An island, a castle and a fast train

An early start as we took the ferry to Miyajima Island known for its 'floating' vermilion torii, which becomes partially submerged at high tide and Itsukushima Shrine (a UNESCO World Heritage Site). There are walking tracks and pagodas and sika deer everywhere. Could have stayed much longer than the 2 hours but we had quite a bit travel to do.

Next stop was the magnificent Himeji Castle, the largest surviving example of a traditional Japanese castle. The shape of the roof is said to resemble a bird in flight so is often referred to as the White Heron Castle. The climb to the top of the keep consisted of 7 storeys of steep narrow stairways that I found the safest way to come downstairs was backwards, like a ladder. Fantastic building.

After the castle we had to experience the bullet train, or shinkansen. It was only a brief 30 trip to Osaka.

Finally we had an optional tour of a sukiyaki dinner. Fine strips of wagyu beef, pork, tofu and vegetables cooked on the table in front of you. A nice end to a tiring day.Read more