{"id":12585,"date":"2025-03-06T13:40:29","date_gmt":"2025-03-06T04:40:29","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/?p=12585"},"modified":"2026-11-02T14:05:52","modified_gmt":"2026-11-02T05:05:52","slug":"must-visit-japanese-castles","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/must-visit-japanese-castles\/","title":{"rendered":"Must-Visit Japanese Castles During Your Japan Travels"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Whether you\u2019re a fan of Japanese history or just want to expand your horizons, Japanese castles are the perfect way to experience the country\u2019s rich culture and traditions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">With both originals and reconstructions, there are about 200 castles in Japan, so which ones should be on your must-visit list? See our picks for the best castles in Japan to add to your itinerary of what to do in Japan!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list is-style-toc\">\n<li><a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/must-visit-japanese-castles\/#sec1\">History of Castles in Japan<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/must-visit-japanese-castles\/#sec2\">Himeji Castle<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/must-visit-japanese-castles\/#sec3\">Matsumoto Castle<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/must-visit-japanese-castles\/#sec4\">Matsuyama Castle<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/must-visit-japanese-castles\/#sec5\">Hirosaki Castle<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/must-visit-japanese-castles\/#sec6\">Bitchu-Matsuyama Castle<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/must-visit-japanese-castles\/#sec7\">Tsuruga Castle<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/must-visit-japanese-castles\/#sec8\">Nagoya Castle<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/must-visit-japanese-castles\/#sec9\">Hikone Castle<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/must-visit-japanese-castles\/#sec10\">Kanazawa Castle<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/must-visit-japanese-castles\/#sec11\">Toyama Castle<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"sec1\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">History of Castles in Japan<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Most Japanese castles fall into two categories. There are smaller, more defense-oriented castles that mostly date from before the 1600s. This is when Japan was made up of many states that were at war with each other. Then, there were larger castles that also acted as status symbols. These mostly date from the 1600s onwards, when Japan became unified.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Later, when the feudal era ended in the late 1800s, many Japanese castles were demolished as unwanted relics of the past. Others were also destroyed during World War II.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Only 12 castles remain with a surviving main keep (or main tower) from before the end of the feudal era. Luckily, many others have been rebuilt in the past few decades or are currently being reconstructed as Japan continues to work towards preserving key elements of history and culture today.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"is-style-section-caption wp-block-paragraph\"><em>Hyogo Prefecture<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"sec2\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Himeji Castle<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/AdobeStock_696807234.sada_-scaled.jpeg\" alt=\"Himeji Castle with blue skies\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1.4997070884592854;width:2560px;height:auto\" title=\"Himeji Castle\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">\u00a9\ufe0f sada \/ Adobe Stock<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Himeji Castle dates back to the early 1600s and is one of the castles that still has its original keep. In fact, it\u2019s one of the best-preserved feudal-era castles in Japan!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Himeji Castle is visually striking, with its pure white color that looks especially beautiful on a clear, sunny day. Thanks to this, it\u2019s earned the nickname Hakuro-j\u014d (White Heron Castle). Beside the castle is Koke-en Garden, where you can have tea and enjoy the landscape.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you\u2019re a history and architecture fan visiting Kyoto or Osaka, then Himeji Castle is worth a day trip to Hyogo prefecture. It is about 2 hours by train (1 hour if you take the Shinkansen!) from JR Kyoto Station.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"is-style-section-caption wp-block-paragraph\"><em>Nagano prefecture<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"sec3\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Matsumoto Castle<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/AdobeStock_314197038.ake1150-scaled.jpeg\" alt=\"\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1.4997070884592854;width:2560px;height:auto\" title=\"Matsumoto Castle during cherry blossom (Sakura) is one of the most famous sights in Matsumoto, Nagano, Japan. Asian tourism, history building, or tradition culture and travel concept\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">\u00a9\ufe0f ake1150 \/ Adobe Stock<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Matsumoto Castle is another 17th-century Japanese castle with an original keep, as well as several other original buildings. Some structures have been rebuilt over the years, as well, to help preserve the castle. It is considered one of the top castles in all of Japan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Matsumoto Castle is built on a plain rather than a hill like most castles, but it makes up for this with impressive defensive moats and walls. It\u2019s a popular spot for viewing cherry blossoms, especially in the gardens and along the outer moat.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"is-style-section-caption wp-block-paragraph\"><em>Ehime Prefecture<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"sec4\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Matsuyama Castle<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/AdobeStock_514766508.m_ken-scaled.jpeg\" alt=\"\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1.4997070884592854;width:2560px;height:auto\" title=\"\u677e\u5c71\u57ce\u3001\u611b\u5a9b\u770c\u3001\u897f\u56fd\u3001\u9752\u3044\u7a7a\u3068\u65e5\u672c\u306e\u57ce\u3001matsuyama castle in japan\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">\u00a9\ufe0f m_ken \/ Adobe Stock<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Many of the buildings that made up Matsuyama Castle were demolished at the end of the feudal era, as well as during World War II. However, the original keep, as well as some watchtowers and gates, are still standing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Along with several reconstructed buildings, the castle is known for its grand exterior.. Inside are exhibits on the history of the surrounding Matsuyama City and the castle. You can also get a panoramic view of the city from the castle grounds. To access the castle, we recommend taking the ropeway, which will give you a beautiful view of the surrounding area.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"is-style-section-caption wp-block-paragraph\"><em>Aomori Prefecture<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"sec5\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Hirosaki Castle<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/AdobeStock_598178031.kiyo_-scaled.jpeg\" alt=\"\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1.4997070884592854;width:2560px;height:auto\" title=\"\u6625\u306e\u5f18\u524d\u57ce\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">\u00a9\ufe0f kiyo \/ Adobe Stock<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Hirosaki Castle (and Hirosaki Park that surrounds it) is best known as an amazing cherry blossom viewing spot. There are over 2,500 cherry blossom trees! A cherry blossom festival is held each year at the peak of the season.<br>A popular activity is to go rowing in the castle\u2019s moat. It\u2019s especially magical when cherry blossom petals are floating along the water. Sometimes they create a pink cover over the surface!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Hirosaki Castle has an original keep but it\u2019s currently not available. The keep has been temporarily relocated in order to repair the walls below it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"is-style-section-caption wp-block-paragraph\"><em>Okayama Prefecture<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"sec6\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Bitchu-Matsuyama Castle<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/AdobeStock_176254594.photojapan-scaled.jpeg\" alt=\"\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1.4997070884592854;width:2560px;height:auto\" title=\"\u5099\u4e2d\u677e\u5c71\u57ce -\u96f2\u6d77\u306b\u6d6e\u304b\u3076\u5929\u7a7a\u306e\u57ce-\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">\u00a9\ufe0f photojapan \/ Adobe Stock<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Bitchu-Matsuyama Castle is the oldest surviving castle in Japan. It was originally built in the 1300s! It\u2019s also the highest of all Japanese castles, standing at 1,410 feet (430 meters) above sea level.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Thanks to its mountaintop location, the castle is often shrouded in clouds and mist, particularly in fall and winter. This makes the castle look like it\u2019s floating above the clouds, so it\u2019s known as the Castle in the Sky.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This castle is from a time when castles were very defense-focused. The keep is relatively small (it has 2 stories) and hard to reach \u2014 you have to walk about 20 minutes past several circles of defense.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"is-style-section-caption wp-block-paragraph\"><em>Fukushima Prefecture<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"sec7\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Tsuruga Castle<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/AdobeStock_511343387.NO37-scaled.jpeg\" alt=\"\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1.509433962264151;width:2560px;height:auto\" title=\"\u4f1a\u6d25\u82e5\u677e\u57ce \u5929\u5b88\u95a3\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">\u00a9\ufe0f NO37 \/ Adobe Stock<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Tsuruga Castle is a reconstructed castle \u2014 the product of several decades of renovations since the 1960s. Despite not being an original castle, it\u2019s very impressive, especially with its unique red roof tiles that are faithful to the original.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Inside is a museum about the castle\u2019s history and samurai culture, as well as an observation gallery with a sweeping view of the city. There\u2019s also a park with well-kept cherry blossom trees and a charming teahouse.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"is-style-section-caption wp-block-paragraph\"><em>Aichi Prefecture<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"sec8\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Nagoya Castle<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/AdobeStock_723721023.Azamat-scaled.jpeg\" alt=\"\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1.6;width:2560px;height:auto\" title=\"Nagoya Castle, Nagoya, Japan\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">\u00a9\ufe0f Azamat \/ Adobe Stock<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Nagoya Castle was once a huge castle complex but many of the buildings were destroyed or damaged in World War II. There have been ongoing repairs ever since. There are some really interesting structures, including a pair of connected keeps \u2014 unique among Japanese castles \u2014 and golden statues of shachihoko, beasts from Japanese mythology.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The very first of Japan\u2019s castles to be designated a National Treasure, it was one of the largest castles in Japan and considered one of the best examples of Shoin architecture. The palace (Honmaru Goten was recently rebuilt and opened to the public, and the city is planning on next rebuilding the main keep in wood. This project is expected to to take until 2032.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"is-style-section-caption wp-block-paragraph\"><em>Shiga Prefecture<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"sec9\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Hikone Castle<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/AdobeStock_84202165.funato-scaled.jpeg\" alt=\"\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1.509433962264151;width:2560px;height:auto\" title=\"\u5f66\u6839\u57ce\u306e\u5ead\u5712\/Japanese garden of Hikone Castle.\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">\u00a9\ufe0f funato \/ Adobe Stock<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Hikone Castle was built in the 1600s and is one of the oldest castles that is still mostly original. This includes the keep and most of the gates, inner walls, guard houses, and bridges. The keep has also been named a National Treasure and is known for its unique architecture that uses a blend of styles.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Combined with some reconstructions, Hikone Castle is one of the best castles in Japan and perhaps the most complete example of a historical Japanese castle! You can access Hikone Castle from Kyoto Station in about an hour via train, making it a great addition to your itinerary if you have some spare time while in the Kyoto area.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"is-style-section-caption wp-block-paragraph\" id=\"s\"><em>Ishikawa Prefecture<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"sec10\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Kanazawa Castle<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/AdobeStock_366903051-scaled.jpeg\" alt=\"Kanazawa Castle surrounded by cherry blossoms in spring\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1.4997070884592854;width:2560px;height:auto\" title=\"\u6625\u306e\u91d1\u6ca2\u3000\u6e80\u958b\u306e\u685c\u3068\u91d1\u6ca2\u57ce\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">\u00a9 Nature K Photostudio \/ Adobe Stock<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Kanazawa Castle burned down several times over the centuries and most of its current buildings are reconstructed. The work is ongoing and many important buildings are finished, including impressive gates and watchtowers. Sadly, the castle hasn\u2019t had a keep since the early 1600s.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The castle grounds make up Kanazawa Park, which features a garden with a pond, making it a great, relaxing stop. Directly across from the castle gate is one of Japan\u2019s best gardens, Kenroku-en, which is especially beautiful in the winter.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"is-style-section-caption wp-block-paragraph\"><em>Toyama Prefecture<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"sec11\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Toyama Castle<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/AdobeStock_110004921.aerophoto-scaled.jpeg\" alt=\"\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1.5005861664712778;width:2560px;height:auto\" title=\"\u591c\u685c\u3068\u5bcc\u5c71\u57ce\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">\u00a9\ufe0f aerophoto \/ Adobe Stock<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Toyama Castle is another rebuilt castle, having been destroyed at the end of the feudal age. It now houses the Toyama Municipal Folk Museum. You can see the history of the castle, its castle town, and the samurai culture that once thrived here. In fact, you can rent samurai costumes for photo ops. If you\u2019re wondering what to do in Japan with kids, this kind of experience is great!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Across from the castle grounds is the Sato Memorial Art Museum. Here you\u2019ll find paintings, ornaments, lacquerware, tea ceremony items, and more.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"top-japanese-castles-to-visit\">Top Japanese Castles to Visit<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For more advice for your future Japan trip, check out our other articles:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u30fb<a href=\"https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/basic-japan-travel-tips\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Japan Travel Tips: Advice Before Traveling to Japan<\/a><br>\u30fb<a href=\"https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/how-to-shop-tax-free-in-japan\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">How to Shop Tax-Free in Japan<\/a><br>\u30fb<a href=\"https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/japan-travel-tips-internet-access\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Japan Travel Tips: Internet Access While Traveling in Japan<\/a><br>\u30fb<a href=\"https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/money-in-japan-currency-exchange\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Tips for Money in Japan and Currency Exchange Options<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:100px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"where-to-stay-when-in-japan\">Where to stay when in Japan<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped is-style-slider wp-block-gallery-1 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"696\" height=\"464\" data-id=\"12035\" src=\"https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Izuki-machiya-exterior-696x464.webp\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12035\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Izuki-machiya-exterior-696x464.webp 696w, https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Izuki-machiya-exterior-431x287.webp 431w, https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Izuki-machiya-exterior-768x512.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Izuki-machiya-exterior-1536x1024.webp 1536w, https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Izuki-machiya-exterior.webp 2000w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 696px) 100vw, 696px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"695\" height=\"464\" data-id=\"9227\" src=\"https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/2023_0413_0483-695x464.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-9227\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/2023_0413_0483-695x464.jpg 695w, https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/2023_0413_0483-430x287.jpg 430w, https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/2023_0413_0483-768x513.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/2023_0413_0483-1536x1025.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/2023_0413_0483.jpg 2000w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 695px) 100vw, 695px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"696\" height=\"464\" data-id=\"12214\" src=\"https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/2024_1111_0081-696x464.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12214\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/2024_1111_0081-696x464.jpg 696w, https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/2024_1111_0081-431x287.jpg 431w, https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/2024_1111_0081-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/2024_1111_0081-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/2024_1111_0081-2048x1365.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 696px) 100vw, 696px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"695\" height=\"464\" data-id=\"9693\" src=\"https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/hanagoromo_machiya-695x464.jpg\" alt=\"Two private, neighboring traditional Japanese homes in Kyoto, Japan.\" class=\"wp-image-9693\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/hanagoromo_machiya-695x464.jpg 695w, https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/hanagoromo_machiya-430x287.jpg 430w, https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/hanagoromo_machiya-768x513.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/hanagoromo_machiya-1536x1025.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/hanagoromo_machiya.jpg 2000w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 695px) 100vw, 695px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"696\" height=\"464\" data-id=\"12043\" src=\"https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/suigetsu-machiya-garden-696x464.webp\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12043\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/suigetsu-machiya-garden-696x464.webp 696w, https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/suigetsu-machiya-garden-430x287.webp 430w, https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/suigetsu-machiya-garden-768x512.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/suigetsu-machiya-garden-1536x1025.webp 1536w, https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/suigetsu-machiya-garden.webp 2000w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 696px) 100vw, 696px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"696\" height=\"464\" data-id=\"11791\" src=\"https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/traditional-Japanese-house4-696x464.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-11791\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/traditional-Japanese-house4-696x464.jpg 696w, https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/traditional-Japanese-house4-430x287.jpg 430w, https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/traditional-Japanese-house4-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/traditional-Japanese-house4-1536x1025.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/traditional-Japanese-house4.jpg 2000w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 696px) 100vw, 696px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"695\" height=\"464\" data-id=\"10774\" src=\"https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/2022_0824_0952-695x464.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-10774\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/2022_0824_0952-695x464.jpg 695w, https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/2022_0824_0952-430x287.jpg 430w, https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/2022_0824_0952-768x513.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/2022_0824_0952-1536x1025.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/2022_0824_0952-2048x1367.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 695px) 100vw, 695px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"696\" height=\"464\" data-id=\"11997\" src=\"https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/ichika_6-696x464.webp\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-11997\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/ichika_6-696x464.webp 696w, https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/ichika_6-431x287.webp 431w, https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/ichika_6-768x512.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/ichika_6-1536x1024.webp 1536w, https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/ichika_6.webp 2000w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 696px) 100vw, 696px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"stay-in-a-traditional-japanese-machiya\">Stay in a Traditional Japanese Machiya<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/\">MACHIYA INNS &amp; HOTELS<\/a><\/strong> offers over 100 traditional Japanese accommodations welcoming guests in Kyoto, Kanazawa, and Takayama. At the heart of our approach is the restoration and revival of <em>machiya<\/em>, traditional Japanese townhouses shaped by the history, architecture, and culture of their local communities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Our accommodations include restored traditional machiya as well as properties that revive the character of machiya architecture through traditional design, local craftsmanship, and techniques connected to each region.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Stay in a private machiya holiday house, where you can have an entire traditional Japanese home to yourself, or choose a room in one of our boutique machiya hotels. From architectural details and Japanese gardens to tatami rooms and local craftsmanship, each stay offers a closer connection to Japanese design and the destination around it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Find your machiya accommodation and book through the <strong><a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/\">MACHIYA INNS &amp; HOTELS official website<\/a><\/strong> for exclusive offers and our best available rate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-fe48e5de wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div style=\"--wp--block-button--width: 50;\" class=\"wp-block-button has-custom-width wp-block-button__width wp-block-button__width-50\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-background wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/\" style=\"border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;background-color:#b7a686\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Book Now<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:200px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Whether you\u2019re a fan of Japanese history or just want to expand your horizons, Japanese castles are the perfect way to experience the country\u2019s rich culture and traditions. With both originals and reconstructions, there are about 200 castles in Japan, so which ones should be on your must-visit list? See our picks for the best [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":4,"featured_media":12663,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_lmt_disableupdate":"","_lmt_disable":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[612],"tags":[647,558,167,584,514,557,108],"class_list":["post-12585","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-japan-travel-tips","tag-castles-in-japan","tag-fun-things-to-do-in-japan","tag-japan","tag-japanese-castles","tag-local-recommendations","tag-top-things-to-do-in-japan","tag-travel"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v28.8 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Must-Visit Japanese Castles During Your Japan Travels - MACHIYA Magazine<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Explore must-visit Japanese castles, from Himeji and Matsumoto to Hirosaki and Kanazawa, and learn what makes each worth adding to your Japan trip.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.machiya-inn-japan.com\/blog\/must-visit-japanese-castles\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Must-Visit Japanese Castles During Your Japan Travels - 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