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 CastleJapan’s most beautiful, original castle
5.0 ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ -
2Matsumoto CastleIconic Japanese castle with cherry blossoms
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3Nijo CastleHistoric shogun residence with beautiful gardens
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4Matsuyama CastleOldest surviving mountaintop castle in Japan
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5Takeda Castle RuinsFloating castle in autumn clouds
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6Shuri CastleRyukyu Kingdom history, UNESCO, stunning architecture
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7Matsue CastleHistoric black castle with original keep
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8Hikone CastleOriginal keep and breathtaking cherry blossoms
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9Kumamoto CastleHistoric charm and stunning cherry blossoms
5.0 ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ -
10Matsuyama Castle
Oldest surviving mountaintop castle in Japan
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11Hirosaki CastleCherry blossoms and historical castle
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12Nakagusuku CastleUNESCO World Heritage Gusuku site
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13Inuyama CastleOne of Japan's oldest surviving castles
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14Osaka CastleReplica of the original castle
5.0 ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ -
15Kochi CastleOne of Japan's original castles
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16Tsuruga CastleHistoric samurai castle with scenic park
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17Nagoya CastleFamous for its historical Tokugawa legacy
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18Kanazawa CastleHistoric castle, beautiful gardens, reconstructed structures
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19Ueno CastleWooden reconstruction and tallest stone walls
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20Ozu CastleAuthentic reconstruction with wooden techniques
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21Nakijin CastleUNESCO ruins, lush surroundings, rich history
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22Hirado CastlePanoramic views, samurai-era artifacts
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23Maruoka CastleOriginal wooden keep and cherry blossoms
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24Odawara CastleCherry blossoms, Ninja Museum, Samurai armor
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25Marugame CastleCherry blossoms, Ninja Museum, Samurai armor
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26Uwajima CastleOriginal Edo-period castle, scenic views
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27Hiroshima CastleHistoric castle, atomic bomb survival
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28Tsuwano Castle RuinsHistoric ruins, scenic panoramic views
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29Iwakuni CastleScenic views, samurai artifacts, historic bridges
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30Shimabara CastleEdo castle, samurai district, colorful canals
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31Tottori Castle RuinsCherry blossoms, historic castle ruins
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32Gujo Hachiman CastleHistoric hilltop castle, autumn leaves
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33Aoba CastleHistoric castle with scenic views
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34Okayama CastleHistoric 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 CastleUnique castle design, cherry blossoms
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37Kokura CastleCastle, cherry blossoms, historical gardens
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38Takaoka Castle ParkCastle ruins, cherry blossoms, Doraemon artist.
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39Hagi CastleHistoric castle ruins and scenic park.
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40Sumpu CastleHistoric castle ruins and scenic garden
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41Fukuoka Castle RuinsHistoric castle ruins and cherry blossoms
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42Toyama Castle ParkHistoric castle and beautiful cherry blossoms
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43Takamatsu CastleSaltwater moats and historical restoration
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44Echizen Ono CastleCastle 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