What to do in Himeji
Photo by Japanforeveryone.com
Himeji Castle, also known as the White Heron Castle, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Japan’s most iconic monuments. Located in the city of Himeji, the castle is famous for its majestic architecture and striking white exterior. With a history dating back over 400 years, Himeji Castle represents Japan’s feudal past.
Inside, one can explore the detailed wooden interiors, defensive walls and an intricate maze of pathways. Visitors can admire the castle’s various towers and enjoy splendid panoramic views of the surrounding area. Himeji Castle is a must-see attraction for history and architecture enthusiasts visiting Japan.
Photo by Japanforeveryone.com
Practical information
| Show location on Google Maps | |
Official website  |
|
| 9:00-18:00 (27 April to 31 August) 9:00-17:00 (from 1 September to 26 April) Last entry 1 hour before closing time |
|
| 29 and 30 December | |
| 1000 Yen 1050 Yen (castle+Kokoen garden) |
|
| 20 minutes’ walk north of the train station |
Mount Shosha, located in the city of Himeji, is a place of outstanding natural and spiritual beauty. It is best known for the Engyoji Temple, an ancient Buddhist complex that offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the city of Himeji. Climbing the steep stairs leading up to the temple is an enthralling experience, immersed in the woods and surrounded by ancient statues and pagodas. Mount Shosha is a place of tranquillity and meditation, with paths leading to small secluded shrines. It is the perfect place for lovers of nature and ancient spiritual treasures.
Photo by Japanforeveryone.com
Practical information
| Show location on Google Maps | |
| Official website |
|
| Engyoji Temple | |
| 8:30-18:00(the time varies by plus or minus one hour depending on the season) | |
| No closure days The cable car is closed for a week in February for maintenance |
|
| 500 Yen | |
| Take Shinki Bus number 8 (30 minutes – 310 Yen – orange bus) from Himeji Station or Himeji Castle and get off at the Mount Shosha Ropeway stop. Here take the cable car to Mount Shosha (600 Yen one way, 1000 Yen return)
It is possible to purchase the Shoshazan Ropeway combination ticket at a cost of 1700 Yen, which includes the round trip by both bus and cable car. Available at the Shinki bus terminal |
Kokoen Garden
The Kokoen Garden in Himeji is a haven of serenity and beauty. Located close to Himeji Castle, the garden offers a stunning display of nine different traditional Japanese gardens. Each garden has a unique style and design, with elements such as ponds, bridges, rocks and ornamental plants. Visitors can stroll through the various gardens and enjoy the peaceful and relaxing atmosphere. The Kokoen Garden is especially fascinating during the flowering seasons, when the plants and flowers offer a breathtaking spectacle of colour. It is a must-see for those visiting Himeji in search of peace and natural beauty.
663highland, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Practical information
| View location on Google Maps | |
| Official website |
|
| 9:00-18:00 (27 April to 31 August) 9:00-17:00 (from 1 September to 26 April) Last entry 30 minutes before closing time |
|
| 29 and 30 December | |
| 310 Yen 1050 Yen (castle+Kokoen garden) |
|
| 20 minutes’ walk north of the train station |