Crouching tiger hidden castle

Himeji castle is under repair and under wraps until 2015, but still worth a visit. There's a special exhibit where you can get inside the scaffolding and see the workmen restoring the walls and roof.

I'm now hopelessly endebted to the Matsumotos as well as to Mr Ishii. Not only did they put me up and take me everywhere, they also showered me with gifts.

Now on the Hikari back to Kyoto. In this super-advanced train, next to the on-board vending machines, there is a traditional crouching-style toilet. With handrails, of course, this is a tilting train...