・How to get to TAIYO PARK

From JR Himeji Station, take the Shinki Bus bound for Shirotoridai, get off at Shirotoridai 3-chome, 2 minutes, or take the bus bound for Midoridai, get off at Uchikoshi Nishi or Uchikoshi Shinden, 2 minutes walk.

Taiyo Koen is accessible from JR Himeji Station in about 30 minutes by Shinki Bus. After getting off at the bus stop “Shirotoridai 3-chome,” take the road on the left side of Lawson, walk about 100 meters and take the road on the right side. At the end of the street, turn left and you will see the entrance gate to the castle.

・A Theme Park of World Landmarks

Taiyo Park is a theme park located in a naturally rich area of Himeji City. Throughout the park, visitors will find replicas of famous landmarks, World Heritage sites, cultural monuments, and stone statues from around the world. It offers the feeling of traveling across the globe without leaving Japan.

The park was created with the hope of allowing people with disabilities, who may find it difficult to travel abroad, to experience the cultures and atmosphere of the world. Its vast grounds feature around 70 stone statues from about 20 countries, along with more than 3,500 exhibits, including replicas of famous landmarks and cultural heritage sites.

Visitors can stroll through the park while learning about different cultures and histories. It is a place full of discovery and inspiration, enjoyable for both adults and children.

The park is divided into two main areas. The “Stone Area” features stone monuments such as the Arc de Triomphe, the Terracotta Army, the Great Wall of China, and pyramids. The “Castle Area” is home to Swan Castle, located at the top of the mountain.

Tickets are valid for both areas and can be purchased either at Welcome House Swan in the Castle Area or at the entrance to the Stone Area. Visitors can enter from either ticket counter.

・Stone Area: Arc de Triomphe, Moai Statues, the Terracotta Army, and More

The Stone Area is about a three-minute walk from the first parking lot. After walking along the path, visitors will soon see the entrance. Just inside on the left is the ticket counter. Once tickets are purchased, the journey through grand stone monuments begins.

The Stone Area starts with a replica of the Arc de Triomphe in Paris. Its impressive scale immediately captures attention. The trees lining both sides of the path create an atmosphere reminiscent of walking through a Parisian street, raising expectations for the world tour ahead.

The sculptures on all four sides of the monument depict scenes of battle and victory. The detailed craftsmanship makes it a highly impressive sight.

Further inside, visitors will suddenly encounter Moai statues from Easter Island. Their painted eyes give them an even more realistic and powerful presence. Standing quietly in place, they create a mysterious atmosphere that invites visitors to pause and take a closer look.

Along the route, various stone statues line both sides of the path. At first glance, they may appear similar, but a closer look reveals subtle differences in expression and posture. Some look dignified, some gentle, and others almost seem to be smiling. Each statue has its own unique character, and new discoveries await with every step.

Some statues have such unique expressions that they may even bring a smile to visitors’ faces. Gods and stone figures from around the world stand side by side, each telling a story of a different culture. Comparing their expressions and poses is part of the fun.

A replica of the famous Statue of Liberty also stands proudly in the park. Its commanding presence makes it a popular photo spot. Right beside it, rows of Manneken Pis statues create a playful and unexpected scene. This unusual combination of famous landmarks and charming surprises is part of what makes Taiyo Park unique.

The Terracotta Army pit, featuring 1,000 figures, is said to have been created and brought in from the Terracotta Army Museum in China. The powerful scene is truly breathtaking.

Another eye-catching spot is a giant five-yen coin lying on the ground. It is said to be the largest of its kind in the world. Its overwhelming size makes it hard to believe it represents such a familiar Japanese coin. This playful and unique photo spot is also worth a visit.

The “Three Panda Sisters” became popular after being featured on television and later by a famous YouTuber. Their adorable expressions and quirky presence spread by word of mouth, making them a much-loved photo spot where many visitors stop to take pictures.

Other famous sites, including the Great Wall Gate, Tiananmen Gate, and pyramids, can also be found throughout the area.

・Castle Area: Trick Art and Photo Spots

To reach Swan Castle at the top of the mountain, visitors can take the monorail, which takes about three minutes. The ride is included in the admission fee.

The monorail runs every 20 to 30 minutes in both directions, so checking the schedule in advance is recommended. Wheelchairs and strollers can also be taken on board.

After arriving at the mountaintop and walking up a gentle slope, the grand entrance of the castle appears ahead. Its impressive appearance makes visitors feel as though they have arrived at a real European castle.

Inside the Castle Area, visitors are surrounded by a European atmosphere. Swan Castle was modeled after Germany’s Neuschwanstein Castle at two-thirds of the original scale. After overcoming many challenges, it was completed in 2009 after about two years of construction.

In the castle courtyard, visitors can take photos that look as if they have stepped back into the Middle Ages. Costume rentals are also available at Welcome House Swan, so checking in advance is recommended.

The castle interior extends from the 4th to the 7th floors, with different attractions on each floor. Visitors can move around by elevator or stairs, making it easy to explore at their own pace.

On the 4th floor, the Trick Art Corner offers dynamic photo opportunities that make visitors look as though they have jumped into a movie scene.

AR trick art is especially popular. By downloading the dedicated app and taking photos with a smartphone camera, visitors can capture even more immersive and mysterious images.

One artwork makes it look as if a baby penguin is about to move and is being fed a fish. Renting a costume can make the photo look even more realistic.

On the 5th floor, the 2D Cafe “White Room and Black Room” features a unique art space inspired by a trend popular in Korea. Everything is designed in monochrome and flat illustrations, creating photos that look as though visitors have stepped into a manga world.

The Throne Room on the 6th floor is another popular photo spot. With sparkling chandeliers, antique-style sofas, and luxurious interiors, the room feels like part of a medieval European palace. Taking photos in medieval-style costumes adds even more atmosphere and creates a memorable shot.

Photo spots can be found throughout the castle, making it feel like exploring a maze full of surprises. Visitors can fully immerse themselves in this mysterious and imaginative world.

On the 7th floor, the Temple Room opens as a cafe on Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays. Set menus include drinks such as coffee or tea served with sweets. Gelato is also available, making it a nice place for families to take a relaxing break during their visit.

・Lunch, Cafe Breaks, and Costume Rentals

Welcome House Swan, located near the monorail station, offers ticket sales, visitor information, a souvenir shop, a restaurant, and a cafe. It can be used for everything from checking in and taking a break to shopping for souvenirs.

The souvenir shop on the 1st floor sells Himeji souvenirs as well as Taiyo Park original items, including incense, clear files, and kawara senbei rice crackers. It is a good place to stop by during a break.

『Anago Tendon Gozen』1,800 yen

On the 2nd floor, Restaurant Swan serves standard dishes such as curry, ramen, and udon, as well as meals made with local specialties. One recommended dish is the Anago Tendon Gozen, featuring a whole large conger eel tempura that extends beyond the bowl. The freshly fried tempura has a crisp coating, while the eel inside is soft and light in flavor. The slightly sweet sauce pairs perfectly with the rice.

Other local-style dishes include the Momoiro Toiki Katsu Curry Set with salad, priced at 1,600 yen. Mild curry is also available, making it a comfortable dining option for families.

Welcome House Swan near Swan Castle also offers meals and cafe options, including udon, curry, beef bowls, and children’s menu items.

The souvenir shop is also worth visiting. A recommended souvenir is Taiyo Park Swan Castle Senbei, priced at 700 yen for a pack of 12. These original sweet crackers are shaped like traditional Japanese roof tiles and decorated with an image of Swan Castle.

Visitors can also enjoy taking photos in costumes from around the world. Costume rental is available for adults at 1,000 yen and children at 600 yen, and is limited to women. Costumes inspired by popular anime-style characters and maid outfits are also available. Children’s costumes are offered as well, making it fun for parents and children to dress up together and take memorable photos.

Throughout the year, Taiyo Park also hosts events such as stamp rallies and treasure hunts. With photo spots, a restaurant, cafe breaks, and seasonal events, the park offers plenty to enjoy for a full day out.

■Information