Hello everyone,

Himeji Castle
Himeji Castle

If it wasn't for the coronavirus, I think I would be at some beautiful place right now. I'd like to recommend some magnificent cherry blossom viewing spots in the Kansai region of Japan that I've been to before. In this post I want to show you a stunning castle with cherry blossoms in full bloom.

Himeji Castle

Himeji Castle, located in Hyogo Prefecture, is also known as the White Heron Castle that. It was registered a UNESCO World Heritage Site after restoration and reopening. During the war many castles were destroyed, but Himeji Castle remains intact.

Cherry blossom trees around moat
Cherry blossom trees around moat

Full cherry blossoms
Full cherry blossoms

From Osaka it's about 30 minutes by bullet train or an hour by special rapid train. After you get off the train at Himeji station, I think the best way to get there is walking, as it's only around 15 to 20 minutes. There are over 1,000 cherry blossom trees around the castle. Today it was crowded with many people bringing their families and friends to see the gorgeous view of cherry blossoms set against the castle.

Ohanami (お花見)
Ohanami (お花見)

Cherry blossom viewing is a traditional activity in Japan. People usually have picnics, bringing food, drinks, liquor, or some snacks to enjoy under the cherry blossom trees.

Ride a boat around the castle moat
Ride a boat around the castle moat

Besides that, you can experience a ride on a traditional Edo period boat around the castle moat.

The park near castle
The park near castle

I walked around until I happened upon an elegant scene of the castle with the red bridge. I was lucky! This spot often is used in travel magazine and travel websites.

The elegant scene of the castle
The elegant scene of the castle

I highly recommend Himeji Castle for cherry blossom viewing on your next trip to Japan. You'll love it!

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