Cultural World Heritage, National Treasure Himeji Castle
9:30
Boasting a 400-year history, and with a history as a fortress site for over 600, Himeji Castle will be protected as a historical asset far into the future. In December 1993, Himeji Castle joined Horyu-ji Temple as Japan's first registered UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
It is known world-wide the most acclaimed castle in Japan for its unique and distinctive construction and towering main keep. The beautiful white plaster exterior has earned it the moniker "White Heron Castle." Its design includes many defensive features as well, and the castle itself is also quite well preserved, with the walls remaining in very nearly the same state as they were in feudal times.
Sep 1 - Apr 26／9:00-16:00 (Gate closes at 17:00 )
Apr 27-Aug 31／9:00-17:00 (Gate closes at 18:00)
Adults／1,000 (over 18 years old)
Children／300 (elementary school to high school students)
Free for children before elementary school
Train／About 15 minute walk from JR and Sanyo Dentetsu Himeji Station
Bus／5 minute walk from “ Himeji Otemon mae “ stop
Kokoen
Koko-en Garden is a popular sightseeing spot that boasts a stunning view of Himeji Castle. Composed of nine Japanese gardens, including the Garden of the Lord's Residence, which features strolling path around a pond, and the Tea Garden, where you can find Sojuan, an authentic tea house with a tea ceremony room. Visiting here is like stepping back in time to the feudal era of Japan.
Shoshazan Engyoji Temple
Mt. Shosha is located north of Himeji and at 370 meters is the highest point within city limits. Atop this mountain is Engyo-ji Temple, the 27th temple on the Saigoku Kannon Pilgrimage of thirty-three Buddhist temples around the Kansai region. Engyo-ji was founded in 966 by Shoku Shonin. The temple attracts many believers on pilgrimage and was a training temple for monks. Known as the Mt. Hiei of the West, even today it receives a constant stream of pilgrims and visitors.
MITSUI OUTLET PARK MARINE PIA KOBE
13:00
An outlet mall in one of the best locations in western Japan, in full view of the Akashi-Kaikyo Bridge, the world's longest suspension bridge. Just 20 minutes from Kobe Station and 40 minutes from Osaka! Superb location right with a great view of the Akashi Strait.
Approx. 40 min. from Osaka,Approx. 20 min. from Kobe Station
Approx.140
Approx.65
Shops: 10:00am-8:00pm
Restaurants: 11:00am-10:00pm
Tax-free shops; payment by credit card/China UnionPay; multilingual call center; Wi-Fi
12-2 Kaigandori, Tarumi-ku, Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture
Akashi-Kaikyo Bridge
15:00
The Akashi-Kaikyo Bridge is the world's longest suspension bridge at 3,911 meters, and spans the Akashi Strait, connecting Honshu to Awaji Island.
Nicknamed “Pearl Bridge,” its beautiful structure is illuminated at night in varying designs that create a magical appearance.
Maiko Marine Promenade
Maiko Marine Promenade is about 47 meters above sea level and 150 meters away from land; it features a total of 317 meters of walking area over the Akashi Strait.
An observation camera system at the 8th floor lounge gives one the feeling of having climbed a bridge tower to the height of 300 meters. Here you can take a rest and enjoy the magnificence of the Akashi-Kaikyo Bridge.
Those who want a bigger thrill can cross a log situated on a glass floor 47 meters above the sea.
9:00am-6:00pm all year round
Golden Week/Summer holiday: 9:00am-7:00pm
Adults: ¥310 (weekends/holidays),
¥250 (weekdays); High school students/seniors
(65 and over): ¥150 (weekends/holidays), ¥120 (weekdays)
Food in Kobe
18:00
Kobe Beef, a premium-quality brand of Wagyu beef in Japan.
In order to be Kobe Beef, it must first come from Tajima cattle born and raised in Hyogo Prefecture. Beef shipped from the meat center within the prefecture is carefully inspected, and only Wagyu beef that meets the most exacting standards can earn the distinction of being called Kobe Beef.
Kobe Beef boasts a delicate texture with a perfect balance of red meat and fat for exquisite aroma and savory taste.
The secret to its delicious flavor lies in its extremely fine marbling, which allows each bite to seemingly melt on your tongue.
