Himeji Castle Historical Facts and Pictures

Standing at the center of Himeji city, the Castle of Himeji is an iconic fortress of Japan. Built on top of Himeyama hill, the castle is an exceptional example of Japanese Fortress Architecture.

Himeji Castle Map

Himeji Castle Map

Himeji Castle Entrance

Entrance of Himeji Castle

Himeji Castle Entrance

The construction of this historic fortress dates back to 1333 when the ruler of Harima Province, Akamatsu Norimura established a fort on top of Himeyama hill. It was demolished and replaced by Himeyama Castle, in 1346, by his son, Sadonori. It was then remolded into Himeji Castle in 1581, by the Feudal lord Kuroda Shigetaka. The fortress was completely rebuilt and turned into a great castle complex in 1409, by Ikeda Terumasa.

Himeji Castle Photos

Himeji Castle

Architecture and Design

Containing eighty three buildings of high defensive systems, this fortress is also known Egret Castle (Shirasagi) for its white exterior, resembling a flock of herons taking flight. Fortified with curved walls, resembling to giant fans, the castle is mostly build stones and woods. The 6 storied central tower in the middle of the complex, contains three other subordinate towers along with it.

Himeji Castle at Night

Himeji Castle Images

Night View of Himeji Castle

Inside of the Castle

The castle displays heavy artilleries all over its compound and encircled by a wide ditch, designed for protection. The first floor of the keep is often identified as the “Thousand Mat- Room” for possessing more than three hundred and thirty Tatami mats.

Himeji Castle Inside

Himeji Castle Interior

Encompassing an area of 4,200 meters, the Himeji Castle is the largest fortress in Japan. The construction remained intact for over four hundred years, surviving through the bombing in World War2 and natural calamities, like the great Hanshin Earthquake in 1995. Considered as one of the premier castles in Japan, this magnificent fortress is currently going through renovation process and is expected to be finished in March 2015.

Inside of Himeji Castle

Inside View of Himeji Castle

Himeji Castle Photos