Himeji, Japan Just one more castle! Today we went to the granddaddy of them all, Himeji Castle.
About an hour by train from Osaka, the castle is considered the top wooden building in Japan, and began life in the 14th century as a fortress, then shortly after became a castle.
It survived many wars and somehow miraculously survived being bombed in WWII. Beautifully constructed and recently restored, it’s a masterpiece of carpentry and masonry work.
All seven floors of the castle are equally amazing, but the steps — good lord, the steps….
We had the most pleasant interlude with a lovely Japanese lady who wanted to practice her English on us. She was sitting in the park, writing in her English workbook and came over to make our acquaintance. We all managed to communicate, and we left her with one of the New York City souvenir key rings we carry with us. She loved it and is going to write to us soon.
Don’s Food Corner
We did it. After our return train ride to Osaka we went to McDonald’s. We didn’t order the teriyaki chicken sandwich nor the teriyaki pork sandwich, but stuck to the classic Big Mac. Yep, it’s produced exactly the way we would experience it in America. Apparently the formula has global appeal. The place was packed — with Japanese. The fries were pretty good, too.
Now that’s a renovation project. Maybe slightly beyond a DIY’er’s capability
Only the Japanese would tackle it.
What is the difference between a fortress and a castle?
A castle has more creature comforts and is better decorated.
A new friend, beautiful castle and American cheeseburger. What more can you ask for? (Maybe a chairlift for the stairs in the castle?) LOL!
I was thinking an escalator, but would have definitely welcomed the chair lift!
I’ve got to tell Matt you went to McDonalds!!!
And I absolutely, positively love that you gave the woman a New York key ring. You have left an indelible impression on a forever-grateful friend. Wonderful.
We have humble origins. Regards to Matt!!