
Japan wasn't always as peaceful as it is now. In olden times, feudal lords, called daimyo, protected their territory against enemy invaders by building strong fortresses, magnificent castles, and high defense walls. Let's take a look at the history and characteristics of these defenses.
The Characteristics of Japanese Castles

Japanese castle walls were constructed to encompass castles and towns. This was done to protect the territory and lives of the samurai class.
The Beauty of Japanese Castles

Originally, castles were mainly constructed on mountaintops to offer protection to the area. However, as their purpose changed from serving as a defense to becoming a symbol of status and power where public affairs were managed, they started being constructed on flatland areas also.
Did the Daimyo Live In The Castle?

During times of intense warfare, castles were used as guard, and control towers were used to keep a very close eye on the war situation. When the country entered more peaceful times, however, they mainly fulfilled a symbolic role. The feudal lords used to live in a separated palace inside the castle walls.
Castles Like in Olden Times

It is said that over twenty thousand castles have been constructed in all of Japan. But due to disasters such as wars and fires, as well as the impact from the government's castle demolition policy, there are only twelve castles that remain as they were at the time of their construction. Some of them have been designated as World Heritage Sites and National Treasures.
Himeji Castle

Himeji Castle is located in Hyogo Prefecture and it is one of the most famous castles in Japan. It's also known as Shirasagi-jo which literally translates to White Heron Castle, due to its beautiful shape resembling a white heron spreading its wings. In its 400 years of history, Himeji Castle has remained surprisingly intact despite any wars that have occurred.
Matsumoto Castle

Matsumoto Castle is located in Nagano Prefecture. The general image of a castle tower, which is symbolic of any Japanese castle, is having white walls, but Matsumoto Castle is known for its characteristic black walls with few white areas.
Inuyama Castle

Inuyama Castle in Aichi Prefecture is a strong castle, protected by the cliffs behind it. It was built in 1537 and can look back on a history of over 500 years.
- Category
*Prices and options mentioned are subject to change.
*Unless stated otherwise, all prices include tax.
Recommended places for you
-
Kambei Sannomiyahonten
Yakiniku
Kobe, Sannomiya, Kitano
-
Goods
Yoshida Gennojo-Roho Kyoto Buddhist Altars
Gift Shops
Nijo Castle, Kyoto Imperial Palace
-
ISHIDAYA Hanare
Yakiniku
Kobe, Sannomiya, Kitano
-
Kanzenkoshitsuyakinikutabehodai Gyugyu Paradise Sannomiya
Yakiniku
Kobe, Sannomiya, Kitano
-
Appealing
Rukku and Uohei
Izakaya
Sapporo / Chitose
-
Jukuseiniku-to Namamottsuarera Nikubaru Italian Nikutaria Sannomiya
Izakaya
Kobe, Sannomiya, Kitano
-
Via Inn Prime Osaka Kyobashi Mizukinoyu: A Convenient Hotel Near Osaka Castle with Open-Air Baths and Nearby Sightseeing
by: Yotsuka Hizuki
-
With arrests of foreigners in Japan increasing, police no longer guarantee in-person translators
-
There’s a new museum in Japan, but almost all of its location is a secret
-
A Don Quijote Like No Other: Step Inside the All-New Tourist-Friendly Store at Shinjuku Tonanguchi Bekkan (Open June 13)
by: Chehui Peh
-
Ryuguden: Soak in Front of Mount Fuji At This Legendary Hakone Onsen (In-Depth Review)
by: Yoshika Izumi
-
Tokyo travel hack: How to enjoy a free sightseeing boat tour around Tokyo Bay
-
Top 5 Things to Do in Hokkaido's Biei and Furano Area: Shirogane Blue Pond, Lavender Fields, And More!
-
Explore Autumn in Hyogo Prefecture: Two-Day Road Trip to See Stunning Foliage and Top Attractions
by: Hide
-
Kiyomizu-dera Temple: Guide to Visiting Kyoto's Most Famous Sightseeing Spot
-
Meiji Shrine (Meiji Jingu): Exploring the Sacred Sanctuary of Peace in Bustling Tokyo
-
Takahan Ryokan: Enjoy Spectacular Hot Spring Views at Yuzawa's Premier Traditional Inn!
-
Autumn in Japan 2025: Fall Foliage Forecast & Where to Enjoy the Colorful Leaves (+Tour Info)
- #best sushi japan
- #what to do in odaiba
- #what to bring to japan
- #new years in tokyo
- #best ramen japan
- #what to buy in ameyoko
- #japanese nail trends
- #things to do japan
- #onsen tattoo friendly tokyo
- #daiso
- #best coffee japan
- #best japanese soft drinks
- #best yakiniku japan
- #japanese fashion culture
- #japanese convenience store snacks