We visit Himeji Castle and a roofed shopping arcade in Himeji. In the afternoon we move to Koro town by JR train to visit " Toy Museum." It takes about twenty minutes from Himeji to Koro by train.
Himeji Station
Himeji Station
guide fee , transportation fee ( guide ), entrance fee ( guide ), lunch ( guide )
transportation fee ( you ) , lunch( you ) , entrance fee ( you )
Samurai warriors built black castles in the time of war because black was difficult to see enemies. And from the Edo period, in the time of peace, they built white castles to show the dignity of the lord of a castle. Himeji Castle is an excellent example of these white castles. The word " Hime" means " a princess " in Japanese. Some people complain " It looks like a princess wearing a heavy make-up." But she is really a tough lady. There are many clever tricks to trap enemies in this castle. Indeed, she is going too far. If you were an enemy, how would you like to attack this fortress? Please think the way when you visit this castle. Also, there are some scary stories about this castle. In " Toy Museum," you'll be impressed by many elaborated works by craftsmen in Edo period and Meiji period. What kind of toys did children use when they were playing house in Edo period? The exhibits are works of art rather than toys.
Himeji Castle's admission fee: 1000 JPY / Toy Museum 's admission fee: 600 JPY (closed on Wednesdays)
Azusa guided my son and I on a day tour of Miyajima Island, and she was excellent. All the logistics were smooth and exactly as planned, and her detailed knowledge of the area allowed us to move from point to point efficiently. On Miyajima itself Azusa took exactly as much time for each attraction/observation that we desired. I highly recommend taking a day trip to Miyajima if you are in the Hiroshima area, and would recommend Azusa to anyone!
Dear Keith-san, I really appreciate the wonderful review. You both may be surprised to learn that Japanese summer is very humid. You may have been tired, moving from spot to spot under that hot weather. But you are very lucky to have visited Miyajima Island on the day of Itsukushima Shrine's special annual ritual. I think God's blessings were many times greater. And I was very impressed with the way you and your son cared for each other. May your trip to Japan be a long and memorable one for both of you. Good luck! Azusa
Azusa was a wonderful guide. Her pleasant personality was projected throughout the day. Her knowledge of the city, understanding of the history of Hiroshima was presented beautifully. She certainly takes care of her group, being attentive to all.
Dear Michael-san, Thank you so much for your wonderful review. You all are considerate and full of a great sense of humor. We enjoyed interacting with local students on the train. I am sure they had a memorable time like me. And it was nice to see the cherry blossoms in full bloom on the first sunny day in a long time. After all, cherry blossoms look good under warm sunny skies. I hope you will all continue your journey in good health while making many happy travel memories. Bon voyage! Azusa
Ms Azusa was wonderful. Full of energy, very enthusiastic and fluent in English. Appreciated the lunch reservation- Okonoyomiyaki, which is a Hiroshima special. In both the shrine on Miyajima and the Hiroshima museum, Azusa San stood in long ticket lines, while we had time to take pictures and explore the area briefly on our own. She was very conscientious of our time and allowed us to use it to the fullest. She addressed the history of Hiroshima with accuracy and grace, which was appreciated. We had a wonderful day chatting with Ms. Azsusa throughout the day and would highly recommend her as a guide.
Dear Kesh-san, I really appreciate your kind review. Your message encourages me so much. I was so happy to share a very enjoyable day with you all. You are very intelligent and caring family. Your questions about Japan have brought me many insights. It has been very inspiring for my work to talk to you. And your humor lightened the atmosphere. I will try to learn from you. You all are in good shape, so next time, please try climbing Mt Misen on Miyajima Island. The view of the Seto Inland Sea from the top is exceptional! I know you all are busy with your work, but please take care of yourselves. Thanks a lot. Azusa
We are grateful for the profound experience we had with Azusa. She was extremely knowledgeable and thoughtful in the way she shared the history of Hiroshima. If you’re planning a trip to Japan, this is an experience that you should prioritize including in your itinerary.
Dear Charlie-san, Thank you so much for your wonderful message! The tour was very short, but we had a lot to talk about and spent a very happy time. It was so hot and humid day, but the brightness and liveliness of the two of you energized me. I hope this trip was enjoyable and memorable for you as well. Azusa