A Detailed Explanation of the History and Overview of Himeji Castle

 

　Table of Contents

1. Overview of Himeji Castle
2. History of Himeji Castle
3. Highlights of Himeji Castle
   

Introduction

Himeji Castle is a preeminent Japanese fortress that has continued to captivate visitors with its grand architecture and striking white walls. Regarded as the pinnacle of Japanese castle design, it is counted alongside Matsumoto Castle and Kumamoto Castle as one of Japan’s Three Great Castles.

Situated in Himeji City in Hyogo Prefecture, the castle was registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993. In this article, we will delve into an overview of Himeji Castle, explore its history, and highlight its main attractions. We hope you will fully enjoy discovering the many charms of Himeji Castle.

1. Overview of Himeji Castle 

Himeji Castle is located in Honmachi, Himeji City, in Hyogo Prefecture. Nicknamed “Shirasagi-jō” (White Heron Castle) for its striking white-plaster walls, it traces its origins to a fortress built in the 14th century by the samurai Akamatsu Norimura (Enshin) during the Northern and Southern Courts period.

In the subsequent Sengoku (Warring States) and Azuchi-Momoyama periods, figures such as Kuroda Yoshitaka (Kuroda Kanbei) and Hashiba (Toyotomi) Hideyoshi carried out various improvements, transforming the fortress into a full-fledged castle equipped with stone walls and a main keep. Later, under the Toyotomi regime, Ikeda Terumasa, who governed the Harima region, undertook a major renovation from 1601 (Keichō 6) onward, establishing the foundations of the magnificent structure we see today.​

During the Edo period, Himeji Castle served as the administrative seat of the Himeji Domain, with successive rulers such as the Honda, Matsudaira, and Sakai clans presiding over the castle until the end of the shogunate. After the Meiji Restoration, many Japanese castles were demolished under policies such as the abolition of feudal domains, but Himeji Castle survived—partly because it was repurposed for military facilities or educational use—remaining in relatively good condition. It also escaped destruction during the air raids of World War II, making it a rare example of prewar castle architecture still standing today.

Following the enactment of the Cultural Properties Protection Act in 1950 (Shōwa 25), Himeji Castle underwent several large-scale restorations. The “Shōwa Great Restoration” was completed in 1964 (Shōwa 39). In 1993 (Heisei 5), it became one of Japan’s first UNESCO World Heritage Sites, listed alongside the Buddhist Monuments in the Hōryū-ji Area, and has been highly regarded as both a National Treasure and an Important Cultural Property.

A key architectural feature of Himeji Castle is its five-story exterior and six-level interior main keep, connected to three smaller keeps—West, Inui (Northwest), and East—by watariyagura (corridor-like passages), forming a renritsu-shiki tenshu or “cluster-style keep.” The castle’s bright white walls, made from plaster, offer excellent fire-resistance and durability, preserving their brilliant appearance through the centuries.

Another noteworthy aspect is the extremely intricate layout of gates and walls, forming a maze-like network of pathways that hinder enemy intrusion. Defensive elements such as ishi-otoshi (stone-drop openings) and sama (loopholes for guns or arrows) also remain in good condition, demonstrating the castle’s high level of defensive functionality.

Throughout the year, Himeji Castle attracts numerous visitors from Japan and abroad who come to enjoy its varied seasonal scenery—cherry blossoms in spring, vivid autumn foliage, lively summer festivals, and snow-covered winter landscapes. During special periods of illumination, the castle’s stunning night views add to its reputation as a must-see destination.

From the Azuchi-Momoyama period through the Meiji Restoration and into the postwar era, Himeji Castle has never lost its luster and remains a precious cultural asset, significant not only for its architectural grandeur but also for its historical and cultural value.

2. The History of Himeji Castle 

The history of Himeji Castle has unfolded over several centuries of renovations and conservation efforts. Its grand structure and gleaming white walls continue to captivate visitors. The details are explained below.

　 1. The Initial Construction (1333–1346) 

It is said that the origins of Himeji Castle date back to 1333, when the samurai Akamatsu Norimura (Enshin) from the Northern and Southern Courts period (Nanboku-chō) built the first fortress atop Mt. Hime (Himeyama). This was an era of upheaval in which the Kamakura shogunate fell, and Emperor Go-Daigo initiated his Kenmu Restoration. During that time, Akamatsu Norimura controlled Harima Province (part of present-day southwestern Hyogo Prefecture) under the imperial forces.

The fortress took advantage of the natural terrain for military defense. According to tradition, Norimura’s son Akamatsu Sadanori reconstructed it in 1346 as “Himeyama Castle,” giving it a more pronounced castle-like form. Though this castle later evolved into what we know as Himeji Castle, surviving records from the Nanboku-chō period are limited, leaving the exact scale and structure of the fortress somewhat unclear.

　 2. Renovations by Toyotomi Hideyoshi (1581) 

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Through the Sengoku period (Warring States) into the Azuchi-Momoyama period, Toyotomi Hideyoshi (then known as Hashiba Hideyoshi) secured control of Himeji Castle around 1580, following orders from Oda Nobunaga to advance into the Chūgoku region. In 1581, he undertook large-scale renovations, adding a three-story (three-tier) tenshu (main keep) to the existing structure and reinforcing the castle’s defensive capabilities by fortifying the stone walls and expanding the moats.

During this period, there is a famous anecdote known as “Obaga-ishi”: Hideyoshi reportedly called upon local residents to donate stones for castle construction, and an elderly woman offered her millstone—after which many others followed suit. This comprehensive renovation greatly boosted the castle’s military functions and paved the way for the subsequent major rebuild conducted by Ikeda Terumasa (1601–1609).

　 3. Reconstruction by Ikeda Terumasa (1601–1609) 

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After the Battle of Sekigahara (1600), Tokugawa Ieyasu granted Himeji Castle to Ikeda Terumasa, who governed Harima Province (part of present-day southwestern Hyogo Prefecture). From 1601 (Keichō 6) to 1609 (Keichō 14), Terumasa carried out a large-scale reconstruction that is said to have solidified the castle’s essential design as we see it today. It is believed that this project involved the labor of approximately 2.5 million man-days, with both manpower and materials gathered from throughout the country.

The most prominent innovation was the completion of a cluster-style keep—a complex structure centered on the main keep (daitenshu), connected to smaller keeps via watariyagura (corridor-like passages). This arrangement is considered a state-of-the-art example of castle-building techniques from that era. Further improvements to the stone walls and moats significantly enhanced the castle’s defensive capabilities.

　 4. Development in the Edo Period (1617–1868) 

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After Ikeda Terumasa’s death, the leadership of Himeji Domain changed hands among successive lords, and the castle and its surrounding town continued to prosper. In 1617 (Genna 3), Honda Tadatada took over as castle lord, strengthening the castle’s defenses by improving the Nishinomaru (West Bailey) and watchtowers. The castle walls were thickly coated with white plaster (shiroshikkui), not only as a fire-prevention measure but also to emphasize the castle’s graceful appearance.

After Tadatada’s son, Honda Tadatoki, passed away at a young age, his wife, Princess Sen (Senhime)—a granddaughter of Tokugawa Ieyasu—lived in the castle, specifically in the Nishinomaru area. It remains known today as a site associated with Princess Sen. Throughout the Edo period, the castle was never subjected to major destruction; although there were some changes in daimyo (feudal lords) and political circumstances, the castle continued to function as a stable political and economic center, with only minor additions or renovations carried out when necessary.

　 5. Preservation in the Meiji Era (1868–1912) 

After the Meiji Restoration, many Japanese castles were demolished under policies such as the 廃城令 (haijō-rei, or castle abolition order). However, Himeji Castle was purchased by local entrepreneurs and residents during the 1871 (Meiji 4) “government auction,” preventing large-scale dismantling. Parts of the castle were later repurposed as military facilities or school buildings, yet the main keep and other key structures remained intact.

In 1931 (Shōwa 6), Himeji Castle was designated as a National Treasure. Although the surrounding city of Himeji sustained damage from aerial bombings during World War II, the castle miraculously avoided severe harm. Records suggest that a bomb may have landed near the main keep but was a dud, averting catastrophe.

　 6. World Heritage Registration and Modern Restorations (1993–Present) 

By 1964 (Shōwa 39), Himeji Castle had completed the “Shōwa Great Restoration,” demonstrating its value as a National Treasure and Important Cultural Property both domestically and abroad. In 1993 (Heisei 5), along with the Buddhist Monuments in the Hōryū-ji Area, Himeji Castle became one of the first UNESCO World Cultural Heritage sites in Japan.

Subsequently, concerns about structural aging and deterioration of the plaster walls led to the “Heisei Great Restoration,” which spanned roughly six years from 2009 (Heisei 21) and concluded in 2015 (Heisei 27). The repairs covered everything from re-roofing the tiles and reapplying plaster to reinforcing wooden beams and pillars. Thanks to this meticulous conservation work, the castle regained its brilliant white exterior and continues to showcase its original splendor to this day.

3. Highlights of Himeji Castle 

Himeji Castle is a popular tourist destination, beloved for its grand design and stunning scenery. Below are its key highlights in detail.

　■ The Main Keep (Tenshukaku) 

At the heart of Himeji Castle is its main keep, a grand, six-level structure that forms the core of the castle’s defenses. Consisting of six above-ground floors and one basement level, the interior showcases an exceedingly intricate wooden framework. One especially noteworthy feature is the massive central pillar, measuring about 24.5 meters (80 feet) in length and roughly 1 meter (3 feet) in diameter, extending from the basement to the sixth floor. This column is made by expertly joining multiple timbers and is crucial for the keep’s stability.

Each story of the main keep is designed with a progressively smaller floor plan as you move upward, resulting in Himeji Castle’s elegant silhouette. From the top floor, visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of Himeji City and observe the castle’s beautiful shachi-gawara (roof ornaments shaped like mythical fish), considered protective talismans against fire. The keep’s design served multiple purposes—acting as a formidable fortress during wartime and functioning as a storehouse during peacetime. These structural features and the ingenious design are what set Himeji Castle apart as one of the pinnacles of Japanese castle architecture.

　■ Ōtemon (Main Gate) 

The Ōtemon serves as the castle’s principal entrance, where visitors first pass through when they arrive. Reconstructed in 1938 to closely emulate the original structure, the main gate exudes a strong sense of history. Once through Ōtemon, the route into the castle becomes maze-like, designed to slow down attackers. As you proceed along the stone walls, defensive towers, and narrow passages, you can experience the castle’s defensive system firsthand.

　■ Nishinomaru (West Bailey) 

The Nishinomaru, once the living quarters of Princess Sen (Senhime), is notable for its long corridors designated for the women of the castle. Exhibits in this area offer a glimpse into what life might have been like at the time, allowing visitors to explore the castle interior in depth. From Nishinomaru, you’ll find numerous excellent vantage points for photographing Himeji Castle’s breathtaking exterior. Additionally, the “Hyakken Rōka” (Hundred-Meter Corridor) is located here; it played a vital role in the castle’s defense.

　■ Sakuramon-bashi (Sakura Gate Bridge) 

Sakuramon-bashi is where visitors first catch a full view of Himeji Castle, making it an ideal spot for photography, especially during cherry blossom season. Crossing this wooden bridge leads directly to Ōtemon. The sight of the castle’s exquisite facade complemented by blooming cherry blossoms is a major draw for visitors. Reconstructed in 2007 to match the original Edo-period design, this bridge remains a popular attraction.

　■ Okiku-ido (Okiku’s Well) 

Okiku-ido is an old well within the castle grounds, widely recognized for its ties to the famous “Saraya-shiki” (Dish Mansion) ghost story. The well itself has a stone-lined opening, which is preserved in an open state and surrounded by signage and explanatory panels.

There are several “Saraya-shiki legend” ghost tales found across Japan, but the one linked to Himeji Castle is especially famous. In this story, a maidservant named Okiku was said to be responsible for safeguarding ten precious family heirloom plates. After one plate disappeared—apparently due to someone’s plot—Okiku was unjustly blamed, ultimately murdered, and thrown into the well (now known as Okiku-ido). Her restless spirit supposedly emerged nightly, counting out the plates—“One…two…three…up to nine…one is missing…”—terrifying people until they offered prayers to appease her.

　■ Hyakken Rōka (Hundred-Meter Corridor) 

The Hyakken Rōka, located in the Nishinomaru, is a long passageway pivotal to the castle’s defensive system. Lined with numerous exhibits, it showcases examples of construction techniques and everyday items from the time. Visitors can gain an in-depth understanding of the castle’s woodwork and defensive installations, immersing themselves in the lifestyle and strategies of the era.

　■ Himeji Castle Park 

Himeji Castle Park surrounds the outer perimeter of the castle and is open to the public free of charge. During cherry blossom season, many visitors come here for picnics, and at night the castle is illuminated, creating a dreamy atmosphere. The park includes open spaces, a pond, and walkways, making it an ideal spot for strolling or relaxation. Various events are also held regularly, ensuring there is always something new to discover on each visit.

　■ Kōko-en Garden 

Close to Himeji Castle is Kōko-en, a Japanese garden opened in 1992 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Himeji City’s municipal administration. The garden occupies the site of the former western residence of Himeji’s feudal lords and was designed according to Edo-period gardening principles. It comprises multiple themed areas, each with its own unique charm, featuring bamboo groves, pine trees, ponds, and carp—iconic elements of the Japanese garden aesthetic. For instance, the “Daimyō Garden” (Lord’s Garden) includes a large pond and stone bridges, transporting visitors back to an Edo-period landscape.

A notable highlight is the “Chashitsu Sōjū-an” (the Sōjū-an tea house). Designed under the guidance of the 15th Grand Master of the Urasenke school of tea, it replicates a traditional tea ceremony setting. Here, visitors can savor matcha and traditional sweets while gazing out over the serene garden.

 In Closing 

With its deep historical significance and breathtaking scenery, Himeji Castle leaves a lasting impression on all who visit. The castle’s intricate structure, sophisticated defensive systems, and superb state of preservation exemplify the pinnacle of Japanese castle architecture.

We hope this article has helped you appreciate the many charms of Himeji Castle. As you explore it in person, we invite you to immerse yourself in its history and culture, and enjoy a truly memorable experience.