Alongside Osaka Castle and Matsumoto Castle, Himeji Castle is known as one of Japan’s three finest castles. That’s not all: dating back to 1333, the castle is Japan’s largest and most visited. Designated as a national treasure, this UNESCO World Heritage site is located in Himeji, which is the second largest city in Hyogo Prefecture after Kobe.

Legend has it that the castle is sacred: it stayed intact during World War II, when bombs destroyed 60% of the city. In fact, Himeji Castle is one of only 12 original castles left in Japan today!

You’ll see the castle the minute you step out of the station — its pristine white exterior with winged roofs draws a resemblance to a bird about to take flight, earning the castle the nickname of ‘White Heron Castle’, ‘White Egret Castle’, or “Shirasagi-Jo” in Japanese. The castle went through major restoration works in 2015, and looks as good as new!

Enter through the main Otemon Gate to find the ticket office. You’ll also be given a map, where you can follow a one- to two-hour walking route around the castle grounds.

Remove your shoes, and explore all six levels of the castle. Read about the construction process and history of the castle as you go along — displayed via signs in both Japanese and English. The different levels are connected by steep and narrow wooden staircases, so do be careful as you go along.

At the top, enjoy a panoramic view of the surrounding area. This vista is especially beautiful in spring, when the grounds are covered in sakura.

Take some time to wander the grounds as well; including the main keep, there are a total of eight buildings.

The castle is particularly gorgeous during golden hour too.

Once night falls, watch as the castle exterior is illuminated.

How to get to Himeji

Himeji is easily reached via a 35-minute train ride from Osaka. From the station, walk for around 20 to 30 minutes along Otemae-dori street to reach the castle, otherwise, hop on the Himeji Castle Loop Bus that runs every 30 minutes.