Himeji Castle Day Trip: Step Back in Time at the Stunning White Heron Castle

Early in the morning, I departed from Kobe by train and arrived at Himeji Station in about an hour. As I stepped out of the station, the magnificent Himeji Castle came into view from afar. Its pristine white main keep gleamed under the blue sky, truly living up to its nickname, "White Heron Castle." I walked along Otemae Street for about 15 minutes to enter the castle grounds. The interior is well-preserved and is one of Japan's first castles to be designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Climbing the steps felt like stepping into the historical setting of the Sengoku period. From the top of the main keep, I enjoyed a panoramic view of the city and distant mountains, which was incredibly refreshing. For lunch, I visited a local restaurant in the nearby Miyuki Street shopping area and savored Kansai-style sukiyaki and Himeji's specialty "anago-meshi" (grilled eel rice). The flavors were rich yet delicate, and the portions were just right. In the afternoon, I strolled to Koko-en Garden, a Japanese-style garden perfect for photography and sightseeing, with seasonal beauty throughout the year. If time permits, you can also visit the Himeji City Museum of Art to admire its red-brick Western-style architecture, which contrasts with the castle's design. As the sunset painted the castle walls in hues of red, it became the perfect moment to capture the beauty of Himeji Castle. This day trip not only immersed me in history but also showcased the elegance and charm of Hyogo. Location Highlights: Himeji Castle Miyuki Street Shopping Area Koko-en Garden