Himeji Castle scaffolds

Japan’s 400-year-old Himeji Castle is undergoing its first major renovation in 45 years, to effect repair and cleaning of the white-plaster exterior walls, replacement of roofing tiles, and seismic evaluation and protection.

The 5-story main keep is being enclosed in a suyane (roofed tenting scaffold), which by March 2010 will block portions of the castle’s exterior. Work is expected to be completed in 2014. The main keep will remain open to visitors, though portions of it may be closed. An elevator will provide access to an observation space where visitors can watch repairs and view the city.

For info on Himeji, on Honshu, visit www.himeji-kanko.jp/en.