Himeji Castle, a national treasure, became Japan's first World Heritage Site in December 1993, along with Horyuji Temple in Nara.

Himeji Castle is affectionately known as "White Heron Castle" because of its graceful appearance, resembling a white heron spreading its wings. Its distinctive features are its vivid white castle walls made entirely of white plaster, and the five-tiered, six-story, basement main tower, and the three smaller east, west, and dry towers connected by connecting towers.

The main tower of Himeji Castle that we see today was built in 1609.

Even now, more than 400 years later, it has retained its beautiful appearance.

Address: 68 Honmachi, Himeji, Hyogo Prefecture

Opening hours: 9:00AM to 5:00PM (gates close at 4:00PM)

Closed: December 29th and 30th

From the Himeji Castle official website