Himeji Castle | Review by wendy

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Himeji Castle

A World Heritage Site and one of Japan's most famous castle buildings. Also known as "Hakuro Castle”.

1 Nov 2026 See More

I finally got to see Himeji Castle, one of Japan's famous World Heritage Sites, with my own eyes! Even from a distance, I was captivated by its magnificent white exterior. Against the clear blue sky, the whole scene was truly beautiful.

Himeji Castle is also known as “White Heron Castle” because of its white outer walls and its overall shape, which resembles an elegant white heron spreading its wings. Up close, you can better appreciate the overlapping layers of eaves, the intricate architectural details, and the towering main keep, all of which fully showcase the distinctive features of an ancient Japanese castle.

I originally thought I would just come see the castle and take some photos, but it wasn't until I stood below it that I truly felt its grandeur and sense of history. The white castle walls looked especially dazzling in the sunlight, and it looked great in every photo!

It truly deserves its reputation as one of Japan's most iconic castles. If you come to Himeji City in Hyogo Prefecture, this is one attraction you really shouldn't miss!

Other Reviews by wendy

Akashi Kaikyo Bridge

The Akashi Kaikyo Bridge connects Honshu and Awaji Island. It is known as the world's longest suspension bridge, with a total length of 3,911 meters and a distance of 1,991 meters between the two main towers. Together with the Onaruto Bridge, it connects the Kansai area to Shikoku, and is a popular tourist route.
- Kobe
- Tourist Attractions
1 Nov 2026 See More

What I looked forward to most on this visit to Maiko Park was seeing the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge up close! Before I even reached the area beneath the bridge, I could see this enormous suspension bridge stretching across the sea in the distance. Standing in front of it, I found it even more magnificent than I had imagined. I couldn't stop picking up my camera to take pictures—it looked great from every angle!

The Akashi Kaikyo Bridge also has the beautiful nickname “Pearl Bridge.” Connecting Honshu and Awaji Island, it is a world-famous long-span suspension bridge.

The towering bridge pylons and cables stretching into the distance, set against the endless ocean view, create a truly imposing scene. Looking up from beneath the bridge makes its astonishing scale even more apparent.

That day, I enjoyed looking at the bridge while feeling the sea breeze, which was especially pleasant. Watching boats pass beneath the bridge, with the sea and the bridge coming together to create beautiful scenery, made me want to stay a little longer without even realizing it.

This bridge is not only an important transportation link between Honshu and Awaji Island, but also one of Kobe's most iconic landmarks. If you visit Maiko Park, I really recommend setting aside time to admire it and experience the appeal of this world-class suspension bridge in person!
Maiko Park

Maiko Park opened in 1900 as the first prefectural park in Hyogo Prefecture. This park also serves as a gate for Akashi Kaikyo Bridge or “Pearl Bridge,” the world’s longest suspension bridge, attracting many tourists from Japan and abroad.
- Kobe
- Parks & Gardens
1 Nov 2026 See More

On this visit to Maiko Park in Kobe, what I was looking forward to most was seeing the world-famous Akashi Kaikyo Bridge in person! After getting off at JR Maiko Station, you can reach the park by walking across the pedestrian bridge, so it’s really convenient.

It wasn’t until I actually walked up to the bridge that I realized it was even more spectacular than I had imagined! The enormous bridge stretches across the sea, with the long suspension bridge extending far into the distance. Looking up at it from underneath, you can’t help but marvel at what humans are capable of building.

That day, I took a leisurely walk along the coast, admiring the bridge and feeling the sea breeze. With the vast ocean view in front of me and the sound of the waves in my ears, the whole setting felt very relaxing. It didn’t have the noise and bustle of the city, giving it a much more laid-back and carefree atmosphere.

If you have time, I highly recommend walking along the Marine Promenade. You can enjoy views of the Akashi Strait from different angles and experience the unique feeling of walking on the bridge.

This is truly a great place to slow down and appreciate the beautiful scenery. Rather than rushing to take photos and check in, I preferred feeling the sea breeze, looking out at the ocean, and enjoying the relaxed pace unique to Kobe’s waterfront.
Moegi House

This Western-style residence was built in 1903 as the home of Hunter Sharp, who served as the American consul general. True to its name, the house stands out with its vivid light-green exterior that immediately catches the eye. The two-story wooden structure features weatherboard siding, and its light, colonial-style design has a storybook-like charm. Asymmetrical bay windows project from either side, with a brick chimney rising at the center.
- Kobe
- Museums
1 Nov 2026 See More

On this trip to Kobe, besides Himeji Castle, another thing I was really looking forward to was walking around the Kitano Ijinkan district! Our first stop was Moegi House, with its very eye-catching exterior.

Before even going inside, I was drawn to this Western-style house in a pale mint green! Paired with dark green window frames, white decorative railings, and a red-brick chimney, the whole building has a very distinctive look and a strong vintage, foreign atmosphere. It was beautiful just taking pictures outside.

Moegi House was formerly the residence of the American consul. Its location makes it one of the more convenient houses to visit in the Kitano Ijinkan district, and admission is also relatively inexpensive. Once I went inside, I found that the displays here were somewhat different from those at the other houses. Instead of deliberately creating themed exhibits about different countries' cultures, it recreates the living spaces of the time as faithfully as possible.

As I toured the rooms and looked at the old furniture, windows, and interior decor, I couldn't help imagining what kind of daily life the people who lived here once had. Although the exhibits aren't as extensive as those at some of the other houses, this sense of being close to real life instead inspired an even greater feeling of nostalgia.

Overall, this stop is easy to explore, and you don't need to set aside too much time for it. For me, visiting Kobe's ijinkan isn't just about seeing beautiful architecture. It's also a way to experience Kobe's past history and culture through these preserved old houses.