Place: Himeji Castle
Location: Himeji, Hyōgo Prefecture, Japan
Address: 68 Honmachi, Himeji, Hyōgo 670-0012, Japan
Phone: +81 79-285-1146
Hours: Typically open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:00 PM). Hours may vary; please check the official website for current timings.
Admission: Admission fees vary; for the most current information, visit the official website.
Website: https://www.himejicastle.jp/en
History: Himeji Castle, often referred to as “White Heron Castle” due to its elegant white appearance, is one of Japan’s most pristine and well-preserved castles. Its origins date back to 1333 when Akamatsu Norimura constructed a fort on Himeyama Hill. In 1346, his son, Akamatsu Sadanori, rebuilt the fort into Himeyama Castle.
Over the centuries, the castle underwent several expansions, notably in 1581 by Toyotomi Hideyoshi, who added a three-story keep. The most significant transformation occurred between 1601 and 1609 under Ikeda Terumasa, resulting in the complex’s current form with over 80 buildings connected by a labyrinth of pathways. Remarkably, Himeji Castle has survived natural disasters and wartime bombings, standing today as a testament to Japan’s architectural ingenuity.
Hauntings: Himeji Castle is steeped in legends and ghost stories, the most famous being that of Okiku. According to the tale, Okiku was a servant who worked in the castle and was falsely accused of losing one of ten valuable family heirloom dishes. Despite her innocence, she was punished, leading to her death, and her body was thrown into a well within the castle grounds. It is said that her spirit haunts the well, counting dishes in a despondent tone.
Another legend speaks of Osakabehime, a yōkai believed to inhabit the castle’s tower. She is described as a reclusive figure who avoids human contact, often depicted as an old woman in ceremonial attire. Osakabehime is said to possess the ability to read minds and control lesser spirits.
Personal Experiences: Visitors to Himeji Castle have reported various unexplained phenomena, such as hearing footsteps echoing through deserted halls and witnessing mysterious flickers of light illuminating the castle’s turrets. Some have also recounted feelings of unease or the sensation of being watched while exploring the castle grounds.
Paranormal Activity Rating: Medium (Regular activity)
For a visual exploration of Himeji Castle and its legends, you may find this video informative: