Snapshot: Himeji Castle

One of Japan’s oldest castles is undoubtedly its most spectacular

Located in Japan’s Kansai region, less than an hour on the shinkansen (or bullet train) from Kyoto or Osaka, the city of Himeji is known for one thing: its remarkable castle.

Himeji Castle, also known as Shirasagi-jo or White Heron Castle thanks to its white exterior, is widely regarded as the finest in Japan and certainly one of the oldest still standing. This immaculate example of feudal-era architecture was not only a masterpiece of its time, but also highly advanced in its defensive measures. In 1993, the site was recognised as a global treasure, and became one of the country’s first UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

The beautiful Himeji Castle in spring.
The beautiful Himeji Castle in spring.

The origins of Himeji Castle can be traced back hundreds of years to 1333, when a samurai named Akamatsu Norima built a fort on the hilltop where the complex now stands. Over the years, the site was torn down, rebuilt, fortified and expanded until its final major remodel in the 17th century, which transformed it into the castle we see today.

During World War II, the city of Himeji was heavily bombed but remarkably, the castle survived. In the time since, it has weathered earthquakes, fires and the elements to remain one of Japan’s twelve original castles, and thanks to extensive renovations between 2009 – 2014, it looks more spectacular than ever.

A close up of the exteriors of Himeji Castle.
A close up of the exteriors of Himeji Castle.

Shirasagi-jo is just under 2km away from Himeji station, so upon your arrival, set off north and you’ll soon spot it in the distance. Those with limited mobility should jump on the loop bus, which leaves from Himeji station and drops passengers off at the castle. The main gate, known as Otemon, is the place to snap your shots of the castle; visit in spring to see dozens of blooming cherry blossoms.

Allow plenty of time to explore - Himeji Castle is one of Japan’s largest. In total, the castle complex is made up of 83 buildings and stretches across 264 acres, encompassing a six-storey donjon (main keep) and several smaller keeps, protected by ramparts and moats dating back to the 17th century.

The lush Himeji Castle gardens in autumn.
The lush Himeji Castle gardens in autumn.

Visitors are encouraged to follow the marked route around the castle and up the main keep. Inside, signs explain aspects of the building like its structure and construction techniques; while it’s no longer furnished, exploring the interior is still worthwhile to get an idea of how it would have looked years ago. If you can climb the steep stairs to the top, you’ll be rewarded with great views across the complex and beyond.

The view of Japan from the top of the Himeji Castle.
The view of Japan from the top of the Himeji Castle.

To fully appreciate the grandiosity of Himeji Castle, set aside some time to tour its immense grounds. Paths wind across the site, guiding people through the complex and around the inner moat. You can even take a traditional wasen boat ride on the moat for a different perspective of the castle. If you’re a fan of Japanese horticulture, dip next door to the lovely Kokoen Garden.

The Wasen boating moat in Himeji Castle.
The Wasen boating moat in Himeji Castle.

Back to Japan Tours
Subscribe Now!

To receive our free printable eBook "Inspiring Japan"

e-book
Related tours
Nov 2025 to Nov 2026
14 Day Japan Premium Small Group Tour
Fully Escorted
Balanced
Small Group
7 Days
From
$7,995 NZD
Per person
Sep 2025 to Nov 2025
19 Day Treasures Of Japan Small Group Tour
Fully Escorted
Balanced
2-20 people
7 Days
From
$11,745 NZD
Per person
Sep 2025 to Nov 2026
28 Day Unforgettable Japan, Hokkaido & Kyushu
Partially Escorted
Balanced
20-40 people
7 Days
From
$12,995 NZD
Per person
Jul 2025 to Nov 2026
8 Day Best Of Japan
Flight Inclusive
Fully Escorted
Active
20-40 people
From
$3,799 NZD
Per person
Jul 2025 to Dec 2026
10 Day Premium Japan By Rail
Non Escorted
Leisurely
7 Days
From
$4,595 NZD
Per person
Jul 2025 to Nov 2026
22 Day Unforgettable Japan And Kyushu
Partially Escorted
Balanced
20-40 people
7 Days
From
$9,745 NZD
Per person
Jul 2025 to Nov 2025
20 Day Unforgettable Japan And Okinawa Islands
Partially Escorted
Balanced
20-40 people
7 Days
From
$8,595 NZD
Per person
Typically $12,276
Jul 2025 to Dec 2025
8 Day Independent Wonders of Japan
Non Escorted
Leisurely
7 Days
From
$1,949 NZD
Per person
Was $3,544
Oct 2025 to Nov 2026
13 Day Japan Uncovered
Fully Escorted
Active
20-40 people
7 Days
From
$3,649 NZD
Per person
Jul 2025 to Dec 2025
11 Day Independent Wonders of Japan With Hiroshima
Non Escorted
Leisurely
7 Days
From
$2,999 NZD
Per person
Jul 2025 to Dec 2026
13 Day Premium Japan By Rail With Hiroshima
Non Escorted
Leisurely
7 Days
From
$6,145 NZD
Per person
Singapore Airlines badge
15% Off & Flights Included
Sep 2025 to Dec 2026
16 Day Inspiring Japan
Included
Fully Escorted
20-40 people
Active
From
$8,695 NZD
Per person
Loading...
Processing