| Himeji-Jo
-- Himeji Castle is indisputably the most magnificent Japanese castle
still standing in its original form. It has been home to 48 lords and
the castle grounds are quite extensive. |
|
|
Hikone-Jo --
This castle in the small town of Hikone overlooks the gorgeous
Lake Biwa-ko. Completed in 1622, it is considered one of the finest remaining
castles in all of Japan in its original condition. |
 |
| Inuyama-Jo
-- This is one Japan's oldest, most well preserved donjons. It is also
one of the few properties which is privately owned and is a designated
a national treasure. |
|
|
Matsumoto-Jo
-- It's three-turreted castle donjon provides an excellent view of
the surrounding area. Matsumoto is situated on the edge of the Japan Alps.
|
 |
| Nijo-Jo
-- Nijo Castle was built in 1603 for the first Tokugawa shogun, Ieyasu.
His official residence when in Kyoto, it was built to be imposing and
ostentatious as a sign of the fall of the emperor's power. |
|
|
Wakayama-Jo
-- Originally built in 1585 it was razed in WWII and has since reconstructed.
The castle itself isn't as impressive as its gardens, so I have pictures
of both here! |
 |
| Osaka-Jo
--- The original castle was completed in 1583. It took 100,000
workers slaving away for more than three years to complete. It has since
been destroyed twice and restored twice. |
|
|
|
|
