Himeji Castle is located in Himeji, Hyogo Prefecture. It is one of only 12 original castles still standing in Japan. After a major renovation in 2015, the castle looks even more beautiful, and it is widely recognized as one of the grandest and most beautiful castles in Japan. It is also registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of 4 castles recognized as Japanese cultural heritage sites, alongside Matsumoto Castle, Inuyama Castle and Hikone Castle. Being recognized at both the national and international level makes it clear that this castle is anything but ordinary.
During wartime, when many important structures across Japan were burned or destroyed, Himeji Castle was one of the few that survived. It has also survived earthquakes. Since this castle has never been destroyed, it has kept its original form completely intact. With later restoration work, Himeji Castle has become an even more beautiful and historically valuable site. It was built as early as the year 1346 — just think about how long it has stood the test of time. It truly seems indestructible.
It's not just the flawless preservation of its centuries-old original architecture that stands out. Himeji Castle is also known for its impressively large grounds. Most visitors enter through the Otemon Gate and, as they continue walking, come across grounds filled with cherry trees, a popular spot for photos of Himeji Castle framed by cherry blossoms. Inside, there are as many as 80 connected buildings, with walls and gates separating each section. Further along the path, you'll find a ticket booth for entering the inner castle grounds. Inside the castle are narrow staircases for going up and down. At the very top of the castle tower, there are openings that offer a full 360-degree panoramic view, letting you see the entire castle grounds and even the city of Himeji in the distance. It's a castle you really shouldn't miss.
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Nearby important attractions include Kokoen Garden, Engyo-ji Temple and the Himeji City Museum of Art
Note: Himeji City Museum of Art is closed for renovation from April 1, 2026 until around the end of December 2027. The garden is still open.
- Access: about a 15-20 minute walk from Himeji Station
- Location: 68 Honmachi, Himeji, Hyogo, Japan
- Hours: Open daily from 9:00 to 17:00, closed December 29-30 every year
- Admission: Castle only 1,000 yen, students 300 yen; castle and Kokoen Garden combined ticket 1,050 yen
- Website: https://www.himejicastle.jp/en/
- Coordinates: https://maps.app.goo.gl/Y2fPCsX8UFQuQ3YM8