Reopened just six months ago and already damaged—Japan’s “Himeji Castle” hit by drone collision on its keep

▲ The main keep of Himeji Castle reopened to the public in late March this year. (Photo / Reporter Huang Shiyuan)

Travel Center / Comprehensive Report

The main keep of Himeji Castle, known as Japan’s most famous castle, had just reopened to visitors in late March this year after renovation. However, on the 19th, it was reported that a small drone collided with the roof of the sixth floor, causing damage to window frames, waterproof copper plates, and eaves. Local police are currently investigating the perpetrator, and the Himeji Castle Management Office has once again urged visitors: “Please do not fly drones or unmanned aerial vehicles around Himeji Castle!”

According to Japanese media reports, Himeji Castle security staff spotted a small drone colliding with the south side of the sixth floor of the main keep around 6:15 a.m. on the 19th while patrolling the castle grounds. The drone was later found lodged between the fifth-floor eaves. The incident caused minor damage to about five or six areas on the top of the keep, including the waterproof copper plates.

▲ Debris of the drone found lodged between the fifth-floor eaves. (Photo / Screenshot fromYomiuri Shimbun)

In fact, to protect this World Heritage Site,Himeji Castle has long had explicit regulations prohibiting the use of drones and unmanned aerial vehicles around the castle.The Himeji Castle Management Office stated that since 2013, there have been a total of 15 incidents of drones flying near the castle, but this is the first time a drone has collided with the structure.

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