A day of leisure. That is how we feel about Sunday. However, this is not exactly true for the World Harmony Run crew which set up on its ongoing course beginning at Kurashiki railway station. With a gentle breeze in the back and modestly covered sun above, six runners made their way in the direction of Himeji.

In this fellowship you would not oversee the 63-year old lady, Jyotirmala, who is always presenting us with her kind and selfless heart.

Later on the lead of the relay was overtaken by Jarmila from Czech Republic who in spite of her subtleness produced the fastest relay of the day.

Near Joto station a new wave of enthusiasm was brought in by Mr. Yamagata, 66-year old runner, who joined the course for several kilometers.

Mr. Yamagata waiting for the torch

... and running with Vikshanam from Mongolia

In the car

In the suburbs of Himeji we wanted to stop our cars in order to cheer for the runners so we asked the owner of the Chinese restaurant Yuki to which the parking lot belonged, if we can stop there for a while. Not only did the owner with his wife and daughter allow us to park in front of the restaurant but they also brought us candies and cold water and eagerly waited for the arrival of the torch. Thanks to the family for a heart-warming moment!

In front of the restaurant Yuki with its owners

Then we arrived to the centre of the city of Himeji with its beautiful castle often compared to a white heron. There was just a big festival and we met a group of men in special festival clothes who carry a big portable shrine through the streets. We also got to know some girls in school uniforms. Everyone happily held the torch.

Himeji was in festival mood

Our supporters in Himeji city

Distance: 107 km

Team Members:
Erdenebaatar (Mongolia), Erik (Slovakia), Gunarashi, Harashita, Hasegawa, Jarmila (Czech), Jyotirmala, Karel (Czech), Ombo (Mongolia), Pramiti, Tsogo (Mongolia), Vikshanam (Mongolia)

Gallery: See more images!