Himeji - Visit Japan's Famous Castle

Himeji is definitely worth taking a day or two to visit en route to cities further south.....another Japanese fascinating travel destination.

Easy to reach on the bullet train ....the Sanyo Shinkansen runs from Osaka via Kobe and then on to Fukuoka,Kyushu. You can link with the shinkansen from Tokyo at Osaka.

The main reason for visiting this interesting city is Himeji Castle.....but I also recommend Mt Shosha Temple which I thoroughly enjoyed, set in beautiful forest and gardens. Kokoen Gardens set below the castle are also lovely to wander.

Himeji Castle

Nicknamed “White Heron” because of the white plaster exterior walls....the plaster serves as a fire retardant despite the main structure being entirely of wood. Himeji Castle is probably the only castle that has remained untouched and intact for over 400 years.

The interior has amazing wooden floors and walls on several levels. The labyrinth of hallways was a deliberate design plan to make the castle safe from invaders. You need to allow around 2-3 hours to see the whole castle. There are a lot of stairs to climb.

NOTE: From April 2010 – 2014 there is some renovation work taking place on the castle.

More Sightseeing

If you are fit you may want to walk the whole way...... but you will still have plenty of walking from Niomen Gate where the gondola stops. From here you go to Maniden....a lovely wooden temple hall. Further on you reach Daikodo which is the main hall, Jikido is the priest training centre and living quarters and the last of the three is the Jogyodo or gymnasium. The monks can be seen as they go about their daily lives around the halls.

You may recognise Mt Shosha temple as it was used in the filming of “The Last Samurai”.

Japan Toy Museum

If time allows you may want to explore the Japan Toy Museum which has over 80,000 exhibits and is an interesting look at traditional Japanese toys. Some of these include

• kites
• hina dolls
• historic dolls and toys
• Silk Crafts

Shiota Hot Springs – Shiota Onsen, Yumesaki-cho

Over 300 years old you can enjoy this historic onsen with restorative waters before or after a meal of local seafood and meat. It is especially beautiful in spring blossom time.

Himeji City Museum of Art

Himeji City Museum of Literature

Getting Around the City

• You can walk to the Castle from the Station in around 15 minutes, or there is a loop bus that goes around the castle.
• A One Day Pass is available which also stops at Himeji City Museum of Art and Himeji City Museum of Literature. Enquire at the Visitor Centre at the station.
• To get to Mt Shosa you should take the Mt Shosa Ropeway bus from the station....get off at the last stop.

Bicycle Hire - You can Hire Bicycles...enquire at the Visitor Centre at the main station.

Himeji Hotels

Nikko Hotel Himeji Rated 4 **** This 15 story modern hotel is highly rated with a full range of facilities and a free breakfast.

Castle Hyogo Hotel Himeji Rated 4 **** the rooms are spacious, and have the added bonus of a washer and dryer in the room.

Plaza Hotel Himeji Rated 3*** this is another well priced budget option close to the station and all sightseeing.

Washington Plaza Hotel Himeji Rated 3 *** Being only 3 minutes from the station this 11 story, modern hotel is central well located.

Himeji Comfort Hotel Rated 2 ** This well priced hotel has good reviews on Trip Advisor.Being one of the Comfort Chain which usually represents good value for money, it is also handy to restaurants with the Castle nearby. Free Breakfast included.

Sunroute Hotel Himeji Not rated. This is a budget/business hotel close to the station.

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