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Himeji Castle 姫路城

Checked October 2026 · next check January 2027 · On our list

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Visiting Himeji Castle today

  • What it is: Japan's best-known original castle, a white-plastered keep from the early 1600s and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Getting there: From JR Himeji Station (Sanyo Shinkansen), walk straight up Otemae-dori; the castle sits at the far end of the avenue.
  • Hours: 9:00–17:00, last entry 16:00. Closed 29–30 December.
  • Admission: ¥2,500 for adults 18+ who do not live in Himeji (Himeji residents ¥1,000), a rise for visitors that took effect in 2026. Under-18s free. Castle + Kokoen garden ticket ¥2,600.
  • Tip: Shoes come off inside and the keep has steep stairs, no lift and no air conditioning. Bring a bag for your shoes and water in summer.
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Cherry blossoms around the moats in early April; autumn colour at Kokoen in November.

Checked against: Himeji Castle official site · Time Out: Himeji Castle to increase ticket prices for non-residents. Check opening times and prices before you go.

Himeji Castle on Shibuya246

We haven't been yet, so there are no photos here. The notes above come from official sources and are checked every quarter. Our own photos and story will appear here after we visit.