Himeji Castle - To Yagura and Karamete Limited Exhibition

The Karamete or back entrance is one of the most complete and well designed defensive fortifications worthy or special notice at Himeji Castle, unfortunatrely, it is only rarely open to the public. It was part of the normnaly routes around the castle until repairs started in 2025, but had been close

Himeji Castle - To Yagura and Karamete Limited Exhibition

トの櫓と搦手周辺の特別公開

The Karamete or back entrance is one of the most complete and well designed defensive fortifications worthy or special notice at Himeji Castle, unfortunatrely, it is only rarely open to the public. It was part of the normnaly routes around the castle until repairs started in 2025, but had been closed ever since. From 2022 to 2025 it was open four times, so I have hopes it will become a regularly featured part of the castle. From the bansho (guard house) and small gate that leadfs into the courtyard before the To-no-ichi Gate to the small yagura (turret) connected to this gate and all the subsequent smaller gates down the slope it is perfectly preserved and strongly fortified. The slope is steep and uneven and there are many angles of fire from the high ramparts above. You will find a karamete at most castles and is typically thought of as an escape route or shortcut to the main keep, but is also well defended to prevent anyone sneaking in.