We had been discussing this project in this thread but I felt it warranted it's own thread for the casual reader planning future itineraries to this UNESCO World Heritage attraction.

The beautiful donjon is being enased in a hideous wooden box from April 2010 onwards and for a time even access to the building is being limited so anyone considering visiting the castle should check with local tourist authorities before arriving to avoid some potential disappointment. There are other notable feudal Japanese castle elsewhere to visit but Himeji being so well known usually gets the most notice and was why I thought it couldn't hurt to try and advise future FTers with this thread.

BTW, very much enjoyed my day trip from Osaka to experience the castle as well as the Kokoen Garden directly outside the castle walls and the Autumn colours were memorable.