Staff at Himeji Castle discovered that approximately four square metres [1] of plaster peeled off the wall of the Ho no Yagura turret on June 3.
The damage to the historic site highlights the ongoing vulnerability of Japan's ancient architectural treasures to extreme weather events. As a UNESCO World Heritage site, the preservation of Himeji Castle's exterior is critical to maintaining its structural integrity and cultural value.
Castle staff on patrol discovered the damage during a routine inspection in Hyogo Prefecture [1]. The peeled section of the wall, specifically the traditional white plaster known as shikkui, was found detached from the turret's surface [1].
Officials said the damage was caused by Typhoon 6 [1]. The storm's impact is cited as the primary reason for the deterioration of the wall's surface [1].
Maintenance crews are now assessing the site to determine the best method for restoration. The Ho no Yagura turret is one of the key defensive structures of the castle complex, and its white exterior is a defining characteristic of the site's aesthetic and historical significance.
No injuries were reported in connection with the falling plaster, and the discovery was made before any visitors were endangered by the debris [1].
“Approximately four square metres of plaster fell off the wall.”
The peeling of the shikkui plaster at Himeji Castle underscores the tension between preserving ancient building techniques and the increasing frequency of severe weather. Because these traditional materials are susceptible to moisture and wind pressure from typhoons, the event likely signals a need for more frequent structural audits following storm cycles to prevent larger-scale collapses of the castle's iconic white facade.
