Himeji Castle is widely considered Japan's most spectacular castle. Unlike many other Japanese castles, Himeji Castle was never destroyed in wars, earthquakes or fires and survives in its original form. It is both a national treasure and a UNESCO world heritage site.
Construction Notice: Major renovation works will be carried out on the main keep of Himeji Castle from April 2010 until March 2014. The main keep will be covered by scaffolding, starting from April 12, 2010. Access to the interior of the main keep will be impossible from April 12, 2010 until early 2011 and partially restricted thereafter until 2014.
In the 14th century, a fort was first built on the current castle site. Over the centuries, the various clans, who ruled over the region, gradually enlarged it. The castle complex, as it survives today, was completed in 1609. The well defended castle and its wooden interior are fascinating, and the castle's sight is spectacular, especially during the short and crowded cherry blossom season, that usually takes place in the first half of April.
It typically takes one to three hours to explore Himeji Castle. Many travelers visit it on an easy day or half day trip from Kyoto or during a 3-6 hour stop over on a journey along the Sanyo coast, for example, from Kyoto to Hiroshima or Kyushu.
How to get there
From Himeji Station, the castle can be reached in a 15-20 minute walk or 5 minute bus or taxi ride along the broad Otemae-dori Street, which leads straight from the station to the castle.
How to get to and around Himeji
Hours and Fees
- Hours: 9:00 to 17:00 (until 18:00 from late April through August) Admission into the inner castle grounds ends one hour before closing time. Admission into the castle keep ends 30 minutes before closing time.
- Closed: December 29 and 30
- Admission: 600 yen
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