Location: Himeji
Top Things to do in Himeji
What to do and see in Himeji, Kinki: The Best Things to do Good for Couples
One of the best preserved and most architecturally demonstrative, Himeji's 400-year-old castle is so exquisite that it alone is worth a trip to the city. The castle is close to the train station, so it makes an ideal short stop on a day trip to several sights.
Restaurants in Himeji
1. Himeji Castle
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 5,324 reviews
Built in the beginning of the 17th century when Japan's unique castle architectural techniques had reached their peak, Himeji Castle was the first in Japan to be registered as a UNESCO Cultural World Heritage in 1993 as well as designated as a National Treasure in 1951. It is called "Hakuro-jo" (White Heron Castle) because of its brilliant white exterior and supposed resemblance to a white heron taking flight. Q1. Can I use a credit card? A1. Yes, you can. We accept major credit cards like VISA, MasterCard, AMEX, Diners and JCB. Q2. Do you have a coin operated locker? A2. Yes we do, but the number and kind of them are limited, so you had better use the ones in Himeji station. The biggest size is 1135H x 350W x 640D(mm). Q3. When is peak season? A3. Our peak is usually around late March to early April for cherry blossoms, late April to early May for Japanese Holiday Season so called 'Golden Week', and October and November for travel season for Japanese. Q4. When do I have to arrive to avoid congestion? A4. 15 to 30 minutes prior to opening time (9am (8am-8:30am for peak season)). Q5. How long does it take to walk around the castle? A5. Normally, it takes at least 90 minutes to explore the castle, but you can try to go up and down with no stop in 45 minutes.
Reviewed By v1kk1ta - Puerto Rico, Caribbean
Himeji Castle also known as White Heron Castle due to its elegant, white appearance, is widely considered as Japan's most spectacular castle for its imposing size and beauty and its well preserved, complex castle grounds. One of the beautiful UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
2. Koko-en
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,110 reviews
Japanese garden 'Koko-en' was constructed in1992 at the exact site of Nishi-Oyashiki(Lord's West Residence) with Himeji Castle, one of the world cultural heritages, as a background. The area of this garden is about 3.5 ha and it is composed of 9 difficult garsens,built on the archaeologically excavated site of samurai houses and roads. Using the gardening techniques in the Edo period(ca.1600-1860) as a good model, 'Koko-en' creates historical atmosphere with the magnificent view of Himeji Castle. We hope you will have agood stroll and feel history in 'Koko-en' with Himeji Castle.
Reviewed By tlarraya - Community of Madrid, Spain
I loved this garden (and we've seen quite a few so far in Japan). It's varied, it has so many beautiful spots with stone bridges, wooden houses and a wooden covered bridge, stepping stones in the water, lots of beautiful kois (some shockingly huge), flowers, trees with beautiful shapes,.. It's a must visit with the castle (there's a combined ticket). Allocate 45 minutes since we couldn't finish it in 30. There's a refreshing spray water tunnel at the entrance that's really appreciated in August. Beautiful!
3. Shoshazan Engyoji
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 445 reviews
Reviewed By peterkL9043ZC - Perth, Australia
Himeji has much more to offer than a castle. On Mount Shosha is the magnificent Enkyoji Temple. It’s actually a series of temples and shrines amongst beautiful nature, creating a serene spiritual experience. ‘The Last Samurai’ was apparently filmed here. Caught the rope-way up (600 yen) and hiked down (free and fun - note some areas were quite steep). Lovely views of Himeji in certain spots. Bamboo walking sticks are thoughtfully placed along the track up/down. Highly recommended.
4. Otemae Street
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 359 reviews
Reviewed By Kupitdom_2019
Real Carnaval place any day of the week with plenty of shops open there with long hours of operation Plenty of shops selling local specialty food like unagi and anago ( Gresham water eels) Many restaurants serving authentic Japanese food and plenty of souveneer s shops!!
5. Viewing Deck, Himeji Station Square
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 158 reviews
Reviewed By beverskii - Paris, France
It's free and it's the first spot to shot your first photography of the castle of Himeji. You can also see the atmosphere of the central road. The place to be before walking in the town.
