Osaka: Himeji Castle, Arima Onsen, & Kobe Tour

Start your day at Himeji Castle, Japan's first UNESCO World Heritage Site and the country's most magnificent surviving samurai fortress. Built in the late 14th century and completed in 1609, this "White Heron Castle" gets its name from its elegant white plaster walls and soaring multi-tiered roofs that resemble a bird spreading its wings.

Unlike many Japanese castles rebuilt in concrete, Himeji retains its original wooden structure, making it one of the most authentic castles in all of Japan. As you walk through the grounds, you will discover ingenious defensive features: maze-like pathways to confuse invaders, hidden "murder holes" for dropping stones or boiling oil, and steep slippery walls to prevent scaling. The main keep rises six stories high, and from the top floor on clear days you can see the entire city of Himeji and even the Seto Inland Sea.

Next, Arima Onsen, one of Japan's oldest hot springs, offers gold and silver healing waters in a charming mountain town. And then descend to Kobe, one of Japan's most stylish and international cities nestled between the Rokko Mountains and Osaka Bay. Unlike ancient capitals like Kyoto, Kobe has a distinctly cosmopolitan character shaped by over a century of international trade.

Explore Kobe Harborland, a lively waterfront district with brick warehouses turned into trendy shops and restaurants, a large Ferris wheel, and beautiful harbor views. Visit Meriken Park, a spacious green area with modern art installations and fantastic views of Kobe Port Tower and the Maritime Museum. See the striking red Kobe Port Tower, one of the city's most famous landmarks.

Know before you go

• The tour includes visits to historical and cultural sites.
• The tour involves walking through historical sites and city exploration.
• The tour is private and customizable according to your interests.