Discover the Top 8 Historic Castles in Japan

Exploring Japan's rich history through its castles is a must for any traveler. From ancient fortresses to grand palaces, Japan's castles offer a glimpse into the country's past. Whether you're a history buff or simply love breathtaking architecture, the top castles in Japan provide a unique experience. In this guide, we’ll highlight the most iconic and historic castles in Japan, with details on their fascinating history, architecture, and must-visit features. Prepare for a journey back in time to discover Japan’s magnificent castles.

Last updated: 28.10.2025

Himeji Castle: The White Heron Castle

Regarded as Japan's most beautiful castle, Himeji Castle stands as a symbol of strength and beauty. Located in the Hyogo Prefecture, this historic castle in Japan is an architectural masterpiece. Originally built in the 14th century, Himeji Castle is famous for its elegant white exterior, which is why it is often called the "White Heron Castle." The castle’s complex layout includes over 80 buildings connected by a series of defensive gates and pathways. It was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1993 and is one of the most popular castles to visit in Japan. Visitors can enjoy a picturesque view from the top of the castle tower, offering sweeping vistas of the surrounding city.
Himeji Castle is easily accessible by rail, making it a perfect stop on your journey through Japan by train. If you’re looking for a castle that perfectly blends history, architecture, and natural beauty, Himeji is a must-see.

What makes Himeji Castle so unique?

Himeji Castle is unique for its preservation and architectural elegance. Unlike many other castles in Japan, it has remained mostly intact over the centuries. The white exterior, stunning walls, and intricate defenses make it a standout among the country’s castles. Its layered construction also includes various escape routes and concealed pathways, which were designed to defend against invaders. The layout and beauty of Himeji Castle have earned it its reputation as the most photogenic castle in Japan.

Matsumoto Castle: The Black Crow Castle

Matsumoto Castle is one of Japan’s most famous castles in Japan and is located in Nagano Prefecture. Known for its striking black exterior, this popular castle in Japan is often referred to as the "Black Crow Castle" due to its dark color. It is one of Japan's few remaining original castles, with construction dating back to the 16th century. Matsumoto Castle stands out for its unique architectural style, combining both a flatland and hilltop castle design.
The castle’s keep is surrounded by a moat and a wall of stone, creating a stunning contrast against the surrounding landscape. The museum inside offers a fascinating collection of armor, weapons, and historical artifacts, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in Japan’s feudal history. This castle is a wonderful example of the strategic importance and beauty of historic castles in Japan.

Why is Matsumoto Castle called the Black Crow Castle?

Matsumoto Castle earned its nickname, the "Black Crow Castle," due to its striking black exterior, which contrasts sharply with the white walls of other castles. The dark color symbolizes both strength and mystery, and it adds to the castle’s dramatic and imposing presence. This unique look makes Matsumoto Castle one of the most visually distinctive castles in Japan.

Osaka Castle: The Heart of Osaka

Osaka Castle is a must-visit historic castle in Japan, located in the heart of Osaka. Originally constructed in the late 1500s by the powerful warlord Toyotomi Hideyoshi, this castle played a pivotal role in the unification of Japan. While the current structure is a modern reconstruction, it still retains the grandeur of its predecessor, with a majestic tower that stands over 50 meters tall.

The castle is surrounded by lush parkland, providing a peaceful contrast to the bustling urban environment nearby. Visitors can explore the interior, which houses a museum dedicated to the history of Osaka Castle and its role in Japanese feudal society. With its towering keep and expansive grounds, Osaka Castle is one of the top castles in Japan to experience both historical significance and beautiful architecture.

What can I do at Osaka Castle?

Aside from exploring the impressive structure, visitors to Osaka Castle can enjoy a stroll through the expansive park grounds, which are perfect for picnics, walking, and enjoying the scenery. The castle's interior offers exhibits showcasing its history, including artifacts from the battle for Japan’s unification. The castle is particularly beautiful during cherry blossom season, when the surrounding park is covered in pink blooms. For a panoramic view of Osaka, head up to the top floor of the castle tower.

Nijo Castle: A Shogun’s Residence

Nijo Castle in Kyoto is an iconic landmark that showcases the power of the Tokugawa shogunate. Built in the early 1600s, Nijo Castle served as the residence of Tokugawa Ieyasu during his visits to Kyoto. Its most famous feature is the Nightingale Floors, which are designed to chirp when walked upon, creating a natural alarm system to warn of intruders.
The castle is surrounded by beautiful gardens, and its interior is filled with stunning frescoes and intricate woodwork. Visitors can also explore the well-preserved shogunate rooms, which offer a glimpse into the luxurious lifestyle of Japan’s feudal rulers. As one of the most historic castles in Japan, Nijo Castle stands as a testament to the grandeur and politics of the Edo period.

What is unique about Nijo Castle’s Nightingale Floors?

Nijo Castle’s Nightingale Floors are designed to make a chirping sound when walked on, which was a clever defense mechanism during the feudal era. The floors were built to warn the shogun of any approaching threats, making it difficult for intruders to sneak in unnoticed. This unique feature adds to the charm of the castle, making it one of the most intriguing in Japan.

Nagoya Castle: A Beautiful Symbol of Power

Nagoya Castle, located in Aichi Prefecture, is a striking example of Japanese castle architecture. Built in the early 1600s, it features distinctive gold-plated shachihoko (mythical tiger-fish figures) atop its roof, adding a touch of elegance and grandeur to its design. The castle played an important role in the Tokugawa shogunate’s control over the region. Today, the castle stands as a symbol of Nagoya’s history and culture. Though it was heavily damaged during World War II, efforts to reconstruct the castle have been underway for decades. Nagoya Castle's sprawling grounds, elegant interiors, and beautiful gardens make it a top destination for those wanting to explore historic castles in Japan. Traveling to Nagoya Castle is simple if you're coming from Tokyo. You can take the Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Nagoya Station, which takes about 1.5 hours. From there, it’s just a short walk to the castle, making it an easy and quick journey between two of Japan’s biggest cities.

What is unique about the shachihoko on Nagoya Castle?

The shachihoko, the mythical tiger-fish figures on the roof of Nagoya Castle, are a unique architectural feature. These figures are believed to ward off fire and protect the castle from disasters. The golden shachihoko, perched atop the keep, are one of the defining characteristics of Nagoya Castle and add to its grandeur and mystique.

Kumamoto Castle: The Complete Fortress

Kumamoto Castle is one of Japan's most impressive popular castles in Japan, located in Kumamoto City. Known for its massive walls, intricate wooden interiors, and breathtaking tower, Kumamoto Castle is a prime example of the strength and beauty of Japanese feudal fortifications. Built in the early 1600s, it served as the home of the Hosokawa clan during the Edo period.

Although it was severely damaged during an earthquake in 2016, restoration efforts are ongoing, and much of the castle has been meticulously repaired to its former glory. The expansive grounds and nearby gardens provide visitors with plenty of opportunities to explore. Kumamoto Castle is a fantastic example of how castles in Japan were designed not just for defense, but for the status and prestige of the ruling clan.

While parts of Kumamoto Castle were damaged in the 2016 earthquake, many sections have been carefully restored. The main keep and various other areas of the castle are open to visitors, offering a chance to experience the beauty of this architectural marvel. You can also explore the gardens and surrounding grounds, which provide a scenic backdrop to the castle.

Hirosaki Castle: A Cherry Blossom Paradise

Located in the Aomori Prefecture, Hirosaki Castle is a gem that combines history with natural beauty. Originally built in 1611, this historic castle in Japan is famous for its stunning surroundings, especially during the cherry blossom season. The castle sits in the middle of a sprawling park filled with thousands of sakura trees, offering one of the best cherry blossom viewing experiences in the country.
Though the main keep was destroyed over time, the castle's grounds, gates, and walls remain intact. The picturesque setting makes Hirosaki Castle an excellent destination for those wanting to experience both Japanese history and the breathtaking beauty of nature. Its historical significance and connection to the feudal samurai make it an essential stop on your tour to Japan.

What is the best time to visit Hirosaki Castle for cherry blossoms?

The best time to visit Hirosaki Castle for cherry blossoms is from late April to early May. This period marks the peak of sakura season in the Aomori Prefecture. The castle grounds are transformed into a stunning sea of pink blossoms, and visitors can enjoy the combination of historic architecture and natural beauty. It’s a great time for photography and to immerse yourself in the Japanese tradition of hanami (flower viewing).

Okayama Castle: The Crow Castle of Western Japan

Situated in Okayama City, Okayama Castle is another popular castle in Japan known for its unique architectural features. Often called the "Crow Castle" due to its dark black exterior, Okayama Castle has a distinctive, elegant appearance. Originally constructed in the 16th century, the castle has undergone numerous restorations over the years, and the current structure is a modern reconstruction.
Despite being rebuilt, Okayama Castle remains an important symbol of the region, surrounded by a beautiful park and moat. The castle grounds also feature the Kōraku-en Garden, one of Japan’s most famous landscape gardens, making this site a perfect blend of history and nature. For those looking to explore one of the top castles in Japan, Okayama Castle provides a peaceful yet captivating experience.

Japan’s castles offer a unique glimpse into the country’s rich history, blending architectural brilliance with fascinating stories from centuries past. Whether you’re exploring the towering walls of Himeji Castle or the impressive grandeur of Kumamoto Castle, these historic landmarks provide an unforgettable experience. Each castle has its own story to tell, offering insight into the culture, power, and legacy of Japan’s feudal era. For an in-depth journey through Japan’s past, consider planning a trip to Asia, where you can explore these magnificent castles and much more on your next adventure.