Located in the city of Himeji (Hyōgo Prefecture), Himeji Castle (姫路城, Himeji-jō) is arguably the most famous of all Japanese castles. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is considered one of Japan’s three most beautiful castles, alongside Matsumoto and Kumamoto Castles. It stands as a perfect example of Japanese feudal-era castle architecture.
Nicknamed the "White Heron Castle" (白鷺城, Shirasagi-jō) due to its striking white walls, Himeji Castle is admired for its elegance, ingenious defensive system, and remarkable state of preservation.
This history of Himeji Castle
Himeji Castle’s history spans several centuries, reflecting different eras of Japan’s past.
Origins: A simple fortification (Nanboku-chō Period, 1333–1573)
The site was originally a fortress built in 1333 by samurai lord Akamatsu Norimura. He strategically chose this hilltop location for its vantage point, allowing for effective regional surveillance.
From fortress to castle (Azuchi-Momoyama Period, 1573–1603)
In 1580, the powerful warlord Toyotomi Hideyoshi transformed the fortress into a proper castle, constructing a wooden keep on the site.
The great reconstruction (Edo Period, 1603–1868)
After Tokugawa Ieyasu’s victory at the Battle of Sekigahara in 1600, he entrusted the castle to his son-in-law, Ikeda Terumasa, who rebuilt it completely between 1601 and 1609. This reconstruction gave the castle its iconic five-story keep and impressive defenses.
During the Meiji era (1868–1912), many Japanese castles were auctioned off and dismantled. Himeji Castle was put up for sale, but its demolition was deemed too expensive, allowing it to survive.
Himeji Castle’s Resilience Through Wars and Disasters
Unlike many other Japanese castles, Himeji Castle has miraculously survived wars, fires, and natural disasters:
- World War II: Although Himeji city was heavily bombed, the castle remained intact.
- Great Hanshin Earthquake (1995): Despite the earthquake’s magnitude, the castle suffered no major damage.
- Renovation (2009–2015): Extensive restoration was carried out to preserve its brilliant white walls and reinforce its wooden structure.
What to see at Himiji Castle ?
A visit to Himeji Castle is a journey through samurai history, as you pass through a series of gates and corridors designed to defend the fortress. Here’s what to expect:
Main entrance and outer courtyard
Visitors enter through the Ōtemon Gate (大手門), leading to a spacious courtyard surrounded by stone walls and gardens. This area is free to explore and is particularly stunning in spring when cherry blossoms are in full bloom.
The paid entrance is located further inside, where visitors follow a zigzagging path designed to slow down and trap intruders.
The main keep (天守 / Tenshu)
The five-story main keep (with six interior levels) is the castle’s heart. Inside, you’ll find:
- Vast (empty) wooden halls supported by massive original pillars.
- Strategic openings for archers and gunners.
- A breathtaking panoramic view of Himeji from the top floor.
Sophisticated defensive features
Himeji Castle is a military masterpiece, featuring:
- A maze-like layout that forces attackers into vulnerable positions.
- Narrow firing holes (狭間, Hazama) for archers and matchlock gunners.
- Curved walls that make climbing extremely difficult.
The West Bailey and Princess Sen’s residence
- West Bailey (Nishi no Maru, 西の丸): The residence of Princess Sen (千姫, Sen-hime), granddaughter of Tokugawa Ieyasu.
Kōko-en Garden
Located next to the castle, Kōko-en Garden (好古園) is a traditional Japanese garden featuring:
- Nine distinct landscapes with ponds, teahouses, and waterfalls.
- A separate entrance fee, but worth the visit for a peaceful retreat.
How to get to Himeji Castle ?
Himeji Castle is easily accessible from major cities in the Kansai region.
From Osaka or Kyoto
- By Shinkansen: ~30 minutes from Osaka, ~50 minutes from Kyoto.
- By JR Rapid Train: ~1 hour from Osaka.
From Himeji Station to the Castle
From JR Himeji Station, it’s a 15-minute walk straight down Otemae-dori Avenue. This stroll offers a stunning first view of the castle towering at the end of the street.
Visit on weekday mornings to avoid crowds.
Himeji Castle’s seasonal festivals
The castle hosts several annual festivals, each offering a unique experience:
- Cherry Blossom Festival (Early April): Enjoy hanami (flower viewing) with magical night illuminations.
- Himeji Castle Festival (May): Features historical reenactments and samurai performances.
- Summer Lantern Festival (August): The castle is lit up by thousands of traditional lanterns.
- Autumn Festival (October–November): A stunning display of red maple leaves around the castle.
