About Himejijo(Castle)

Himeji Castle, located in Himeji City, Hyogo Prefecture, is one of Japan's representative historical buildings and is registered as a World Heritage site. Also known as "Shirasagijo (White Egret) Castle" its beauty and elegance captivate visitors. Himeji Castle was given this nickname because of the beautiful contrast between its white walls and tiled roofs, which make it look like an egret in flight.

Himeji Castle's most notable feature is its grand scale and well-preserved appearance. 1609 saw the castle in its present form, and the castle tower and other major buildings have survived war and natural disasters, remaining largely intact for more than 400 years. The five-story, seven-story main keep is centered by a series of three-story smaller keeps, and is considered the pinnacle of castle architecture in Japan.

Inside the castle, there are many interesting spots that offer a glimpse into the lives and tactics of warriors during the Warring States period. For example, the "Hyakumen corridor" is a long, defensive corridor with clever devices to keep enemies out. In addition, "Senhime's Corridor" and "Senhime's Room" are valuable places where visitors can learn about the life of a princess in the Edo period.

Furthermore, the gardens of Himeji Castle are another highlight of the castle. Within the castle, there is a Japanese garden called "Kokoen" where visitors can enjoy beautiful scenery from season to season. Especially in spring, when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom, the white walls of the castle and pink flowers create an exceptional scene.

When sightseeing, it is also worth visiting "San-no-maru Hiroba" (San-no-maru Square) and "Nishi-no-Maru Garden" where you can enjoy a panoramic view of Himeji Castle. From these spots, the entire castle can be beautifully photographed, and they are popular as excellent photo spots.

Himeji Castle is an attractive sightseeing spot because of its magnificent appearance, rich history, and well-preserved condition. Visitors can enjoy the experience of stepping back in time and feeling the essence of Japanese culture and technology of the Edo period. When visiting Hyogo Prefecture, be sure to visit Himeji Castle and experience its beauty and history.