The Original Castles
Whilst most castles in Japan have been reconstructed, there are 12 original castles in Japan - “original” means they have a castle tower (or main keep) which was built before or during the Edo period - that have survived over the centuries without being damaged or destroyed: Bitchu-Matsuyama Castle, Hikone Castle, Himeji Castle, Hirosaki Castle, Inuyama Castle, Kōchi Castle, Marugame Castle*, Maruoka Castle, Matsue Castle, Matsumoto Castle, Matsuyama Castle (Iyo), and Uwajima Castle*. We have visited almost all of them; except those marked with an '*'.
Bitchu-Matsuyama Castle
Japan
Bitchu-Matsuyama Castle
Takahashi
Hidden amidst the lush forests of Okayama Prefecture, Bitchu-Matsuyama Castle stands as a testament to ancient Japanese architecture. Its imposing stone walls and intricate wooden structures offer a glimpse into a bygone era. With a history shrouded in intrigue, this castle invites explorers to unravel its secrets and immerse themselves in the captivating tales of feudal Japan.
Hikone Castle
Japan
Hikone Castle
Hikone
Hikone Castle stands as a majestic testament to Japan's feudal era. This iconic castle, one of the few original wooden structures of its kind, boasts intricate architecture, lush gardens, and a rich historical legacy. Explore the hidden paths, marvel at the towering keep, and immerse yourself in the enchanting atmosphere of a bygone age.
Himeji Castle
Japan
Himeji Castle
Himeji
Perched atop a hill, Himeji Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, stands as a majestic symbol of Japan's feudal past. Its intricate white exterior, adorned with countless turrets and gates, has earned it the nickname "White Heron Castle." Explore its labyrinthine interior, filled with hidden chambers and secret passages, and imagine the lives of the samurai warriors who once called it home.
Hirosaki Castle
Japan
Hirosaki Castle
Hirosaki
Renowned for its breathtaking cherry blossom displays, the castle grounds transform into a sea of pink each spring. Explore the historic castle, wander through the tranquil gardens, and immerse yourself in the beauty of this enchanting destination.
Inuyama Castle
Japan
Inuyama Castle
Inuyama
Nestled atop a steep hill overlooking the Kiso River, Inuyama Castle stands as a majestic symbol of Japan's feudal past. Its imposing stone walls and intricate wooden architecture offer a glimpse into the lives of ancient samurai warriors. As one of Japan's oldest and best-preserved castles, Inuyama Castle offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore a bygone era and experience the beauty of traditional Japanese culture.
Kōchi Castle
Japan
Kōchi Castle
Kōchi
Nestled amidst lush greenery in Kōchi, Japan, Kōchi Castle stands as a testament to the region's rich history. Its imposing stone walls and intricate wooden architecture offer a glimpse into the lives of feudal lords and their samurai warriors.
Marugame Castle
Japan
Marugame Castle
Marugame
Perched atop a hill overlooking the Seto Inland Sea, Marugame Castle stands as a testament to Japan's feudal history. With its imposing stone walls and intricate wooden structures, this iconic castle offers a glimpse into the lives of ancient samurai warriors. Explore its hidden chambers, wander through its serene gardens, and immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Japan.
Maruoka Castle
Japan
Maruoka Castle
Fukui
Nestled amidst lush greenery, Maruoka Castle stands as a testament to Japan's feudal past. Its imposing stone walls and intricate wooden architecture offer a glimpse into the lives of ancient samurai warriors. As one of the best-preserved castles in Japan, Maruoka Castle invites visitors to explore its history, marvel at its beauty, and step back in time.
Matsue Castle
Japan
Matsue Castle
Matsue
Its imposing white exterior, adorned with intricate carvings, reflects the elegance and power of the samurai era. Explore the castle's inner sanctum, where tales of valor and intrigue echo through the halls. Discover the secrets of the castle's past and immerse yourself in the tranquil atmosphere of this historic landmark.
Matsumoto Castle
Japan
Matsumoto Castle
Matsumoto
Matsumoto Castle is a timeless symbol of feudal Japan. Its striking black exterior, a rarity among Japanese castles, has earned it the nickname "Crow Castle." With its elegant architecture and strategic location, Matsumoto Castle has witnessed centuries of history, serving as a stronghold for powerful warlords and a testament to the enduring spirit of the Japanese people.
Matsuyama Castle
Japan
Matsuyama Castle
Matsuyama
Nestled amidst the lush hills of Matsuyama, this ancient castle stands as a testament to Japan's rich history. Its towering stone walls and intricate architecture offer a glimpse into a bygone era. Explore the hidden paths, marvel at the stunning views, and experience the timeless beauty of Matsuyama Castle.
Uwajima Castle
Japan
Uwajima Castle
Uwajima
Perched atop a hill overlooking the serene Uwajima Bay, Uwajima Castle is a historic landmark that offers a captivating glimpse into the past. Explore its ancient walls, discover hidden treasures within its chambers, and immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of its surrounding gardens.