Japanese castles, the symbols of Japanese heritage, can be found all over Japan. Originally, the castles were samurai’s residences, and the military strongholds that protected towns against the enemy. The oldest castle was constructed in 664 AD, but Most of the castles standing today are constructed between the Sengoku Period and the Edo period.

Among many, four Japanese castles are considered to be special and regarded as national treasure; namely, Matsumoto Castle, Inuyama Castle, Hikone Castle, and Himeji Castle.

Other famous castles are  Hirosaki Castle, Maruoka Castle, Bitchu Matsuyama Castle, Matsue Castle, Marugame Castle, Kochi Castle, Matsuyama Castle, and Uwajima Castle.

Japanese lessons for kids