Himeji Castle

Himeji Castle (姫路城) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most famous castles in Japan. It is located in Himeji City, Hyogo Prefecture, and is often referred to as the “White Heron Castle” due to its striking white appearance.

Originally built in the 16th century, Himeji Castle was expanded and rebuilt over the centuries, and is considered one of the finest examples of Japanese castle architecture. The castle complex consists of multiple buildings, including the main keep (tenshu), which is a five-story structure that offers panoramic views of the surrounding area.

Himeji Castle is known for its intricate design and defensive features, including a maze-like layout, multiple gates, and defensive walls. It is also home to a number of beautiful gardens and courtyards, including the Koko-en Garden, which features nine separate gardens with traditional Japanese landscaping.

Today, Himeji Castle is a popular destination for tourists and history buffs, offering a glimpse into Japan’s feudal past and the architectural and engineering skills of the time. The castle underwent extensive renovations in recent years, and is now restored to its former glory.

Getting there

From Osaka Station to Himeji Castle:

Train

Osaka Station ↓ Tokaido-Sanyo Line ↓ 1 hour 2 minutes (8 stops) Himeji Station ↓ Walk about 15 minutes ↓ Himeji Castle (Cost 1,520 yen)

Details

Hours	9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Reception closes at 4:00 PM.
Admission	Adults: 1,000 yen Children: 300 yen
Phone	+81 79-285-1146
Address	68 Honmachi, Himeji, Hyogo 670-0012
Official Website	https://www.city.himeji.lg.jp/castle/index.html

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