Himeji Castle is also known as Shirasagi Castle because of its beautiful white plaster exterior that looks like an elegant egret spreading its wings. Himeji-jo is considered the highest peak of existing castle architecture in Japan, and in 1993 it became the first castle in Japan to be registered as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site. It is also designated as a National Treasure and an Important Cultural Property. The origins of Himeji Castle can be traced back to a fort built in the mid-14th century during the Nanbokucho Period, but it was not until the late Sengoku Period and Azuchi-Momoyama Period that the foundation for its current appearance was laid. In particular, after the Battle of Sekigahara, Ikeda Terumasa, who became the lord of the Himeji domain, undertook extensive renovations and completed the main part of the castle walls, including the current keep. Later, during the Edo period, further improvements were made by clan lords such as Honda Tadamasa and Sakai Tadakatsu. Along with its military defensive function, Himeji Castle also has cultural and symbolic beauty. Its intricate layout and clever defensive systems reflect the best of the castle-building techniques of the time. For example, there are intricate corridors calculated to lead the enemy astray, narrow spaces for shooting arrows and guns, and holes for throwing stones. On the other hand, the beauty of the white walls and their plaster, as well as the wooden construction techniques, also show a high level of artistry. Although Himeji Castle was later affected by the decree to abolish castles from the end of the Edo period to the Meiji period, the castle itself escaped destruction. During World War II, the castle was in danger of being damaged by air raids, but miraculously escaped destruction by fire. After the war, extensive restoration work was undertaken, leading to the castle's current appearance. Himeji Castle is known as a symbol of “Japanese castles” for its graceful and magnificent appearance, and is often used as a filming location for movies and TV dramas. The surrounding natural beauty of the four seasons, including cherry blossoms and autumn leaves, further enhances the beautiful scenery.