How to get to Himeji Castle from Osaka? Located in Himeji City Hyogo Prefecture, Himeji Castle is an iconic symbol of the city. Because the walls are painted in white and the roof as if an egret spreading its wings, it is also called white Heron Castle Shirasagijo. The most symbolic and well preserved castle in the country, Himeji Castle is not only a national treasure, but it is also among the first world cultural heritage designated by the Japanese government. Himeji Castle is one of the top 100 castles in Japan. Together with Kumamoto Castle and Matsumoto Castle, it is known as one of the top three castle in the country. As a reliable limo and tour company in Himeji, we offer private car and chauffeur service to Himeji from Osaka or Kyoto with affordable prices.
The construction of Himeji Castle started in 1333. Following hundreds of years of expansion, the castle was finally completed in 1617 AD. Since 1617, Himeji Castle has miraculously avoided from any damage regardless of the numerous wars took place. This cultural heritage from the Edo period remained intact. It was closed in 2010 for a five-year renovation.On the Otemae Dori leading to the square in front of Otemon Gate, you can see the front of Himeji Castle.
The Himeji Castle, which is composed of large and small castles, has an appearance assembles that of an egret bird with wings spreading, highlighting the essence of architectural art in the Edo period. The first floor of the fortress is about 554 square meters, covered with more than 330 tatami mats. Thus, it is often referred to as a thousand-mat room. On the 2nd floor, you'll find the "Buki kake" which is a weapon rack used for weapon storage. There are also small enclosed rooms called "Musha-kakushi" from which defenders can ambush attackers.
Chauffeur and Car Service to/from Himeji
Himeji Castle is also a highly popular cherry blossom spot during the short and crowded blooming season which usually falls in early April. On busy days, such as during the cherry blossom season, Golden Week and the summer holidays, visitors may encounter considerable waiting times for entering the interior of the main keep. As a reliable limo company, we provide privae car tour and chauffeur servicefrom Osaka or Kyoto to Himeji Castle for international travelers. We have 6-seater Alphard minivan, 9-seater Hiace van and 20-seater Coaster minibus, and you can easily find the most suitable one at an affordable price. If you have any requests or questions, please contact our customer service representatives. For the details, please visit: Osaka Chauffeur Service.
Address: 68 Honmachi, Himeji, Hyogo 670-0012 Hours: 09:00~17:00; 09:00 - 18:00 in summer (April 27~August 31) Admission: 1000 yen
Do I need to make an appointment to visit Himeji Castle?
Himeji Castle does not provide reservation. However, during the peak season, limited visitors are allowed into the Daitenshu. Please refer to the official website for information on the numbers of visitors.
Is Himeji Castle open all year round?
It is open almost all year round. It is only closed at the end of the year from December 29 to 30.
How long does it take to visit Himeji Castle?
It takes 1.5-2 hours to visit Himeji Castle. In peak season (cherry blossom, golden week, or summer), the wait in line might be about 1 hour, so please plan your schedule accordingly.
Is public transportation to Himeji Castle convenient?
Departing from Osaka or Kobe, you can take the JR Sanyo Shinkansen or JR Kobe Line (bound for Himeji, Aboshi, and Banshu Ako) and get off at the Himeji Station. At the north exit, you can take a 15-20 walk or take the Shinki bus to Otemon-mae Stop for about 5 minutes.
How much is the admission fee for Himeji Castle?
Area outside of Hishi Gate (Diamond gate) is free admission. If you want to visit the castle, the ticket is 1000 yen, adding the Kokoen Garden is 1050 yen.
When is the best time to go to Himeji Castle for cherry blossom?
The cherry blossoms in Himeji Castle usually start from the late March to the early April, during which there will be a lot of tourists. Please refer to the official website for information on the numbers of visitors.
Is there lighting in Himeji Castle at night?
Yes, Himeji Castle will be lighted up after sunset until midnight. Thus visiting and photographing at night is a great option.
Is there any restaurant near Himeji Castle?
There are Tamagoya, Grill Tempei, Takata-no-baba, Memme, Gyunagi and other restaurants available, where you can try different Japanese dishes such as Unado, Oden, Udon.