Himeji castle, Hyogo prefecture

The Himeji castle complex, located in Himeji in Hyogo Prefecture, consists of 83 wooden buildingsis and is an excellent example of the prototypical Japanese castle, with tall stone foundations, whitewash walls, and elaborate organization of the buildings within the complex.

It was the first Japanese National Cultural Treasure designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in December 1993 and it is the most visited castle in Japan.

Originally started as Himeyama Castle as far back as the 14th century, it underwent major additions, modifications and restorations over the centuries, and even bombed at the end of World War II, but while most of its surroundings were burned down, the castle survived almost entirely unscathed, and restoration began in 1956.

SOURCE: Courtesy of Japan National Tourism Organization, used with permission.

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