basic information

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.

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 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.

Construction Notice: Major renovation works will be carried out on the main keep of Himeji Castle from mid 2009 to 2014. The main keep will be covered by scaffolding for most of the duration (starting around autumn 2009), and access to the interior of the main keep will be partially restricted.

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how to get there

From Himeji Station, the castle can be reached in a 15-20 minute walk or 5 minute bus 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 16:00 (until 17:00 from June to August)
Closed:	December 29 and 30
Admission:	600 yen

news and reports

	Himeji Cherry Blossom Report April 14, 2009
	Himeji Cherry Blossom Report March 31, 2009

travel community

Users who have been to Himeji: 614
Users who have been to Himeji Castle: 560

1st of 3 most visited sights in Himeji.
27th of 509 most visited sights nationwide.

Rating by users:		highly recommended (94/100, 368 votes)
Rating by staff:		highly recommended
Overall Rating:		best of the best

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question forum

Himeji as stopover

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updated 3 days ago

tours and packages

From Osaka: Himeji Castle and Sake Brewery Guided full day trip from Osaka to Himeji and Kobe.

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