The city of Himeji in Hyogo Prefecture, western Japan, has decided to double or triple the admission fee for Himeji Castle for visitors from outside the city. The castle is a World Cultural Heritage site.

City officials plan to introduce the revised fee in early 2026. They say the move will help secure funds to maintain and manage the castle that was built more than 400 years ago.

The popular tourist attraction is also known as the White Heron Castle. It drew some 1.48 million visitors in the fiscal year that ended in March.

The current entry fee is 1,000 yen, or about 7 dollars, for those aged 18 or older.

City officials say the price will remain the same for local residents because they contribute to the preservation of the castle through their taxes and other means.

The city government plans to work out the details of the new admission system after consulting the local assembly.

The head of the castle's management office says the fee hike is necessary to preserve it for future generations.