Don’t just visit Himeji Castle when traveling in Hyogo Prefecture—check out these 6 “hidden gem” spots around Himeji!
▲ Himeji Castle’s main keep reopened to the public on March 27. (Photo / Reporter Huang Shiyuan)
Travel Center / Comprehensive Report
After a hiatus of five and a half years, the main keep of Japan’s most famous castle, “Himeji Castle,” has finally completed renovations and once again showcases its stunning beauty to the world. But aside from Himeji Castle, Himeji City actually hides many other attractions worth visiting. The Japanese travel website Banq has specially compiled a list of six recommended spots. While you’re admiring this centuries-old fortress, why not take a detour to explore them as well?
▲ Himeji Central Park, which combines a zoo, amusement park, and water park. (Photo / fromY肼伐互螗去楗毳寻??鬯孔ㄒ臣/a>)
1. Himeji Central Park (Y肼伐互螗去楗毳寻??
Spanning an area 48 times larger than Koshien Stadium, Himeji Central Park is a theme park that combines a zoo and amusement facilities. In addition to taking a guided tour vehicle deep into the wildlife area to observe various animals up close, visitors can also ride a cable car to enjoy panoramic views of the park. With attractions such as an 85-meter-tall Ferris wheel, roller coasters, an indoor ice-skating rink, and water slides, it’s a well-known local tourist destination.
Address: 1436-1 Kamitani, Himeji Central Park, Shikama-cho, Hyogo Prefecture
▲ Himeji City Aquarium, also nicknamed the “aquarium on the mountain” (Photo / from Wikipedia)
2. Himeji City Aquarium
Built atop a mountain, Himeji City Aquarium is extremely rare even within Japan, hence its nickname, the “aquarium on the mountain.” The aquarium mainly displays marine life from the rivers of the Harima region and the surrounding sea areas. After renovations and expansion in 2011, it has attracted even more visitors.
Address: 687-1 Fukatsu-cho, Himeji, Hyogo Prefecture
▲ Himeji Literature Museum, designed by Tadao Ando, blends Japanese-style gardens with concrete architecture (Photo / from Wikipedia)
3. Himeji Literature Museum
The Himeji Literature Museum focuses on researching local literary works, collecting materials, and introducing regional literature, occasionally hosting literary events as well. Its building was designed by world-renowned architect Tadao Ando with the concept of “a space for dialogue with literature.” Not only is the architecture unique, but the museum also offers views of Himeji Castle, attracting many visitors who travel from afar to see it.
Address: 68-2 Kamenokicho, Himeji, Hyogo Prefecture
▲ Himeji City Art Museum sits right behind Himeji Castle, forming a beautiful scene together (Photo / fromHimeji City Art Museum official website)
4. Himeji City Art Museum
Opened in 1983, Himeji City Art Museum is located east of Himeji Castle and is characterized by its red exterior, which complements the towering white Himeji Castle behind it—creating a beautiful image beloved by photography enthusiasts.
Registered as a National Tangible Cultural Property in 2003, and because Himeji City and Charleroi in Belgium are sister cities, the museum also houses many Belgian artworks and paintings. Additionally, in the evening, the building is illuminated with soft lighting, showcasing a different kind of romantic charm and becoming a popular dating spot in the area.
Address: 2-8-25 Kakocho, Himeji, Hyogo Prefecture
▲ Japan Toy Museum boasts a rich collection, featuring not only representative Japanese folk toys but also toys from many countries around the world. (Photo / fromTripAdvisor)
5. Japan Toy Museum
Although most travelers associate Himeji with Himeji Castle, the Japan Toy Museum is surprisingly popular among visitors as well.
Within its six-story building, the museum primarily collects representative Japanese folk toys but also houses toys from over 140 countries, often hosting toy-related lectures. It not only helps children learn about toys from around the world but also allows many adults to revisit their childhood memories.
Address: 71-3 Shinmachi, Himeji, Hyogo Prefecture
▲Adjacent to Himeji Castle, Himeji City Zoo is another great destination for family travel. (Photo / from Wikipedia)
6. Himeji City Zoo
Although not very large, Himeji City Zoo, located near Himeji Castle, offers a petting plaza where visitors can interact with small animals such as miniature pigs, as well as a mini farm with goats, chickens, and other small animals. It also features an amusement park, making it another excellent spot for family outings.
Address: Y肼肥斜绢?8
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