One More Check On The List

We've done the sushi, we've done the sake and now we've done the Shikansen. WOW!!! From the moment of entering the station, one knew it was to be an experience. The place was so clean I could swear one could eat off the floor. The station and train staff really take their work seriously. From the trainmen on the platform signalling the all clear by means of saluting and pointing, to the train conductor turning around to bow to the passengers as he goes from car to car. The well dressed staff, many in white gloves, really take their jobs seriously and approach their careers with pride and professionalism.  We hit speeds of 222 Km, though the Shikansen can reach speeds of 270 Km, and the non stop trains passing through the stations at full speed were frightening when you are not expecting them. Brilliant engineering and only to be experienced here. Economy of scale allows for this kind of mass transit and only something we can dream about back home.

We had our own Hanami (cherry tree picnic) in a park upon our arrival in Himeji via the Shikansen. What fun! I always love a picnic, this one with a box lunch complete with assorted sushi and finished off with a green tea frozen custard with waffle cone. Mmmmm.

But the main reason for being here was the Hemiji Castle. Simply amazing!! Blue bird day with blossoms trumpeting a magnificent showcase along with some warm weather. The only remaining original castle in Japan was conceived in 1333. It was strategically constructed to deceive potential invaders and never was attacked. It even survived the bombing of the Second World War. We made it to the top of the seven floors strictly by staircase as in keeping with the original design there were no elevators installed.

Sayonara