Himeji Castle and Horyuji Temple in Nara were the first to be designated Japanese World Heritage Sites by UNESCO and, among remaining Japanese castles, it is famous worldwide. Its walls are covered with white plaster, earning it the nickname the White Heron Castle. The castle commands a graceful presence and looks out over the whole town. Kokoen is a Japanese garden with ponds built on the ruins of the 3.3 ha mansion where the Lord of Himeji and his samurai lived.