UNESCO World Heritage Himeji Castle’s Main Keep Damaged by Drone Collision

By MOOK Scenic Spots Family Travel Life Network, translated by Zhang Yingying

Recently (on the 19th), Himeji Castle, a Japanese national treasure and UNESCO World Heritage Site, suffered damage when its main keep was hit by a small drone, shocking and angering the castle’s management. Fans of Japan’s famous castles and historic sites also expressed concern and worry. The next day, the man who operated the drone turned himself in to the police and was referred to prosecutors for violating Himeji Castle regulations and the Cultural Properties Protection Law.

The 49-year-old man from northern Kyushu had originally planned to use a drone to take aerial photos of well-known Japanese World Heritage Sites, including Kyoto and Nara, and intended to submit the photos to a magazine. However, the incident of the drone hitting Himeji Castle has drawn more attention to the issues caused by drones.

The drone collision with the main keep occurred after the structure was renovated and reopened in March 2015, attracting a large number of visitors. The damaged area was the window sill on the south side of the sixth floor of the main keep. Although the damage caused by the impact is not irreparable, the management, which cherishes Himeji Castle, was deeply shocked.

This year, marking the reopening of the main keep and coinciding with the Mid-Autumn Festival moon, Himeji Castle held its 33rd Moon-Viewing Event. The event featured performances on traditional Japanese koto and taiko drums, along with local folk performances, as well as a moon-viewing tea ceremony where visitors enjoyed traditional tea while admiring the moon, complemented by the historic beauty of Himeji Castle. This made for a fitting Mid-Autumn activity. The castle also garnered renewed attention following the drone collision incident.