KOBE. 
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associations of grace and beauty, then we cannot refuse to the Japanese the honour of being 
a highlv-cultured race. 
Oosaka is situated at the mouth of the river which forms the natural outlet of the large 
Lake of Biwako. On the banks of the stream rise the modern buildings of the Imperial Mint, 
erected under the superintendence of Europeans. The coins formerly in use were generally 
square-shaped, rounded off at the corners, and having a hole in the middle, so that a number 
of them could be strung together. These are now being replaced by round coins, and also 
by paper money—a doubtful improvement when employed for small change. On the country 
being first opened to foreigners, the old Japanese silver and gold coins, owing to their 
intrinsic value, were exported on a large scale. This, though inevitable, seemed a peculiar 
way of repaying the hospitality just granted. Crossing an iron bridge of recent construction, 
we entered the busy streets of Oosaka, which extend for a great distance along the river, and 
lead towards the north, to a large castle garrisoned with troops. Our curiosity drew us 
through the gate of the fortress, but further advance was soon stopped by a sentry with 
fixed bayonet. The modern army of Japan has been equipped and drilled chiefly under the 
superintendence of French officers. Hence the soldiers resemble in outward appearance those 
of a French line regiment, and are of about the same stature; but, although short, they 
look strong and healthy, show steadiness and endurance on the march, are obedient under 
discipline, and, as they have already shown on several occasions, can offer an excellent fiont 
to an enemy. Moreover, the national character, especially as regards the upper classes, is 
strongly imbued with the martial spirit. Great feats of personal courage are a favourite theme 
of the Japanese romancers. 
The journey from Oosaka to Miako may be made by boat, or in one of those small 
two-wheeled conveyances recently introduced from America, called jinriksha. The lattei 
seem to have quite usurped the place of the old-fashioned palanquin. They resemble an 
invalid chair, provided with a hood as a protection against rain, and are drawn by strong 
muscular men, one in front between the shafts, and another pushing behind when the road is 
steep or great speed is desirable. In warm weather these men work almost without clothing. 
They will travel at a quick pace, and at the rate of thirty miles per day or more. We found 
them on all occasions civil and good-humoured, and their patience and endurance are extraordinary. 
Nevertheless, in spite of their great strength, the work is found to be very exhausting, and 
is said to shorten their lives. No doubt the introduction of railways, tramways, and other 
means of conveyance will, after a while, abolish this rather unseemly kind of labour. 
At the time of our visit, an exhibition of native products was open at Miako, in imitation 
of similar displays in the Western world. Most of our readers will remember the sensation 
created by the Japanese departments in the recent exhibitions at Vienna and at Philadelphia; 
I need not, therefore, dilate upon the treasures of art and the marvels of manufactuiing 
skill which this nation can offer to the admiring spectator. Miako is the Rome of Japan, 
and, as regards the number and quaint beauty of its temples, and the charm of the 
surrounding scenery, it possesses strong attractions for the traveller. 
