The Wandering Chocoholic

Welcome to Himeji Castle

Himeji Castle is one of the largest and most impressive Samurai castles in Japan. Its maze-like structure and rich history make it one of the most visited attractions in the country. It’s also been the site of a bunch of Hollywood movies, including The Last Samurai with Tom Cruise.

The bullet train to Himeji from Kyoto took about an hour. Gotta love those bullet trains! Upon arrival in Himeji, it was about a 15-minute walk up to the castle. Himeji is a city and has plenty of shops and restaurants and all the rest, but it’s easy to get the feeling that most people were there to see the castle. Maybe all the people walking in the same direction down the same road provided a clue.

A maze and a tower

Walking through the castle is like walking through a giant maze. The confusing paths to the main tower were intended for defensive purposes, though they also serve a dual purpose of making sure that lazy tourists get into shape.

In case that doesn’t work, there is always the eight-storey climb up the stairs to the top of the main tower, which needs to be done in socks as shoes are not allowed. The main tower featured exhibits with findings from the castle, including some weaponry and some info on daily life. There were also stunning views of Himeji and the surrounds from the top.

Death before dishonour

The Samurai tradition would encourage warriors to choose death over dishonour. The castle featured a “suicide quarter” where the warriors could commit hara-kiri (death by disembowelment) and other graphic suicide methods. Apparently, suicide fell out of tradition at some point, and the section was later used for food storage.

Pretty castle and gardens

The fall foliage made for a particularly pretty view of the castle and surrounding gardens. I couldn’t help but think that it would make a really cool location for an event, party or concert. Samurai-themed wedding, anyone?
Next up: Hiroshima