1-Day Walking Tour in Himeji : Castle, Garden and Aizome (Indigo Dyeing)

You may have heard about different places and things around Japan. When people talk about Japan, the first thing that comes to mind may be food, kimonos, or Tokyo Tower. However, there is one thing that is even more distinctive.

Compared to other world-famous cities in Japan, Himeji City is relatively unknown to most people. But when you look at the photos of Himeji city, an idea immediately comes to mind. That is right, a castle. You have probably seen this castle somewhere on a website or brochure introducing Japan. Himeji City is home to a renowned castle. Himeji Castle is not only the largest existing castle in Japan, but is also registered as a World Heritage Site and a National Treasure of Japan.

Not only is the castle itself prominent, but there are also hidden wonders around the city. Gardens, temples, and monuments, all of which are over a thousand years old, reveal much of Japan’s history. In addition to tangible historical buildings, there is also a lot of intangible culture waiting for people to know about it.

Himeji City may be overlooked by most people, but it is a place where you can slow down, enjoy the ancient atmosphere and architecture, and experience a different Japan. Join us and explore for yourself.

Highlights

• This is a tour that takes you through the World Famous Himeji Castle with explanations and interesting stories.

• We will not only show you around the city, but also tell you about its history and culture. We will do our best to help you understand this city more deeply.

• It is also a tour where you can learn about and actually experience the traditions of Japanese art that have been passed down since ancient times.

Description

Our journey will begin at 09:30 and we will meet at JR/ Shinkansen Himeji Station. Our first destination is the world famous Himeji Castle. As soon as you leave the station, you can see the castle in the middle of the city. Along the way, as we gradually approach the castle, you can see the beauty and grandeur of the entire castle.

Once we arrive at the castle, you will be rewarded with breathtaking views of Japan’s largest remaining castle. Unlike many other Japanese castles, Himeji castle was never destroyed by wars, earthquakes, or fire, and survives to this day as one of Japan’s original 12 castles. We are going to spend some time here and learn a lot about the castle.

After having fun time at Himeji Castle, we will visit the authentic Japanese garden next to it. Kokoen consists of nine strolling gardens with different Edo period (1603 and 1868) styles and landscaping themes. Take a moment to slow down and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere there.

Our afternoon starts with a traditional Japanese experience, Aizome (Indigo Dyeing). Indigo is one of the oldest vegetable dyes in existence, dating back to the ancient kingdoms of the Middle East. It arrived in Japan via the Silk Road about 1,400 years ago, and has enjoyed a unique place in Japanese culture and society. You can create a special keepsake for yourself or your loved one.

We will return to JR Himeji Station together after the Aizome experience to say goodbye. However, if you would like to spend the rest of your day around the station, you are more than welcome. We will do our best to help you have a wonderful time.

TOUR MEETUP POINT

JR/ Shinkansen Himeji Station central gate @ 09:30

You can see us immediately after exiting the JR/ Shinkansen Himeji Station central gate. We are waiting in front of the directory. We will be holding up a sign that says “Snow Monkey Resort.”

NOTES

• The times listed in the itinerary are for reference only and the actual tour may vary depending on actual conditions such as weather and trains.
• This is a walking tour that takes you outdoors for hours. We recommend wearing comfortable shoes and clothing. Please bring sunshade and rain protection if necessary.
• If you feel uncomfortable during the tour, please let us know. We will do our best to help you.
• This tour includes free time. We will make sure you know when and where to meet again. If you get lost or forget your meeting point, please call us immediately.

Included

• Entrance fees for each spot during the tour
• Bus tickets required for the tour 
• Aizome experience fee 
• Guided tour with an English speaking guide

Excluded

• Food and drinks
• Transportation costs before and after the tour