Himeji Castle: A Castle As White as a Heron

A Dream Come True

I've always wanted to see Himeji Castle in person. I don't know why, but I really find this castle so beautiful. I thought that seeing this castle will just be a dream forever. But I was wrong. A week ago, I climbed the steep staircase of  Himeji. Standing on the ground in front of it was a dream come true. Reaching the top floor of it was overwhelming. It was surreal. I was really happy. 

Getting to Know the White Heron Castle

Himeji is located in Himeji, Hyogo Prefecture. It was originally built in 1333. The materials that were used to build it were wood, stone, plaster, and tiles. Though the castle was used from 1333 through 1868, it was demolished twice for reconstruction purposes. 

And in May this year, the five year renovation of the castle walls and roof  had concluded. This is how it looks like at present

Riding a Wasen in the Moat

When we went to the castle, we saw some people riding on a boat in the castle moat. The boat is called a wasen. A wasen is a traditional Japanese style boat.

How to Get There 

1. Take a train to Himeji Station
2. From Himeji Station's central gate, walk straight along Otemae-dori Street. It takes about 15 minutes.

Tips 

*It is better to come early. It is one of the famous destinations in Japan. Many people visit the castle every day.
*Bring cold water with you. The staircases in the castle are very steep. You will probably get so hot and thirsty by the time you get to the top floor.
*If you don't like stepping on the floor barefoot, wear socks. The attendants in the castle will ask you to take off your shoes before you enter the main keep.

Entrance Fee

The entrance fee for the castle is 1000 yen. If you want to go to the garden outside the castle, you have to add 40 yen.