Himeji
is Japan's most beautiful castle
Welcome to Himeji
Himeji (姫路), in Hyōgo Prefecture west of Kōbe, is on the map for one particular reason: it's home to Japan's biggest and best-preserved feudal-era castle, Himeji-jō. It's an easy day trip or stopover and well worth a visit.
Top experiences in Himeji
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Himeji activities
Himeji Castle and Akashi Kaikyo Bridge Tour from Osaka
Upon pickup at the Hotel Granvia Osaka in the morning, you’re transferred to Osaka station to board the JR Shinkansen (non-reserved seat). After the approximate 30-minute train ride, disembark with your guide at Himeji station for the short walk to UNESCO World Heritage-listed Himeji Castle.This national treasure is also called Shirasagi Castle (White Heron Castle) for its exterior walls that look like a flying white heron. Spend some time inside the castle and stroll outside around the grounds as you learn about the five-story complex, which dates back to the 14th century, from your knowledgeable guide. After your visit to the beautiful castle, you will enjoy a lunch buffet equipped with both Japanese and Western cuisines. After your meal, walk with your guide back to Himeji station to take the JR Special Rapid Service or Rapid Service (non-reserved seat) to Maiko station. When your 30-minute ride ends, continue to the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, which has the longest central span of any suspension bridge in the world. On the first floor at the entrance to the Maiko Marine Promenade, built on the Kobe side, you’ll find information about the bridge, which reaches a height of 154 feet (47 meters) above sea level and 492 feet (150 meters) above ground.Head to the lounge on the 8th floor and peer through an observatory camera — you’ll feel like you’re on top of the bridge’s main tower at some 984 feet (300 meters) in the air. Then enjoy your pedestrian journey on the marine promenade located inside Akashi Kaikyo Bridge as you look out over the sweeping view. Then ride on the JR Special Rapid Service or Rapid Service (non-reserved seat) from Maiko station back to Osaka station, where your guided tour ends in the early evening.
Buddhist Practices at the Temple of 'The Last Samurai'
ItineraryThis is a typical itinerary for this productPass By: Himeji Town Station, Himeji, Hyogo Prefecture, KinkiThere is a temple which was used as the setting of a famous Hollywood movie, The Last Samurai. The temple is located on the top of a mountain where you can have a panoramic view of Himeji city. Climbing up the mountain by bus and Ropeway, you will arrive at a temple surrounded by bountiful forests. Practicing Zazen will enhance relaxation through meditation, and practicing Shakyo (hand-copying sutra) will enliven you with its medication feature. The specific Shakyo you will practice in this plan is called "Hanabira Shakyo (Hanabira means a flower petal). From children to adults, everyone can casually try this by writing down word by word on colored paper in the shape of flower petals.After the practices, you will try Buddhist vegetarian cuisine. Buddhist vegetarian cuisine is what disciplinants have at a temple as part of their religious trainings. Since it uses seasonal food and avoids meat, vegetarians can also fully enjoy this cuisine.
Ninja Experience at the World Heritage Site, Himeji Castle
ItineraryThis is a typical itinerary for this productPass By: Shoshazan Engyoji, Himeji, Hyogo Prefecture, KinkiLet’s engage in real Ninja trainings with a Ninja costume at the World Heritage Site, Himeji Castle. Over 600 years, Japanese Ninjas have been training for battles. Ninja walk, Ninja run, Shuriken and Katana---you will exercise just as Ninja did. A professional actor who plays a major role in Power Rangers and historical dramas, will be your instructor. With his help, you will become a real Ninja just like the one who really existed 600 years ago.At the beginning of the plan, you will get your own Ninja name and spend the day as a real Ninja with the name. You will even play a little skit at the end!It is not rare that tourists visiting Himeji Castle ask you to take photos with you during the experience. You will absolutely be popular Ninja at the tourist site!After the trainings, the instructor will give you either Shuriken or a Ninja headband as a gift. Please do not hesitate to take it home with you!