Himeji Castle, the White Heron Castle

Himeji Castle is located in the city of Himeji in Japan and is e.g. easy to reach from Kyoto with the Shinkansen. From the train station in Himeji, you walk along the city's promenade to the castle complex, which consists of over 80 individual buildings.

It is one of the oldest surviving buildings from 17th century Japan and is considered the most beautiful example of Japanese castle construction. Because of its white outer walls it is also called Shirasagijō, the White Heron Castle.

Their weir systems are very effective and made the castle appear almost impregnable. Himeji Castle is one of the national cultural treasures of Japan and has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1993.