Himeji Travel Guide

The castle, first built in 1333 with its current complex built in 1609 has survived for more than 600 years, including multiple natural disasters such as earthquakes, and the bombings of Himeji in World War II. The castle’s main keep is six-stories high, and has a bright white exterior, earning it the nickname of Shirasagi-jō (白鷺城, lit. White Heron Castle) as it is said to resemble a bird taking flight. That being said, despite the restoration in 2015 restoring the castle to its bright white exterior, the elements have since dulled much of the bright white plaster on the roofs.

Unlike many castles today, Himeji Castle preserves the interior of its tenshu (天守, Main Keep), as it was when it was constructed. As you explore the keep, you can find many small details such as weapons racks, spaces for hot oil or rocks to be thrown down at attackers, and admire the two pillars (one of which used to be a single fir tree that spanned the entire six floors of the castle) that hold the castle up.

Apart from the tenshu, much of the castle’s original complex remains intact. As you walk towards the main keep, you might find yourself going through multiple gates, winding through confusing pathways and staircases. All of these were designed to confuse attackers, make it more difficult for them to find their way, and create chokepoints where the defenders could attack them from. You will notice many small gaps and holes in the wall that were constructed to allow archers and rifleman to attack any potential invaders.