Himeji Castle, Himeji, Hyōgo Prefecture, Japan

© Julian Elliott Photography/Getty Image

A royal view. Himeji Castle, Himeji, Hyōgo Prefecture, Japan

Today's snapshot features the largest and most visited castle—Himeji Castle! Dating back to 1333, this UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts an advanced defensive design and five National Treasure structures. The castle has also withstood time and nature's fury, surviving the bombings of World War II and the Great Hanshin earthquake in 1995. The castle's design embodies the quintessential characteristics of Japanese castle architecture, boasting a formidable array of defensive features intertwined with exquisite craftsmanship. In addition to the nearly 700 years of glory, local legends and ghost stories reverberate through the 83 rooms of this hilltop fortress. Would you care to explore?