DAY 23 (continued) - I was heading for Kobe, but then I had a change of heart and decided to
delay my meeting with friends so that I could go to Himeji castle. The
Lonely Planet guide recommended the free English tour here so I
requested for one. Since I was by myself, the tour guide was like my
private tour guide! Himeji is the best preserved castle in Japan, and
probably the finest. The guide explained to me about all the complicated
castle defenses. However, this castle was never invaded, perhaps because
it was too difficult to. In the main tower, there was even a secret floor
at which the lord could hide and then commit seppuku. The tour lasted 1.5
hours and I bought the tour guide a can of soda as a token of appreciation,
as they are not supposed to accept money. Finally, it was time to go to Kobe!
Front Lawn of Himeji Castle
My Personal English Tour Guide