Summary
- Discover the hidden gem of Himeji in Japan's Kansai Region for a local and authentic experience away from major tourist hubs.
- Explore historic Himeji Castle, one of Japan's most beautiful castles and a World Heritage Site, with its stunning appearance and rich history.
- Don't miss the Koko-en Gardens, located next to Himeji Castle, for a peaceful and picturesque setting to connect with nature.
Travelers who are planning a trip to Japan may already be considering a visit to the street food capital of Osaka or Japan's ancient capital of Kyoto. What they might not realize is that just a short train journey away is a hidden gem of Japan waiting to be discovered.
In the Kansai Region, home to some of the best prefectures in Japan to visit outside of Tokyo (including Hyogo), the town of Himeji sits peacefully, offering interesting history, beautiful castles, and inviting hot springs to those few travelers who wander out this way. Get an authentic local experience in Japan by leaving major tourist hubs behind and venturing into one of the lesser-known towns of this beautiful area.
10 JR Himeji Station
It might surprise travelers to see a train station on a list of attractions, but in Japan, railway stations are a hub of their own.
With shopping opportunities and plenty of places to dine before or after a train journey, JR Himeji Station is worth recognizing as one of the major attractions of this charming town.
- Address: Japan, 〒670-0927 兵庫県姫路市駅前町188-1
- Cost: Free
Getting around Japan is much more affordable and convenient for foreigners with a JR Rail Pass. This pass can even be purchased in one's home country before travel and picked up at a JR station in Japan upon arrival.
9 Himeji Castle
Visting Himeji Castle is among the best things to do in Himeji, Japan. The historic and iconic castle is over 400 years old and is one of Japan's most beautiful castles. It became the first World Heritage Site in Japan back in December 1993, alongside Nara’s Horyuji Temple.
The castle has a graceful appearance and is often overlooked because of other famous castles in the region, like Osaka Castle. The main castle keep was constructed in 1609 and still looks stunning today.
- Address: 68 Honmachi, Himeji, Hyogo 670-0012, Japan
- Cost: ~$6.80 (1000 yen)
8 Koko-en
Koko-en Gardens are located inside Himeji Park and are a beautiful place to connect with nature in Himeji, Japan. The garden is located next to Himeji Castle, so it’s a great idea to visit both on the same day.
The garden was created in 1992 to commemorate Himeji officially becoming a municipality. The garden spans a stunning 8.5 acres and is a gorgeous backdrop for photos.
- Address: 68 Honmachi, Himeji, Hyogo 670-0012, Japan
- Cost: Free
7 Hiromine Shrine
This Shinto shrine is located north of Himeji City and is named for its proximity to Mount Hiromine. As with all Shinto shrines in Japan, it’s important to practice proper etiquette and respect while visiting.
Always be calm and respectful and say a prayer at the sacred object upon arrival. This is done by offering a coin and then speaking the prayer. It’s free to enter the shrine, but it’s good practice to provide a donation.
- Address: 52 Hiromineyama, Himeji, Hyogo 670-0891, Japan
- Cost: Free (donation appreciated)
6 Himeji City Museum Of Literature
How many cities can say they have a museum of literature? This unique feature of Himeji is worth visiting for book lovers and academics alike.
The museum was built by architect Tadao Ando and is located northwest of Himeji Castle. The museum introduces the public to authors, writers, and philosophers from Japan’s Harima region.
- Address: Japan, 〒670-0021 Hyogo, Himeji, Yamanoicho, ８４
- Cost: ~$2.12 (310 yen)
5 Taiyō Park
Taiyō Park is a unique theme park in a rural part of Himeji that is certain to surprise and delight travelers. Visiting Taiyō Park is like taking a quick trip around the world, with the expansive grounds full of replicas of global structures.
These include famous landmarks like the castle Neuschwanstein in Germany, the Arc de Triomphe in France, and the Moai statues on Easter Island (Chile).
- Address: 1342-6 Uchikoshi, Himeji, Hyogo 671-2246, Japan
- Cost: From ~$8.88 (1300 yen)
4 Daisho Leather Factory
The Daisho Leather Factory upholds a 1000-year tradition of excellence in providing quality goods from Himeji, Japan.
The factory practices ancient leather-making techniques, and guests can tour the facility to learn about these processes.
- Address: 110 Hanadacho Takagi, Himeji-shi, Hyogo
- Cost: Contact the factory for current tour costs at the time of travel
3 Mount Shosha Ropeway
Mount Shosha Ropeway is a fun and affordable way to get to the viewpoint of Mount Shosha. Note that there are additional fees in the upper ropeway and to enter the shrine.
Travelers can purchase a Shoshazan Ropeway combination ticket for $12.95 (1400 yen), which provides a round-trip journey from Himeji Station via bus.
- Address: 1199-2 Shosha, Himeji, Hyogo 671-2201, Japan
- Cost: From $3.41 (500 yen)
Book accommodation for at least one night in Himeji at a traditional Japanese ryokan. There are many amazing onsen (hot spring) ryokans in Japan, and some are located in or around Himeji.
2 Engyoji
Japan is full of beautiful temples. Engyoji Temple is located in Himeji and is a complex of Buddhist structures.
A hidden gem of Japan’s Kansai Region, travelers might recognize the site from the movie The Last Samurai since some filming took place here. It’s not extremely popular among tourists, despite this fun fact, so it’s even more tranquil and special to experience.
- Address: 2968 Shosha, Himeji, Hyogo 671-2201, Japan
- Cost: From $3.41 (500 yen)
1 Himeji City Museum Of Art
Himeji is a city full of interesting museums to explore. The Himeji City Museum of Art was opened in 1983. The museum is located inside Himeji Park and is open daily from 10 AM to 5 PM but is closed on Mondays.
The museum is one of the top attractions in Himeji, Japan, and features local artwork and promotes Japanese culture, specifically that of the Kansai region.
- Address: 8-25 Honmachi, Himeji, Hyogo 670-0012, Japan
- Cost: From ~$1.43 (210 yen)