There are 12 original Japanese castles and Himeji is part of them. Himeji Castle is located is Hyogo Prefecture and it is one of the most well-preserved and largest Castles in Japan. It dates back to 1333 when a fort was built on Hineyama Hill and for almost 700 years it has remained intact surviving the bombing of Himeji in WWII and the 1995 Great Hanshin Earthquake. Himeji Castle features advanced defensive systems from the Feudal Period featuring loopholes in different shapes located throughout the Castle and it is also known as “White Heron Castle” for its brilliant white exterior and for its resemblance to a bird taking flight. Moreover, in spring the Castle becomes a very popular cherry blossom viewing spot thanks to its 1800 cherry trees planted at the Castle ground, which makes the white color of the Castle even more beautiful.