Himeji Castle

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

left: Himeji Castle

right: View of Himeji from Top Castle Floor

left: ancient rifles

right: court ladies counting shells

Children Waiting at Himeji Station