Guide to Himeji Castle

Brief History

Himeji Castle is an ancient Japanese castle that features prototypical Japanese architecture. It was constructed on top of the Himeyama Hill in Hyogo Prefecture in the early 1300s as a fortress. It occupies quite a large area, housing 83 buildings that were equipped with a sophisticated defensive setup during the feudal period.

Throughout four centuries, the castle has survived various threats and dangers, including a World War II bombing of the city of Himeji and the Great Hanshin earthquake of 1995. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that deservedly gained recognition for being one of three premier Japanese castles, along with Kumamoto Castle and Matsumoto Castle, that significantly contributed to Japan’s history.

Castle Tour

Being Japan’s largest castle complex, with an area of 233 hectares, Himeji Castle has plenty to offer when it comes to the country’s history and culture. The complex comprises many storehouses, corridors, gates, turrets and earthen walls.

At the centre of the complex is the main keep, which consists of six storeys and a basement. Each floor features a wide collection of artifacts that showcase the components of the Japanese defensive system used in the early times — swords, mazes, hidden compartments, rock chutes, portholes, maps, and more. The topmost floor offers good views of the city and the castle grounds below. It also allows visitors to get a closer look at the fish-shaped ornaments on the castle roofs.

The Himeji Castle grounds, meanwhile, are a popular cherry blossoms viewing spot during spring as they are home to several sakura trees that look stunning during the month of April. People also flock to this place during other Japanese holidays, such as the Golden Week and summer time.

How to Get There

Himeji Castle is located approximately one kilometre from Himeji Station, so visitors can get there either by taking a 5-minute bus ride that costs 100 yen, or walking for 15 to 20 minutes.