Himeji Castle
The best of Himeji Castle
Why people love Himeji Castle
Nearby places to go
FAQs about Himeji Castle
When is the best time to visit Himeji Castle?
How can I get to Himeji Castle?
What are the admission fees and hours for Himeji Castle?
What to know before visiting Himeji Castle
Remarkable Landmarks and Must-Visit Sights
Main Keep
The heart of Himeji Castle, the main keep is a six-story wooden structure featuring wing buildings that add complexity to its appearance. Visitors can climb through steep, narrow staircases to reach the topmost floor, which houses a small shrine and offers panoramic views of the city and castle grounds.
Koko-en Garden
Adjacent to the castle, Koko-en Garden is a beautifully landscaped Japanese garden that provides a serene escape with its ponds, tea houses, and seasonal flora.
Hishi Gate
The first of the castle's 21 remaining gates, Hishi Gate is a significant entry point that showcases the castle's intricate defensive design.
Cultural and Historical Significance
Himeji Castle's history dates back to the 1400s, with fortifications gradually enlarged over the centuries by various ruling clans. Completed in 1609, the castle complex consists of over eighty buildings connected by gates and winding paths designed to slow down and expose attacking forces.
Architectural Marvel
The castle complex includes 83 buildings with advanced defensive systems, such as loopholes for archers and stone drop windows. Its brilliant white exterior and fan-shaped walls are designed to resemble a heron in flight.
UNESCO World Heritage Site
Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993, Himeji Castle is celebrated for its cultural and architectural significance, attracting millions of visitors annually.
Historical Events
The castle played a crucial role during the feudal era, serving as a stronghold for various samurai clans. It was also a strategic defense point during the Battle of Sekigahara, which paved the way for the Tokugawa shogunate.
Cherry Blossom Viewing
Himeji Castle is a highly popular spot for cherry blossom viewing during the short blooming season in early April. The Sannomaru area, with its cherry tree-lined lawn, is particularly favored by visitors.
Explore more on Klook
Trending Destinations
- things to do in Singapore
- things to do in Osaka
- things to do in Taipei
- things to do in Jeju
- things to do in Kyoto
- things to do in Hanoi
- things to do in Seoul
- things to do in Busan
- things to do in Bangkok
- things to do in Tokyo
- things to do in Melbourne
- things to do in Nagoya
- things to do in Phuket
- things to do in Bali
- things to do in Perth
- things to do in Sydney
- things to do in Dubai
- things to do in Chiang Mai
- things to do in Hong Kong
- things to do in London
- things to do in Penang
- things to do in Langkawi
- things to do in Da Nang
- things to do in Macau
- things to do in Melaka
- things to do in Kuala Lumpur
- things to do in Bintan
- things to do in Johor Bahru
- things to do in Hokkaido
- things to do in Krabi
Explore Popular Activities
- Harry Potter Tokyo
- Gardens By The Bay Ticket
- National Gallery Singapore
- Universal Studios Singapore Ticket
- Art Science Museum Ticket
- Royal Caribbean
- Singapore Zoo Ticket
- Universal Studios Japan
- Bird Paradise
- National Museum Singapore
- Sea Aquarium
- Asian Civilisations Museum
- Resort World Sentosa
- Jewel Changi
- Wings Of Time
- Adventure Cove
- Night Safari Singapore
- Osaka Castle
- Sunway Lagoon
- Wild Wild Wet
- Tokyo Skytree Ticket
- Hong Kong Disneyland
- Tokyo Disneyland
- Tokyo Tower Ticket
- Legoland Malaysia
- Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal
- Lee Kong Chian Natural History Museum
- Cable Car Singapore
- Jr Pass
- Ice Cream Museum