Himeji Castle Admission Fee Increase

　Himeji Castle is one of the finest cherry blossom viewing spots in western Japan. With as many as 1,000 Somei-Yoshino and weeping cherry trees in full bloom, the avenue of cherry trees at Sannomaru Plaza is particularly popular as a photo spot.

　Due to soaring maintenance costs, admission fees have been raised from 1,000 yen to 2,500 yen for all visitors except Himeji residents, effective from the 1st of this month. However, entry remains free for all visitors under the age of 18.

　Whilst opinions are divided, given the immense queues in early spring, the price hike may help limit visitor numbers and ultimately improve visitor satisfaction. Himeji City currently anticipates a 20% drop in visitor numbers.

　Admission fee increases at castles have been spreading nationwide since last year, with Matsumoto Castle and Hikone Castle having already raised their prices last year. Meanwhile, Matsue Castle, which is set to increase its fees from July, plans to introduce a dual pricing system for residents and non-residents.

　How to ensure equitable access to cultural heritage is one of the major challenges facing the tourism industry in the future.