Walking Tour in Himeji Castle Garden and Aizome Indigo Dyeing

Overview

Available languages

English

8 hours

Mobile ticket

Compared to other world-famous cities in Japan, Himeji City is relatively unknown to most people. But when you look at the photos of Himeji city, an idea immediately comes to mind. That is right, a castle. You have probably seen this castle somewhere on a website or brochure introducing Japan. Himeji City is home to a renowned castle. Himeji Castle is not only the largest existing castle in Japan but is also registered as a World Heritage Site and a National Treasure of Japan.

Not only is the castle itself prominent, but there are also hidden wonders around the city. Gardens, temples, and monuments, all of which are over a thousand years old, reveal much of Japan’s history. In addition to tangible historical buildings, there is also a lot of intangible culture waiting for people to know about it.

Additional Info

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

What To Expect

Himeji Castle

Meet us at the JR Himeji Station to start your journey. The meeting place is immediately after exiting the Central Gate of the station. In just 15 minutes we will arrive at the world-famous Himeji Castle. We are going to spend some time here. After traveling back in time inside the castle, we will walk to the Japanese garden located right next to the castle.

2 hours • Admission Included

Koko-en

After having a fun time at Himeji Castle, we will visit the authentic Japanese garden next to it. Kokoen consists of nine strolling gardens with different Edo period (1603 and 1868) styles and landscaping themes. Take a moment to slow down and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere there.

2 hours • Admission Not Applicable

What‘s Included

Guided tour with an English speaking guide

Bus tickets required for the tour

Aizome experience fee

Entrance fees for each spot during the tour

Lunch

Options

Walking Tour in Himeji Castle Garden and Aizome Indigo Dyeing

Reviews

5.00

3 reviews

Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

Absolutely amazing tour of Himeji castle!
Global19725914204,,Dec 10, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
We took a tour with two fantastic guides - both were extremely knowledgeable and friendly. It felt like spending the day with long-term friends instead of complete strangers! We learned so much about Himeji castle and it's history. I am so happy we decided to do a tour to get the full experience. We also really lucked out and saw winter-blooming sakura, which are very rare, right outside the castle! They really cater the experience to what you want - they go as fast or slow as you want to go. Our tour guides also took us to a rooftop spot to see a nice view of the castle from a distance as well. For lunch Justin took us to a nice mom and pop owned restaurant. Both owners were very kind and the food was delicious. Another highlight was the indigo dying experience. My husband made a tote bag and I got to make 2 scarves. The indigo-dye artist was chatty and extremely passionate about sharing his craft with others. Our tour guides expertly translated for us and we were able to ask all sorts of questions about the indigo dying history and process. An absolutely amazing experience - I highly recommend others to take this tour. One of the best tours I have been on in Japan and I have gone 4 times!
Great and unique experience!
637pennyq,,Jun 6, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
This tour is amazing. Himeiji Castle is beautiful and the highlight of the tour is definitely the Aizome Indigo Dyeing. What’s a fun and unique experience!
Great experience in a not crowded city.
844jonathank,,Feb 21, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
The Aizome dying experience was absolutely amazing, the master is an extremely interesting, charming, funny man, who is eager to connect with you during the whole workshop. Also our guide Justin did a great job at keeping the tour interesting and fun the whole day. 100% would recommend.