Japan is a land of customs, traditions, and deep-rooted history. It has gone through many eras of political, social, cultural and economic transformation through the ages. They have undergone the Nara, Heian, Kamakura, Muromachi, Edo, and Meiji periods. to name a few. Each of these different periods has changed Japan in a unique way and left its marks in the history books. The beautiful architecture of the olden days, in the form of castles, still exists, untouched till this day. Located among sweeping landscapes that seem to transport you back to the bygone eras, the strikingly beautiful castles in Japan will leave you mesmerized. Owned by feudal or regional lords or samurais back in the days, these castles have been maintained to this day and have become major tourist attractions. Use this list if you want to explore the rich Japanese history and check out the most amazing castles in Japan.
1. Osaka Castle, Osaka (from USD 3.85)
Osaka Castle is one of Japan’s most recognized landmarks. This five-storey castle, built in the 16th century during the Sengoku Period by Hideyoshi Toyotomi, is a serene spot that is a must-visit. Outside the castle is the beautiful Nishinomaru Gardens with cherry trees that blossom during spring-time. Osaka Castle Museum has many historical artifacts on display and you can take a guided tour around the exhibits. If you want to experience a panoramic view, head to the observation deck! You can also take pictures in a helmet, surcoat, and kimono for a price if you want to keep some memories of visiting this place.
Osaka Castle Ticket
Duration: 3hrsDuration
2. Gifu Castle, Gifu
If you want to get some beautiful views and don’t mind a little hiking, visit Gifu Castle. Located on Mount Kinka, this castle right by Nagara River gives visitors spectacular views of the surrounding natural beauty especially if you head to their observation deck. Built in the 13th century, this castle was the home of Dosan Saito, a merchant who eventually became a warlord. You can roam around the different exhibits to look at old historical artifacts such as armours and weapons that they have managed to preserve for centuries.
Gifu Castle
Address: Japan, 〒500-0000 Gifu, １８
Website: Gifu Castle
Opening hours: 9:30am - 5:30pm (daily)
Price: 2 USD
3. Fushimi-Yagura Keep, Tokyo
This castle is located in Tokyo and was formerly known as the Edo Castle by some and is part of the Imperial Palace. The Imperial Palace itself is where the royal family resides to date and entrance is not allowed except for 2 days in a year. The Fushimi Yagura Keep was built by Ōta Dōkan in 1457. This white castle surrounded by a beautiful stone bridge gives a great view of the Mount Fuji Keep. You can choose to take a guided English tour to gain more valuable information from the guides as they show you around.
Fushimi-Yagura Keep
Address: 1-1 Chiyoda, Chiyoda City, Tokyo 100-8111, Japan
Website: Fushimi-Yagura Keep
Opening hours: Tue - Thu: 9am - 5pm; Sat - Sun: 9am - 5pm (closed on Mon & Fri)
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4. Takeda Castle Ruins, Asago
This beautiful castle ruins has been dubbed as the “Machu Picchu” of Japan and transports those who visit to another time. Also called the castle in the sky, the beautiful ruins can be found in Asago City. It was built in the 14th century and was deserted after the Battle of Sekigahara and was restored in the 1970s. This castle appears to be almost floating in the sky when the weather is foggy. Although the main buildings are not standing any longer, the beautiful walls in these ruins still stand. You can take the “Tenku Bus” which can take you halfway up, and after that you will have to make a 20-minute walk to the top. If you try to get there by sunrise or sunset, you can get some truly spectacular views.
Takeda Castle Half Day Trip in Hyogo Prefecture from Osaka, Japan - Klook Singapore
Duration: 4hrsDuration
5. Kumamoto Castle, Kumamoto (from USD 66.35)
This beautiful castle located on top of a hill was built centuries ago in the 1400s. The castle was transformed by each leader that lived there; everyone left a mark on this beautiful place. The castle grounds have around 800 cherry trees and looks beautiful come springtime. There are beautiful stone walls and moats surrounding the castle. The castle underwent wear and tear during the siege in 1877 and the earthquake in 2016. There are events that take place in the castle grounds such as the Kumamoto Castle Marathon and the Autumn Festival. Some parts of the castle are open to the public while some parts are being restored due to the damage that was caused during the 2016 earthquake.
Kumamoto Castle, Mount Aso and Kumamon Square Private Day Tour - Kumamoto, Japan
6. Nagoya Castle, Nagoya
Located in Nagoya, this beautiful castle was built in 1615 during the Edo Period. Unfortunately, most of the castle buildings were destroyed during the World War air raids in 1945. It has been painstakingly restored and contains a museum that displays the history of this castle and the events that happened during that era. The gorgeous architecture and the beautiful artwork that can be found within the castle walls make it a top tourist spot. You can walk through the peaceful gardens, taking in the natural beauty, or look at the artifacts of olden times.
Sumo Wrestling Show with Nagoya Castle Tour in Japan - Klook
Duration: 6hrsDuration
7. Kanazawa Castle, Kanazawa
This partially restored castle was built in 1583 and remained a place of great historical importance as it was the main seat of the mighty Maeda clan. The castle was burnt down many times and has had to suffer through a lot of wear and tear through the years and is in the process of being restored. The castle is surrounded by a beautiful moat, pond, as well as a garden for you to explore. It can be accessed via the Kanazawa Station. You can visit to get a glimpse of the beautiful traditional architecture and delve into the past of this ancient castle.
Kanazawa Higashi Geisha House District, Kanazawa Castle, Kenrokuen Garden Half Day Tour from Tokyo - Klook
Duration: 3hrs30 Min Duration
8. Nijo Castle, Kyoto (from USD 16.06)
This beautiful castle located in Kyoto is one of the most popular tourist attractions in that area. It displays the might and power that the Tokugawa shoguns had during the Edo Period. The beautiful gate, stone walls, and moat fortified this castle from any possible danger that may have befallen the inhabitants. The castle contains the artworks of many talented artists throughout the year depicting the intricate beauty of traditional Japanese art. The surroundings of the castle are filled with beautiful trees. You can also book a guided English tour to get more information on the history linked to this palace.
Kyoto: Nijo-jo Castle and Ninomaru Palace Guided Tour
Duration: 1.0 hour
9. Matsumoto Castle, Matsumoto (from USD 201.0)
Considered to be a “National Treasure of Japan”, this gorgeous castle dates back to the Middle Ages. It is also sometimes called the “Crow Castle” because of its black exterior walls. Surrounded by steep stairs and a moat, this castle gives gorgeous views of the surrounding natural beauty. It is a beautiful spot especially during spring-time when there are cherry blossoms all around and is also heavily visited during summer due to the Taiko Drum Festival that takes place here. There is an observation deck on the top which you can use to take in the view of the beautiful mountains in the backdrop and the Matsumoto city. You can also find a free English speaking guide to give you a tour of this wooden castle.
1-Day Matsumoto Castle & Local Food Experience Tour
Duration: 9 hours
10. Odawara Castle, Odawara City (from USD 118.0)
Odawara Castle is the major landmark of Odawara City. Built in 1447 this castle was owned by the Hojo Clan. This castle was ruined during the earthquake that struck that region in 1703 but was later rebuilt and refined. It is easily accessible from Odawara Station. You can find Odawara Castle Historical Museum on the castle grounds that has interactive displays to give visitors more information. The inside of the castle contains exhibits displaying armours and swords. The top floor provides a great view of the city. During spring-time, the castle is surrounded by beautiful cherry blossoms.
Mt Fuji Tour: Lake Ashi Cruise, Odawara Castle from Tokyo
Duration: 10 hours
See the beautiful history of Japan up close
Witness Japan’s natural beauty and its rich history using this list of amazing castles. Get transported to different time-zones when you visit these marvelous attractions. Get to see Japan’s beautiful past!
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