We travelled by Skinkansen (bullet train) to the large and majestic Himeji-jo Castle. It was a many-stepped traverse up its hill and up its stairs. This was a bit difficult after yesterdays mountain climb. Also, the Skinkansen travelled at a peak speed of about 270 km/h! These trains have been incredible. When they zoom by the stations, it is li...

Taking the advice of my dear friend Fred who recently spent a few months in Kyoto, Katie and I boarded the Shinkasen(Japanese speed train) and headed south. Kyoto certainly did not disappointe. It was the imperial capitol for centuries and that history can be felt everywhere in the city. The public transportation was much more of a headache than...