Himeji Castle Full Day Course with Kokoen and Mount Shosha Engyoji

This is a rewarding one day course centered on the World Heritage Himeji Castle, whose pure white keep soars into the sky, along with the adjacent Japanese garden Kokoen and the ancient mountain temple Engyoji on Mount Shosha. The charm of Himeji is that you can enjoy both history and nature. A straight main avenue runs from the station to the castle, so the route is easy to follow.

Course Route

9:00 Start at Himeji Station on the JR and Sanyo lines From Otemae Avenue in front of the station, Himeji Castle is visible straight ahead. 9:15 Walk along Otemae Avenue to Himeji Castle After about fifteen minutes along the zelkova lined avenue you reach the castle entrance. 9:30 Tour Himeji Castle Take your time exploring the beautiful white plastered keep, the winding approach paths and the turrets. 11:30 Stroll the Japanese garden at Kokoen This is a circuit style garden just west of the castle, with nine gardens that each have a different mood. 12:30 Lunch in the former castle town Try the local conger eel dishes that Himeji is known for, or other regional food. 14:00 Travel to the Mount Shosha ropeway Take a bus from Himeji Station to the base station and ride the ropeway up the mountain. 14:45 Visit Engyoji on Mount Shosha Walk the quiet mountain halls, including the grand Maniden, which has been a film location, and the Daikodo. 16:30 Descend by ropeway to finish Close the day while breathing the clear mountain air.

Highlights

Among Japan surviving original keeps, Himeji Castle is especially well preserved, and its elegant form has earned it the nickname White Heron Castle. Kokoen is beautiful through the seasons and very photogenic. Engyoji is wrapped in deep woodland with a solemn atmosphere, a calm contrast to the bustle of the town below.

Access and Tips

The castle is within walking distance of Himeji Station and is clearly signposted. For Mount Shosha, take a bus from the north exit of the station to the ropeway station. The castle takes time to tour, so entering early helps you avoid the crowds.

A Quick Tip

Both the castle and Engyoji have many stairs and slopes, so comfortable shoes are essential. Allow extra time for Mount Shosha, including walking around the mountain halls, so you can visit at a relaxed pace.