Himeji Tourist Information
Introducing Himeji Tourism, including the World Heritage Site and National Treasure, Himeji Castle
Himeji Castle, a World Heritage Site and National Treasure, is within a 10-minute walk from our hotel. In addition, Himeji has many attractive tourist spots.
Recommended Sightseeing Map of Claire Higasa
We present a sightseeing map recommended by Claire Higasa, divided into the vicinity of Himeji City and within Himeji Castle.
Himeji Castle and enjoy the scenery
Special Stroll Map by the Proprietress
Please use the walking map recommended by our owner for strolling around Himeji Castle.
Himeji Tourist Spots
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Himeji Castle
10-minute walk from the hotel
Himeji Castle is an elegant structure that looks like a white heron spreading its wings. With over 400 years of history, the beauty of Himeji Castle is recognized worldwide, and in 1993 it was registered as Japan's first World Heritage site. In 2015, after five years of major repairs, it shines brilliantly.
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Kokoen Garden
5-minute drive from the hotel
Kokoen, with Himeji Castle as a backdrop, is a traditional Japanese garden that spans approximately 10,000 tsubo. The garden features nine distinct areas, including the "Flower Garden" and the "Pine Garden," where you can enjoy seasonal natural beauty while savoring seasonal sweets and matcha.
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Himeji Literary Museum
8-minute drive from the hotel
Located northwest of Himeji Castle, the Himeji Literary Museum is a unique building designed by architect Tadao Ando. The south wing features facilities such as an "Exhibition Room," "Shiba Ryotaro Memorial Room," and "Library," equipped with a 150-inch screen and nine multi-screen displays. The north wing includes exhibits that trace the cultural landscape of Harima from ancient times to the end of the Edo period, along with a "Literary Exhibition Room" introducing nine literary figures.
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Himeji City Aquarium
15-minute drive from the hotel
Located within the central park of Himeji City, the Himeji City Aquarium introduces various local creatures such as turtles, fish from the Seto Inland Sea, and freshwater animals from the Banshu plains. It is uniquely situated near the mountain top, earning it the nickname "Aquarium on the Mountain."
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Shosha-san Enkyo-ji Temple
20-minute drive from the hotel
Founded in 966 by the priest Shokuu, this temple is located on the mountain where those who climb are encouraged to awaken their bodhicitta, and those who reside on the peak are said to purify their six senses. It is believed that the Bodhisattva Monju revealed that enlightenment can be attained at the white mountain on Mani-dō. Following this, many people began to climb the mountain seeking blessings, including Emperor Kazan, who came to receive teachings from the priest. A large lecture hall was built, and the temple was named Shosha-san Enkyo-ji.
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Himeji Central Park
25-minute drive from the hotel
A theme park featuring a safari park and amusement park, boasting a vast area of 1.9 million square meters. At the safari park, you can observe carnivorous animals like cheetahs, lions, and tigers, as well as herbivorous animals from your car through a drive-through safari. There’s also a walking safari where you can see freely roaming water birds and kangaroos up close, and a sky safari where you can take a cable car to enjoy a bird’s-eye view of the animals.
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Japan Toy Museum
25-minute drive from the hotel
The museum consists of six white-walled buildings and houses 80,000 items from 140 countries, primarily focusing on Japanese toys. It is widely known as a representative toy museum in Japan, featuring lectures and workshops themed around the culture of toys and play.
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Taiyo Park
25-minute drive from the hotel
Taiyo Park is a theme park located at the foot of Mount Hōsai, featuring impressive attractions such as the Arc de Triomphe and the Terracotta Army in the stone area, as well as the Swan Castle inspired by Neuschwanstein Castle in the castle area.
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Nagakabe Shrine
3-minute walk from the hotel
Nagakabe Shrine is a well-loved shrine known for its Yukata Festival. It enshrines the deity of Kebi, and the festival has gained popularity with the support of the kimono merchant association and the tourism association after the war, making it a representative festival of Himeji. Originally part of Chogen-ji, it became Nagakabe Shrine in the late Taisho era.
Restaurants Map
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Family Friendly
- Applire (Italian)
- Kamomeya Himeji West Branch (Steak)
- Gonta (Izakaya)
- Yoraisō (Chinese)
- Wakadan (Japanese Cuisine)
- Shiro Megane (Japanese Cuisine)
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Business Dinner
- Kyoshizuka (Japanese Cuisine)
- Raizushi (Sushi)
- Kikou (Japanese Cuisine)
- Kamiyama (Japanese Cuisine)
- Dajorgio (Italian)
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Night Out
- Shiocho Okami Yokocho
- Backyard Kitchen
- Taishu Sakaba Toriya Fukube
- Hachibee
- Oito Occhan
- Hosanna (Western Cuisine)
How to Spend Your Time in Himeji
Enjoy dishes made with local ingredients rich in flavor, furniture and decor full of Himeji's charm, and
sightseeing centered around Himeji Castle.
Why not embark on a journey filled with the unique delights of Himeji?
Let this be your travel companion.
Day 1
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13:00
Visit the elegant Himeji Castle, reborn from the Great Repair of the Heisei Era
Himeji Castle stands elegantly, resembling a white heron spreading its wings. With over 400 years of history, the beauty of Himeji Castle is recognized worldwide, and it was registered as Japan's first World Heritage Site in 1993. After undergoing five years of major restoration known as the "Heisei Great Repair," it now radiates an astonishing brilliance.
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14:40
Take a break with soft serve ice cream from "Harimaya Tea Shop"
Established in 1948, "Harimaya Chaho" is famous for its sweets, including Uji matcha soft serve and hojicha soft serve. After exploring Himeji Castle, let's take a break while enjoying these popular treats that highlight the flavors of tea.
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15:00
Check-in
Our hotel, located in the historic castle town of Himeji, retains a retro atmosphere. We focus on Himeji's character in our cuisine, decor, and overall ambiance, with unique designs throughout the hotel. Enjoy your stay at our hotel, where you can experience the comfort and local charm within walking distance from JR Himeji Station and Himeji Castle.
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15:10
Choose Your Room According to Your Style
Our guest rooms come in various types, including single, Japanese-style single, semi-double, twin/triple, double, and Japanese-style rooms. You can freely choose according to the number of guests and your purpose. Enjoy a relaxing time in a room that feels warm and welcoming.
Go to the Room Page
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16:00
Relax in a Gallery Space Adorned with Masterpieces
The gallery cafe, adorned with the works of artists from Himeji, such as fire tongs wind chimes by the 52nd master Seiri Meijin and large tables by woodworker Naoki Mukaizawa, embodies the essence of Himeji. Enjoy a leisurely time appreciating the artwork, reading a book, or simply sipping coffee or tea served by the gallery.
View the Gallery
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17:00
Bathhouse
Our bathhouse is inspired by the Edo period. Surrounded by warm lighting and comforting water, you can relax both body and mind. Enjoy a soothing moment in the castle town bathhouse, designed with ukiyo-e and auspicious patterns.
Go to the Bath House Page
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18:00
A Dinner That Brings Happiness with Quality Ingredients
For dinner, you can choose from several plans, including anago and steak, jidori chicken and lotus root courses, and seasonal limited menus. Among these, the most popular option is the 'Himeji Wagyu Shabu-Shabu Course.' This course offers a high level of satisfaction, featuring appetizers that utilize seasonal local vegetables, exquisite 'Himeji Wagyu,' and 'domestic beef steak.
View Dinner Options
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20:00
Stroll Around the Nightly Illuminated "Himeji Castle"
Himeji Castle offers a unique experience at night with its beautiful illumination. The castle rises majestically against the night sky, creating a magical scene. Why not take a stroll around the castle at night to enjoy its different charm compared to the daytime?
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23:00
Bedtime
Enjoy a restful night's sleep in a comfortable room equipped with high-resilience airwave mattresses and air purifiers with humidifiers. Make sure to recharge your body thoroughly.
Go to Room Page
Day 2
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7:00
Edo-style bathhouse
After waking up, head to the observation bath. In the observation Edo-style bathhouse, where you can enjoy the view of Himeji city and a warm atmosphere, you can relax and unwind from the morning.
Go to the Bath House Page
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10:00
Check-Out
After check-out, enjoy a stroll around Himeji city.
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10:30
Enjoy a Moment at "Kokoen," a Garden of Seasonal Beauty
"Kokoen," which stands in the shadow of Himeji Castle, is an authentic Japanese garden featuring nine distinct gardens, including the "Flower Garden" and the "Pine Garden," spread across approximately 10,000 tsubo (about 33,000 square meters). Enjoy seasonal sweets and matcha while taking in the beauty of nature throughout the seasons.
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12:00
Lunch at Western Restaurant 'Grill Tempei'
Enjoy lunch at "Grill Tempei," located just a short walk from Himeji Castle. This authentic Western-style restaurant offers a range of dishes, from the popular "Himeji Juicy Hamburger" to "Crab Cream Croquettes," as well as course meals. They prioritize "food safety and security," sourcing fresh vegetables from local farmers and using different meat origins based on the type. It's a great choice for everyone, from children to seniors.
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13:30
The Ancient Temple "Enkyoji," Praised as the "Western Hieizan"
"Enkyoji," located on Mount Koshyo, is one of the most prestigious temples in the Tendai sect, regarded as one of the "Three Great Dojos" along with Mt. Hiei and Mt. Daisen. It features important cultural assets designated by the national government, such as the Great Lecture Hall and the Mani Hall, which resemble Kiyomizu Temple. The temple offers a beautiful blend of rich nature and architecture, along with various attractions like training experiences and shojin cuisine.
