Taiyō Park — Attraction in Himeji

Some world famous sites like the Terracotta army, German castle, great wall etc. have been recreated here in a massive park. However, what I did not know before going to this place was that this place was built as a working place for people with disabilities.

This place is on the outskirts of Himeji and away from the city center. A very quiet and peaceful place, it is never crowded and a lot of people are apparently unaware of its existence. Google maps recommended this park for me in the maps app. I noticed a few rehabilitation centers in the stone area for people with special needs and even a cafe run by people who live here. However, I did not go inside because I thought it is an exclusive area.

Nevertheless, the replicas are excellent recreations of the original sites and structures. Do not miss the terracotta army and Buddha on a cliff. The fact that a lot of people have spent time, effort and money to create these replicas is commendable.

I liked the stone area more than the castle. The castle is quite imposing but not too much inside if you have already seen a castle in Europe. There are some photo corners primarily for the youngsters.

The stone area is bigger and you will need about 3 hours to cover the entire area. Do not go in summers if the heat bothers you. You will need a bottle of water.

Note that this is not your typical tourist attraction. It is more of a rehabilitation center for people with special needs that functions also as a place for sightseeing. I think more people should visit this place to appreciate the works created by people here and support them.

Highlights: The monorail up to the castle, Terracotta army, Buddha on a cliff, stone structures from all...

Taiyo Park in Himeji is a must-visit attraction for those exploring the area. Rated 4/5, this park offers a unique blend of nature and culture, featuring replicas of famous structures from around the world. It's an excellent place for photography enthusiasts and families looking to enjoy a day out amidst beautiful surroundings. The park is conveniently accessible by bus from Himeji Station, making it a straightforward trip. However, it's worth noting that the return bus schedule is less frequent, often requiring a wait of about an hour to get back to the station.

While the park is stunning and offers an enjoyable experience, some of the structures show signs of neglect, with maintenance not being as frequent as it should be. Despite this, the overall charm and the variety of attractions make Taiyo Park a worthwhile visit. Whether you're marveling at the replicas or enjoying a peaceful stroll through the scenic landscapes, this park provides a delightful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Just be sure to plan your return trip accordingly to avoid any...

It takes less than an hour by bus from Himeji Station. Take bus no 43 from the platform no 18, stop at Uchigo Shinden. This park is surprisingly awesome. I visited this park in late afternoon so I can get stunning views from the castle. Although some of the exhibitions may not well maintained, but I did still enjoy everything here. I really love the scenery from the top of hundred of statues and the view from the castle during golden hours. They were perfectly beautiful. I didn't have much time to enjoy the 3D art tricks, but kids would love...