🕓 2025/5/31
＃日本酒
A Journey Through Himeji: Where History and Flavor Intersect
Table of Contents
- Himeji Castle: History and Highlights
- Recommended Sake Breweries Around Himeji
- Himeji's Sake Selection: Top Recommendations
- Model Itineraries Combining Himeji Castle and Brewery Tours
Introduction
Himeji Castle stands as one of Japan's most breathtaking fortresses. Affectionately known as "Shirasagi-jo" (White Heron Castle) for its elegant white appearance, it captivates visitors from around the world. Yet Himeji's charm extends far beyond its iconic castle. The region's identity is deeply enriched by its sake culture, which has flourished alongside the city's history as a castle town in the Harima region.
In this article, we'll explore Himeji Castle's historical and architectural beauty while proposing a journey to nearby breweries to sample local sake. The white castle and fragrant local brews offer a distinctly Himeji cultural experience that stimulates all five senses, as though transcending time itself. Why not embark on this unique adventure?
1. Himeji Castle: History and Highlights
・ Origins and Historical Development
The history of Himeji Castle began in 1333 when Akamatsu Norimura, the governor of Harima Province, constructed a fortress on Hime Hill. In 1346, his son Akamatsu Sadanori developed it into a proper castle called "Himeyama Castle." During the Warring States period, the castle underwent renovations by Kuroda Shigetaka and Toyotomi Hideyoshi. In 1581, Hideyoshi built a three-story keep, establishing Himeji as a strategically important military base.
Between 1601 and 1609, Ikeda Terumasa—son-in-law of Tokugawa Ieyasu—constructed the castle's current form: a five-story, seven-level main keep with extensive moats and defensive structures. Its beautiful white plastered exterior earned it the nickname "Shirasagi-jo" (White Heron Castle), making it one of Japan's most iconic castles.
Throughout the Edo period, Himeji Castle functioned as the political and military center of Himeji Domain. Despite changes in lordship, the buildings miraculously escaped war damage and natural disasters. This exceptional state of preservation led to its designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993. Today, as the pinnacle of Japanese castle architecture, it attracts countless visitors from Japan and abroad.
・Architectural Features and Defensive Innovations
Himeji Castle's most distinctive characteristic is its "connected keep" structure. The central five-story main keep is linked to three smaller keeps by corridors, creating a unified fortress complex. Its white plastered exterior walls shimmer in sunlight, resembling a white heron spreading its wings—a sight that mesmerizes visitors.
The castle also incorporates numerous defensive innovations: maze-like pathways to confuse invaders, strategically positioned turrets, stone-dropping chutes and arrow slits, and the beautiful yet functional "fan-shaped" stone walls. These features throughout the complex demonstrate its formidable defensive capabilities during Japan's warring eras.
・Princess Sen and Himeji Castle
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Himeji Castle also preserves a romantic story involving Princess Sen (Senhime), granddaughter of Tokugawa Ieyasu. She married Toyotomi Hideyori at a young age but lost her husband in the 1615 Siege of Osaka. She later remarried to Honda Tadatoki and began a new life at Himeji Castle.
The West Bailey (Nishi-no-maru), where Princess Sen is believed to have lived, contains an elegant turret called "Kesho Yagura" (Cosmetics Tower), where she reportedly prepared herself before attending prayers. Her refined presence and tragic love story quietly endure amid the castle's formidable atmosphere.
・Access and Visitor Information
Himeji Castle is conveniently accessible, just a 15-20 minute walk from JR Himeji Station. Walking straight down Otemae Street creates the sensation of being drawn toward the castle. By bus, the journey takes only about five minutes.
When touring the castle, the recommended route begins at Otemon Gate, continues through Hishi Gate, and proceeds toward the main keep. Along the way, you'll encounter numerous turrets, gates, and gardens, each with historical significance and function. The West Bailey area is particularly popular for its connection to Princess Sen. Allow 2-3 hours for a thorough visit to fully appreciate the castle's magnificence.
The surrounding area also features Koko-en Garden, Himeji City Museum of Art, and Hyogo Prefectural Museum of History, creating a district where history and culture can be enjoyed together.
2. Recommended Sake Breweries Around Himeji
The Harima region has a long history of sake brewing, with records of koji-based brewing appearing in ancient documents. It's the production center for Yamada Nishiki, one of Japan's premier sake rice varieties, and produces a wide range of sake styles—from dry to fragrant—that maximize the rice's umami flavor. Since 2020, the "GI Harima" designation has begun to enhance the region's brand value.
・Nadagiku Brewery
出展：https://www.nadagiku.co.jp/
Founded in 1910, Nadagiku Brewery is a venerable establishment conveniently located about 15 minutes on foot from Himeji Station. The brewery's name combines "Nada" from Harima-nada (sea) and "giku" (chrysanthemum), a symbol of Japan. With a female master brewer (toji), the brewery embodies a fascinating blend of tradition and innovation.
Signature brands include "Nadagiku" and the "MISA" series, offering varieties ranging from crisp, dry styles to fragrant, fruity flavors. The brewery particularly prides itself on preserving the traditional "fune-shibori" (boat press) method, producing small batches with meticulous craftsmanship.
出展：https://www.nadagiku.co.jp/
The premises include a dining establishment called "Shukusentei Nadagiku Kappa-tei," where visitors can casually enjoy pairings of the brewery's sake with local cuisine. Brewery tours and tastings are available (reservations required), making it an ideal stop during sightseeing.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | 1-121 Tegara, Himeji City, Hyogo Prefecture |
| Access | About 15 minutes on foot or 5 minutes by taxi from JR Himeji Station |
| Established | 1910 (Meiji 43) |
| Features | Female toji (master brewer), traditional "fune-shibori" pressing, wide range of sake styles (dry to fruity) |
| Visitor Information | Reservation required. Tastings and direct sales available. On-site restaurant (Shukusentei Nadagiku Kappa-tei) is also appealing |
・Meijo Brewery
Meijo Brewery was established in 1966 through the merger of six local breweries. Its roots trace back to Imai Brewery, founded in 1864. The name "Meijo" (literally "famous castle") was chosen to honor Himeji Castle.
Their flagship brands include the "Meijo" series and labels like "Kanbei" and "Senhime," named after historical figures connected to Himeji, making them popular among tourists. The flavor profile emphasizes the umami of rice in a medium-dry to slightly sweet range that complements a wide variety of dishes. While the brewery employs modern equipment for year-round production as a "four-season brewing facility," it also faithfully preserves traditional techniques such as "box koji making."
Advance confirmation is necessary for brewery tours and tastings, but direct sales are available at the office. This brewery offers the warmth of a locally embedded establishment.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | 1-1-1 Shiromidai, Himeji City, Hyogo Prefecture |
| Access | About 10 minutes by car from JR Himeji Station / Bus service available |
| Established | 1966 (Showa 41) *Continuing the tradition of Imai Brewery |
| Features | Four-season brewing facility, box koji making, brands include "Meijo," "Kanbei," "Senhime," etc. |
| Visitor Information | Inquiries necessary. Tastings and direct sales available (advance confirmation recommended) |
・Tsubosaka Brewery
Located in Yumesaki-cho, Himeji City, Tsubosaka Brewery boasts approximately 400 years of tradition. Since relocating to its current site in 1805, it has maintained sake brewing practices that emphasize natural fermentation.
出展：https://seppiko.shop-pro.jp/
Signature brands include "Yukihikoyama" (Mount Seppiko) and "Kintsubo," which use spring water from local mountains. Their sake is characterized by a well-balanced harmony of sweetness and acidity, making it enjoyable both chilled or warmed.
出展：https://seppiko.shop-pro.jp/
This brewery offers tours by advance reservation. Visitors can tour the historic buildings and brewery while listening to the toji's insights. Though somewhat remote, enjoying local sake amid serene natural surroundings is a special experience.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | 1418-1 Maenosho, Yumesaki-cho, Himeji City, Hyogo Prefecture |
| Access | About 30 minutes by car from JR Himeji Station / Shinki Bus service available |
| Established | Genna era (1620s), relocated to current site in 1805 |
| Features | Natural fermentation, spring water use, brands include "Yukihikoyama," "Kintsubo," etc. |
| Visitor Information | Reservation required. Brewery tours and tasting experiences available |
3. Himeji's Sake Selection: Top Recommendations
The breweries in the Harima region produce distinctive local sake with excellent food pairings. Here are five particularly popular brands:
・Nadagiku | Nadagiku Brewery
This venerable brewery has been making sake in central Himeji for over a century. The "MISA" series, crafted by female toji Misaki Morita, has gained national and international attention for its soft mouthfeel and fragrant aroma. Meanwhile, "Ichi Karakuchi" directly expresses the classic dry appeal of traditional sake, perfect for everyday meals. The lineup showcases the brewery's unique balance of tradition and innovation.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Brewery | Nadagiku Brewery (Himeji City) |
| Types | Ichi Karakuchi (Honjozo), MISA series (Junmai Ginjo, Junmai Daiginjo), etc. |
| Flavor Profile | Wide variety (dry, rich, fragrant) |
| Features | Small-batch brewing by a female toji. Conscious focus on food pairing |
| Recommended With | Appetizers, sashimi, tempura, simmered dishes, hot pot, and more |
・Senhime Daiginjo | Meijo Brewery
This premium sake bears the name of Princess Sen, who has historical ties to Himeji Castle. Made with sake rice polished to 50%, this daiginjo is slowly fermented at low temperatures, resulting in a pure aroma and clean finish. As an elegant local sake that evokes Himeji's history, it's also popular as a gift.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Brewery | Meijo Brewery (Himeji City, Hyogo Prefecture) |
| Type | Daiginjo |
| Flavor Profile | Medium-dry, fruity aroma, refreshing, clean finish |
| Features | Named after Princess Sen, connected to Himeji Castle. Sake rice carefully polished to 50%, resulting in an elegant and delicate flavor |
| Recommended With | Aperitif, white fish, tofu dishes, and simple Japanese cuisine that highlights the natural flavors of ingredients |
・Yukihikoyama | Tsubosaka Brewery
This sake truly embodies the "mountain's blessing," created by Tsubosaka Brewery with their commitment to traditional methods using Mt. Yukihiko's spring water and natural fermentation. Its balanced sweetness and acidity create a gentle flavor profile enjoyable both chilled and warm. The subtle mineral notes from the brewing water reflect a harmony with nature.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Brewery | Tsubosaka Brewery (Yumesaki-cho, Himeji City) |
| Types | Ginjo, Junmai |
| Flavor Profile | Medium-dry, refreshing, fruity |
| Features | Mt. Yukihiko spring water and natural fermentation. A mild and well-balanced sake |
| Recommended With | General Japanese cuisine, grilled fish, cold dishes, etc. |
・Banshu Ikkon | Sanyo Hai Brewery
True to its name, which means "Have a cup of Banshu (Harima) sake," this series focuses on being the perfect "food sake" for daily meals. Using different sake rice varieties like Yamada Nishiki and Hyogo Yume Nishiki, the range spans from ultra-dry to rich styles. The "Ultra Dry" is particularly notable for its sharp finish and refreshing aftertaste that enhances any dish.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Brewery | Sanyo Hai Brewery (Shiso City) |
| Types | Diverse: Junmai, Junmai Ginjo, Ultra Dry, etc. |
| Flavor Profile | Dry, crisp, fruity aroma |
| Features | Various styles. Clean finish makes it ideal as a food sake |
| Recommended With | Sushi, grilled fish, tempura, salads, etc. |
・Tatsuriki Kome no Sasayaki | Honda Shoten
This flagship junmai daiginjo is often called "a rice masterpiece," maximizing the potential of Yamada Nishiki rice. The rice kernels are carefully polished to preserve only the core (shinpaku), achieving a perfect balance of aroma and flavor. With fruit notes reminiscent of melon and pear, it offers a refined, lingering finish. This distinguished sake has received high acclaim in both domestic and international competitions.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Brewery | Honda Shoten (Aboshi, Himeji City) |
| Type | Junmai Daiginjo |
| Flavor Profile | Elegant, delicate, fruity aroma (melon, pear, apple) |
| Features | Pioneer of cold daiginjo. Flagship brand with numerous awards |
| Recommended With | White fish sashimi, salt-seasoned tempura, also pairs well with Western cuisine |
・Oku Harima | Shimomura Brewery
This robust junmai sake is crafted by a traditional brewery that adheres to the philosophy "Sake should be junmai, and even better when warmed," focusing on yamahai brewing methods and manual processes. It offers earthy and grainy aromas with pronounced acidity and umami that further blossom when warmed. This connoisseur's choice pairs exceptionally well with rich dishes and fermented foods.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Brewery | Shimomura Brewery (Hayashida-cho, Himeji City) |
| Types | Junmai, Yamahai Junmai |
| Flavor Profile | Rich, full-bodied, umami, toasty notes |
| Features | Traditional yamahai brewing. Robust flavor well-suited for warm sake |
| Recommended With | Hot pot, grilled meat, cheese, fermented foods, etc. |
4. Model Itineraries Combining Himeji Castle and Brewery Tours
Combining Himeji Castle with brewery tours offers a luxurious experience that satisfies both historical and gastronomic interests in a single day. Choose from half-day plans within walking distance or full-day excursions to the outskirts, depending on your travel style.
【Plan A | Half-Day Course in Central Himeji】
"A simple brewery tour plan centered around Himeji Castle, easily enjoyable on foot." Perfect for those with limited time or who prefer to experience history and local sake without extensive travel. This compact course covers Himeji Castle, Nadagiku Brewery, and Meijo Brewery.
9:00〜12:00
Tour Himeji Castle
→ Leisurely explore the main keep, West Bailey, Kesho Yagura, and other landmarks (Duration: about 2-3 hours)
Arriving early in the morning generally means fewer crowds and a smoother visit
12:00〜12:15
Walk to Nadagiku Brewery (about 15 minutes on foot)
12:15〜13:30
Brewery tour & tasting at Nadagiku Brewery
→ Observe traditional "fune-shibori" pressing and learn about the female toji's approach
→ Lunch at the on-site restaurant "Shukusentei Nadagiku Kappa-tei" is recommended
13:30〜13:55
Travel to Meijo Brewery (on foot or by taxi)
14:00〜15:00
Tasting and shopping at Meijo Brewery
→ Discover Himeji-themed brands like "Kanbei" and "Senhime"
Advance confirmation required if you wish to tour the facilities
15:00 onward
Free time for exploration or return to Himeji Station
→ Consider visiting art museums or relaxing at a café
【Plan B | Full-Day Course Experiencing Nature and Tradition in the Suburbs】
"A luxurious full-day plan combining Himeji Castle's history with a sake brewery experience in the nature-rich Yumesaki-cho." Ideal for those who want to enjoy a leisurely journey or are interested in natural fermentation sake brewing. The experience at Tsubosaka Brewery will create lasting memories of authentic local culture.
9:00-12:00
Thoroughly explore Himeji Castle
→ Take time to visit the interior of the main keep, West Bailey, and Koko-en Garden
12:00〜12:30
Travel to Tsubosaka Brewery (by car or Shinki Bus)
12:30〜14:30
Tour & tasting experience at Tsubosaka Brewery
→ Experience the process using Mt. Yukihiko spring water and natural fermentation
→ Historic buildings and traditional tools are also highlights
Advance reservation absolutely required
14:30〜15:30
Stroll around Yumesaki-cho area / Rest at a local café
→ Enjoy the local natural environment and a relaxed pace
Around 16:00
Return to Himeji Station area
→ Purchase local sake as souvenirs or take time to relax before dinner
Conclusion
Himeji's charm extends far beyond its magnificent castle. The white-plastered keep tells stories of the Warring States and Edo periods, along with Princess Sen's sad yet beautiful tale. Meanwhile, at its base, the culture of sake brewing continues to thrive, passed down through generations.
Visiting distinctive breweries like Nadagiku, Meijo, and Tsubosaka will help you appreciate how deeply the Harima region is connected to sake. Each sip contains the essence of local rice, water, and the passion of the brewers, adding new dimensions to the experience of this historic townscape.
Looking up at Himeji Castle, savoring local sake, and immersing yourself in the culture—spending a day this way will surely captivate you with Himeji's profound character. This journey through history and flavor promises to create lasting memories.