The national treasure Himeji-jo became Japan's first World Heritage Site in December 1993, along with Horyu-ji Temple in Nara.
Himeji Castle is nicknamed "Shirasagi-jo" (White Egret Castle) because of its graceful appearance, which resembles a egret spreading its wings. The castle is characterized by its bright white walls, which are made of all-white plaster and lacquered, and by its interconnecting tower system, in which the main tower with five stories, six floors, and one basement floor is connected to the smaller towers on the east, west, and dry sides by turrets.
The main keep of Himeji Castle that we see today was built in 1609.
More than 400 years later, it still retains its beautiful appearance.