The origin of “Himeji Castle Festival” began by making Himeji Castle, which remained miraculously in the urban area which became ruins after the war, a symbol of the postwar reconstruction of Himeji city. “Himeji Castle Festival” began as a “festival” which is the basis of the citizen’s heart. The first festival began in April 1952. The “Queen of the castle” which is also a highlight of the Himeji Castle Festival was born in August of 1964 when the first queen was born.
Highlights of the Castle Festival are “Himeji Castle Takigi-Noh” and “Parade” to be held in Otemae Street. Both are very popular events, so it’s a good idea to reserve a place to see in advance. Also, if you are traveling with children, play equipment of “kids land” held in Otemae Park is recommended. Especially the parade to be held on the second day is very popular. There are two “citizen parade” and “era parade”, they will walk from Himeji station to Otemae park. Every year at this festival there is an announcement and change of “Queen of the castle”, the newly selected “Queen of the castle” will also appear in the citizen parade. Another parade is an era parade, here you can see historical castle owners of Himeji Castle, Senhime’s weddings and more. There is also a child daimyo procession, and you can also enjoy a cute parade. After the parade there is a “total dance” that you can join on the spot so you can dance with them after watching the parade.
In addition, 3D projection mapping to the keep of Himeji castle that began in 2015 is very powerful. Please enjoy the production which is gorgeous and the magnificent scale feeling.
The Himeji-jo Castle is a landmark in Himeji-shi, Hyogo with a nickname of “the Castle of White Heron”.
The “Himeji Castle Festival” held in May every year by the stage in such Himeji-jo Castle has started in 1948 just after the Second World War.
It is a cheerful event which contend for the first place in Himeji.
In the war, although the Himeji Castle was not burned down, but the town in Himeji has been almost in ruins.
The Himeji Castle Festival was born in order to show spirit that the new town of Himeji will be made now.
Many unique events are performed in the Himeji castle festival.
What is unmissable in particular is the “Big Parade” performed on the second day.
The Big Parade is performed focusing on the Otemae-dori Street of the south in Himeji Castle which is the main street of Himeji City.
The time when the Himeji Castle Festival is performed is after the middle of May every year. It is, immediately after “Golden Week” (early-May holiday season in Japan) finishes.
It is carried out by avoiding the Golden Week period when other various events are performed, so it is an event which participates easily freely.
The fun event such as parades, stage events and dances is jam-packed during 3 days.
If possible, you stay at least 3 days in Himeji and enjoy the charm of town of Himeji and the beauty of Himeji Castle.
Information
| Name: | Himeji Castle Festival |
| Address: | Honmachi 114 Himeji, Hyogo 670-0012 Japan |
| Access: | JR Sanyo-honsen Line “Himeji-eki Station” (15 minutes walk) |
| Tel: | (+81) 79-287-3652 |
| Price: | Free |
| Official site: | http://www.city.himeji.lg.jp/ |
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