Himeji Castle is a Cultural World Heritage site and is widely considered the best castle in Japan. It has a wide park area surrounding the castle which is free to enter and popular during the cherry blossom season.
Unlike Osaka Castle (which has an elevator inside) the interior is kept original and the top is accessible only through a series of narrow staircases. The castle dates back to 1333 and is only one of twelve original castles that remain in Japan.
Himeji Castle is located a 15 minute walk from JR Himeji Station, which is only 40 minutes by special rapid train from JR Sannomiya, Kobe.
Entry into Himeji Castle is ¥1000 for adults and only an extra 40 yen to get the combined Kokoen Garden ticket. Due to its popularity waiting times are excepted during certain times of the year. It takes about an hour to walk through the castle. Check out their excellent English website for all the latest details.
