"Himeji" is a globally recognized castle town. Get a taste of its nature and history

Himeji has prospered as a transportation hub for long time; it has good access to or from outlying cities and towns. Himeji remains as a perennial favorite with tourists because it makes people feel a close connection to history.

There are plenty of sites to visit in this city. "Himeji Castle" typifies numbers of cultural assets in Himeji. "Ieshima-island" is the place which enables a close contact with nature. Local factory tours are also available. Quaint streets in the historic castle town are often used for movie locations.

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Ethereal beauty of the Castle and a distinctive background of Banshu (Harima)

"Himeji Castle", owing to its graceful appearance, is also known as "Shirasagi (egret) Castle". The castle is highly appreciated by the international community and registered as the World Cultural Heritage. Surrounding area is famous for cherry blossoms and autumn leaves. "Egret" in full-bloomed cherry blossoms and colorful leaves is worth seeing.

Himeji offers a variety of unique seasonal events such as "Cherry Blossom Viewing Festival" in April and "Nada no Kenka Matsuri "　(crash portable shrines into one another) in October.

The former kingdom supplies unique souvenirs and distinctive traditional crafts

Himeji serves fresh seafood because it is located along "Harimanada sea". Sea eels and Kamaboko (dome-shaped cake made from minced and steamed fish) go well with Somen 　(Japanese thin noodles made from wheat flower) , one of the "Banshu" regional specialties.

There is a variety of traditional crafts and goods for souvenirs including "Himeji Hariko" (papier-mache shaped into mask, tengu, animals etc.) and "Himeji Leather Craft" (beautifully printed or painted white tanned leather) .

Himeji Convention & Visitors Bureau

Himeji Tourist Information "Hime no Michi"

Access to Himeji from Kobe

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