2024 Himeji Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in December)

Sakura Magic at Himeji Castle

My visit to Himeji Castle during sakura season was like stepping into a fairy tale! The castle, with its stunning white walls, looked even more beautiful surrounded by soft pink cherry blossoms. Walking through the castle grounds, petals were gently falling like snow, creating a magical scene. I had so much fun taking photos of the castle framed by the blooming sakura trees. It felt like everywhere I turned, there was another perfect picture waiting. Climbing up to the top of the castle rewarded me with a breathtaking view of the entire area, covered in a sea of pink and white. People were having picnics under the trees, and the happy, festive atmosphere made everything even more special. Himeji Castle during sakura season is a dream come true, and I’ll never forget that beautiful spring day! #japan #japantrip #himejicastle #sakuraseason

Enjoy Spicy Daikon Soba at a Farmhouse Restaurant in Yumesaki Town.

You can also make your own soba at the soba-making dojo (reservation required). This time, I ordered the regular spicy daikon soba. The smooth texture of the soba combined with the spiciness of the daikon was delightful. Although it's located in a tranquil area, many people came to enjoy the soba. Be sure to check it out when visiting Himeji or Yumesaki. ✱----------------------------------------------- 【Name】Yumesaki Yume no Sato Farmhouse Restaurant 'Yume Kobo' 【Location】1281-2 Konokusa, Yumesaki-cho, Himeji City, Hyogo Prefecture 【Access】About 12 km by car from 'Fukusaki IC' on the Chugoku Expressway, about 4 km by car from 'Yumesaki Smart IC' 【Business Hours】11:00 AM - 3:00 PM (Last Order 2:00 PM) 【Closed】Mondays (next business day if it's a holiday), New Year's holidays Visit Date: September 2024 -----------------------------------------------✱

Comfortable and Stylish Log House in Yumesaki Town

This stylish log house comes equipped with a kitchen (bring your own utensils), bath and toilet, air conditioning, futons, and a refrigerator. Reservations are required for meals at the BBQ area by the day before. There is also a campsite available. The cottage is nestled in nature, giving you the feeling of being in a vacation home. Highly recommended for those looking for a comfortable cottage. ✱----------------------------------------------- 【Name】Yumesaki Yume no Sato Cottage Village 【Location】1281-2 Konokusa, Yumesaki-cho, Himeji City, Hyogo Prefecture 【Access】Approx. 12 km by car from Fukusaki IC on the Chugoku Expressway, approx. 4 km by car from Yumesaki Smart IC 【Business Hours】09:00〜17:00 【Closed】Mondays (next business day if it's a holiday), New Year's holidays ◆Cottage (Capacity: 6 people) Accommodation: 17,200 yen per cottage (Check-in: 16:00 / Check-out: 10:00) Rest: 4,400 yen per cottage (11:00～15:00) Visit Date: September 2024 -----------------------------------------------✱

【Yumesaki Town】Vegetable Bagging for 100 Yen.

You could fill a bag with bell peppers, shishito peppers, and more for just 100 yen. It was so cheap that it was shocking. Yume no Sato is an agricultural experience facility where you can enjoy activities like digging sweet potatoes, camping, staying in cottages, making soba noodles, dining at a restaurant, and having a barbecue (reservation required). It's located in a peaceful area, making it perfect for a drive. ✱----------------------------------------------- 【Name】Yumesaki Yume no Sato Yume Yakata Agricultural Experience Facility 【Location】1281-2 Konokusa, Yumesaki-cho, Himeji City, Hyogo Prefecture 【Access】About 12 km by car from Fukusaki IC on the Chugoku Expressway, about 4 km by car from Yumesaki Smart IC 【Business Hours】09:00〜17:00 【Closed】Mondays (if it's a holiday, the next business day), New Year's holidays Visit Date: September 2024 -----------------------------------------------✱

Himeji Castle: A Romantic Experience at the White Heron Castle

Visiting Himeji Castle in Hyogo Prefecture, Japan, a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site known as the 'White Heron Castle,' offers an unparalleled charm! From its white walls to its intricate defense system, every corner here tells a story of history. ✨ Architectural Features: - White Walls: Beauty like a dreamy ink painting. - Intricate Defense System: Ingeniously designed and historically rich. - Japanese Elements: Elegance infused with Japanese culture. 🌧️ Beauty in the Rain: - In the drizzle, the white walls of Himeji Castle appear especially enchanting, with raindrops adding a touch of mystery and romance. 📸 Best Visiting Times: - Early Morning: Enjoy the tranquility and take clear photos. - Dusk: Romantic scenery under golden light. 🍂 Best Seasonal Activities: - **Spring (March to May)**: Cherry blossoms in full bloom create a stunning contrast with the castle. - **Autumn (September to November)**: The colorful autumn leaves enhance the photography experience. 🌟 Recommended Activities: - Stroll inside the castle to appreciate its architectural beauty. - Join guided tours to delve deeper into its history. - Taste local delicacies to enrich your travel experience. No matter when you visit, Himeji Castle will leave you with unforgettable memories! Don't forget to capture beautiful moments here, making Himeji Castle an eternal memory in your heart!

[Himeji] Special offer: 20% off admission fees

Shinki Bus's "Himeji Castle Loop Bus 1-Day Pass" is recommended for sightseeing around the castle. It comes with a 20% discount on admission to tourist facilities. It's a short walk, but it was a very useful ticket in the summer. ✱----------------------------------------------- 〈Himeji Castle Loop Bus 1-Day Pass〉 Adults 400 yen, children 200 yen *Adults 190 yen per trip on the loop bus ||Discount points|| 20% discount on the following facilities Himeji Castle, Himeji City Museum of Art (permanent exhibition only), Hyogo Prefectural Museum of History, Himeji Literature Museum (permanent exhibition only), Kokoen Garden ||Route|| Himeji Station (Platform 6) → Himeji Castle Otemon Gate → Himeji Post Office → Museum → Shimizu Bridge (Literature Museum) → Kokoen Garden → Otemae Street → Himeji Station ||Operating days|| Weekdays (No service from December to February) Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays New Year's (January 1st to 3rd *Special schedule) Visit date: September 2024 -----------------------------------------------✱ #Discounts and tourist services #Tourism #Domestic travel #Hyogo sightseeing #Himeji #Bus #Discount

Himeji the best castle in Japan 🇯🇵

#cherryblossom2024 The cherry blossom season on the entrance of Himeji Road in Japan is not as extensive as in other popular tourist spots. 🌸 Himeji is most renowned for its Himeji Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site that can be explored in a single day. Himeji Castle, along with Matsuyama Castle and Wakayama Castle, form the trio of Japan's significant Hirayama Castles. 🏯 Recognized for its exceptional preservation, Himeji Castle holds the title of the "Number One City in Japan". 🇯🇵 residents of Kobe or Kyoto in the Kansai region can easily embark on a day trip to this area, where the cherry blossoms typically bloom in white. 🍒 📍Location-wise, visitors can alight at JR Jilu station and swiftly reach Jilu City, making it incredibly convenient. 🚂It takes about an hour to travel from Osaka, Kobe, or Kyoto, with the nearest entrance being the Shinmon gate. 🚄 F or accommodations, it is advisable to travel from residential areas in Kansai for a day trip or consider a stay near Himeji Castle if desired. ⏰The operating hours are from 9:00 to 17:00 from September to April and from 9:00 to 18:00 from May to August. 🏰

Himeji City, Japan Himeji Castle (White Heron Castle)

#winHong Kong air tickets Himeji City, Japan Himeji Castle (White Heron Castle) One of Japan's 100 famous cities Himeji Castle is the most symbolic and complete castle in Japan. The seven-story castle tower in the city has a history of more than 400 years. It is one of the 12 existing buildings in Japan. Himeji Castle itself can be traced back to more than 600 years ago. Also known as the first city in Japan Outside is a large lawn called Sannomaru Cherry blossoms will bloom in spring Free to enter If you want to further visit Himeji Castle, you need to pay to enter the Nishinomaru Garden. When walking through Himeji Castle, you will find that the road is winding and slopes. Mainly designed during the Warring States Period to resist enemy attacks. thereby delaying the enemy's advance speed Here you can see many children wearing ninja costumes🥷 It’s really very appropriate and cute Once you enter the castle, you can pay to go up to the top castle tower. Tall friends should note that the castle tower is not high and may require you to bend down for a long time to move. Himeji Castle is the most beautiful Japanese castle I have ever seen🏯 The complete topography, landforms and buildings are full of Edo style. You can better understand the history of the Warring States Period by being there. I want to go to Hong Kong to eat good food

the beauty of himeji castle 🏰

#fallingseason #timetotravel The UNESCO World Cultural Heritage castle located in Himeji City, Hyogo Prefecture, is also known as the White Heron Castle for its pristine white stature that stands out against the blue sky, resembling a white heron taking flight. Admire the dazzling castle tower and explore the many attractions including the various defenses against attack. In Koko-en garden founded on the grounds of the former West Residence, you can enjoy dining or tea while gazing at the majestic castle.

Himeji Castle

In one of the Japanese view, this castle is obviously the best castle in Japan. The white walls are so beautiful so that you can watch transparent from Himeji station. Himeji station is about an hour from Kobe station, 90 minutes from Osaka , 2 hours from Kyoto. If you go to Kyoto or Osaka , I highly recommend you to visit. Inside of the castle is a museum. You can inevitably feel Japanese past culture. The Japanese garden is great as well.#Himeji #Castle #姫路城 #姫路観光 #姫路観光

One of most beautiful castles in Japan!!

Himeji !! Famous for it beautiful white castle and it called White Egret Castle. One of the most 12 beautiful castle in Japan . With a history spanning 400 years , magnificent structures is renowned in Japan and its national treasure and world cultural heritage site . Every year , famous for hanami as well , lots of beautiful Sakura surrounded the whole compound. It located near Hemiji station and can even see from station itself, just 10 mins leisure walk from station and beautiful statue along the way . And remember to enjoy Kobe beef near the castle as well . I drop by Hemiji castle along to way to Osaka . Make sure you visit this beautiful castle while you are in Japan . See you on the other side of the world 🌎!! #Japan #naturelover #solotravel

Himeji Castle and its Gardens 🏯

My first castle visit to Himeji Castle during my trip in Japan. There were so many levels in the Castle which you can explore, all the while learning about its history such as it's past occupants/families. Throughout the castle levels (especially at the top), I got to take in the beautiful scenery overseeing the castle's surrounding architecture and its gardens (including the city). Even the entrance and path leading up to the Castle are lined by cherry blossom trees in bloom during the spring period we visited. But if you love greenery/nature the Koko-en garden beside Himeji castle is also a must go with tranquil rivers and a colourful scene painted by a large array of plants and flowers 💮 Tickets are needed for both the castle and garden but can be purchased as a bundle. Just a word of caution, the steps as you traverse the Castle are quite steep and small so be careful as you try to climb them. #himeji #castle #history #garden #spring

Wonderful garden by Himeji Castle, Koko-en

This garden was constructed 30 years ago to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the foundation of HImeji municipality. It has a total of 9 different gardens. Although petite in size but this garden has all it needs. It has a tea house serving tea with a view of a large pond with numerous collections of Koi fishes. The gardens have different themes so that visitors can enjoy the different feeling of excitement. During autumn, the maple leaves will turn red whereby it provides a feeling of calamity and somber mood. Be sure to spend some time to pay a visit as the ticket to Himeji castle also includes the admission fee to this garden, especially after a tired walk in the castle, sipping a cup of tea is the best option. #celebratewithtrip #tripblazers

Japan’s earliest World Heritage ~ Himeji Castle 🏰

Himeji Castle is one of the 100 famous castles in Japan. Together with Kumamoto Castle and Matsumoto Castle, it is known as the three most famous castles in Japan🙌🏻 Himeji Castle is very well preserved. Although it has a long history, it has successfully escaped the Warring States Period, World War II, etc. It was damaged by wars and natural disasters, so there was not much damage👍🏻The castle tower in the castle is also one of the 12 existing castle towers in Japan. Therefore, Himeji Castle is not only a national treasure and national special historical site designated by the Japanese government, but also one of the first batch of world-famous castles in Japan. One of the cultural heritages, it is known as "Japan's most famous city"🤩Many Japanese dramas and movies have been filmed here! 😝 The pure white exterior wall of Himeji Castle is full of Japanese aesthetics and is very eye-catching. What amazed me the most was the layout of the interior of the castle. It reflected that Japan’s defense technology was very mature at that time and highlighted the wisdom of the ancients😍 Although Himeji is not close to Osaka, they are both worth a visit🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻 #japanattractions

It's to treasure of the world from Japanese t

National treasure Himeji Castle was the first World Cultural Heritage in December, 1993 at Japan as well as Horyu-ji in Nara. Himeji Castle which enjoys by a nickname of "hakurojo" from the elegant form that an aigrette spread its wings. A vivid white rampart built with white lime plaster sounurikago and coalition system Tenshu where 5 layers of east, west and Inui's Kotenshu(smaller donjon) were connected to Daitenshu (Main donjon) in the 1st floor of 6th floor underground in Watari yagura (Turret) are the feature. Address : Himeji Castle Administration Office Zip 670-0012 68 Honmachi Himeji city the north side of Sannomaru Square in Himeji Castle Opening Hours: 9:00am to 4:00pm, (for gate closing, 5:00pm)

Himeji Castle is the most popular castle in Hyogo, Japan. It is known as White castle due to its white interior and apperance. The Otemon gate is a great spot to photograph the castle and view the cherry blossoms, if you are lucky enough to see them since cherry blossoms appear during spring season. But even though summer, fall or winter, Himeji Castle is worth to visit. #givethanks #givethanks

This is a truly magnificent castle and as you walk around the grounds there are many fine views of this astonishing building. It is built on top of the biggest, most impressive dry stonewall I've ever seen. The building itself brings thoughts of Samurai. Used many times in films from Kurosawa's films to James Bond. This is a visual treat as well as an historically important part of Japanese culture. #GiveThanks

Stroll through the White Heron Castle and visit a stunning Japanese castle.

Himeji Castle, also known as the White Heron Castle, is a Japanese national treasure and a World Heritage Site, famous for its well-preserved condition. This 400-year-old seven-story castle tower is a must-visit for Japanese history enthusiasts. 🔅Long history Himeji Castle was built in the 14th century, and the existing structure was mainly built in 1609, and has undergone several renovations to become what we see today. Many famous historical figures have lived in Himeji Castle, such as Toyotomi Hideyoshi, Ikeda Terumasa, Miyamoto Musashi, and others. 🔅Well-preserved Himeji Castle is one of the few ancient castles in Japan that has not been damaged by war or natural disasters. Many famous Japanese castles, such as Edo Castle and Nijo Castle, have not been preserved intact due to fires or bombings. Himeji Castle has been fortunate to escape many disasters. 🔅Complex defense system The castle tower is built on a hill overlooking the entire city. The castle has maze-like paths and multi-layered fortifications, making it easy to defend and difficult to attack, and has never been captured. 🚆Route: Take the JR Tokaido Sanyo Line from Osaka Station for 1 hour and 5 minutes to Himeji Station, and you can see the castle right across from the north exit. Walk north for 20 minutes or take a bus to get there. Himeji Castle is a niche attraction, and when I went there at 7 am, there were many locals walking their dogs.

Can’t afford to miss out

Himeji castle was definitely a must-visit place in Kansai district. It’s not only one of the first UNESCO world heritage sites, but also the largest castle in japan. The whole visit was amazing given its rich heritage and magnificent architecture. I am grateful to make it this trip under my tight itinerary. The free market nearby was another highlight where you can get the vintage products for local.

Dancing Egrets - Himeji Castle

Himeji Castle is the most beautiful and magnificent castle in Japan, and one of the few early castles. It was built in 1333, and the five-story, six-level (inner layer) main keep and three small keeps that have been preserved to this day were built in 1580 by order of the samurai Toyotomi Hideyoshi, and later expanded by the samurai Ikeda Terumasa in 1608. Its beautiful shape, multiple roofs and gables, and white plastered walls resemble a group of dancing egrets, hence it is also known as the "Egret Castle". Himeji Castle is a World Cultural Heritage Site and a Japanese National Treasure.

A Journey Through Time: Exploring the Elegance and Grandeur of Himeji Castle and Koko-en Garden

Himeji Castle, also known as the 'White Heron Castle,' is renowned for its pristine white appearance and elegant structure, celebrated as the pinnacle of wooden architecture. As Japan's first castle to be designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is not only a national treasure but also a sanctuary for history enthusiasts. Himeji Castle is one of the twelve remaining original castles in Japan, with a history spanning over 400 years, serving as a significant relic of the tumultuous Sengoku period. The Majestic Otemon Gate and Sannomaru Square: A Cherry Blossom Hotspot Entering Himeji Castle through the Otemon Gate, visitors are greeted by the open 'Sannomaru' area. This expansive lawn, filled with cherry blossom trees, transforms into a sea of pink flowers each spring, making it a popular spot for locals and tourists to enjoy hanami (cherry blossom viewing). Sannomaru offers a freely accessible area where visitors can leisurely stroll and capture the beautiful scenes of the castle intertwined with cherry blossoms, as if stepping into a symphony of history and nature. Climbing the Main Keep: A Panoramic View of Himeji's Splendor The main keep of Himeji Castle is a must-visit highlight, known for its unique design and meticulous defense system. Climbing to the top floor of the main keep, the stairs become increasingly steep, but the cool breeze and expansive view at the top are truly refreshing. From this vantage point, one can overlook the castle walls and surrounding scenery, witnessing the historical grandeur and breathtaking views, making the journey both a physical challenge and a spiritual cleansing. Koko-en Garden: Strolling Through Nine Edo-Style Gardens Adjacent to Himeji Castle is 'Koko-en,' a traditional Japanese garden. Opened in 1992 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Himeji City, Koko-en consists of nine distinct gardens, each showcasing different Edo period gardening styles. These gardens are not only exquisite and serene but also a perfect embodiment of Japanese aesthetics. Strolling through the garden, with bamboo groves and the sound of flowing water, one feels transported back to the elegant era of ancient Japan. A Profound Experience Through Time: The Journey to Himeji Castle The journey to Himeji Castle is not only a profound experience of ancient Japanese architecture and history but also an emotional connection across time. In this ancient castle, embodying both elegance and grandeur, from the majestic gates and ancient main keep to the exquisite Koko-en Garden, the deep cultural heritage of Japan is palpable. This journey allows one to deeply appreciate Japanese aesthetics and history, leaving behind invaluable memories.

Nature’s Palette: Autumn Bliss at Kokoen Garden, Himeji!

#fallfoliage Visiting Kokoen Garden next to Himeji Castle was a dreamy experience! In autumn, the garden was bursting with vibrant red, orange, and yellow leaves. Walking through its nine different themed gardens felt like exploring a hidden paradise. Each section had its own unique charm, from tranquil ponds filled with koi fish to delicate waterfalls surrounded by colorful trees. The reflections of red and yellow leaves on the water were absolutely stunning—perfect for snapping photos! I loved sitting by the traditional tea house, enjoying the peaceful view and crisp air. Kokoen Garden’s beauty and charm made it a magical escape right next to the majestic Himeji Castle! #travel #autumn #japan #kokoen #himeji #naturalwonders

An outstanding castle in Kansai Area

If you are getting bored with too many shrines and temples in Japan, please take a short trip to Himeji, the castle will Wow you again. It is a beautiful castle. The park around the castle is a great place to see red/yellow leaves or cherry blossom, you can even have a picnic with a great view of the castle.

Free trip to Japan during a short holiday｜World Cultural Heritage Himeji Castle.

During the Mid-Autumn Festival holiday, Air China flies to and from Osaka, Japan, and checks in on the JR Kobe line 🏯 Himeji Castle, a world cultural heritage, the most famous city in Japan, a Japanese national treasure and a special historical site! Located in Honmachi, Himeji City, Hyogo Prefecture. ⏰Opening hours 09:00～16:00, closed at 17:00, summer (June 1st to August 31st) 09:00～17:00, closed at 18:00. Closed on December 29th and 30th all year round. You can check the visit instructions on Himeji Castle’s official website. 🎫Ticket price Tickets cost JPY1,000 for adults and JPY300 for children. Tickets can be purchased at the scenic spot window. Both cash and VISA are accepted. Alipay and WeChat payment are also supported. 🏯Visit route After checking in, enter through Hishinomon on the slope. Pass through Nishinomaru and enter the Hundred Hall Corridor, which is the residence of Tokugawa Ieyasu's granddaughter Senhime. After coming out of the dressing room, pass through the water gate and enter the main castle. You have to take off your shoes and walk barefoot when entering the castle tower. The entire castle is 45 meters high and has seven floors including the stone foundation underground. After climbing to the top, return the same way to Bizen Maru. You can take a panoramic view of Himeji Castle in the open space‼ ️Then you can return to Hishi no Gate via Bizenmon, Taiko Tower, and Og no Go. The whole journey takes 1.5 to 2 hours. 🪭Himeji Experience Sightseeing rickshaw, JPY3,000 for 10 minutes, JPY7,000 for 30 minutes, JPY15,000 for 70 minutes, more expensive for two persons; Warring States General Transformation, JPY7,000 per hour, starting from 12:30, limited to 3 people; Ashigaru Gate Banner, seems to show the castle gate for 2 hours, JPY3,000; Ninja training, 10:00～15:00, adults JPY7,000/children JPY4,000; As well as Himeji leather, indigo dyeing, grass dyeing, kimono experience, etc., I didn't experience it, I only visited the main castle. 🚈Traffic guidance From Osaka, you can take the JR/Shinkansen from Osaka Station to Himeji Station. It takes about 8 JR stops and takes 1 hour. The fare is JPY1,520. Get off the bus and take a bus opposite the station. The fare is JPY190/person and it takes 6 minutes to reach the entrance of Himeji Castle. ⚠️Notes 1. There are 2 seals on the left side of the Himeji Castle ticket gate, don’t miss it! 2. Admission to Otemon and Sannomaru is free, and you can enjoy the distant view of Himeji Castle! 3. You must take off your shoes to enter the main castle. It is recommended to bring a pair of slippers.

Osaka Travel Attractions

Himeji Castle is renowned for its white walls and elegant rooftops, often referred to as the 'White Heron Castle' due to its appearance resembling a white heron soaring in the sky. The castle is most beautiful during the spring and autumn seasons when the weather is pleasant. It is recommended to join a guided tour to gain a deeper understanding of the castle's history and architectural features. The Main Keep, the central tower of the castle, offers a spectacular panoramic view of the city. Interior Exhibits, the interior houses numerous historical artifacts and exhibitions that introduce the history and culture of the castle. Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka are two famous streets located in Kyoto, Japan, known for their historic ambiance and traditional architecture. Ninenzaka is situated near Kiyomizu-dera Temple, connecting to the main entrance of Higashiyama and Kiyomizu-dera. Consider visiting at dusk to capture the soft light and shadows on the streets. Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka are not only excellent places to explore Kyoto but also great spots to experience traditional Japanese culture and history.

Himeji Castle: A Historical Gem Under the Wings of the White Heron

Himeji Castle, one of Japan's most famous ancient castles, is known as the 'White Heron Castle' due to its pristine white walls and elegant silhouette resembling a heron in flight. Stepping into this historic fortress feels like traveling back to ancient Japan, where the aura of antiquity and solemnity is palpable. The well-preserved structure and intricate defense system of Himeji Castle are astonishing, and walking through its corridors, one can almost sense the presence of the samurai and generals who once guarded it. Standing atop the main keep, you can overlook the entire city and the distant mountains, as if admiring a delicate painting. Every detail within the castle reveals the unique craftsmanship of Japanese architectural art, making one marvel at the timelessness of the place. Himeji Castle is not just a magnificent building but a testament to history, embodying the profound essence of Japanese culture and the samurai spirit. This visit to Himeji Castle not only allowed me to experience the grandeur and elegance of ancient architecture but also deepened my understanding of Japanese history. This castle is a treasure worth exploring for every history and culture enthusiast.

Senyoji temple

#traveldiaries One of the popular tourist destinations in Onomichi. It offers great views of the town and the neighboring islands. You can either get by car, by a ropeway that runs every 15 minutes or by foot. Walking up to the mountain doesn’t seem a difficult task as long as it is not summer. Otherwise going down walking is the only alternative; it doesn’t take longer than 10 minutes.

Himeji Castle 🏯

#traveldiaries Himeji Castle, also known as White Heron Castle, due to its elegant, white appearance, is widely considered Japan's most spectacular castle for its imposing size and beauty and its well preserved, complex castle grounds. The castle is both a national treasure and a world heritage site. Unlike many other Japanese castles, it was never destroyed by war, earthquake or fire and survives to this day as one of the country's twelve original castles. Himeji Castle lies at a strategic point along the western approach to the former capital city of Kyoto. The first fortifications built on the site were completed in the 1400s, and were gradually enlarged over the centuries by the various clans who ruled over the region. The castle complex as it survives today was completed in 1609. It is made up of over eighty buildings spread across multiple baileys, which are connected by a series of gates and winding paths. The inside of the main keep is filled with very beautiful wood and it’s fascinating to see the military aspects of architecture that the castle has, like hiding places for soldiers and weapon racks. There’s also a throne on the top floor and amazing views of the city and outer parts of the castle. 💰Average Price per Person: 1000 yen for Himeji Castle; 1050 yen for combined ticket for Himeji Castle and Kokoen Garden. 🕰️Business Hours: 9am to 4pm every day. 🚄Getting there: 15-20 mins walk from Himeji Station. #japan #himejicastle #historicallandmarks #localguides #osaka #kyoto

Koko-en Garden

Located next to Himeji Castle, Koko-en Garden is a traditional Japanese garden featuring a pond and strolling paths. It consists of nine distinct gardens, each with its own unique charm. The garden has been used as a filming location for period dramas and movies, offering visitors a chance to experience the atmosphere of the Edo period firsthand. The gardens include the Water Garden, Tea Garden, Evergreen Garden, Bamboo Garden, and Flower Garden. These gardens are designed to showcase the stunning seasonal changes: the pink hues of spring, the lush greenery of summer, the fiery reds of autumn, and the pristine whites of winter.

Himeji Castle, Japan - Shoshazan Engyoji Temple.

Shoshazan Engyoji Temple was founded in 966 by the monk Shoku and is an ancient temple of the Tendai sect. It has a history of over a thousand years and is very important in Japanese Buddhism. It has been used as a filming location for many films and TV shows, including "The Last Samurai" and the Taiga drama "Gunshi Kanbei". The Maniden Hall was originally destroyed by a fire in 1921 and was rebuilt over a period of ten years in the traditional style. It was built using the cantilever method. The temple is located on Mount Shosha in Himeji, Hyogo Prefecture. From Himeji Castle, go to the "Himeji Castle Mae" intersection and turn right. Walk about 100 meters towards Himeji Station to the bus stop. Take the No. 8 bus to the Mount Shosha Ropeway. You can take the ropeway for about 4 minutes or walk for 30 minutes.