Himeji Castle for Hanami (Cherry Blossom Watching)

If you are in Kansai (Kyoyo, Osaka, Kobe) this spring, you should not miss to visit Himeji Castle when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom. This is usually in late April or early May. Recently, however, maybe because of the global warming, the blooming of cherry blossoms is getting earlier every year. Information regarding the "schedule" of full-blooms are available on the internet.

Anyway, for those who don't know, the cherry blossoms bloom only for a week. The "fully-bloomed" stage is called mankai in Japanese. It's flowers can last for a couple of weeks but the spring rain often makes their life shorter. You are lucky if their is no rain on weekends.

Some companies find time after work to do "hanami" to boost morale for the new fiscal year. Families also find time to picnic on the weekend. Hanami literally means "flower watching" but it's actually a party under the cherry blossom trees. The sight could be destructed by drunk men but the Japanese people in general are well-behaved, so, worries. Although not rampant, the sight of some garbage may spoil the view, too.

In December 2008, the new Himeji train station has been renewed so it has become more convenient for visitors and locals. The way to the castle is through the north exit. You won't miss it because there are a lot of signs in English. Also, the new tourist information office is just outside the central exit.

There is a bus tour but I'd recommend a stroll from the train station to the castle throught the Miyukidoori or along the main road. A bike rental might even more fun.

Himeji Castle is open 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. (5 p.m. from May to August). Adults ¥600, children ¥200. A tour takes about 1 1/2 hrs. English pamphlets are available at the castle shop and sometimes volunteer guides are available.