Castles top the list of sights we want to discover when we travel. They let us walk in the very footsteps of history, where battles were won and lost and epoch-changing events took place. Castles were inhabited by history-makers and doers of deeds that became the basis for fairytales and legends that defined the romance of centuries past.
As defensive fortifications, they were often extraordinary structures built in extreme landscapes, and we marvel at the ingenuity and craftsmanship that managed to perch massive castles on hilltops, the edges of cliffs, on remote islands and in other impossible places.
As I describe castles, you are probably picturing Europe – those turreted, stone buildings that are central to fairytales and fantasy fiction.
But Europe is not the only place in the world where historic leaders built castles that would stand the test of time.
Japan, too, is a country of castles. While many countries in Asia and elsewhere have palaces – luxurious residences for royalty – Japan alone has a striking number of castles.
Japan had a feudal system, where regional lords had to control their lands and defend themselves and their subjects from invasion during power struggles. The robust samurai culture contributed, too. Local samurai needed headquarters. Japanese castles were not just military fortresses but also symbols of culture and status. Many castles were designed with beautiful gardens, ceremonial spaces, and administrative functions. The castle's architectural form evolved over time, with the addition of ornamental elements like main keeps, turrets, moats and multi-layered defensive walls. This evolution of style and design led to the creation of numerous castles with unique features.
So if you love castles, you’re going to want to plan a trip to Japan to see these:
Himeji Castle
Himeji Castle (pictured, top), often called the "White Heron Castle" due to its elegant, white exterior, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Japan's most iconic landmarks. Located in the Hyogo Prefecture, it is the largest and best-preserved feudal-era castle in Japan. Dating back to 1581, it stands as a prime example of Japanese castle architecture. The structure features expansive grounds, with a labyrinth meant to protect it from invaders. Visitors can explore the main keep, walk along the castle walls, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding city. The castle is renowned for its beautiful cherry blossoms in spring.
Matsumoto Castle
Matsumoto Castle (pictured, below), also known as the "Crow Castle" because of its striking black exterior, is one of the oldest surviving castles in Japan, dating back to the 16th century. Unlike many other castles, Matsumoto Castle has retained much of its original wooden structure. It stands out due to its unique combination of defensive design and aesthetic elegance. The castle in Nagano prefecture is surrounded by a moat, and its main keep offers visitors beautiful views of the Japanese Alps. Matsumoto Castle is particularly famous for its picturesque appearance, especially during the cherry blossom season.
Nagoya Castle
Nagoya Castle was originally built in the early 17th century as the residence of the Tokugawa shogunate’s Owari branch. The castle is famous for its golden "shachihoko" (a mythical creature with the head of a tiger and the body of a fish) ornaments atop the roof, symbolizing protection from fire and disasters. The castle is also known for its massive stone walls and its beautiful gardens.
Osaka Castle
Osaka Castle, built in the late 16th century by Toyotomi Hideyoshi, is one of Japan's most famous urban landmarks, in the heart of its second biggest city. It played a major role in the unification of Japan. The castle's main keep is surrounded by expansive grounds, including gardens, moats, and defensive walls. The panoramic views from the top of the castle are a highlight, especially during cherry blossom season.
Kumamoto Castle
Kumamoto Castle, one of Japan’s largest and most impressive castles, is known for its imposing stone walls and unique architectural design. The castle was built in the early 17th century by the Kiyomasa Kato clan. It features multiple layers of defensive walls and gates, and its main keep is a striking black-and-white structure. The castle grounds also include beautiful gardens and traditional Japanese-style buildings. Although the castle suffered significant damage during the 2016 Kumamoto earthquake, restoration efforts are ongoing.
Shuri Castle
Shuri Castle (pictured below), located in Okinawa, was the royal residence of the Ryukyu Kingdom. Unlike many castles in mainland Japan, Shuri Castle reflects unique Okinawan architectural styles, with vibrant red roofs and intricate decorations. Originally built in the 14th century, the castle served as the political and cultural center of the Ryukyu Kingdom. It was destroyed during World War II but was reconstructed in the 1990s. Shuri Castle is a UNESCO World Heritage site and offers visitors a chance to explore the history and culture of Okinawa.
Nijo Castle
Nijo Castle, built in the early 17th century as the residence of the Tokugawa shogunate's Kyoto branch, is famous for its beautiful gardens and the "nightingale floors" that chirp when walked upon, designed to alert occupants to intruders. The castle is an excellent example of traditional Japanese architecture, featuring ornamental sliding doors and painted screens. The grounds also contain a beautiful garden with ponds and scenic walks. Nijo Castle is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site and is an important historical site for understanding the culture and power of the Tokugawa shogunate.
Hikone Castle
Hikone Castle, built in the early 17th century, is one of the few original castles in Japan that has survived intact. The castle is located near Lake Biwa and features a beautiful stone keep, a classic example of Japanese castle architecture. The interior of the castle houses historical exhibits, and the surrounding grounds are home to a lovely garden with seasonal flowers, including plum and cherry blossoms.
These castles not only showcase Japan's rich shogun history but also highlight the artistry and military ingenuity that went into their construction. Whether for their defensive strength, architectural beauty, or historical significance, these castles remain iconic symbols of Japan's feudal era.
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Images: Getty
By: Lynn Elmhirst, travel journalist.
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