Himeji Castle in Himeji – Japan

Himeji Castle in Himeji – Japan is the best sample of what Japanese architecture was in the 17th century. If you’re looking for the best surviving architectural works of their time then this one is the foremost one you’ll ever find. It is a true display of Japanese workmanship and visitors get to enjoy its outstanding beauty completely preserved in our day.

Quick Facts

The Himeji Castle in Himeji – Japan is located in the Hyogo Prefecture within the Harima Province. They began construction of this timeless monument in 1346 and the entire structure was completed in 1871, which is quite a remarkable feat as well. The castle is classified as a Hilltop Kakakushiki type castle.

The construction of this edifice is due to the efforts of the Honda, Sakai, and Ikeda clans. It is about six stories high and it is a complete castle. The structures that can be found within the walls of the Himeji Castle in Himeji – Japan are considered important cultural properties of the people. Another interesting fact is that some structures that visitors will find here are deemed as national treasures.

The castle is constructed out of plaster, tile, stone, and wood and is the largest castle in the entire country. Another interesting highlight for any visitor is the maze-like path that will lead you to the castle’s main tower. This is actually one of the castle’s defenses. Those trying to take siege back in the day will have to work their way through the complicated and confusing maze while taking fire from the castle’s defenders.

The first floor of the Himeji Castle in Himeji – Japan is also known as the Thousand-mat room due to the fact that it contains a lot of Tatami mats, which are made out of rice straw. The first floor once contained hundreds of guns and spears. Nowadays, the walls of this floor have weapon racks as a display or ornamentation.

The third and fourth floors of this castle are equipped with stone throwing platforms. These platforms serve as observation decks or attack decks whenever the castle was under attack. There are also enclosed rooms where castle defenders might hide themselves and ambush any coming attackers as they pass by. The panoramic view from the higher floors gives astounding view of the surrounding Japanese countryside.

Visitor Information

The Himeji Castle in Himeji – Japan is open for tours from 9 am to 4 pm. The castle is about three and a half hours away from Tokyo by car. It is 55 minutes away from Kyoto by train and 40 minutes from Osaka by JR express train. When you get off from the Himeji station, you only need to take a 15 minute walk to the castle grounds. Admission rates are as follows: visitors who are 15 years and older will be charged 600 Yen and visitors age 3 to 14 years old will be charged 200 Yen.