Himeji

Full-Day Private Guided Tour to Himeji Castle

Visit the amazing Himeji Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the peaceful Engyo-ji Temple on Mount Shosha. Learn about history, enjoy great views, and see spots from The Last Samurai. End the day with optional stops in Kobe for the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge and Gigantor statue.

Location

Himeji

Duration

8hrs

Himeji Castle is an amazing place with a long history dating back to 1346. It’s one of the best-preserved castles in Japan and still looks like it did in 1618. Not far from the castle, you can visit Engyo-ji Temple on Mount Shosha, a peaceful spot with over a thousand years of history. It’s also famous for being featured in The Last Samurai, making it a cool mix of history and Hollywood.

In Kobe, check out the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, an incredible structure and the longest suspension bridge in the world. Wrap up the day by seeing the Gigantor statue, a huge robot that’s a symbol of Japan’s creativity and love for technology and pop culture. It’s a fun and inspiring way to end the trip.

What’s Covered

Private guide for the full day
Guide's transportation, lunch, and entrance fees

What’s Extra

Transport costs (cable car, bus, train): 5000 JPY per person
Entry to Himeji Castle: 1000 JPY per person
Entry to Engyo-ji Temple: 1000 JPY per person

Good to Know

Animals and pets are not permitted on this tour.
Convenient access to public transportation is available nearby.
This tour is not suitable for wheelchairs or strollers.
Infants cannot sit on laps, and infant seats are not provided.
Not advised for individuals with back issues or pregnant travelers.
This is a private day tour/activity lasting approximately 8 hours.
Participants must be at least 7 years old to join.
The live tour guide speaks French, English, and Japanese.

Tour Itinerary

Himeji Castle

Start the day at Himeji Castle, also known as the "White Heron Castle" because of its graceful, white appearance. This stunning medieval castle has been beautifully preserved and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wander through its halls, explore the grounds, and take in the amazing views from the top of the castle.

Duration: 2 hours

Engyo-ji Temple

After the castle, head to Mount Shosha to visit Engyo-ji Temple, a peaceful spot with over a thousand years of history. This temple is surrounded by nature and is famous for its role in the movie The Last Samurai. You’ll enjoy a relaxing cable car ride up the mountain before exploring the temple’s beautiful wooden buildings.

Duration: 3 hours

Optional Kobe Highlights (Time Permitting)

If time allows, visit some Kobe highlights like the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, the world’s longest suspension bridge, or the Gigantor statue, a fun tribute to Japan’s creativity and technology. These stops add a modern twist to your historical journey.

Duration: 1-2 hours

Related Read: 10 Best Day Trips from Kyoto in 2024

From $301

/person

Adults

Ages 13-100

Teenagers

Ages 7-12

The booking is non-refundable if you cancel within 1 day of the start time.

Itinerary

Engyo-ji Temple

Duration: 3 hours

With over a thousand years of history, this tranquil site offers beautiful views and a glimpse of scenes from "The Last Samurai."

Himeji Castle

Duration: 4 hours

Wander through its stunning architecture and learn about its rich history, capturing memorable photos along the way.

Kobe

Kobe, Hyogo

After visiting Himeji, return to Kobe. Optionally, stop at the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge and the Gigantor statue, representing Japan’s post-war recovery and technological prowess.