Himeji City is located in the center of the Harima Plain of southwestern Hyogo Prefecture. Surrounded by mountains and the sea, it has developed from long ago as a key transportation center in western Japan. It has a rich history and culture as a castle town, and is gifted with natural blessings and a mild climate. The city has developed in its own charming and characteristic way. Since the city was organized in 1889 it has expanded in area as well as in population. Over 470,000 citizens live in Himeji now, along with more than 10,000 foreign residents. Since that time, the city has expanded to become the center of Harima economics, culture, and education, forming a huge economic and cultural sphere. Further dramatic expansion is anticipated, as the city was officially named one of the first core cities in April 1996. Himeji City preserves much of interest in historical sites and traditional cultural, including the world heritage site, Himeji Castle.