Visiting Himeji castle is a must when youβre in Japan!
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Himeji Castle, or the White Heron Castle, is one of the most visited castles in Japan, attracting visitors with its beauty and historical significance.
We went to Himeji Castle by train from Osaka. From far ahead, you can see its magnificent white keep standing high, reminding you of a white bird (in contrast with Matsumoto Castle, nicknamed Black Crow Castle). The first fortifications on this site were laid in the first half of the 14th century, and the castle as we know it was completed in 1609 under Ikeda Terumasa.
Whatβs so unique about it?
Actually, not that many Japanese castles you see today are original. Some were demolished on purpose by the Japanese themselves in the 19th century: in the rise of the Meiji Period (1868-1912), castles felt outdated because they were symbols of feudalism. Others were damaged during the wars or by natural disasters such as earthquakes. Some suffered during WWII.
Only 12 Japanese castles still hold the original tenshu β architectural structure. Himeji castle is one of 12 original ones that wasnβt destroyed by war or earthquake. Actually, in the 19th century it was sold to a private owner who planned to demolish it however the price of that appeared to be too high, and the castle eventually was left untouched.
Make sure you also visit Kokoen Garden nearby.
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