The “Egret’s Eye View” is Now Open

 On March 26, a special visitor’s facility for the Himeji Castle Restoration named heron in the sky officially opened.

The famous UNESCO World Heritage Site is currently undergoing restoration. The castle main keep is covered but they have built an elevator that will take visitors straight to the very top of the castle. Visitors can watch the restoration of the large roof and the exterior of the castle up close.

Looking Up at Himeji Castle

 　

The painting of a life-size castle on the wall

The Entrance

 
Information about Himeji Castle’s roof and tiles

　

Visitors can learn more about the castle from the pictures and panels. 

The Roof of the Main Castle Keep

This is the only time you’ll ever be able to look down at the castle.

 The restoration of Himeji Castle takes place once every 50 years. The last restoration, called the Great Restoration of the Showa Era ended in 1960, and the entire castle was restored. This restoration, the Great Restoration of the Heisei Era, focuses on the outer walls of the castle.

The next restoration following this won’t happen for another 50 years, so don’t miss out on this rare occasion!

Ping（Hyogo Tourism Association)

Venue: Himeji Castle（Honmachi, Himeji）

Hours: April 27–August 31 between 9:15-17:30 (Last entry at 17:15)

          September 1–April 26 between 9:15–16:30 (Last entry at 16:15)

Admission: Castle entrance fee  Adults ¥400, Children (5 year old to Junior High School) ¥100

               Facility entrance fee  Adults ¥200, Children (5 year old to Junior High School) ¥100

*Both fees are required to enter the Heron in the Sky

Closed: December 29 & 30 (Scheduled)

Access: 15 minute walk from JR Himeji Station

Egret's Eye View [Special visitor facilities for Himeji Castle restoration]（English）

http://www.himejijo-syuri.jp/en/index.html