World Heritage Himeji Castle (with English-speaking guide)

Walk on the same wooden floors that samurai stepped and immerse in one of the most well-preserved feudal-era castles in Japan! Himeji Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is also known as Shirasagi-jo or the “White Heron Castle” for its resemblance to a heron spreading its wings. It has over 400 years of history and survived also during World War 2! With an impressive defense system, Himeji Castle is designed as a maze of paths with numerous wooden gates that ultimately lead to the hilltop main building. Walk along these paths and admire the imposing structure of the castle, as well as the loopholes on the walls for archers! There will be plenty of spots to take pictures.

Upon arrival at the entrance, you will need to take off your shoes and place them in a bag provided by the staff before entering the building. Inside, you will have the opportunity to explore the rooms as they were in the past. After climbing the wooden stairs and reaching the top floor, you will be able to admire the entire city of Himeji from above!
Throughout the tour, you will be accompanied by an English-speaking guide who will help you fully understand and appreciate the experience. your guide will also tell you legends about the castle and defence strategies in detail.

Koko-en, a Japanese Garden (with special English-speaking guide)

Picture yourself walking on a path of rocks over a pond, taking in the sight of the glimmering Koi carp swimming in the water, and listening to the rhythmic sound of the shishiodoshi (a bamboo device to scare away animals).
This is the type of experience you can have at Koko-en!
Koko-en is a Japanese garden located next to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Himeji Castle. It was opened in 1992 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Himeji becoming a municipality. However, the area in which it was constructed has a longer history. In fact, excavations revealed that the garden is situated on the ground where feudal lords had their residences!

Rakan no Sato・Authentic Kataka Making

The occupation of a Japanese swordsmith has a history of over 1000 years. Japanese katana swords were originally weapons, but many Japanese people regarded them as works of art.
Hayamitsu Kikyo, a swordsmith with over 20 years of experience, shares that he has yet to create the perfect sword.

You are welcome to visit his workshop and witness the process of “forging,” in which steel is heated to temperatures of approximately 1300℃ and meticulously hammered, stretched, and folded.
Mr. Kikyo will explain the entire sword-making process (which typically lasts one year), the differences between Western swords and Japanese katana swords, and the unique charms of the Japanese katana.