Himeji Castle: Japan’s Treasure
What is Himeji Castle?
Himeji Castle, affectionately known as the “White Heron Castle,” is a symbol of Japanese history and culture. Registered as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site in 1993, it continues to captivate visitors with its beautiful white exterior and intricate architecture. Considered the finest example of castle architecture from the Sengoku to Edo periods, Himeji Castle is highly valued both domestically and internationally.
Access to Himeji Castle
From Narita Airport
From Narita Airport, take the Narita Express to Tokyo Station and transfer to the Shinkansen. It takes about 3 hours and 30 minutes on the Nozomi Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Himeji Station. From Himeji Station, it’s a 20-minute walk or a 10-minute bus or taxi ride to Himeji Castle.
From Haneda Airport
From Haneda Airport, take the Keikyu Line or Monorail to Tokyo Station and then transfer to the Nozomi Shinkansen. The travel time is similar to that from Narita Airport, taking about 3 hours and 30 minutes from Tokyo Station to Himeji Station. From Himeji Station, it’s easy to reach Himeji Castle by walking or taking a bus.
From Kansai International Airport
From Kansai International Airport, take the Haruka Express to Osaka, then transfer to the Shinkansen at Shin-Osaka Station. It takes about 30 minutes from Shin-Osaka to Himeji Station by Shinkansen. The total journey from Kansai International Airport to Himeji Castle takes about 2 hours.
Tourist Attractions Around Himeji Castle
Koko-en Garden
Located next to Himeji Castle, Koko-en Garden is a Japanese garden where you can enjoy historical ambiance and beautiful scenery. With seasonal flowers, ponds, and waterfalls, it’s a place to spend a relaxing time.
Koko-en Garden‘s official website
Shoshazan Engyoji Temple
Shoshazan Engyoji Temple, about a 30-minute drive from Himeji Castle, is an ancient temple located on Mount Shosha. Visitors can take a ropeway to the mountaintop and explore the grand temple complex. There are also hiking trails for those who enjoy nature walks.
Shoshazan Engyoji Temple’s official website
Himeji Central Park
Himeji Central Park, about a 30-minute drive from Himeji Castle, is a popular theme park for families. It features a safari park, amusement park, and pools, providing a full day of fun. For more details, visit the official website of Himeji Central Park.
Himeji City Museum of Art
Near Himeji Castle, the Himeji City Museum of Art showcases contemporary art and local history. It’s a quiet place to enjoy art. For more information, visit the official website of Himeji City Museum of Art.
Himeji’s Gourmet
Himeji Oden
A must-try dish in the Himeji Castle area is “Himeji Oden.” It’s unique because it’s eaten with ginger soy sauce. The warm oden combined with the spicy ginger soy sauce is a local favorite.
Yumesaki River Ayu
In summer, the “Yumesaki River Ayu” (sweetfish) caught in the Yumesaki River in Himeji is a delicacy. Many restaurants offer dishes featuring fresh ayu, such as grilled ayu.
Tips for Visiting Himeji Castle
Himeji Castle offers beautiful scenery with cherry blossoms in spring and colorful foliage in autumn. The cherry blossom season can be crowded, so visiting early is recommended. When climbing the main keep, wear comfortable shoes as there are many stairs to navigate.
Enjoy your journey through Himeji, where history, nature, and gourmet cuisine come together to create a memorable experience.