姫路城

Himeji Castle

Himeji Castle by Reginald Pentinio CC BY

In Brief

Castle in Himeji Castle Area, Himeji

9am - 4pm. Varies by season

1050

Allow 3 hours

Closed: New Year holidays

Official Site

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姫路城

Updated 15 June 2020

About Himeji Castle

Considered to be the most beautiful castle in Japan, Himeji Castle is one of only 12 castles still standing as original. A not to be missed highlight of the Kansai region.

One of only 12 Japanese castles that have not been destroyed and rebuilt during their lifetime, Himeji Castle is considered to be the finest example of Japanese castle architecture, featuring a network of over 80 rooms and defensive systems.

Construction on Himeji Castle started in 1333, and during that time has survived wars, earthquakes, bombings, and fires, including heavy bombing of Himeji during World War II and the Great Hanshin Earthquake of 1995.

It is sometimes known as Hakuro-jo (“White Egret Castle”) or Shirasagi-jo (“White Heron Castle”) due to it’s pristine white exterior, and resemblance to a crane preparing to take flight.

Reaching the castle is a pleasant 20 minute walk through the city from the train station. The grounds are interesting to wander, continuing to a tour of the castle and up to the top of the keep.