An ever-watchful Shachi atop a former gate of Masutomi Castle.
It was August 23rd, 2001, when I first visited a Japanese castle. It was like nothing I'd ever seen. But, I very much liked what I saw.
In the eleven years since then, I have travelled to all but the northern regions of Japan to explore these fascinating, historical sites. This website is a record of my visits and of my passion for Japan's castles.
... and thank you
This site is dedicated to a great many people. First, my family who put up with me travelling about then sitting at a computer for hours making this site. And, to everyone who has taken an interest, mentioned, recommended, encouraged, questioned, emailed; a big thank you to you.
So, where to next?
Below are some suggestions, but the map, the castle list or the blog are good places to start too. Happy exploring!| Top-5 Hilltop Castles | |
| 1 | Himeji Castle |
| 2 | Matsuyama Castle |
| 3 | Kumamoto Castle |
| 4 | Hikone Castle |
| 5 | Kanazawa Castle |
| Top-5 Flatland Castles | |
| 1 | Nijō Castle |
| 2 | Matsumoto Castle |
| 3 | Ōsaka Castle |
| 4 | Edo Castle |
| 5 | Nagoya Castle |
| Top-5 Mountain Castles | |
| 1 | Bitchū Matsuyama Castle |
| 2 | Oka Castle |
| 3 | Tsuwano Castle |
| 4 | Ōno Castle |
| 5 | Sashiki Castle |
| Top-10 Virtual tours | |
| 1 | Nijō Castle |
| 2 | Nagoya Castle |
| 3 | Kumamoto Castle |
| 4 | Aizu Wakamatsu Castle |
| 5 | Himeji Castle |
| 6 | Inuyama Castle |
| 7 | Hiroshima Castle |
| 8 | Shōryūji Castle |
| 9 | Kishiwada Castle |
| 10 | Shibata Castle |