・Himeji Castle in Spring

Himeji Castle is nicknamed “Shirasagi-jo” (White Egret Castle) because of its graceful appearance that resembles a white egret spreading its wings.

The castle tower and the white walls of Himeji Castle are reflected in the scenery, which has been selected as one of the 100 best cherry blossom viewing spots in Japan.

The spot where beautiful cherry blossoms and the white castle tower can be seen is very popular and attracts many visitors from all over Japan.

In addition to someiyoshino cherry trees, there are approximately 1,000 weeping cherry trees and mountain cherry trees planted in the Nishinomaru Garden.

The area near Himeji Gokoku Shrine, south of the Himeji Municipal Zoo, is a hidden photo spot where you can take pictures of Himeji Castle over the “Jomibashi Bridge”.

It is also recommended to frame a Japanese-style boat cruising around the inner moat of Himeji Castle. You will be able to take more elegant photos.    More info >>

There are many other cherry blossom photo spots around Himeji Castle, such as the rows of cherry trees in “Higashiiyashiki Ato Park” and weeping cherry trees in “Kamiyamazato”. Try to find your own unique photo spot with Himeji Castle in the angle.

Every year, “Night Cherry Blossom Viewing Party” is held when the cherry blossoms are in bloom (a separate admission fee is required). The night is illuminated, and the fantastic scenery is enchanting.

Past bloom and full bloom dates are shown above. If you are worried about your Hanami schedule, why not refer to them?

・Himeji Castle in Summer

The castle tower is so beautiful, dazzling against the green of the trees and the clear summer sky. Only in summer does Himeyama, the base of Himeji Castle, turn so lushly green.

Jomidai Park, a 5-minute walk from Himeji Castle, is famous for its replica of the castle tower’s Shachihoko (mythical orcas). The view from between the orcas has been selected as one of the “Ten Scenic Views of Himeji Castle”. It is a must-see photo spot for Himeji sightseeing.

9 Best Places to See Himeji Castle｜Get the perfect shoot with cherry blossoms or the replica of the killer whale, etc

・Himeji Castle in Autumn

Around Himeji Castle, trees in Himeyama Park and Shirotopia Memorial Park turn bright red, perfect for foliage viewing.

KOKO-EN, adjacent to the west side of Himeji Castle, holds an annual autumn foliage festival called “Momijie” (autumn foliage viewing). You can see beautiful autumn leaves illuminated by lights. The best time to view the autumn leaves is from mid to late November. 　More info >>

KOKO-EN – Japanese Garden next to Himeji Castle｜Enjoy the seasonal beauty of nine gardens

・Himeji Castle in Winter

Covered with snow, Himeji Castle is dazzlingly white.

It doesn’t snow near the castle very often, so it doesn’t accumulate much. If you are lucky, you may be able to see the snow-covered Himeji Castle.

The white Himeji Castle looks beautiful against the clear winter sky. On the day after it snows, you can capture the precious snow-covered Himeji Castle with your camera.

Note: Photo courtesy of Himeji City

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