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There are an array of things to do in Japan, with Himeji sharing quite a few of those!
Nestled in the heart of Hyogo Prefecture, the city of Himeji is a hidden gem waiting to be uncovered.
With towering castles, serene gardens, and mouthwatering cuisine, Himeji promises a journey like no other.
So grab your sense of adventure, put on your walking shoes, and prepare to be dazzled by the enchanting charm of Himeji.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Himeji:
1. Himeji Castle
Himeji Castle is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Japan’s most iconic and best-preserved feudal era castles.
What to see or do: Admire the stunning white exterior, multiple turrets and towering Main Keep which houses a museum with historical artifacts. Climb the castle’s many levels for amazing views of the surrounding city and countryside.
Don’t miss: The famous cherry blossoms in spring throughout the castle’s grounds. The nighttime illumination of the castle also offers a magical experience.
Insider travel tips: Avoid weekends and holidays to avoid the crowds. Wear comfortable shoes as there are steep stairs and narrow walkways.
Consider renting an audio guide to gain deeper insight into the castle’s history and construction.
2. Kokoen Garden
Kokoen Garden is a beautiful traditional Japanese garden located in the heart of Himeji city.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy a stroll through the garden’s nine different landscapes, each designed to represent a different style of Japanese garden.
The garden features a large pond, tea houses, a waterfall, and various seasonal flowers and trees.
Don’t miss: The garden’s teahouse, where visitors can enjoy a traditional Japanese tea ceremony while taking in the peaceful surroundings.
Insider travel tips: – Visit in the fall to see the beautiful autumn foliage.
3. Mt
Mt. Himeji is a mountain located in Hyogo Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can hike up to the summit of the mountain which offers stunning views of the surrounding areas.
Don’t miss: The breathtaking scenery from the summit, including the panoramic view of Himeji City and its castle.
Insider travel tips: It’s recommended to go early in the morning to avoid the crowds and the heat, and to wear comfortable hiking shoes and clothing.
Bringing snacks and water is also a good idea since there are limited dining options on the mountain.
4. Engyo-ji Temple
Engyo-ji Temple is a famous Buddhist temple located on Mount Shosha, about 7 kilometers away from Himeji city center in Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the temple complex which consists of over 30 buildings and structures, including the Maniden (main hall), Daikodo (lecture hall), and Jikido (dining hall).
The temple is surrounded by beautiful nature trails that provide stunning panoramic views of Himeji city and its surroundings.
Don’t miss: The temple’s Maniden or the main hall is a must-see attraction that features beautiful architecture and intricate carvings. Also, the temple’s impressive bronze Buddha statue is a prominent attraction that is over 1,000 years old.
Insider travel tips: To avoid the crowds, it is advisable to visit the temple early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
Moreover, visitors can save their time and energy by taking a ropeway or a bus to the summit instead of hiking up the mountain.
Finally, it is recommended to bring comfortable shoes and warm clothing since it can get chilly at the top of the mountain.
5. Himeji Tegarayama Amusement Park
Himeji Tegarayama Amusement Park is a family-friendly theme park located in Himeji, Japan.
What to see or do: The park offers a variety of attractions including roller coasters, a Ferris wheel, a haunted house, and a water ride. There are also plenty of carnival games and food vendors to enjoy.
Don’t miss: The park’s iconic feature is the Tegarayama Great Suspension Bridge, a 390-meter long pedestrian bridge that provides stunning views of the city of Himeji.
Insider travel tips: – Visit on a weekday to avoid the crowds.
6. Himeji Central Park
Himeji Central Park is a vast amusement park situated in the Hyogo Prefecture of Japan.
The park spans over 80 hectares of land and is home to various theme park rides, a zoo, and botanical gardens.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy an array of thrilling rides at Himeji Central Park, including roller coasters, water rides, and a Ferris wheel.
The sprawling zoo with its diverse range of animals, including koalas, kangaroos, and giant pandas, is also a major attraction. The botanical gardens with over 1,000 species of flowers and plants are a treat for nature lovers.
Don’t miss: Be sure to catch the “Dolphin and Sea Lion Show,” where these aquatic animals showcase their impressive skills. A stroll through the Sky Safari, an aerial cable car ride, offers a breathtaking view of the entire park.
Insider travel tips: To avoid the crowds, get to the park early in the day. Packing your own food and drinks is allowed, which can help you save money.
If you want to ride the roller coasters, hit them up first, as they are the most popular and can have long wait times.
7. Himeji City Aquarium
A modern aquarium that features a wide variety of marine life, including sea turtles, jellyfish, penguins, and over 300 species of fish.
What to see or do: Enjoy stunning exhibits of marine life, such as the sea turtle habitat, the jellyfish zone, and the colorful coral reef display.
Get up close and personal with playful penguins and watch them swim and frolic in their dedicated habitat. Discover a diverse range of fish from around the globe.
Don’t miss: The brilliantly colored clownfish, the graceful spotted eagle ray, and the majestic Japanese spider crab. Be sure to catch the educational programs throughout the day, such as feeding demonstrations and interactive exhibits.
Insider travel tips: Visit early in the day to avoid crowds. Plan to spend at least two hours exploring the aquarium to fully experience all the exhibits.
Weekdays tend to be less crowded than weekends. If you’re interested in catching a feeding demonstration or other educational program, check the schedule beforehand.
8. Hyogo Prefectural Museum of History
The Hyogo Prefectural Museum of History is a museum exhibiting the history, culture, and lifestyle of Hyogo Prefecture.
What to see or do: Explore the permanent exhibits showcasing the history of Hyogo from prehistoric times to present day. The museum features interactive displays, models, and artifacts that showcase the unique culture and heritage of the region.
Don’t miss: The Himeji Castle display – a replica of the famous Himeji Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site located in Hyogo Prefecture.
Also, make sure to check out the special exhibits that change throughout the year.
Insider travel tips: If you’re interested in the history and culture of Japan, make sure to add this museum to your itinerary when visiting Himeji.
The museum is located about a 15-minute walk from Himeji Castle, so you can combine the two attractions in one trip.
The museum provides English audio guides for a fee, which is helpful for non-Japanese speakers to understand the exhibits better. Don’t forget to browse the gift shop for unique souvenirs!
9. Koko-en Garden
Koko-en Garden is a stunning traditional Japanese garden located next to Himeji Castle in Hyogo Prefecture. It consists of nine separate gardens, each with its unique aesthetic.
What to see or do: Stroll through the various gardens, each with its own distinct features, including a bamboo garden, a tea garden, and a pine garden.
Admire the beautiful seasonal flowers, including cherry blossoms, azaleas, peonies, and irises.
Don’t miss: Be sure not to miss the magnificent view of Himeji Castle, which can be seen from various vantage points throughout the garden.
Additionally, take time to visit the teahouse, where you can enjoy a traditional Japanese tea ceremony while taking in the serene surroundings.
Insider travel tips: – The best time to visit is during the spring and fall when the gardens are at their most colorful.
10. Shoshazan Engyo-ji Temple
Shoshazan Engyo-ji Temple is a historic Buddhist temple complex situated on Mount Shosha in Himeji, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the picturesque temple grounds and visit the various buildings including the Daikodo Hall, the Maniden Hall, and the Jikido Hall.
The temple complex also offers stunning panoramic views of Himeji city and the surrounding mountains.
Don’t miss: Make sure to catch a glimpse of the temple’s main attraction – the large wooden statue of the thousand-armed Kannon Bodhisattva.
Visitors can also enjoy a traditional Japanese tea ceremony at the temple’s tea house.
Insider travel tips: It’s recommended to wear comfortable shoes as there is a bit of a hike up the mountain to reach the temple.
Head to the temple early in the morning to beat the crowds and take advantage of the cooler weather. Don’t forget to bring cash as there is a small entrance fee to the temple.
11. Daikō-ji Temple
A historic Buddhist temple located in Himeji, Japan.
What to see or do: Marvel at the impressive architecture of the temple, explore its beautiful gardens, and learn about the history and significance of Buddhism in Japan.
Visitors can also participate in traditional Buddhist practices such as meditation and chanting.
Don’t miss: The temple’s main hall, which houses a large statue of the Buddha and stunning artwork. Also, be sure to see the beautiful cherry blossom trees that bloom in the temple’s gardens during the spring.
Insider travel tips: Dress appropriately, as this is an active place of worship.
Also, consider visiting during the early morning or late evening hours to avoid crowds and experience a quieter, more peaceful atmosphere.
Finally, attending a traditional Buddhist ceremony can provide a unique and memorable experience.
12. Hyogo Prefectural Museum of Art
Hyogo Prefectural Museum of Art is an art museum located in the city of Himeji, Japan.
What to see or do: The museum houses an impressive collection of contemporary and modern art, including works by famous Japanese artists such as Takashi Murakami and Yayoi Kusama.
Visitors can explore the permanent collection as well as the rotating exhibitions that showcase different aspects of Japanese art and culture.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of the museum is its outdoor sculpture garden, which features a range of striking contemporary sculptures set against the backdrop of the beautiful Himeji Castle.
Insider travel tips: The museum is located near the Himeji Castle, so visitors can easily combine the two attractions in one day.
13. Himeji City Museum of Literature
Himeji City Museum of Literature is a museum dedicated to the literary heritage of the city of Himeji, Japan.
What to see or do: The museum showcases the works and lives of Himeji’s prominent literary figures, including authors, poets, and scholars. Visitors can explore the exhibits, which include original manuscripts, letters, and other artifacts related to Himeji’s literary past.
The museum also hosts various events, such as poetry readings and author talks.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of the museum is the room dedicated to Akiko Yosano, a prominent poet and writer who spent her early years in Himeji.
Visitors can see examples of her work and learn about her life and career.
Insider travel tips: – The museum is located in the heart of Himeji, making it a convenient stop for those exploring the city.
14. Himeji City Museum of Art
A museum of Japanese and Western art in Himeji, Japan.
What to see or do: Admire the impressive collections of both Japanese and Western art, including paintings, sculptures, prints, and ceramics. The museum also offers special exhibitions throughout the year.
Don’t miss: The museum’s extensive collection of Western art, featuring pieces by renowned artists such as Monet, Manet, Degas, and Picasso.
Insider travel tips: Visit on a weekday to avoid crowds and enjoy the museum’s exhibits in a peaceful setting. Be sure to check out the museum shop, which offers a selection of unique souvenirs and gifts.
15. Himeji City Zoo
Himeji City Zoo is a small but charming zoo located in the heart of Himeji City in Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can see a variety of animals such as tigers, lions, monkeys, bears, and many more. The zoo also has a petting zoo featuring farm animals and a bird sanctuary.
Don’t miss: The highlight of the zoo is definitely the white tigers, which are rare and majestic creatures. Additionally, the zoo often hosts special events throughout the year, such as animal shows and seasonal festivals.
Insider travel tips: Wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking involved.