Japan | Hyogo | Himeji Castle

📍Address 〒670-0012 Hyogo Prefecture, Himeji City, Honmachi 68 👉 Also known as "White Heron Castle," Himeji Castle is one of Japan's most iconic ancient castles. It is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a National Treasure, famous for its pristine white appearance and well-preserved castle structure. ⸻ 🕒 Opening Hours Daily Hours: 09:00–17:00 (Last entry at 16:00) • Extended hours from April 27 to August 31: 09:00–18:00 (Last entry at 17:00) • Closed at year-end (December 29–30) • Admission: Adults ¥1,000 / Elementary and middle school students ¥300 ⸻ 🚍 Transportation ✅ Convenient access from Osaka, Kobe, Kyoto, and other locations: 1. 🚄 JR Shinkansen / Sanyo Main Line: • Take the JR Sanyo Shinkansen to [Himeji Station], then walk about 15–20 minutes to reach the castle. • Alternatively, take a bus from Himeji Station (about 5 minutes) or a taxi (about 3 minutes). 2. 🚇 Sanyo Electric Railway: • Get off at [Sanyo Himeji Station], adjacent to JR Himeji Station, and enjoy a similarly convenient walk. 3. Recommended walking route: • After exiting the station, stroll straight along "Otemae Street" to catch a distant view of Himeji Castle. The clean streets are rich in historical ambiance. ⸻ ✅ Reasons to Visit • Built in the late 14th century and completed in 1609, Himeji Castle is Japan's most intact original castle structure, untouched by war. • Its white exterior resembles a heron, blending defensive techniques with architectural aesthetics, featuring a maze-like design for strategic defense. • Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site (1993) and one of Japan's four National Treasure castles. • Climbing to the top of the main keep offers panoramic views of Himeji City and the Harima Plain, especially stunning during cherry blossom season, autumn foliage, or winter snow. • Featured in numerous films and dramas, such as "007: You Only Live Twice" and "The Last Samurai." ⸻ 📌 Suggested Itinerary Plan a "Himeji Castle + Cultural Exploration Half-Day or Full-Day Tour": 1. Himeji Koko-en Garden – About a 5-minute walk • A Japanese-style garden next to Himeji Castle, featuring a pond-centered landscape, ideal for flower viewing or matcha tea experiences. • Combined tickets for Himeji Castle + Koko-en Garden available (¥1,040). 2. Himeji City Museum of Art or Himeji City Zoo • Suitable for families and art enthusiasts, both within walking distance. 3. Himeji Station Shopping Street or Sanyo Department Store (Shopping & Dining) • Enjoy local specialties like anago (conger eel) rice and Himeji udon noodles. 4. Shoshazan Engyoji Temple (Cable car ride about 30 minutes) • A hidden gem temple, known as "Mount Hiei of Western Japan," with breathtaking autumn foliage. • Featured in "The Last Samurai."