In December 1993, Himeji Castle became Japan’s first World Heritage site along with Horyuji

In December 1993, Himeji Castle became Japan’s first World Heritage site along with Horyuji Temple in Nara. Himeji-jo Castle is affectionately known as “Shirasagi Castle” for its elegant appearance like a white heron spreading its wings. It features a vividly white castle wall with white plaster all over the walls, a 5-story, 7-story large keep, and a tower-style small keep connected by watari-yagura turret. The main keep of Himeji-jo Castle that we are looking at was built in Keicho 14 (1609). Even after more than 400 years, it still retains its beautiful form.