Himeji Castle & Garden: A UNESCO World Heritage Site
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Port
Kobe, Japan
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Activity Level
Strenuous
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Excursion Type
All
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At
$149.95
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 5¼ Hours
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Meals Included
Meals not included
Your day begins with a visit to Himeji, southwest of Kobe, for immersion into this area's nature, history and culture.
Himeji Castle is known as the White Heron Castle because it sports an elegant white façade. Its imposing size and beauty and its well-preserved castle grounds lend it the status of both UNESCO World Heritage Site and National Treasure. The castle complex was completed in 1609. Its eighty buildings span multiple baileys, connected by a series of gates and winding paths. Unlike many other Japanese castles, Himeji Castle has never been destroyed by war, earthquake or fire. It survives today as one of the country's twelve original castles.
You'll access the lovely Koko-en Garden from Himeji Castle -- a riot of cherry blossoms in early spring. The garden opened in 1992 on the former site of a feudal lord's residence. It consists of nine separate, walled gardens representing various Edo-period styles. The feudal lord's residence features a pond with a waterfall, a pine-tree garden, a bamboo garden and a flower garden.
Notes:
Participants must negotiate many steep steps in the castle building. Cherry blossoms are out only in early spring. You must remove your shoes at the castle. Few exhibits within the castle have explanations in English. Wear comfortable walking shoes.Not advisable for guests using a wheelchair or for those with mobility limitations.