Himeji Castle in Spring 2014

Hi people. I read that they are now removing the Scaffold and thus, entry to the internal castle is impossible. I would like to know if other areas of the castle are still open and worth visiting?

I also read that Himeji Castle has a Cherry Blossom Viewing Fair, with drum music performances and Princess Sen-hime Peony Festival in spring. I researched a tonne but i do not know the dates or what time the performances are held at or whether it is still possible this spring with the removal of the scaffold.

If anyone have any information, please share ^.^ Thanks a bunch!

The grounds around the castle is huge and most of it is unaffected by the ongoing restoration. Right now the city web site only states beginning (of april) rather than specific dates for the Cherry Brossoms Viewing Festival which includes koto and drum performances.

http://www.city.himeji.lg.jp/foreigner/en/_10735/_10771/_10811.html