Taiyo Park & Swan Castle

Tucked away in the hills of Himeji, Taiyo Park 太陽公園 offers a completely different experience from the city’s famous Himeji Castle. Opened in the late 1980s and expanded over time, the park is operated by the social welfare organisation Social Welfare Corporation Taiyo Fukushikai. Unlike typical theme parks, it was created with a focus on inclusion—providing meaningful employment opportunities for people with disabilities while building a space that visitors can explore and enjoy.

At the centre of the park stands Swan Castle, inspired by Germany’s fairytale-like Neuschwanstein Castle and added in 1992. Visitors can take a short monorail ride up the hillside to reach the castle, where the interior features colourful trick art exhibits, optical illusions, and imaginative spaces including Alice in Wonderland-inspired rooms and a grand throne hall. It’s a fun, interactive experience that contrasts with the more traditional image of a European-style castle.

Beyond the castle, the park’s vast “stone area” showcases large-scale replicas of world landmarks, reflecting the idea of stone as a shared element across human history. Visitors can walk along a section of the Great Wall of China, stand among rows of Terracotta Warriors, and discover monuments inspired by cultures from around the globe. While Taiyo Park may feel unconventional, its combination of social purpose, global themes, and unique design makes it one of Himeji’s most memorable off-the-beaten-path attractions.

Taiyo Park is located in a quiet, hilly area north of central Himeji. While it can be reached by bus from Himeji Station in around 30 minutes, access is easier by car, with the park just a short drive from the Himeji Nishi interchange. Its slightly remote location adds to the feeling of discovering a hidden and unusual attraction. Entrance is ¥1500 for adults and ¥700 for kids.