Himeji

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Himeji castle, built in 1601 and known as 'White Heron Castle' is Japans most visited castle. Unlike other castles from that era it escaped siege, fire and WW2 bombings (although the city of Himeji was destroyed), so most of it is still original. This is partly why you have to walk around the place without your shoes. Climbing to the top is about 120 steps up incredibly steep stairs but the view is worth the climb. Unfortunately all the windows have very restricting wire barriers that only a phone lens can clear!!