Castles
Japan is home to some of the most iconic castles in the world, blending history, culture, and stunning architecture. From Himeji Castle, known for its white beauty, to the reconstructed Osaka Castle, each castle offers a unique glimpse into Japan’s feudal past. Whether perched on mountainsides or nestled in cities, these castles are symbols of power and legacy. Visitors can explore ancient walls, intricate gardens, and impressive watchtowers that have withstood centuries of history.
Top Castles
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1Himeji Castle
Japan’s most beautiful, original castle
5.0 ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ -
2Matsumoto Castle
Iconic Japanese castle with cherry blossoms
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3Nijo Castle
Historic shogun residence with beautiful gardens
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4Matsuyama Castle
Oldest surviving mountaintop castle in Japan
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5Takeda Castle Ruins
Floating castle in autumn clouds
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6Shuri Castle
Ryukyu Kingdom history, UNESCO, stunning architecture
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7Matsue Castle
Historic black castle with original keep
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8Hikone Castle
Original keep and breathtaking cherry blossoms
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9Kumamoto Castle
Historic charm and stunning cherry blossoms
5.0 ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ -
10Matsuyama Castle
Oldest surviving mountaintop castle in Japan
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11Hirosaki Castle
Cherry blossoms and historical castle
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12Nakagusuku Castle
UNESCO World Heritage Gusuku site
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13Inuyama Castle
One of Japan's oldest surviving castles
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14Osaka Castle
Replica of the original castle
5.0 ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ -
15Kochi Castle
One of Japan's original castles
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16Tsuruga Castle
Historic samurai castle with scenic park
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17Nagoya Castle
Famous for its historical Tokugawa legacy
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18Kanazawa Castle
Historic castle, beautiful gardens, reconstructed structures
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19Ueno Castle
Wooden reconstruction and tallest stone walls
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20Ozu Castle
Authentic reconstruction with wooden techniques
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21Nakijin Castle
UNESCO ruins, lush surroundings, rich history
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22Hirado Castle
Panoramic views, samurai-era artifacts
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23Maruoka Castle
Original wooden keep and cherry blossoms
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24Odawara Castle
Cherry blossoms, Ninja Museum, Samurai armor
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25Marugame Castle
Cherry blossoms, Ninja Museum, Samurai armor
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26Uwajima Castle
Original Edo-period castle, scenic views
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27Hiroshima Castle
Historic castle, atomic bomb survival
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28Tsuwano Castle Ruins
Historic ruins, scenic panoramic views
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29Iwakuni Castle
Scenic views, samurai artifacts, historic bridges
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30Shimabara Castle
Edo castle, samurai district, colorful canals
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31Tottori Castle Ruins
Cherry blossoms, historic castle ruins
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32Gujo Hachiman Castle
Historic hilltop castle, autumn leaves
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33Aoba Castle
Historic castle with scenic views
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34Okayama Castle
Historic castle, Bizen-yaki pottery, Korakuen
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35Honmaru Goten (Kawagoe Castle)
Ast building of Kawagoe Castle, cultural display
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36Fukuyama Castle
Unique castle design, cherry blossoms
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37Kokura Castle
Castle, cherry blossoms, historical gardens
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38Takaoka Castle Park
Castle ruins, cherry blossoms, Doraemon artist.
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39Hagi Castle
Historic castle ruins and scenic park.
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40Sumpu Castle
Historic castle ruins and scenic garden
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41Fukuoka Castle Ruins
Historic castle ruins and cherry blossoms
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42Toyama Castle Park
Historic castle and beautiful cherry blossoms
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43Takamatsu Castle
Saltwater moats and historical restoration
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44Echizen Ono Castle
Castle in the sky with stunning views
Reviews
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5/5 - Excellent
Japan's castles are a fascinating glimpse into the country's rich history and culture. From the iconic Himeji Castle with its stunning white facade to the reconstructed grandeur of Osaka Castle, each one tells a unique story. I particularly loved exploring Matsumoto Castle, known for its beautiful black exterior and surrounding moat. Many castles have beautifully landscaped gardens and offer stunning views, making the visit even more enjoyable. Whether you're a history buff or just appreciate impressive architecture, Japan's castles are a must-see!
3 months ago — by Wesley