Q. I hear you are on a journey of self-discovery!

Photo of Mongolia taken by Alice

I graduated from graduate school this past spring, and when I thought about my future career path, I started thinking about what I wanted to do and what kind of life I wanted to lead.

I wanted to spend some time with myself, so I set out on a trip. This is what I call a “self-discovery” trip. So I didn’t have a destination in mind or a plan. I just go where I feel like going, when I feel like going.

Before coming here, I was in Mongolia for a month and then in Korea. Then I came to Japan a week ago and arrived in Osaka, Wakayama, Kyoto, Nara, and Himeji.

When I arrived in Osaka, I was in trouble because all the hotels were fully booked. I stayed at a hotel in Wakayama on short notice. I plan to return to France by Christmas.

Q. What did you do in Himeji?

I stayed one night in Himeji and went sightseeing at Himeji Castle and Kokoen. It was the season of autumn leaves, and it was really beautiful everywhere. Also, Himeji is very quiet and comfortable to walk around.

I went to “Memme” for lunch, and it was exciting to see udon noodles being made right in front of the customers. There were many foreign tourists by the way.

I also went to “Hamamoto Coffee,” a coffee shop with a great atmosphere and a counter lined with siphon coffees. Japanese people are always smiling and friendly, and the service is very satisfying.

Q. What is the best one you found in Himeji?

I majored in biology in college and studied the ecology of wild birds. Bird-watching is my hobby, so I enjoy it no matter where I travel.

Even when I travel, I can’t help but notice birds. By the way, I saw an egret in Himeji.

Yes, I found out that Himeji Castle has another name, “Shirasagi (white egret)”, after I came to Himeji Castle. In that sense, Himeji Castle is my best castle !