VI
EN
1. Hirosaki
Built in the 17th century, the castle, situated on a hilltop in northern Japan, is one of the most popular tourist destinations. Visiting during the Cherry Blossom Festival or the Hirosaki Neputa-matsuri Festival in summer, tourists will be overwhelmed by the vibrant colors of the cherry blossoms.
2. Hikone
Hikone Castle in Shiga Prefecture is considered one of Japan's most prized castles. It boasts stunning white-walled architecture, a 400-year history, and hundreds of cherry trees that bloom beautifully every spring.
3. Matsue
This is the only castle located in the Sanin region. It is the second largest, third tallest, and sixth oldest castle in Japan. It took five years to build Matsue Castle, which was inaugurated in 1622.
4. Matsumoto
Located in a mountainous area northwest of Tokyo, Matsumoto Castle was built on flat land next to a dam, rather than on a mountain and beside a river as is more common. Due to the lack of natural terrain protection, Matsumoto Castle has a rather complex architecture to protect its inhabitants. The castle's architecture remains largely intact from its 16th-century period, with wooden interiors and stone walls.
5. Himeji
Considered the most impressive feudal castle still standing in Japan today, Himeji Castle is located west of Kobe, the capital of Hyōgo Prefecture. The castle is one of the three most prized castles in Japan (the Three Great National Treasure Castles), not only for its ancient beauty but also for the legends and history surrounding it. Since 1993, Himeji has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
