Things to do in  Himeji

If you only have time for a single day trip from Kyoto or Osaka, make it Himeji Castle, which is widely considered one of Japan’s most beautiful surviving feudal castles. Also known as the White Heron Castle, thanks to its striking white exterior, the UNESCO World Heritage–listed complex features a five-story central tower with surrounding moats, walls, and pagodas. The castle grounds are flanked by the ponds and tea rooms of Koko-en Gardens, a welcome retreat for a stroll or lunchtime stop.

Situated on the grounds of Himeji Castle, this garden was constructed in 1992 to commemorate the centenary of Himeji City becoming a municipality. It's spread out over 3.5 hectares (8.5 acres) and features nine different gardens designed to match the historic aesthetic of the castle that towers over them.

At Taiyo Park in Himeji, visitors can tour of some of the world’s most famous monuments without leaving Japan. The park contains smaller replicas of such iconic attractions as the Giza pyramids, the Statue of Liberty, and China’s Terracotta Warriors. Don’t miss the 3D trick-art gallery inside the replica of Germany’s Neuschwanstein Castle.