspired by the famous Momotaro story.
The ferry port at Megijima.
Megijima is synonymous with ogres.
The festival took place by the local beach near the ferry port, with plenty of stalls set up with volunteers sharing their wares. The curry was all made by local chefs, with many varieties available. Attendees were given score cards which were stamped off to ensure that everyone got to try all of the curries at least once. Most of us only had a few, though, because inevitably you can only eat so much curry, and there were around fifteen or so available.
Curry Festival!
John and Yas soak up the atmosphere.
Curry!
Cool drinks aplenty.
This guy is spreading water for some reason.
Some of the ALTs were also putting time aside to help out serving the curry themselves (though I wasn't down to volunteer, so was free to walk about at my leisure!).
Relaxing by the beach.
Reflecting in Stephen's shades.
There was also a stage where some musicians and dancers were showing off their skills. Fairly entertaining, and nice to have some live music. A few were certainly very passionate.
Mad skillz.
As the festival started to die down, most of the ALTs made a sort of base next to the coast by a seated area. The rest of the afternoon was spent with people running in and out of the water and relaxing with drinks (and shaved ice!). It was a very refreshing way to spend the day, though sadly I'd forgotten my own swimming trunks! There were even board games in supply.
Socialising.
Fun in the sun.
Ben's animal magnetism lures in the camera lens.
Beer and board games.
Overall, just a very peaceful Summer's day.
