HOME > Japan’s Local Treasures > Cherry Blossoms of Himeji Castle
Over 1,000 cherry trees blossoming all at once at Japan’s most iconic castle
Hyogo Prefecture
Located in the southwestern part of Hyogo Prefecture facing the Seto Inland Sea, Himeji-shi is well known for its spectacular castle. Designated as the first World Cultural Heritage Site in Japan along with Horyuji Temple in Nara Prefecture in December 1993, Himeji Castle is the pride of Japan. The castle is often called ‘Shirasagi-jo’ (White Heron Castle) due to its graceful appearance that resembles a white heron spreading its great wings. Even now, 400 years after it was built, it still retains its dignified beauty and fascinates visitors from all around the world. In the springtime, the cherry trees start blossoming all at once here at Himeji Castle, which is designated as one of Japan's Top 100 Cherry Blossom Spots. The scenery of about 1,000 cherry trees of various kinds shining under the sun against the main tower and the white walls of Himeji Castle is something you will never forget. Come visit Himeji to witness this breathtaking view and enjoy the spring of western Japan.
How to get there
From Shin-Osaka Station, take the Shinkansen bullet train to Himeji Station (about 30 minutes), then take the bus to Himeji Castle (about 10 minutes).
68 Hon-machi, Himeji-shi, Hyogo-ken
