Himeji Castle

Himeji Castle was amazing. It is best to visit in the morning getting as much natural light as possible. It is possible to do a trip to Himeji as well as going further to Hiroshima on the same day using the Shinkansen. Be warn it will be an early morning to do both trips in a day. From Himeji Train Station it is an easy 10-15 minute walk to the castle grounds. There are many shops and places to grab a quick breakfast or lunch depending what time of the day you arrive. Wear comfortable shoes since it's a gradual incline to the main castle keep. Be very aware you will have to climb steep staircases once inside the castle. We recommend bringing portable rechargeable fans, because you will sweat climbing the stairs. The views are very beautiful from the top. This excursion can be done in under 4 hours from the train station, up to the castle, and back to go to the next destination.

It is one of the most visited monuments in the country. But entry was surprisingly smooth even without any advance booking. There are non named ticket counters, where you can buy tickets easily. I bought the combo ticket of the castle and the Kokoen garden. The parts to cover are the main keep, the west bailey and the Sannomaru plaza. The main keep is the iconic structure and was largely used for defense. There are descriptions available in the castle which makes it easier to understand. Sannomaru plaza is where you can take a clear close up picture of the main keep. Do not miss the west bailey or nishinomaru. This is a group of buildings and gardens which served as the residence of Senhime, the daughter of a Shogun.

This place is definitely worth the visit. Far different and more authentic than other castles that we have visited in Japan, the White Crane Castle remains largely in its original form. It is stunningly beautiful, and very well preserved. I strongly recommend taking the option for the limited access additional tour, where you get to see some other areas of the castle. The adjoining gardens were also very nice. Highly recommend going early, as this is a very popular location. Also - strongly recommend booking online to avoid the lineups.

I went there early in the morning, to take some nice photos. It was nice castle, but I loved the gardens more cause it was peaceful calming and not a lot of people. Did a tea ceremony it was enjoyable learnt how to drink match in traditional way. I went on a boat which was front of the castle cost about 1500yen per adult.

★★★★★ | An Absolute Masterpiece and Must-See Himeji Castle is not just a castle; it is the castle. Often referred to as the "White Heron" for its brilliant, elegant appearance, it is a stunning and awe-inspiring sight from the moment you exit the station and see it towering over the city. Unlike many reconstructed castles in Japan, Himeji is the real deal—an original 17th-century structure that has survived wars, earthquakes, and the passage of time. The main keep is a magnificent labyrinth of wooden stairs, ancient floors, and complex defensive features. Climbing to the top is a journey through history itself. You can feel the craftsmanship in the massive wooden beams and see the strategic design in the rifle ports and stone-dropping windows. The view from the summit over Himeji city is the reward for the climb, offering a commander's perspective of the land. The extensive grounds and multiple baileys are equally impressive, showcasing a sophisticated multi-layered defense system. The combination of the main keep with the nearby Kōko-en Garden creates a perfect half-day or full-day cultural experience that is unparalleled.