Today I went on a little hike around town, and even up into the hills. I came across a mysterious sculpture in a clearing, and it felt like something straight out of a video game. So cool! We’ve been having some really nice clouds in the sky lately, so I spent a good chunk of the walk just taking photos. A fun afternoon all around.

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Mariko and I wandered around Himeji Station today, doing a bit of shopping before ducking into Ekisoba for some soba. She went with kitsune soba, and I had chicken tempura soba. Both were good, not spectacular, but the little shop was quick and hit the spot after all that walking. Definitely not a bad pick, but with so many great options around the station, I don’t think it will make the return list.

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Today I went to Himeji and took a leisurely stroll around the castle grounds. Quite literally, since I didn’t actually enter the castle this time. I just walked around the grounds, visited Himeji Shrine, and got my omikuji (fortune) in English. And I got a good one! Yay!

I skipped going inside because I’d been there before and remember it being a pretty strenuous walk. It’s a huge castle, and getting up to it means climbing a big hill. Add in today’s heat, and I was happy just admiring it from outside.

As an aside, I used my new umbrella, the one with UV protection, and let me tell you, it’s a total game-changer for sunny days. What a difference in comfort. I highly recommend picking one up if you spend any time walking around in the sun.

Before heading home, I got a Himeji Station stamp for my stamp book. It’s filling up nicely.

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On today’s afternoon walk I visited Kura Terrace again and treated myself to a shoyu flavored soft cream. It was featured in a recent episode of Tsurube’s tv show, so I figured I would give it a try too. It was pretty good! Honestly, the shoyu flavor was very faint, but that was okay by me. I was a little worried it would be overpowering, and I’m glad that wasn’t the case.

After getting back home, I relaxed with a non alcohol beer, and there are so many to choose from here in Japan. We’ve actually bought several different kinds, and I’m doing my own informal taste tests to find a favorite.

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Today we visited the town of Fukusaki to check out the yokai scattered about town. It was so fun to see these Japanese monsters, ghosts and demons! The kappa were actually quite terrifying, but it was also fun to see their cute characters, like the ones shown in the stamps I got. If you’re in the area, or you’re a yokai otaku, I definitely recommend finding a few. Take some photos and scan the QR code next to each one to learn more about them.

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Today I had a solo lunch at 脂楽亭, a nearby katsu restaurant. I went with the katsu curry, and I was not disappointed. The katsu was thick, tender, and juicy, with panko breading that was crispy and delicious. The curry was really tasty too, and I left feeling very satisfied with the meal.

The chef and server were both friendly and efficient, which made the whole experience even better. The restaurant has a long counter, regular tables, and a tatami mat area, so it works well whether you’re dining solo or bringing the family.

After lunch, I went for a short stroll in the neighborhood and enjoyed the summer breeze and beautiful clouds. So nice!

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Today after work I went for my daily osanpo (walk) around the neighborhood. This time I skipped the historic part and headed into the regular part of town instead. I made a point to hit the big three convenience stores: Lawson, Family Mart, and 7-Eleven.

I didn’t buy anything at Lawson, but Family Mart had a pudding that looked too good to pass up. It was delicious, and only about 150 yen! My last stop was 7-Eleven, where I couldn’t resist grabbing an egg sandwich. I only had my cross-body bag with me, so it got a little smashed on the walk home. Still, it tasted excellent.

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Here are some photos I took on today’s walk around the neighborhood.

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We made a big batch of umeshu (plum liqueur) today. Mariko has made it before, but it was my first time. It’s basically just ume (plums), rock sugar, and liquor, all combined and left to sit for at least 3 months. So this batch will be ready by the next time we’re back at our Japan house. I can’t wait. Right now is actually the best time to make umeshu, since the plums need to be at that perfect not quite ripe stage. Our local market even has a little umeshu station where you can grab all the supplies for your own batch. Fun!

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We visited Akashi today, mostly to eat (obviously). We had an amazing omakase sushi lunch, then followed it up with the city’s signature dish, akashiyaki. I had no idea, but akashiyaki actually came before the more famous takoyaki. It’s dipped in a warm broth instead of covered in sauce, and the batter is eggier too. It was really good! But if I’m being honest, I think I still prefer takoyaki, sauce, mayo, and all those toppings.

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