Himeji Castle is among the most famous Japanese castles, known for it’s brilliant white exterior, beautiful architecture, and the fact that the original structure still stands, though significant renovations have been done to maintain it.

I have visited the castle a few times — it is especially remarkable when the sakura (cherry blossoms) are in full bloom. However, nothing can quite compete with seeing the castle grounds practically deserted thanks to the swine flu scare. I’m putting up a few photos today to illustrate just how empty it was. I’ll put more up when I have time tomorrow. All images were with my D200 and Tokina 11–16mm f/2.8.

View from the top of the keep


If you look closely at that first picture at full size, you can see perhaps 4 people walking around the grounds below. I’ll try and put up a picture later of this view on a normal day.

The front of the keep, normally full of people


Bottom floor, no line!

Tiny link: http://taii.cc/1P