Castles of Japan

Osaka Castle, Osaka Japan

The Castles

Osaka Castle played a major role in the unification of Japan during the 16th century. It is one of Japan's most famous castles. The castle grounds contain 13 structures which have been designated as important Cultural Assets by the Japanese government.

Military governor Ujichika built Yanagi-no-Mary during the Taiei era 1521-1528 for his son, Imagawa Ujitoyo. The original Castle of Nagoya, was located near the site of the later Ninomaru residence. Oda Nobuhide seized it from Omagawa Ujitoyo in March 1532. He immediately moved in and changed the name to Nagoya Castle.

Matsumoto Castle is located in the city if Matsumoto, in Nagano Prefecture and is within easy reach of Tokyo by road or rail. The keep (tenshukaku), which was completed in the late 16th century, maintains its original wooden interiors and external stonework. It is listed as a National Treasure of Japan.

Castle of Osaka

This castle played a major role in the unification of Japan during the sixteenth century.

Osaka Castle is one of Japan's most famous castles. The Castle grounds, which cover approximately 15 acres, contain thirteen structures which have been designated as Important Cultural Assets by the Japanese government. In 1583 Toyotomi Hideyoshi commenced construction on the castle site. Toyotomi wanted to build a castle that mirrored the much loved Oda Castle. However, Toyatomi wanted the Osoka Castle to surpass the Oda Castle in every way.

Osaka Castle Park

Castle of Nagoya

During the Edo Period, Nagoya Castle was one of the most important castles in Japan.

Castle Tour

Castle Gallery

Military governor Ujichika built Yanagi-no-Mary during the Taiei era 1521-1528 for his son, Imagawa Ujitoyo. The original Castle of Nagoya, was located near the site of the later Ninomaru residence. Oda Nobuhide seized it from Omagawa Ujitoyo in March 1532. He immediately moved in and changed the name to Nagoya Castle.

Matsumoto Mountain Castle

This mountain castle is often called the "The Crow Castle"

Matsumoto Castle is located in the city if Matsumoto, in Nagano Prefecture and is within easy reach of Tokyo by road or rail. The keep (tenshukaku), which was completed in the late 16th century, maintains its original wooden interiors and external stonework. It is listed as a National Treasure of Japan.

Take The Tour

Castle Gallery

Explore Matsumoto Castle in pictures. From 1902 to present, these images bring to life the mystery of this great mountain castle.

About the Author

Andrew Paul Simmons

This Flowboard was created by Andrew Paul Simmons who is a Japanese food enthusiast and also is currently studying the incredible growth and slow decline of the Japanese economy. He lives in Seatle, Washington, where he enjoys a fusion of cultures from the east and the west and is diligent about consuming as much sushi as he possibly can each day. He frequently considers the benefits of becoming a sumo wrestler, but for now is focusing on creating apps for mobile devices.