Himeji Castle Tour and Sword Smithing Observation

Name: Himeji Castle Tour and Sword Smithing Observation
Brand: Viator
Price: 574.88 USD
Availability: InStock
Rating: 5 (2 reviews)

5.0(2)7 hoursChinese, Japanese, Cantonese, English +1Book 2 days aheadHimeji, Japan

From

$575

Book on Viator

Start your day with an expert-led tour of Himeji Castle, where a skilled guide brings its history, architecture, and artistry to life with captivating insights. In the afternoon, step into the world of traditional Japanese craftsmanship at the Myochin swordsmith workshop. Witness the intricate tatara ironworking process and the artistry of sword-making up close in a serene, small-group setting. Engage directly with the master swordsmith for an exclusive, once-in-a-lifetime experience you won’t find anywhere else.

Included

Private transportation
Guide

Not included

Lunch options include ramen or high-end yakiniku, or we can make a reservation based on your preferences in advance. Please note that the cost of lunch is not included in the tour price.
Dinner
Starting March 1, 2026, the admission fee for 姫路城 will increase from ¥1,000 to ¥2,500. We sincerely apologize, but for tours on or after March 1, the admission fee will be charged separately.

What you'll do

Viewing Deck, Himeji Station Square
Ekimaecho, Himeji, Japan
Our guide will lead you from the central ticket gate of Himeji Station to the observation deck, explaining the location of the castle’s outer moat, and the tour will begin.
5 min
Himeji Castle Otemon Gate
68 Hommachi, Himeji Castle, Himeji, Japan
Our certified guide will lead you on foot from the observation deck to the Otemon Gate, guiding you along the main street of the Edo period.
5 min
Himeji Castle Hishinomon
68 Hommachi, Himeji, Japan
Tickets will be purchased at the Himeji Castle ticket booth (depending on crowd conditions, tickets may be purchased in advance by our company). After entering, a certified guide will provide a detailed tour of the castle (in English or Chinese).
2 hoursAdmission included
At the renowned Meijin Swordsmith Workshop in Japan, you will receive an explana
tion of the sword-making process and observe the craftsmen at work. If you’re lucky, you may even get to try your hand at part of the process.
2 hours