About Himeji Castle: Himeji Castle in Japan is nicknamed the 'White Heron Castle' for its bright white walls. Its main keep was finished in 1609 and it is the largest, best-preserved samurai castle in Japan. In more than 400 years it has never been destroyed by war, fire or earthquake. In over 400 years it was never destroyed by war, fire or earthquake

Location: In the city of Himeji, in western Japan · Country: Japan · Built: Its great white keep was finished in 1609 · Build Time: About 8 years · Type: A hilltop samurai castle of white plaster · Size: A maze of gates and walls around a tall white keep · Famous For: Its white walls, like a heron taking flight · Claim: The largest and best-preserved samurai castle in Japan