Himeji Castle Tours and Activities

Things to do near Himeji Castle

Himeji Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a must-visit sightseeing destination in Himeji, Hyogo Prefecture. Explore the stunning architecture and beautiful gardens surrounding the castle, and take part in activities such as guided tours to learn about its rich history. Other attractions include the Kokoen Garden nearby, offering a peaceful escape, and local shops where you can savour traditional Japanese snacks and souvenirs. Enjoy a memorable experience in this iconic Japanese landmark.

Shopping

For an exciting shopping experience near Himeji Castle, visit Himejimaedore Market, located 6.4km away, offering a vibrant local atmosphere. Also, check out Aeon Mall Himeji River City, just 4.8km away, for a mix of entertainment and family-friendly shops. If you're up for a drive, Aeon Mall Himeji Otsu is 8.0km away, featuring a variety of stores and activities.

Recreation

Ichinoike Park, located 8.0km from Himeji Castle, offers a serene environment perfect for relaxation and nature walks. For family fun, Mikikko Land is a vibrant playground situated 27.4km away, providing outdoor activities for all ages. Enjoy sports at the Bourbon Beans Dome, 32.2km away, with its energetic atmosphere.

Adventure

At Himeji Castle, embark on the Mount Shosha Ropeway, a scenic gondola ride located 4.8km away. Experience breathtaking views while surrounded by nature, perfect for families and adventure seekers alike. Explore the serene hiking trails atop Mount Shosha for an unforgettable outdoor experience.

Nightlife

For a fun night out, visit Ako Kaihin Park, an arcade adventure zone 29.0km from Himeji Castle, perfect for family vibes. If you're keen on stargazing, the Nishi-Harima Astronomical Observatory, 38.6km away, offers an entertaining planetarium experience for all ages.

Find the best attractions near Himeji Castle

Himeji Castle, a stunning landmark, is surrounded by numerous attractions including shrines, temples, and a botanical garden, offering a rich cultural experience for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Nearby, you can explore Himeji Central Park and the Himeji Art Museum. For accommodation, several top hotels are conveniently located close to the castle, making it an ideal base for your adventures in this beautiful region of Hyogo Prefecture.

• Koko-en Garden: A serene botanical garden located 322m from Himeji Castle, Koko-en offers a romantic atmosphere with beautifully landscaped grounds, traditional tea houses, and seasonal flowers. It's perfect for outdoor families seeking a peaceful retreat.
• Gokoku Shrine: Situated 483m from Himeji Castle, Gokoku Shrine is a culturally rich site dedicated to Japan's war heroes. Visitors can experience its tranquil grounds and stunning architecture, immersing themselves in local traditions and spirituality.
• Himeji City Museum of Art: Located 322m from Himeji Castle, this art museum showcases a diverse collection of Japanese and Western art. The museum's exhibitions offer a cultural deep dive, making it a must-visit for art enthusiasts.

Best time to go to Himeji Castle

The best time to visit Himeji Castle can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Himeji Castle falls in August, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with moderate rain. The coolest average temperature around Himeji Castle falls in January, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	40.1°F (4.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
February	41.4°F (5.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
March	47.5°F (8.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
April	55.0°F (12.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
May	63.5°F (17.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
June	70.3°F (21.3°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
July	77.5°F (25.3°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
August	80.1°F (26.7°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
September	73.8°F (23.2°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	63.9°F (17.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
November	54.7°F (12.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
December	44.4°F (6.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Himeji Castle

To save money on your trip to Himeji Castle, consider visiting during the cheaper months of January, February, or June, and aim for a Wednesday stay to avoid Saturday's high rates. Utilize Expedia's search tool for budget-friendly hotel options, and look for Eco-certified accommodations. You can further cut costs by bundling your hotel, flights, and activities in an Expedia package. Additionally, use public transport to get around Himeji, as it is both affordable and convenient, allowing you to enjoy the area's free attractions without breaking the bank.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Himeji Castle are January to February and June, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to April to May and August, where prices are slightly higher.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Himeji Castle is Wednesday. The most expensive day to stay around Himeji Castle is Saturday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool gives you the flexibility to set your budget, choose your desired location, and much more. You can easily arrange your search results to display hotels from the lowest to highest prices, allowing you to find the most affordable options first. Additionally, you can refine your choices by hotel type—if you select the Eco-certified filter, you'll be presented with sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that are ready for booking.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save some dollars by combining your Himeji Castle hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.