Perfect One-Day Himeji Castle Trip from Osaka: Complete Itinerary & Travel Guide (2025)
The Kansai region is an area in western Japan centered around Osaka and Kyoto. Osaka and Kyoto have their own unique history and culture, making them extremely popular tourist cities that attract visitors from around the world. However, Kansai has many other attractive spots beyond Osaka and Kyoto.
Himeji, a city in Hyogo Prefecture adjacent to Osaka, is one of these gems. Himeji is home to the historic Himeji Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Since visitors can tour a castle that was actually used by real samurai, many foreign tourists have been visiting Himeji in recent years. This time, we propose a travel plan to fully enjoy Himeji in just one day.
We'll introduce a carefully selected schedule of must-visit tourist spots for this one day trip itinerary from Osaka to Himeji. If you're interested in Himeji or staying in Osaka and considering trips to surrounding areas, please use this as a reference.
How to Get to Himeji from Osaka?
Himeji is approximately 93 kilometers from Osaka, accessible by train in about one hour. When departing from Osaka, Himeji can be thoroughly enjoyed even as a one day trip.
(By Train)
JR Line: From JR "Osaka" Station, take the JR Tokaido Sanyo Main Line Rapid Service bound for Banshu-Akaho → Get off at JR "Himeji" Station... approximately 64 minutes, ¥1,460
(By Shinkansen)
From "Shin-Osaka" Station, take the JR Sanyo Shinkansen → Get off at JR "Himeji" Station... approximately 30 minutes, ¥3,220
(By Bus)
From "Kansai International Airport," take the limousine bus → Get off at "Himeji Station Bus Terminal"... approximately 2 hours 20 minutes, ¥3,700
From "Itami Airport (Osaka International Airport)," take the limousine bus → Get off in front of JR "Himeji Station"... approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, ¥2,200
Which transportation method suits you best depends on where in Osaka you're departing from and how quickly you want to travel.
If you're staying in Osaka and have sufficient time, use the JR rapid service for access. From JR "Osaka" Station, you can reach Himeji in about one hour. It's a simple method with no transfers required.
If you don't have much time and want to travel as quickly as possible, you can use the shinkansen. Although the fare is higher, you can reach Himeji in about 30 minutes.
If you're departing from Kansai International Airport or Itami Airport, take advantage of the convenient limousine bus. While it takes more time, you can travel comfortably to Himeji Station without needing transfers or walking.
The Charm of Himeji
Himeji is a city in Hyogo Prefecture, adjacent to Osaka. It's close to Osaka, the central city of Kansai, accessible by train in about one hour. It's one of the most populous cities in the Kansai area, and the shinkansen also passes through it.
Himeji's pride is undoubtedly Himeji Castle, which is both a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a National Treasure. This beautiful castle, where renowned military commanders once lived, attracts tourists from all over Japan and the world.
Also famous is Engyo-ji Temple on Mount Shosha, where buildings constructed several hundred years ago are scattered throughout the lush mountainous terrain. Many buildings are beautifully preserved, and when you enter the mountains, you feel as if you've time-slipped back several hundred years.
Additionally, Himeji faces the sea called the Seto Inland Sea. From mountains and observation spots within Himeji city, you can gaze across the sea at Awaji Island floating in the beautiful Seto Inland Sea and distant Shikoku.
Route Overview of One-day Itinerary from Osaka to Himeji
Now, let's introduce this one day trip itinerary from Osaka to Himeji for sightseeing.
Departing Osaka at 9:00 AM, once you arrive in Himeji, immediately visit and thoroughly explore Himeji's pride, the UNESCO World Heritage Site Himeji Castle.
After that, have lunch around Himeji Castle, then head to another tourist spot, Engyo-ji Temple, in the afternoon. Engyo-ji Temple is accessible in about 30 minutes from in front of Himeji Station using buses and a ropeway.
The grounds of Engyo-ji Temple are very large, spreading throughout the mountains. If you want to slowly savor the historical atmosphere, spend the entire afternoon exploring the rich mountainous area.
For those who want to visit other spots, we also recommend extending your trip to nearby Hiromine Shrine. Additionally, we introduce recommended spots within Himeji city in the latter half of this article, so incorporate them into your schedule according to your preferences.
One-day Itinerary to Enjoy Himeji's Famous Tourist Spots
9:00 AM: Depart from Osaka
Depart from Osaka at 9:00 AM. When departing from around JR "Osaka" Station, we recommend using JR trains.
The JR Tokaido Sanyo Main Line operates between Osaka and Himeji. Take the Tokaido Sanyo Main Line Rapid Service from JR "Osaka" Station or a nearby station.
One point to note is that there are two types of JR Tokaido Sanyo Main Line services between Osaka and Himeji: "Rapid Service" and "Express." With "Rapid Service," you can travel from Himeji to Osaka in about 60 minutes. "Express" takes 90 minutes.
Since there are many "Rapid Service" trains operating in the 9 o'clock hour, we recommend checking the timetable and waiting for the "Rapid Service."
10:00AM: Explore "Himeji Castle," a World Heritage Site and Designated National Treasure
Himeji Castle was originally built in the 14th century as Himeyama Castle by the samurai Akamatsu clan. Since then, famous samurai who left their mark in Japanese history, including Toyotomi Hideyoshi, lived there and carried out renovations. The current form was completed by the 17th century and has been beautifully preserved to this day.
Its beautiful appearance, high functionality as a fortress, and uniqueness are highly acclaimed as one of Japan's premier castles. It is designated as a National Treasure by Japan and was registered as a World Heritage Site in the 1990s.
Himeji Castle has a vast grounds including gardens and moats. First, enter through the entrance called "Hishi-no-mon," then pass through the garden called "Nishi-no-maru." From there, head toward the tallest building, the "Tenshu-kaku (Main Keep)," and tour the castle clockwise.
- Address: 68 Honmachi, Himeji City, Hyogo Prefecture
- Business Hours: 9:00 AM 4:00 PM
- Closed: Irregular holidays
- Phone Number: 0792851146
- Official Website: https://www.city.himeji.lg.jp/castle/index.html
The "Tenshu-kaku" with Overwhelming Presence
The Tenshu-kaku is the main building of a Japanese castle. Himeji Castle's Tenshu-kaku is called the "Dai-tenshu" (Main Keep).
The Dai-tenshu appears to have a five-story structure from the outside, with an interior consisting of one basement level and six above-ground floors. It uses a Japanese castle architectural technique called "Renritsu-shiki tenshu," where the TENSHU (Main Tower) and Small Tower are connected.
Another major characteristic of Himeji Castle's Dai-tenshu is its beautiful white shining walls. It is finished with a traditional Japanese technique called "white plaster coating." Himeji Castle is carefully coated with white plaster even up to the roof joints, making it appear even whiter and more beautiful when viewed from outside.
This beauty has been compared to a white heron, earning Himeji Castle the nickname "Hakuro-jo" (White Heron Castle).
Himeji Castle is said to be a beautiful castle from any angle. Try viewing it from various angles - from far away, from directly below, and others - to appreciate the graceful and magnificent charm of the castle.
"Hishi-no-mon," an Important Cultural Property and Himeji Castle's Largest Gate
Source:Google Maps
Located immediately upon entering Himeji Castle is the "Hishi-no-mon," the largest gate within the castle grounds. The current structure dates from the 17th century and is designated as a National Important Cultural Property.
The walls use the same white plaster as the Dai-tenshu, creating a graceful impression with its white shining appearance. The upper part of the gate features decorative beautiful windows called Katōmado. Additionally, diamond-shaped crests are carved into the pillar sections of the upper gate.
However, what's important for a samurai castle is how to prevent enemy intrusion. Hishi-no-mon was not only graceful but also served as a key defensive point to protect Himeji Castle and prevent enemy infiltration into the castle grounds. For example, there were guard rooms inside, and the beautiful windows were also used for sniping.
If you're interested, please take time to carefully observe not only the detailed decorations but also the defensive mechanisms.
"Ote-mon" with Its Powerful and Elaborate Construction
Source:Google Maps
Ote-mon is a heavy gate at the entrance to the castle buildings. Originally, there were said to be three gates, but they were removed in the late 19th century. The current structure was built in 1938.
While the design and size differ from the original, the current gate is also very attractive with its strict and powerful construction. It's built using a traditional architectural technique called the Kōrai-mon style.
If you have time, pay attention to the stone walls piled up near the gate. These stone walls were built during the gate reconstruction in the 1930s, using stones that were originally within Himeji Castle grounds.
One of the stones has an axe-shaped marking that is believed to have been made in very ancient times. When, and for what reason it was made, remains unclear to this day.
It's interesting to think about what purpose it might have served. Be sure to check it out when you reach Ote-mon.
11:30AM: Enjoy the Beautiful Collaboration of Japanese Gardens and Himeji Castle at Koko-en
After thoroughly touring Himeji Castle, visit Koko-en, located within the same Himeji Park.
Koko-en is a beautiful Japanese garden created using the remains of samurai residences where warriors once lived. Within the vast grounds, there are nine themed gardens including the Mansion Garden, Flower Garden, and Bamboo Garden.
In spring, 70 cherry trees bloom magnificently, and illumination events are also held. In summer, it's recommended to cool off while viewing fresh greenery and carp in the pond that represents the Seto Inland Sea in the "Mansion Garden" area. Lotus flowers and hydrangeas also bloom beautifully in summer, adding color to the Japanese garden.
Throughout the grounds, there are photo spots from which you can view Himeji Castle particularly beautifully. The garden is arranged with perfect balance to make Himeji Castle look even more beautiful. Be sure to take photos capturing both the beautiful Japanese garden and Himeji Castle in the same frame.
- Address: 68 Honmachi, Himeji City, Hyogo Prefecture
- Business Hours: 9:00 AM 5:00 PM
- Closed: Irregular holidays
- Phone Number: 0792894120
- Official Website: http://www.himeji-machishin.jp/ryokka/kokoen/
If You're Interested in Traditional Spots, Having Local Guides Show You Around Tourist Destinations in Osaka and Kyoto
If you're interested in traditional spots with history like Himeji Castle, there are many attractive places to visit in Osaka and Kyoto as well.
For example, why not participate in tours where local guides show you around areas like Fushimi Inari in Kyoto or around Osaka Castle in Osaka?
Fushimi Inari Hidden Hiking Tour
In this tour, you'll hike with a guide at Fushimi Inari, a traditional spot you absolutely must visit in Kyoto. You'll spend 3 hours climbing the mountain where the shrine is located, slowly enjoying nature as you head to the summit.
This tour is especially recommended for those who want to quietly enjoy traditional Japanese spots. Fushimi Inari on Inari Mountain has 1,300 years of history and is one of Kyoto's most beautiful shrines. However, because it's such a popular spot, the main street is always crowded with tourists.
In this tour, you'll take mountain back roads with your guide. You can slowly stroll through the quiet and mystical nature and bamboo forests of Inari Mountain, taking your time. Climb quietly to the summit shrine without worrying about crowds, and experience the mystical atmosphere of this representative Kyoto spot.
- Meeting Point: FamilyMart Nakai Tofukuji Store, 12-232 Honmachi, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture
- Tour Area: Fushimi Inari
- Start Times: 9:00, 10:00, 13:00
5-Hour Osaka Highlights Bike Tour with Lunch
For those who want to tour traditional spots in Osaka, why not participate in a cycling tour that visits multiple spots including Osaka Castle?
In this tour, you'll cycle with a guide for 5 hours visiting traditional spots in Osaka. The tour includes lunch and matcha & snacks, and you'll visit the beautiful Osaka Tenmangu Shrine, museums, Osaka Castle, and other locations.
By participating in this tour, you can visit Osaka Castle, which along with Himeji Castle is one of Japan's premier castles. The park where Osaka Castle is located is large and full of nature, perfect for cycling. Ride under cherry, plum, and autumn foliage trees while gazing at the beautiful and magnificent Osaka Castle keep.
If you've also visited Himeji Castle, listen to explanations from your guide and compare the differences and characteristics between these two representative Japanese castles.
- Meeting Point: In front of FamilyMart at Temmabashi Station (Osaka Metro Tanimachi Line), 2-21 Temmabashi Kyomachi, Chuo-ku, Osaka City, Osaka Prefecture
- Tour Area: Around Osaka Castle
- Start Time: 10:00
Click here for more details
12:30PM: Savoring Exquisite Japanese Cuisine Around Himeji Castle
After thoroughly enjoying Himeji Castle and Koko-en on your one-day trip itinerary from Osaka to Himeji, it's time for lunch at 12:30PM in the surrounding area.
We'll introduce you to 4 restaurants located right near Himeji Park, including casual dining restaurants and ramen shops where you can enjoy Kobe beef—a specialty from nearby Kobe—as well as udon restaurants.
Kushiyaki Kobe beef
Source:Tabelog
Kushiyaki Kobe beef is a restaurant where you can enjoy dishes made with authentic Kobe beef. Located right next to Himeji Park, they serve luxurious hamburgers, beef bowls, and kushiyaki (grilled skewers) made with Kobe beef and wagyu. The restaurant has 6 counter seats and also offers takeout service.
I ordered the "Kobe Beef Burger." It featured well-seasoned thin slices of Kobe beef as the patty. The meat was incredibly tender with such rich umami that you could taste its natural sweetness.
It was so delicious that I finished it in no time. For the price, you'll get satisfaction that far exceeds the cost.
If you want to casually enjoy Hyogo Prefecture's pride and joy—Kobe beef—definitely stop by the popular Kushiyaki Kobe beef during your day trip from Osaka.
- Address: 68 Honmachi, Himeji, Hyogo Prefecture
- Business Hours: 11:00 AM - 4:45 PM
- Closed: Saturdays and Sundays
- Phone: 0792803880
- Official Website: https://www.instagram.com/kushiyaki_kobebeef/?hl=ja
Koba&more
Source:Tabelog
Koba&more is a stylish ramen restaurant with a trendy atmosphere. The exterior and interior are bar-like and stylish, with only 6 counter seats in this small establishment. It operates on a one-drink system, requiring you to order a beverage upon entry.
The recommended menu item is their unique "Milk Ramen." Milk soup ramen is rare even in Japan, and it was my first time trying it. It had just the right creaminess without being heavy, with black pepper adding a spicy accent.
Koba&more can accommodate English-speaking customers. When I visited, the owner was having lively conversations with overseas travelers, and the restaurant was filled with laughter.
Please note that the restaurant's policy prohibits entry for anyone under 20 years old. If you're of legal drinking age, definitely check out this stylish ramen restaurant, Koba&more, during your one-day trip itinerary from Osaka to Himeji.
- Address: 59 Gofukumachi, Himeji, Hyogo Prefecture
- Business Hours: 11:30 AM - 2:00 PM, 6:00 PM - 8:30 PM
- Closed: Thursdays
- Phone: None
- Official Website: https://www.facebook.com/kobaandmore/
Menme
Source:Tabelog
Menme is a restaurant specializing in Sanuki udon and other udon varieties. Sanuki udon is a specialty gourmet food from Kagawa in Japan's Shikoku region, characterized by its elastic, firm noodles. Menme offers English menus and is popular with overseas travelers.
Their signature dish is the original "Menme Udon." The soup contains plenty of katsuobushi (bonito flakes) and includes a raw egg. The noodles have the thick, elastic texture characteristic of Sanuki udon. The soup has a refreshing taste with a pleasant aroma of Japanese-style dashi.
Although it's a simple udon without many ingredients, it's filling and satisfying. For those wanting a more substantial lunch during their day trip from Osaka, the "Niku Udon" (meat udon) with plenty of beef is also recommended.
- Address: 68 Honmachi, Himeji, Hyogo Prefecture
- Business Hours: 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM
- Closed: Sundays
- Phone: 0792250118
- Official Website: None
Kōhōseki
Source:Tabelog
Kōhōseki is a restaurant where you can enjoy ramen, gyoza, and authentic Chinese cuisine. It has both first and second floors with counter seats, table seats, and semi-private rooms. They offer a diverse menu, and when you order food, you can also use their complimentary drink bar.
Kōhōseki is renowned for serving generous portions of Chinese cuisine. Many menu items offer size options, and even when ordering the regular size, you'll receive dishes larger than those at typical Japanese restaurants.
I ordered their voluminous mapo tofu, which had delicious saltiness and moderate spiciness. When visiting Kōhōseki during your one-day trip itinerary from Osaka to Himeji, I recommend ordering large sizes and sharing among several people.
- Address: 105 Kameimachi, Himeji, Hyogo Prefecture
- Business Hours: 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM, 5:00 PM - 8:30 PM
- Closed: Tuesdays
- Phone: 0792880459
- Official Website: https://www.instagram.com/kohoseki.himeji/
1:30PM: To the Ancient Temple "Engyoji" Standing Serenely in the Mountains
At 1:30PM, head to "Engyoji," an ancient temple standing serenely on Mount Shosha in Himeji.
Engyoji is a Himeji temple built in the 10th century. Located atop the 371-meter Mount Shosha, it features dozens of historical structures scattered throughout the mountain. Many of these buildings are designated as Important Cultural Properties of Japan, certifying them as precious cultural assets.
This beautiful, traditional space, preserved much as it appeared hundreds of years ago, is frequently used as a filming location for movies and TV shows. For example, the Hollywood movie "The Last Samurai" was filmed here.
From the mountaintop, you can see the Akashi Strait, including the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, Awaji Island, and distant Shikoku. Since there's a ropeway, you can enjoy the scenery while ascending to the mountaintop where the structures are located.
Highlight 1: Engyoji Maniden
Maniden is the central building of Engyoji. It was built at this location based on the legend that Shōkūshōnin, the monk who founded Engyoji, saw a celestial maiden dancing near a cherry tree here.
Maniden is built on the mountainside using a traditional Japanese architectural method called "butai-zukuri" (stage construction). The stage extends like a protruding observation deck, from which you can look down at the beautiful green trees and autumn foliage.
Maniden enshrines Kannon Bosatsu, a Buddhist deity of compassion. It's one of the pilgrimage sites called "Saigoku Sanjūsan-sho" located throughout Japan's Kansai region. Many people still visit here on pilgrimage to offer prayers to Kannon Bosatsu.
Highlight 2: Three Halls (Great Lecture Hall, Dining Hall, Jogyodo Hall)
The Mittsu no dō, consisting of the Great Lecture Hall, Dining Hall, and Jogyodo Hall, were built between the 10th and 15th centuries. The three buildings are arranged in a U-shape.
The Great Lecture Hall has been used as a place for monks' training and academic study for over 1,000 years. The Great Lecture Hall also houses precious Buddhist statues carved in the 10th century - the Shakyamuni Triad.
The Jogyodo Hall is used as a place where monks offer prayers. The Dining Hall was originally built in the 12th century and has been rebuilt multiple times, serving as a living space for meals and sleep. On the second floor, historical items such as Buddhist statues and furniture are displayed.
The three buildings are beautiful with their elegant construction, and because they are excellently preserved as historical architecture, they are frequently used as filming locations for video productions. They even appeared in the Hollywood movie "The Last Samurai."
Highlight 3: Fudodo Hall
Fudodo Hall is a building located in the "Inner Sanctuary Area" at the back of the grounds.
Fudodo Hall was originally built in the 17th century. It once collapsed and was rebuilt in the 1970s. Fudodo Hall enshrines a statue of the Buddhist deity called Fudo Myoo.
In Buddhism, Fudo Myoo is considered a powerful god who drives away karma and impurities. Since he has been deeply revered at Engyoji Temple, he is carefully enshrined here.
Though it's a small building with a modest exterior, the way it harmonizes with the surrounding nature and maple trees is beautiful. When I visited, I was impressed by how the brilliant fresh green maple leaves beautifully complemented the modest wooden exterior.
Highlight 4: Gohodo Hall
Source:Official website
Gohodo Hall is also located in the Inner Sanctuary Area, built right next to Fudodo Hall.
Gohodo Hall is a shrine that enshrines the guardian deities of the temple called Ototen and Wakaten. It's a building constructed in the 16th century and has been designated as an Important Cultural Property, which is certification of valuable cultural objects by the national government.
Also, near Gohodo Hall stands an annex building called Gohodo (Worship Hall). The Worship Hall has a legend that Benkei, a very famous 12th-century warrior in Japan, spent his childhood here and underwent training to become strong.
Engyoji Temple has many other historic buildings. Also, walking through the mountains, you can encounter large trees that are several hundred years old, wild birds, and rare insects. In the afternoon, enjoy the historical space surrounded by nature to your heart's content.
4:00 PM: On the way back from Engyoji, stop by Hiromine Shrine Depart from Engyoji around 4:00 PM.
For those who have time on the return trip, we also recommend stopping by the beautiful shrine on Mt. Hiromine - Hiromine Shrine.
Hiromine Shrine is a shrine located at the summit of Mt. Hiromine, founded in the 8th century. Access is by car or hiking on foot. You need to climb mountain paths even from the parking lot, but from the shrine at the top, you can overlook the city of Himeji and the beautiful Seto Inland Sea.
Hiromine Shrine has a unique worship method that is rare even among Japanese shrines. There are nine holes behind the main hall, and it's believed that gods dwell in each one. It's said that if you whisper your wishes three times into those holes, your wishes will come true.
Despite being located at a mountain summit with difficult access, it's a very magnificent shrine with a long history. For those who want to visit a mystical spot in Himeji, why not extend your trip to Hiromine Shrine?
- Address: 52 Hiromineyama, Himeji City, Hyogo Prefecture
- Business hours: 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM
- Closed: Irregular holidays
- Phone number: 0792884777
- Official website: https://hiromine.or.jp/
Optional time: Depart for Osaka
After fully enjoying your day in Himeji, depart for Osaka at your preferred time.
From Himeji to Osaka takes about 1 hour by train. We recommend using the JR line, which operates throughout the day. JR trains from Himeji to Osaka run until the 10 PM time slot.
Just like in the morning, there are two types of JR Tokaido-Sanyo Main Line trains between Osaka and Himeji: "Rapid Express" and "Express." The "Rapid Express" takes about 60 minutes from Himeji to Osaka, while the "Express" takes 90 minutes. Those who want to return to Osaka quickly should be careful not to board the "Express."
For those who visit places like Hiromine Shrine and have a late departure, or who have plans such as participating in night tours in Osaka, using the Shinkansen is also recommended.
Recommended Tourist Attractions That Can Be Incorporated Into Your Itinerary According to Your Preferences
Up until now, we have introduced Himeji's itinerary centered around Himeji Castle and Engyoji. Himeji has many other unique and interesting tourist spots as well.
We also recommend the zoo and peace park beloved by citizens, as well as the very unique architectural theme park, Taiyō Park.
Himeji City Museum of Art and Himeji City Zoo are located within Himeji Park, just like Himeji Castle. If there are spots that catch your interest, please consider incorporating them into your itinerary.
Himeji City Museum of Art
Himeji City Museum of Art is an art museum located within Himeji Park, the same area as Himeji Castle. In addition to artworks connected to Himeji, it houses modern and contemporary art from Japan and around the world.
When I visited in late July 2025, the "Kenzo Takada Exhibition" was being held, featuring Kenzo Takada, who established the world-famous fashion brand "KENZO." I was able to appreciate about 100 costumes designed by Takada, who is from Himeji City, along with his design sketches. Participating in such event exhibitions packed with highlights is highly recommended for your one day trip itinerary from Osaka to Himeji.
Takada's designs, which incorporate elements from Japanese kimono and ethnic costumes from around the world, are all free-spirited and unique. Since I love unique and pop fashion, I enjoyed viewing them very much.
It's a relatively small-scale museum that citizens casually visit. With the reasonable admission fee of 210 yen, why not stop by after touring Himeji Castle during your itinerary?
- Address: 68-25 Honmachi, Himeji City, Hyogo Prefecture
- Operating Hours: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Closed: Mondays
- Phone Number: 0792222288
- Official Website: http://www.city.himeji.lg.jp/art/
Taiyō Park
Taiyō Park is a theme park that recreates castles and stone structures from around the world. The spacious grounds feature replicas of Paris's Arc de Triomphe, China's Great Wall summit, and pyramids, among others.
Within the park, you can borrow and play in ethnic costumes from around the world, and participate in games such as stamp rallies and treasure hunts.
Taiyō Park is largely divided into the "Stone Area" and the "Castle Area." The castle area features a replica of Germany's Neuschwanstein Castle. Take time to carefully explore this precisely crafted 2/3 scale architecture.
After seeing Himeji Castle, one of Japan's representative castle fortifications, viewing historical structures from around the world should make the various differences and characteristics feel very intriguing. This makes an excellent addition to your one day trip itinerary from Osaka to Himeji.
If you love architecture or want to visit unique spots, why not incorporate this into your schedule?
- Address: 1342-6 Uchikoshi, Himeji City, Hyogo Prefecture
- Operating Hours: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
- Closed: Irregular holidays
- Phone Number: 0792678800
- Official Website: https://www.taiyo-park.com/
Himeji City Zoo
Himeji City Zoo is a zoo located within Himeji Park, to the east of Himeji Castle. It houses elephants, giraffes, kangaroos, and other animals. There's also a "petting area" where you can interact with animals like guinea pigs and sheep, as well as a retro-atmosphere mini amusement park.
Himeji City Zoo is a small-scale zoo operated by the city, with a very reasonable admission fee of 250 yen. Despite being small-scale, it houses many animals including lions, bears, and camels.
Furthermore, what I particularly enjoyed was the amusement park area with its very retro and nostalgic atmosphere. There are many nostalgic rides, including an old, small Ferris wheel.
You can see Himeji Castle from within the zoo grounds. It's a spot where you can leisurely enjoy seeing animals and riding attractions while viewing the castle. If you have extra time after touring Himeji Castle during your itinerary, feel free to casually drop by.
- Address: 68 Honmachi, Himeji City, Hyogo Prefecture
- Operating Hours: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Closed: Irregular holidays
- Phone Number: 0792843636
- Official Website: https://www.city.himeji.lg.jp/dobutuen/
Tegarayama Heiwa Park
Tegarayama Heiwa Park is a beautifully maintained park featuring well-kept flower beds and gardens. The grounds also include a greenhouse botanical garden, aquarium, and sports facilities. On holidays, it's a casual gathering spot for local people and families.
Tegarayama Heiwa Park is located at the summit of Mount Tegara, offering panoramic views of Himeji city. Though it's a bit distant, you can also admire the majestic Himeji Castle standing proudly among the buildings. The flower beds within the park are beautifully arranged, and there are unique buildings designed to resemble brick-built ancient castles.
It's a very spacious park that isn't crowded, so you can enjoy leisurely strolls. For those wanting to spend a relaxing time in Himeji city during your one day trip itinerary from Osaka to Himeji, consider incorporating this into your schedule.
- Address: 440 Nishinobesue, Himeji, Hyogo Prefecture
- Operating Hours: 24 hours
- Closed: Irregular holidays
- Phone Number: 0792212413
- Official Website: https://www.city.himeji.lg.jp/kanko/0000002775.html
Boze Island
Finally, let me introduce the beautiful remote island of Boze Island floating in the Seto Inland Sea.
For those wanting to visit Boze Island, staying in Himeji is recommended. Boze Island can be accessed by ferry from Himeji Port in about 45 minutes, making it a perfect addition to your one day trip itinerary from Osaka to Himeji.
Boze Island is a small island floating in the Seto Inland Sea facing Himeji. You can explore a traditional and vibrant Japanese fishing port, beautiful nature, and a historic shrine called Bentenjima (Sea God Shrine).
I visited the nostalgic atmosphere of the port where fishing boats are lined up closely, then went to the shrine on Bentenjima, which is the island's rocky mountain. The island itself is small enough to walk around in about an hour and a half. You can take leisurely walks while gazing at the calm and beautiful Seto Inland Sea and the islands floating in the sea.
Also, when you visit the island, be sure to check out Himeji Maedore Market, where you can eat fresh seafood cuisine made from just-landed catches.
- Address: Boze, Ieshima-cho, Hyogo Prefecture
- Operating Hours: None
- Closed: None
- Phone Number: None
- Official Website: https://boze.or.jp/
After Returning from Himeji, Enjoy Osaka's Exquisite Food and Drinks at Night
When you return to Osaka from Himeji, enjoy the vibrant nighttime atmosphere of Osaka city. I recommend participating in evening food tours or bar hopping tours to enjoy Osaka gourmet and drinks with a guide after completing your one day trip itinerary from Osaka to Himeji.
For those wanting to enjoy Osaka gourmet food walking, try participating in a food tour in Shinsekai. You can also enjoy delicious meals that serve as dinner during bar hopping tours in Namba.
Osaka Local Foodie Tour in Dotonbori and Shinsekai
This tour allows you to try 8 types of Osaka gourmet food in 3 hours. You'll walk through the bustling old town areas of Dotonbori and Shinsekai, enjoying food walking while listening to explanations about Osaka's culture and history from a guide, and stopping at local shops.
I recommend leaving Himeji early and participating in the 17:30 tour start. By joining this tour, you can eat basic Osaka gourmet foods like okonomiyaki, kushikatsu, and takoyaki as a substitute for dinner, perfect after your one day trip itinerary from Osaka to Himeji.
Furthermore, you can thoroughly enjoy exploring Shinsekai's shrines and nostalgic back alleys. For those who still have energy left after returning from Himeji, spend the night exploring Osaka's old town together with a guide.
- Meeting Point: In front of Nankai Koya Line Imamiya Ebisu Station exit, 3-2 Shikitsuhigashi, Naniwa-ku, Osaka City, Osaka Prefecture
- Tour Areas: Dotonbori, Shinsekai
- Start Times: 11:30, 16:30, 17:30
Osaka Bar Hopping Night Tour in Namba
If you want to enjoy dinner in vibrant nighttime Osaka after returning from Himeji, I recommend the bar hopping tour in Namba, which complements your one day trip itinerary from Osaka to Himeji perfectly.
In this tour, you'll enjoy bar hopping with a guide in Osaka's entertainment district, Namba. In 3 hours, you'll drink 3-4 alcoholic beverages and eat delicious food equivalent to dinner.
You'll visit 3 retro and lively izakaya typical of Osaka. Enjoy traditional and popular Kansai cuisine such as kushiage and various small plate dishes. Once you're satisfied, also enjoy local sake and shochu from the Kansai area. If there are drinks from Hyogo or Himeji available, definitely try them!
For those planning to stay and sightsee in Osaka, it's also good to ask the guide for information about recommended gourmet foods and restaurants.