Himeji Castle
Castle · Himeji-shi ·
Iconic 17th-century Japanese castle, "White Egret Castle," UNESCO site
Iconic 17th-century Japanese castle, "White Egret Castle," UNESCO site
"Celebrated as Japan’s best-preserved feudal castle, this brilliant-white hilltop stronghold dates in its current form to 1609, with earlier fortifications laid in the 1400s, and it adds seasonal beauty with more than a thousand cherry trees during sakura. Its most famous specter is Okiku, a woman allegedly falsely accused, executed, and cast into the well; she’s said to haunt the grounds still. The site is open daily, with tickets available for both the castle and nearby Kokoen Garden." - Nicole Kliest
"A stunning example of feudal-period Japanese castle architecture in Hyōgo Prefecture: the site dates to 1333 and today comprises a network of 83 buildings, including turrets, storehouses, and residences that were used until the 1860s. Known for its elaborate white plaster facade and often called the "White Egret Castle," it is open year-round for tours, with spring—when the cherry trees blossom—being the most popular time to visit." - Steven Casale Steven Casale Steven Casale is a New York City-based freelance writer and digital strategist. He specializes in food, travel, and lifestyle content for publications like Tasting Table, Travel + Leisure, The Lineup, and amNY.com. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines
"At Himeji, I describe the 17th-century castle’s 83 buildings and maze-like floor plan designed to foil invaders, its roof Onigawara meant to ward off evil, and the local legend of Okiku—a servant accused of losing one of ten plates, thrown down a well, who returns to count her plates and wails whenever she reaches the missing tenth." - Andrea Romano Andrea Romano Andrea Romano is a writer and editor in New York City. For the last eight years, she has been a lifestyle journalist for Mashable, Brit+Co, Reviewed, Bustle, and Travel + Leisure. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines
"A historic castle near Kobe that inspired the plot for the original 'Ringu' film franchise and is associated with the tragic tale of a servant girl named Okiku, who is said to have thrown herself into a well after being falsely accused and whose ghost — sometimes described as wearing a white dress with long black hair — is still rumored to appear on the grounds. Visitors can still see the well linked to that legend when touring the site." - Alison Fox Alison Fox Alison Fox is a Travel + Leisure contributor. She has also written for Parents.com, The Wall Street Journal, and amNewYork. When she’s not in New York City, she can be found at the beach or on the slopes. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines
"I’m eager to see Himeji Castle, a 14th-century fortress that is Japan’s most visited castle and the largest castle complex with over 83 buildings, to appreciate its scale and historical significance." - Matthew Kepnes
