Himeji Castle

Castle / Ruins of Castle

Also known as the White Heron Castle, this shining white castle is registered on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Structures such as the castle tower built in the early Edo period still stand today, and these are also registered as National treasures and national Important Cultural Properties. One of the most prominent theories is that the castle was originally erected as a fort by Akamatsu Sadanori in 1346. Ikeda Terumasa began renovating the castle when he became the lord of the castle after the Battle of Sekigahara, expanding it into the expansive compound seen today. The castle tower is located in the southeast corner of the foundation. The castle looks to be composed of five tiers from the outside and internally is comprised of six floors above ground and one subterranean level. The castle shining a blinding white in the light of the sun is truly a beautiful sight.

Spot details

Address: Hyogo Pref. Himejishi Honmachi 68 Map
Area: Harima (Himeji, Tatsuno, Ako) Area
Phone: 0792851146
Hours: 9:00-16:00 (Gates shut is 17:00)
[The summer season (4/27-8/31)] 9:00-17:00 (Gates shut is 18:00)
Closed: 12/29-12/30
Fees: [Admission fee] Adults (Over 18) 1,000yen, Children (Elementary School Students/Junior High School Students/High School Students) 300yen
Parking Lot: Not available
* Please use the nearby Charge parking lot.
Credit Card: Available (VISA, MasterCard, JCB, AMEX, UnionPay, Diners Club)
Smoking: Not available (Only one place in Sannomaru Square, smoking area Available)
Wi-Fi: Available(HIMEJI_Wi-Fi)
English Menu: Available * Pamphlet Available in English, French, Korean and Chinese (simplified/traditional)
Note: Temporary suspension:Closed until May 31, 2020 (Information as of May 7, 2020)
* Information may be changed, so be sure to check the official information.
Estimated stay time: 60-120 minutes
Wheelchair accessible: Not possible (buildings such as castle towers are not possible)
* Paid areas are possible (a helper is required due to the slope)
Pet friendly: Yes (only when the whole body is in the cage)