Himeji Castle

If you ask one castle in Japan that is the most elegant and dignified, many people would think of Himeji Castle.  It was one of Japan's first two UNESCO World Heritage sites registered in 1993 (the other one was Horyu-ji Temple in Nara.)

The seven-storey keep (including one floor below ground) that we see today was built in 1609, and miraculously survived the bombings during WW2.  Through large-scale rennovations every few decades, the "white egret" castle maintains the unparalleled beauty and durability.

The white plastered walls look so bright outside that you may be surprised at the subdued, temple-like wooden interior.  You can walk up the steep stairs to the top floor, from where you can command a view of Himeji City just like the ancient lords did.

The most close-up photo opportunity comes when you finish the visit of the main keep. 

There is more than the main keep.  The site presents the remains of the entire fort structure.  It is suggested that you allocate two to three hours if you plan to cover the whole site.  If you visit only the main keep, a little over one hour may do.  Himeji tends to be less crowded than other major tourist destinations such as Kyoto or Hiroshima, and is just as accessible by shinkansen train.