Morning Journey to Nagoya
Our day began bright and early as we boarded a bus at 8:30 AM from Takayama, headed towards Nagoya. The crisp morning air and the promise of new adventures energized us as we settled into our seats for the two-hour journey. The bus ride, costing about 5,000 yen per person, was comfortable and efficient, allowing us to relax and enjoy the scenic views of the Japanese countryside as it unfolded outside the windows. The landscape, a harmonious blend of rolling hills, quaint villages, and meticulously tended rice paddies, set a peaceful tone for the day ahead.
As we approached Nagoya, the city’s skyline began to dominate the horizon, signaling the start of our next phase of travel. Known as a major transportation hub, Nagoya is a gateway to many destinations in Japan, and today, it was our springboard to the historic city of Himeji. The anticipation built as we neared the bustling Nagoya Station, ready to experience one of Japan’s most iconic modes of transportation: the Shinkansen.
Shinkansen to Himeji
From Nagoya Station, we quickly found our platform and boarded the Shinkansen bound for Himeji. The bullet train, renowned for its speed and precision, lived up to its reputation as we were whisked away at over 200 miles per hour. The journey took approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes and cost around 8,500 yen, a small price to pay for the comfort and efficiency provided by this marvel of modern engineering. The Shinkansen is more than just a train; it's an experience in itself, offering spacious seating, large windows, and a smooth, almost silent ride that allows you to take in the breathtaking views of the Japanese countryside.
As we sped past verdant fields, towering mountains, and glimpses of the sea, I found myself reflecting on the contrast between the fast-paced, ultra-modern technology of the Shinkansen and the timeless, historical destination we were heading towards—Himeji Castle. This juxtaposition of old and new is one of the many things that make traveling in Japan so unique and enriching.
Discovering Himeji Castle
We arrived at Himeji Station just before noon, and after a quick check of our map, we set off on the 20-minute walk to Himeji Castle. The route took us along Otemae-dori Street, a broad, tree-lined avenue that leads directly to the castle. As we strolled along, we passed charming gardens, statues, and bustling cafes, all contributing to the vibrant atmosphere of the city. One of the delightful quirks of Japanese cities that I’ve grown to love is the intricately designed manhole covers. Each city has its own unique design, often reflecting local culture or history, and Himeji’s covers, adorned with images of the castle, were no exception. They made for a fun and unexpected photo opportunity.
Arriving at the castle around 1 PM, we discovered that we were a bit late for the guided tours, which typically start earlier in the day. However, not to be deterred, we opted for an audio guide, which allowed us to explore at our own pace while still learning about the castle’s rich history. The entrance fee of 1,000 yen was well worth it as we stepped through the gates and into the grounds of this UNESCO World Heritage site.
Himeji Castle, often referred to as the "White Heron" due to its elegant, white exterior, is a stunning example of Japanese feudal architecture. Compared to many European castles, Himeji stands out for its sheer size, elegance, and the harmonious blend of wood and stone in its construction. Walking through the castle’s maze-like pathways and climbing the narrow, steep staircases felt like stepping back in time. The interior of the castle, with its wooden floors and walls, exudes a sense of historical authenticity, and each level we ascended offered increasingly impressive views of the surrounding city and mountains.
One of the highlights of our visit was the tourist center inside the castle, where we received some free stamps. Collecting stamps at various historical and cultural sites is a popular activity in Japan, and these stamps serve as both a keepsake and a reminder of the places you’ve visited. The intricate designs on the stamps reflected the beauty and historical significance of Himeji Castle, making them a treasured souvenir of our day trip.
A Taste of Kobe Beef
After spending a few hours exploring the castle, we were ready for a culinary treat. Just a short walk from the castle, we found a cozy restaurant serving Kobe beef burgers—a perfect way to refuel after our historical excursion. Kobe beef, known for its marbling and rich flavor, is a delicacy, and the burger did not disappoint. The meat was tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor, a true taste of luxury in a casual setting. It was the perfect meal to recharge our energy before continuing our journey.
Heading to Hiroshima
With our appetites sated and our spirits high, we made our way back to Himeji Station to catch the next Shinkansen to Hiroshima. This leg of our journey, taking about 90 minutes, promised more adventures and historical insights. As the train sped towards our next destination, I couldn’t help but reflect on the day’s experiences. From the serene and majestic beauty of Himeji Castle to the culinary delight of Kobe beef, the day had been a perfect blend of history, culture, and gastronomy.
Tips for Fellow Travelers on a Himeji Castle Day Trip:
If you’re planning your own day trip to Himeji Castle, here are a few tips to enhance your experience:
Combined Ticket: For just 1,050 yen, you can purchase a combined ticket that grants access to both Himeji Castle and the nearby Kōko-en Garden. The garden features beautifully landscaped Edo Period-style gardens and is well worth the visit, especially if you have time to spare.
Miyuki Shopping Street: Before leaving Himeji, take some time to explore Miyuki Shopping Street, located between the castle and the station. This shopping arcade is perfect for finding unique souvenirs and sampling local delicacies, offering a great way to round off your visit.
Timing Your Visit: If you plan to visit during cherry blossom season or Golden Week, be sure to allow extra time for your visit. These are peak tourist periods, and the castle can get very crowded, leading to longer wait times.
Final Thoughts on Himeji Castle Day Trip
Our Himeji Castle day trip from Takayama was a delightful blend of historical exploration and culinary enjoyment. Himeji Castle’s beauty and grandeur left a lasting impression, and the journey itself was smooth and enjoyable, thanks to Japan’s efficient transportation system. As we headed towards Hiroshima, we looked forward to more discoveries and unforgettable experiences. Japan never ceases to amaze with its rich history, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality.
Stay tuned for more travel tales and tips from my adventures across Japan!
Marco
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