Having one glance at these 2 postcards, Japanophiles will assume that the reason why I put them together is that they were built without any nails. But since I have never been to witness the majesty of the traditional houses that showcased the Gassho zukuri style of architecture, another factor helped me draw the connection between these 2 landmarks.

Back then, I was into couchsurfing, and it was an elderly couple who drove me to Kintaikyo Bridge. What was amazing was that I had actually connected their son first. But he linked me up with his parents because he would not be in Yamaguchi during my stay. I vividly recall eating Iwakuni Sushi with them before we marvelled at the castle. I also remember singing Auld Lang Syne to them in their car before my departure.

I visited Gifu and patronised the post office to get hold of local postcards. This lady darted to the back of the office and gave me this small postcard as a bonus. Such small postcards were considered exclusive and not available for purchase. Yet she gave it to me for free. Bless her heart.

The hospitality of Japanese people encapsulated in these two postcards.