Top Experiences in Himeji Castle (Himeji-Jo)

Private & Custom VIP Tour in KOBE (HIMEJI CASTLE) allows you to “Tailor Your Itinerary” to fit your specific travel expectations. You have your own private Minibus/Coaster and English speaking driver for approximately 8 hours. Our team assists you to draft itinerary, prepare tickets, book restaurants/local experiences, communicate with local vendors, direct you to the destinations, keep time, assist you throughout the trip and more!

STEP1: Please select your favorite destinations from "What to Expect" and share with us your other special requests
STEP2: Our team draft your tentative custom itinerary and share with you
STEP3: We revise/finalize the itinerary base on your feedback

REMARKS
A. You can always make change to the itinerary even while traveling on the van. The tour is flexible to your own needs and goals.
B. Extra 1~2 hours will be given for free in case of heavy traffic jam and unexpected delay(s) only
C. Extra charges will be applied for over time service

Private VIP Tour in KOBE allows you to “Customize Your Itinerary” to fit your specific travel expectations.

You have your own private English speaking guide for approximately 8 hours.

Our team assists you to manage the tour, give recommendations, make reservations and check information.

<<< You customize your own Day Trip in KOBE>>>

STEP1: We propose list of famous destinations while you share with us your travel desires and special requests.

STEP2: With careful communication and planning, we share and exchange our draft detailed itinerary.

STEP3: We revise/finalize the itinerary.

***You can always change the itinerary even on the day while traveling with our guided.

***Extra charges will be applied for over time service.

Himeji Castle is one of the 12 Japanese castles well conserved with their wooden keeps. This Castle History starts from 1346 and we can see it as it was in 1618.

Nearby the castle, Engyo-ji temple, on Mount Shosha, has got a thousand years long history. Some scene from "The last Samurai" movie were taken there.

When we go back to Kobe, we can visit the Great Bridge of Akashi Kaikyo then Gigantor, statue of a robot, symbols of the revival of Japan, its technological genius and its pop culture.

We will have a good journey ahead! After picking you up from your hotel, we take the train to visit two emblematic places of Japan: Himeji Castle and Kobe City.

First, we go to Himeji Castle. It is a Japanese castle still very well preserved with its wooden keep still up. The castle dates from 1346 and we currently see it as it was in 1618.

Then we go to Kobe. To the north, the mountain. To the south, the sea... And in the center, you! Visiting this beautiful city by public transport and on foot. We will discover Kobe from north to south: the European district, the city center, the Chinese district and the port. History and fashion come together in this picturesque town.

This private and customizable tour for Himeji is perfect for guests who would like to have their own itinerary planned based on their interests and preferences, allowing guests to experience the city at their own pace.

Exclusive arrangement:
Discover Japan in-depth with this 10-day exploration in Kanto, Kansai, Hiroshima and Himeji! Enjoy hot spring hotel in Mt. Fuji Area, experience Japanese-Style spa and cuisine. Stay at 4-5 star high-quality hotel in downtown in Tokyo, Kyoto, Nagoya and Osaka, enjoy the charming cities. Well selected hotels in Hiroshima, Himeji and Kurashiki. Visit charming scenic spots in Tokyo, Mt. Fuji, Kyoto, Nara, Osaka, Kurashiki, Hiroshima, Himeji, Kobe. Special adding view spots in spring/autumn, enjoy charming Japan! Provide whole day pick up service on the first day of your arrival at Narita/Haneda Airport to hotel in downtown, Tokyo! Arrange English-speaking tour guide.

This value-packed trip with a government-licensed and experienced multilingual tour guide is a fantastic and efficient way to explore Himeji!

Himeji is home to Japan's biggest and best-preserved feudal-era castle, Himeji-jo. Its white-plaster facade and elegant presence earned it the nickname Shirasagi-jo (White Egret Castle). Widely considered Japan's finest castle, it is worthy as the focus of a day trip to the area.

Let us know what you would like to experience and we will customize a four-hour tour that's best for you!

Note*1: Please select your must-see spots from a list in the tour information to create your customized itinerary.
Note*2: The National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter certification is issued by the Japanese government requires a good knowledge and understanding of Japanese culture and history.

In this tour, we will learn more about the political and military history of Himeji and Japan.

This tour takes place in a historic castle. Himeji Castle is one of 12 Japanese castles still very well preserved with their wooden main keep still existing. We can still visit it today without any problems. The castle dates from 1346 and we currently see it as it was in 1618.

You will learn more about the History of Japan, with your guide, passionate or even graduate in Japanese History, who will explain to you the ins and outs of Japanese politics of yesteryear.

You will have a good lesson in history and exciting architecture in perspective, unique to Himeji!

This value-packed trip with a government-licensed and experienced multilingual tour guide is a fantastic and efficient way to explore Himeji!

Himeji is home to Japan's biggest and best-preserved feudal-era castle, Himeji-jo. Its white-plaster facade and elegant presence earned it the nickname Shirasagi-jo (White Egret Castle). Widely considered Japan's finest castle, it is worthy as the focus of a day trip to the area.

Let us know what you would like to experience and we will customize a six-hour tour that's best for you!

Note*1: Please select your must-see spots from a list in the tour information to create your customized itinerary.
Note*2: The National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter certification is issued by the Japanese government requires a good knowledge and understanding of Japanese culture and history.

This private and customizable tour for Himeji is perfect for guests who would like to have their own itinerary planned based on their interests and preferences, allowing guests to experience the city at their own pace.

Join the tour from Himeji Castle to Retired Family Mansion Park, then to Arima Onsen, and finally to Rokko Mountain in Japan offers a rich mix of historical exploration, natural beauty, and relaxation.

**New Itinerary coming up from 16-Oct-2023!**
8:00 - Depart from Osaka Namba
9:30-12:30 - Himeji Castle＆Koko-en
12:40-13:40 - Kouroen Former Residence Park (Shopping＆Free-time)
14:50-16:20 - Arima Onsen Excursion
16:50-17:20 - Mount Rokko
18:30 - Return to VIP Villa Namba

Himeji Castle:
One of Japan's most iconic and well-preserved castles. Its striking white appearance and intricate architecture make it a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Koko-en is a Japanese gardens located near Himeji Castle. It offers a serene escape with ponds, tea houses, and meticulously manicured landscapes.

Arima Onsen:
One of Japan's oldest and most famous hot spring towns.

Rokko Mountain offers spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding region, including Osaka and Kobe.

Visitors start by gathering at the entrance, where knowledgeable guides provide an introduction to the castle's history and significance. As they enter the castle grounds, visitors walk through beautifully landscaped gardens, appreciating the meticulous design and seasonal beauty.

Inside the main keep, guests climb steep and narrow staircases, exploring various floors that once served as, storage spaces, and defensive positions. They learn about the ingenious defensive features, like loopholes and hidden corridors, that helped protect the castle during its storied past. Visitors also marvel at the intricate wooden construction and ingenious architectural design.

The tour often includes visits to the top floor of the main keep, providing breathtaking panoramic views of Himeji City and the surrounding landscape. Throughout the tour, guides share anecdotes and historical insights, bringing the castle's past to life.

Immerse yourself in Japan's rich heritage with a visit to the awe-inspiring Himeji Castle, recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, as well as the Kokoen Garden and Engyo-ji Temple. You can explore the UNESCO-listed Himeji Castle, one of Japan's most iconic landmarks. Wander through Kokoen Garden, featuring a variety of Japanese garden styles. Visit Engyo-ji Temple, a mountain-top temple complex with breathtaking views.

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 Castle" and "Enkyoji Temple", both of which have a history of more than 1,000 years, are World Heritage Sites that must not be missed when you visit Himeji.
The attraction of Himeji castle is its pure white walls, which are called the most beautiful castle in Japan. Also, the inside of the castle still has the equipment used for warfare 400 years ago, when the samurai lived there. You also can't help but feel a sense of historical romance when you see the dignified appearance of the castle.

The tour at Himeji Castle alone would be enough to satisfy you, but afterward, we will take a bus and a ropeway to Engyoji Temple on Mt.Shosya. The temple is one of the largest temples in Japan and has many cultural assets designated by the government. Once you step into Mt. Shosha, you will be overwhelmed by the serene mountains and feel a sense of purity.

8-Hour Custom Tour with Private Car and Driver.

Please select your most favorite sites in HIMEJI CASTLE and share with us your other special requests. We will help you plan the route, draft itinerary and make advanced reservations if necessary.

VEHICLE
We will arrange car for you based on the number of people in your group (maximum of 9 people). Our available cars are Land Rover Discovery, Toyota Alphard, HIACE and Grand Cabin.

DRIVER
The driver will drive and walk with you at most sites. However, there are some sites the driver cannot join you due to following reasons:
1.) some drivers need to take a rest/break at least 1 site during the tour
2.) when the parking lot is full especially during peak seasons
3.) where it is difficult to park/too pricy to park ...

REMARKS
a.) You can always amend the itinerary even while traveling with the driver on the day
b.) Extra charge will be applied for over time service, picking-up/dropping-off at Kansai International Airport (KIX)

Embark on a captivating journey at Himeji Castle, a 400-year-old architectural gem. Our bilingual guide leads you through the enchanting Oteman Gate and labyrinthine corridors, unveiling Japan's rich heritage. Experience a unique twist with virtual reality, transporting you to pivotal moments.

Extend your adventure to the castle town, immersing yourself in the charm of teahouses and artisan workshops. Sample local delicacies that reflect Japanese culinary artistry. Visit our sake brewery in Himeji, where ancient traditions meet modern craftsmanship. Witness the meticulous sake production process and indulge in a tasting session.

This immersive experience goes beyond a tour, providing a profound understanding of Japan's cultural tapestry. Join us for an unforgettable journey where history, culture, and craftsmanship converge, leaving you with lasting memories.

After meeting at Himeji Station, we will collect our bicycles and proceed to the shopping street in the castle town. There, we will visit a Japanese sweets shop with a history spanning over 300 years and sample "Tamatsubaki," a refined Japanese confection that was once presented to feudal lords within the castle. We will then explore the magnificent Himeji Castle, also referred to as Shirasagi-jo, meaning "White Egret Castle."
After ascending to the summit of Himeji Castle, we will cycle through the historic castle town and savor a Japanese lunch at a restaurant located in the castle town. We'll then proceed to a shrine that offers picturesque spot for capturing beautiful photographs of Himeji Castle.
Relax and enjoy a cup of tea in Kokoen, a beautiful Daimyo garden.
After exploring the shrine, we will cycle once more around Himeji Castle, heading to the picturesque Kokoen Garden. Following a leisurely cup of tea at a café within the garden, we will make our way back to the station.

Private VIP Tour in KOBE (HIMEJI CASTLE) allows you to “Customize Your Itinerary” to fit your specific travel expectations.

You have your own private Minivan Toyota COMMUTER and English speaking driver for approximately 8 hours.

Our team assists you to manage the tour, give recommendations, make reservations and check information.

<<< You customize your own Day Trip in KOBE (HIMEJI CASTLE) >>>

STEP1: We propose list of famous destinations while you share with us your travel desires and special requests.

STEP2: With careful communication and planning, we share and exchange our draft detailed itinerary.

STEP3: We revise/finalize the itinerary.

***You can always change the itinerary even on the day while traveling on the van. Please feel free to reach our team and driver for recommendation at any time.

***Extra 1 ~ 2 hours will be given for free only in case of heavy traffic jam and unexpected delay(s).

***Extra charges will be applied for over time service.

Private & Custom VIP Tour in KOBE allows you to “Tailor Your Itinerary” to fit your specific travel expectations. You have your own private Minivan Land Rover Discovery Sport 2018 and English speaking driver for approximately 8 hours. Our team assists you to draft itinerary, prepare tickets, book restaurants/local experiences, communicate with local vendors, direct you to the destinations, keep time, assist you throughout the trip and more!

STEP1: Please select your favorite destinations from "What to Expect" and share with us your other special requests
STEP2: Our team draft your tentative custom itinerary and share with you
STEP3: We revise/finalize the itinerary base on your feedback

REMARKS
A. You can always make change to the itinerary even while traveling on the van. The tour is flexible to your own needs and goals.
B. Extra charges will be applied for over time service