The 12 original castles of Japan

Did you know that there are only 12 original castles still standing in Japan? These historical structures, calledgenzon tenshuin Japanese, date from the Edo or earlier era and have traversed centuries without being destroyed by war or natural disasters. Let us discover these architectural and historical gems that offer a fascinating glimpse of Japan’s tumultuous past.

History of the Castles of Origin in Japan

The first Japanese castles, built from the 15th century, were simple wooden structures, mainly designed for defense. It was not until the end of the 16th century, under the influence of the daimyo Oda Nobunaga, that the castles took their iconic form: imposing stone walls and majestic towers symbolizing power.

During the Edo period (1603-1868), the Tokugawa shoguns established a relative peace, limiting the construction of new castles. The majority of the existing fortresses were destroyed during the Meiji Restoration (1868) in an effort to modernize the country. By miracle, 12 of them survived, preserving centuries of history. Today they are national treasures and attract visitors from all over the world.

Bitchū Matsuyama

Located in Takahashi, Okayama Prefecture, this castle perched at 430 meters above sea level is nicknamed the “Castle in the sky” for its ability to emerge from a sea of clouds. Built in 1240, it is the only castle of styleYamajirostill existing.

• Hours9h-17h30 (April-September), 9h-16h30 (October-March)
• AccessFrom JR Bitchū Takahashi Station, take 15 minutes by taxi.

Hikone

Located near Lake Biwa in Shiga Prefecture, Hikone is one of five castles classified as national treasures. Built on order of Tokugawa Ieyasu, it mixes medieval and modern styles.

• Hours: 8:30-17:00
• Access: 15 minutes walk from JR Hikone train station.

Himeji

Ranked a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Himeji is nicknamed “Shirasagi-jō” (White Heron Castle) for its elegance. Its whitewashed walls and complex architecture make it a must, especially when cherry trees bloom.

• Hours9h-4h (day), 7h-23h (night illumination in April).
• Access: Bus from JR Himeji station, Otemon-mae stop.

Matsumoto

The “Château du Raven”, with its black walls and spectacular moats, is one of the few castles built on a plain (hirajiro). Located in Nagano, it offers a splendid view of the Japanese Alps.

• Hours8:30-17:00 (last entry at 16:30).
• Access: 15 minutes walk from JR Matsumoto train station.

Matsue

Nicknamed the “Château des Eaux”, Matsue is surrounded by navigable moats. Located in Shimane, it has retained its medieval look, attracting history and photography lovers.

• Hours: 8:30-17:00
• Access: 10 minutes by bus from JR Matsue station.

Hirosaki

Built in the early 17th century in Aomori, Hirosaki is renowned for its cherry blossoms in the spring. The view of the castle surrounded by more than 2,600 trees in full bloom is spectacular.

• Hours9am-5pm (April-November), closed from December to March.
• Access: 10 minutes by car from JR Hirosaki station.

Kochi

Kochi is the only castle where all the original buildings, including the dungeon and the main gate, remain. It overlooks the city of the same name, offering an impressive panoramic view.

• Hours: 9am-5pm
• Access: Tramway to Kochi Castle-mae stop.

Inuyama

Overlooking the Kiso River in Aichi, Inuyama is one of the oldest castles in Japan, built in 1537. Its surroundings offer a picturesque atmosphere with streets lined with traditional houses.

• Hours: 9am-5pm
• Access: 20 minutes walk from JR Inuyama train station.

Uwajima

Built on a hill in Ehime, Uwajima is surrounded by nature and offers a peaceful atmosphere. Its interior, preserved in its original state, allows to better understand the life of feudal lords.

• Hours: 9am-5pm
• Access: 15 minutes walk from JR Uwajima station.

Marugame

With its impressive stone walls, Marugame, located in Kagawa, is an exceptional example of architectural know-how. Its strategic position offers panoramic views of Seto’s inner sea.

• Hours: 9h-16h30
• Access: 20 minutes walk from JR Marugame station.

Maruoka

Known for its original dungeon, the oldest in Japan, Maruoka, located in Fukui, is surrounded by legends, including that of the “sacrifice pit”. Its small size does not take away its historical size.

• Hours8am-5pm
• Access15 minutes by bus from JR Fukui train station.

Matsuyama (Iyo)

Located in Ehime, this majestic castle perched on a hill offers 360° views of the city of Matsuyama and the sea. Accessible by cable car, it is particularly pleasant to visit in spring.

• Hours: 9am-5pm
• Access: Cable car from Shiroyama Park.

These 12 original castles are valuable witnesses to Japan’s history. Their visit will plunge you into a time when tradition and power reflected in architecture. If you are planning a trip to Japan, include these jewels on your itinerary to discover a unique heritage.

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What are the 12 original castles still standing in Japan? Where is the castle nicknamed “Castle in the sky”? Which castle is classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site? Which castle is called the Castle of the Raven? What is the only Yamajiro style castle still in existence? Which castle is built near Lake Biwa? Which castle is surrounded by navigable moat? In which city is the castle offering views of the Japanese Alps? Where can we see more than 2,600 cherry trees in bloom around a castle? Which of the 12 castles retains all its original buildings? Which castle is perched on a hill and accessible by cable car? Which castle offers panoramic views of the inland sea of Seto? What is the oldest dungeon from Japan? What legend is associated with Maruoka Castle? Which castle was built by order of Tokugawa Ieyasu? Which one overlooks the Kiso River in Aichi? Where is the Inuyama Castle? Which castle of Shikoku is surrounded by nature and offers a peaceful atmosphere? What is the best season to visit Himeji Castle? Why are these 12 castles considered national treasures?

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