Otemae Street: A Royal Approach to Himeji Castle
A direct path to Himeji Castle, Otemae Street offers stunning views, shopping, and dining in the heart of Himeji, Hyogo.
Otemae Street is the grand avenue that connects Himeji Station to the iconic Himeji Castle, offering a direct and visually stunning approach to the historic landmark. Lined with shops, restaurants, and bronze sculptures, the street provides a pleasant 15-20 minute walk with an ever-present view of the majestic "White Heron Castle".
A brief summary to Otemae street
- 7 Honmachi, Himeji, Honmachi, Hyogo, 670-0012, JP
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Walk Otemae Street during the day for the best views of Himeji Castle, or in the evening to enjoy the illuminations during the colder months.
- Consider starting at Himeji Station and walking towards the castle to fully appreciate the gradually unfolding view.
- Explore the shops and restaurants along Otemae Street for local souvenirs and cuisine.
- Visit the Himeji City Tourist Information Center at Himeji Station for maps and brochures.
Getting There
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Walking
From Himeji Station (JR or Sanyo), exit the north side and follow the broad Otemae-dori Street directly towards Himeji Castle. The walk is approximately 15-20 minutes. The castle is clearly visible at the end of the street, making navigation straightforward.
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Public Transport
From Himeji Station, take the Himeji Castle Loop Bus from platform No. 6. Get off at the 'Himeji-jo Otemon-mae' stop, which is right in front of the castle's Otemon Gate. The bus ride is about 5 minutes. The fare is ¥210 for adults and ¥110 for children per ride. A one-day pass for the loop bus costs ¥600 for adults and ¥300 for children.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available at Himeji Station. A taxi ride to Himeji Castle takes approximately 5 minutes and costs around ¥700-¥900.
Discover more about Otemae street
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Sakuramon-bashi Bridge
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Shiromi Bridge
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Tsurushima
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HELLO KITTY APPLE HOUSE
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Hello Kitty Show Box
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Matsuhonosato Hot Spring
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Nojima Zoo
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Road Station Awaji
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Zenbo Seinei
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Pension Mikan no Sato
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Goshikizuka Tumulus
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BIZEN Museum of Latin America
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Nijigen no Mori
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Unmissable attractions to see
Karōyashikiato Park
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Otemon Gate
0.3 km
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Shirasaginomiya Gokoku Shrine
0.3 km
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Gate of So-sha shrine
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Himeji Gokoku Shrine
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Shiromidai Park
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Himejien
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Koko-en
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Himeji City Zoo
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Himeji Park
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Okiku Well
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Himeji City Zoo Petting Zoo
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Essential places to dine
Menme
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Suzume no Oyado
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Ocean Terrace
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miele
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BUCHI
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Farmhouse Restaurant Yo-Sansan
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UmaUma
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Coop Harima
21.2 km
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Maruai
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Virejjivangado Itoyokado Akashiten
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cafe bar AxeL
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