Otemae-dori is the broad boulevard that runs straight from Himeji Station to the south gate of Himeji Castle. It is the city's main axis and the perfect first walk: the castle is visible the whole way, growing larger as you approach. The avenue is lined with ginkgo trees, sculptures, and a few well-placed cafes.
About half a kilometre long, it is an easy fifteen-minute stroll. On Sundays parts of it become a pedestrian zone, and during the Himeji Castle Festival in August the street fills with floats and dancers. If it rains, the parallel Miyuki-dori shopping arcade runs covered for most of the same distance.