Why you must visit Himeji Castle. Travel guide for Himeji Castle

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JiJi
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Introduction

Welcome to Himeji Castle, an enchanting historic fortress located in Himeji City, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan.

Known as the “White Heron Castle” for its striking white plaster walls, this well-preserved castle is a testament to Japan’s rich history and architectural brilliance.
Let’s enter the enchanting world of Himeji Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and discover the fascinating stories that surround it.

Himeji Catle : image by Pixabay
White Heron: image by Pixabay

About Himeji Castle

Hailed as a military and artistic masterpiece, Himeji Castle is Japan’s largest surviving castle and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993.

It escaped the ravages of the Warring States period and even World War II, earning the nickname ‘Castle of Peace’.

The meticulously preserved castle, built with ingenious defences for siege scenarios, displays fascinating historical innovations.

Immerse yourself in the fascinating blend of history and architectural splendour that is Himeji Castle.

image by Photo AC
image by Pixabay

History and legends

Himeji Castle dates back to the early 17th century, with the completion of its iconic main tower in 1609.
During the Warring States period, the castle played a pivotal role as the stronghold of Toyotomi Hideyoshi, demonstrating its importance in Japan’s feudal history.

A fascinating legend concerns the famous swordsman Miyamoto Musashi, who is said to have bravely confronted and defeated supernatural creatures that haunted the castle’s highest floors.
The remnants of this legend are commemorated in the “Osakabe Shrine” at the top of the castle.

jiji

There is no Japanese who does not know both!

Toyotomi Hideyoshi (details)

Toyotomi Hideyoshi was a Japanese warlord who was active during the Sengoku and Azuchi-Momoyama periods and later became a naturalised ruler. He achieved unification of the country after the death of Oda Nobunaga.

Miyamoto Musashi(details)

Miyamoto Musashi was a Japanese martial artist of the early Edo period, a soldier in the service of the feudal lords and also an artist. He was the founder of the Nito style of swordsmanship and is best known for his duel with Sasaki Kojiro on Ganryu Island. Miyamoto Musashi was a peerless swordsman who never lost a single duel, and was also a man of many talents.

Admission and Costs

For travellers who wish to experience the charm of Himeji Castle, admission is 1000 yen for adults (18 years and older) and 300 yen for children (elementary, junior high and high school students).
Group rates are available for groups of 30 or more, with adult admission at 800 yen and child admission at 240 yen.
High school students, even if they are 18 years old, enjoy a reduced fee of 300 yen.

There is no pre-ticketing or reservation system; visitors can purchase tickets on the day of their visit.

Exploring the castle

Upon entering the castle, visitors are greeted by a maze of winding paths and staircases.
To get the most out of your visit, follow these tips.

Tips for exploring Himeji Castle

  • Wear comfortable clothing and footwear as there are many inclines and narrow passageways.
  • While food is generally not allowed inside the castle, you can bring sealed water bottles or thermos flasks with lids.
  • The castle is open from 9.00am to 4.00pm.
  • Check for extended opening hours, sometimes from 8:30am, during peak seasons.
  • Download the Himeji Castle Discovery App, which uses augmented reality (AR) technology.

Nocturnal Beauty and Other Attractions

When the sun goes down, Himeji Castle is transformed into a breathtaking spectacle during the night illumination, which lasts from sunset to midnight.
The colors change with the seasons, creating a different atmosphere each time.
It’s a romantic and magical experience not to be missed.

Conclusion

Beyond the castle, explore the beautiful gardens that surround the castle grounds.
These lush green spaces offer a tranquil retreat, perfect for a leisurely stroll and taking stunning photographs.

image by Pixabay

In conclusion, Himeji Castle is an architectural marvel that seamlessly blends history, legend and natural beauty.
Whether you’re a history buff, architecture enthusiast or simply looking for an unforgettable experience in Japan, Himeji Castle promises an enchanting journey through time.
So, lace up your comfortable shoes, bring your camera and get ready to explore the fascinating world of Himeji Castle.

location

Himeji Castle
Address:68 Honmachi, Himeji, Hyogo 670-0012
HP:Himeji Castle official website: Home (j-server.com)
Entrance fee:1,000JPY
Openning time:9:00-16:00
TEL:079-285-1146
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