Himeji Castle

The most impressive of Japan’s scant dozen original castles, Himeji-jo is also known as the “white egret castle” or the “white heron castle” for its stately white walls. The main tower is particularly interesting, but the grounds are worth exploring in their entirety.

The castle buildings were renovated recently and were re-opened in March 2015 for the first time in six years.

We suggest asking for a volunteer guide at the ticket office. Though not always available, the English-speaking guides know a lot of interesting extra facts.