Osaka Castle, also known as "Osaka-jo" in Japanese, is a five-story iconic symbol of Japan with a history spanning nearly 450 years. It stands as a testament to Japan's rich past and is a must-visit for travelers seeking to immerse themselves in the country's history and architectural wonders. This popular landmark attracts both local and international visitors year-round, offering a glimpse into Japan's fascinating past and captivating with its timeless beauty.

There were several herons in a huge tree at Matsue Castle in Shimane Prefecture, so I took a picture of it for about 1 o'clock. If you look closely, there were 7 birds in the picture.

Imagine a time when samurai ruled the land and constructed magnificent forts. Himeji Castle, a UNESCO Cultural Heritage site, is a sight to behold. Its most striking feature is the daitenshu, the main donjon. This impressive structure stands at 31.5 meters tall with five stories on the outside and seven interior floors, reaching a total height of 46.3 meters. The castle is surrounded by three smaller keeps connected by roofed passages, adding to its grandeur. Designated as national treasures, the donjons and watariyagura are a testament to Japan's rich history and architectural ingenuity.

Himeji Castle, also known as the White Heron Castle, stands as the best-preserved castle in Japan. This stunning fortress is not just a Japanese National Treasure but also a World Heritage site. With its 400-year-old, seven-story castle keep and over 1,000 cherry trees that bloom in spring, the castle's grounds are a sight to behold.

Matsumoto Castle, one of Japan's oldest castles, is famous for its unique black exterior. Located in Matsumoto City for over 400 years, it houses a remarkable collection of weapons and armor from the Warring States Period. Despite never witnessing battle, it's a must-visit in Nagano Prefecture, especially during twilight hours for a peaceful experience. The sight of swans on the moat against the castle and the blueish-purple horizon is unforgettable.

Oshi Castle, located in Gyoda City, Saitama Prefecture, has a rich history dating back to the late 15th century. Despite facing numerous attacks, this formidable castle never succumbed. While the original structure no longer stands, visitors can still witness the earthen foundation of the main castle, the towering stone walls, the Korai Gate, and other fascinating ruins. The reconstructed "Three-storied Tower" from the Edo Period now houses captivating exhibits, offering visitors a glimpse into the past. Ascend to the observation room on the highest floor for a breathtaking view of Gyoda City. My visit at twilight revealed an eerily silent and empty atmosphere, evoking the enchanting aura of this ancient site.

It is the Imperial Palace Fushimi Tower. Cross the double-bridge Megane Bridge, turn around and cross the iron bridge, and you will see it on your left. It is one of the buildings that made up Edo Castle. Normally you can't see it, This photo was taken when I entered the castle as a general visitor.

When I went to Takashima Castle around Golden Week, students from a local junior high school came to sketch Takashima Castle. 　When I went near the wisteria flowers, there was a very sweet and wonderful scent in the air.　Before I knew it, bees and black bees were ? coming to take nectar ~ Even as a human, it was a wonderful scent that attracted me!!　I don't know why the demons of Demon Slayer don't like this wonderful flower www I think it's a wonderful flower.　A shot from under the wisteria ledge is recommended!!　I didn't know that wisteria flowers were blooming in the pond even though I was a local.　I'm sorry, Mr. Takashimajo.　When I looked at the whole wisteria flower on this day, I thought that it would bloom for seven minutes today to the untrained eye!　 　On the premises, there is a rare Gokoku Shrine ⛩ in Japan that resembles the construction of Suwa Grand Shrine. There seems to be a rare sculpture. 　Every year, I think it's about Golden Week, but it's very beautiful and you can see it.　The castle, the park, and the wisteria flowers are waiting ? for you next year, so please come!

I looked up at Himeji Castle. You can see the multi-layered roof and the structure of the eaves, and it is not only beautiful. You can get a glimpse of the original appearance of the sturdy castle, and the people who made it in the past are the very essence of Cool Japan.

When I took a picture of Himeji Castle with the front shifted, the height of the castle walls and the presence of the castle tower stood out. It's a place you want to visit at least once.

Matsumoto Castle is dyed in the autumn Sunset. It is one of the few castles that has survived since its construction. Why don't you take a look?

The Edo Castle, once the largest fortress, was transformed into the imperial residence Kōkyo after the shogunate fell and the emperor moved to Tokyo. The castle was significantly damaged by fires in 1873 and again during WWII air raids. The moats and stone walls visible around the palace grounds are remnants of the original castle. This location is a popular spot for tourists from all over the world. I captured this photo of the palace during a snowy twilight, when there were very few tourists around. They were struck by the rare beauty of the palace during the snowfall and found it especially captivating to see a lone woman enjoying the serene scene.

Lets discover the feudal lord era of Toyama. Toyama Castle situated in the center of Toyama City. It was actually built in 1543 by the local feudal lord Sassa Narimasa. Unfortunately, the castle keep was dismantled during the Meiji Restoration. Over the years, the castle underwent several renovations and reconstructions, the latest in 1954. Today, the castle is a top tourist attraction, offering visitors a unique opportunity to learn more about Japan’s feudal history.

How do you do! This is the Otaki Tourist Association. Chiba Prefecture Isumi County Otaki Town is a town of about 8,000 people located in the middle of the The Boso peninsula Peninsula. About one and a half hours from Tokyo, the easily accessible Otaki Town is known for its natural beauty and rich history, which fascinates many visitors. In this First Post, we will deliver the charm of Otaki Town and recommended sightseeing spots, so please Enjoy it until the end. ==History of Chiba Prefecture Otaki Town== As a Otaki Castle Castle Town with one of the Four Heavenly Kings of Tokugawa "Honda Tadakatsu" as the castle owner, it flourished from the Sengoku period to the Edo period. Otaki Castle is known as the symbol of Otaki Town and captivates many history buffs and tourists. In the town, there are still faces of that time. ==Introduction to Chiba Prefecture Otaki Town Sightseeing Spots== ◇Otaki Castle It is a castle tower museum built in Showa 50, which has been selected as a "Chiba Prefecture Designated Historic Site" and "One of the 100 best castles in Japan". Documents that allow you to learn about the history of The Boso peninsula and the life of the Castle Town are on display. Currently, Otaki Castle is closed for facility renovation. ◇Otaki Castle Town Otaki Town is lined with old buildings that are also cultural properties. There are houses, shops and shrines where you can get a glimpse of life at that time, and it is a recommended Spot for history lovers. Take a stroll through the Castle Town, which retains strong faces of the Edo period, and feel the romance of a timeless journey. ◇Yoro Valley Valleys straddles Ichihara City, Kimitsu City, Kamogawa City in the southern part of Chiba Prefecture, and Isumi County Otaki Town, you can enjoy the natural beauty of the four seasons, especially the autumn leaves are Famous. Popular Spots nearby include Awamata Waterfall, Suigetsu Temple, Ruins of the Kobundo Tunnel, Mukoyama Kyoei Tunnel and Kannon Bridge. Please note that due to the flooding of the Yoro River by Typhoon No. 13 in 2023, it is currently Closed except for some parts. ◇Asawahara Highlands With about 20,000 hydrangeas in bloom, it is known as the best hydrangea spot in the Kanto region. Since it is located at an elevation of 340 meters, it blooms later than in the flatlands, and the best time to see it is best time to visit from late June to mid-July every year. ◇Isumi Railway It is a local railway with a total length of about 26.8 kilometers connecting Isumi City and Otaki Town, and you can enjoy seasonal flowers and rural scenery along the line. During the rape blossom season in early Spring, the entire area is dyed bright yellow with rape flowers, and it is popularly known as the "Rapeseed Blossom Train". ◇Roadside Station Takeyura no Sato Otaki Fresh local vegetables and specialty products are lined up, and it is also recommended as a souvenir of The Boso peninsula. At the Shokudo, you can taste shiitake mushrooms, Otaki Town's specialty bamboo shoots, and game dishes such as Wild boar meat. ==Local festival & Events in Chiba Prefecture Otaki Town== ◇Otaki Castle Festival Samurai parades and various events are held at the festivals held every autumn. It is a popular local festivals that will be held for the 50th time in 2024. ==Chiba Prefecture Otaki Town Specialty Products Gourmet == Otaki bamboo shoots, which boast one of the largest production volumes in the Tokyo metropolitan area, are white in color and are also called "white bamboo shoots" because of their High quality, which is very soft. Taste of food is small, so you can eat it without removing the bad smell. "Otaki bamboo shoots" are also popular as thank-you gifts for Furusato Nozei tax payment. ==Chiba Prefecture Otaki Town Tourist Information== Chiba Prefecture Otaki Town is a region rich in nature and deep history. Spending time away from everyday life in Otaki Town will be a memorable time. COOL JAPAN VIDEOS will provide Recommendations and Latest Information on Otaki Town, so thank you.

Inohana Park / Chiba Castle (Chiba City Local Museums) / Inohanatei It is a historical park located in the birthplace of Chiba, where Tsuneshige, the father of Chiba Tsuneshige, set up a residence in this area in 1126 (Daijigen). Although it is located in the center of Chiba City, it has a quiet and calm environment and is a place of relaxation for citizens and tourists. In Inohana Park, there is "Chiba Castle (Chiba City Local Museum / Free Admission)", which exhibits Documents on the history of the local area, including Mr. Chiba, who laid the foundation of the town of Chiba, as well as various special exhibitions related to Chiba. The view from the observation deck on the 5th floor is wonderful, overlooking the city and Chiba Port, and sometimes you can see Mt. Fuji. In the calm Japanese space "Inohanatei" where you can see Chiba Castle, there is a green Garden and serves the Specialties Inohana Dango and sweets. There is also a tea room with a view of the garden, and it is a nostalgic tea shop that conveys traditional Japanese tea culture. You can enjoy the nature of the four seasons in Inohana Park, and especially in Spring, the cherry blossoms are in full bloom, making it a popular spot for cherry blossom viewing. At the Chiba Castle Sakura Festival, food stalls and Kitchen Car using local ingredients are lined up, and local cultural and performing arts live performances Gari live. The Limited Time festival of Chiba Castle illumination and the competition of cherry blossoms at night are reputed to Fascination people. ■ Access: ・From JR Chiba Station, take the Keisei Bus to "University Hospital" and get off at "Local Museums" ・10 minutes walk from Chiba Monorail Prefectural Office Station ・ 15 minutes walk from JR Honchiba Station ■Address: 1-6 Inohana, Chuo-ku, Chiba City

During my visit to western Japan last autumn, my final stop was Hiroshima. Despite its tragic history, the city serves as a powerful symbol of resilience, much like the phoenix rising from the ashes. The Hiroshima Castle, which was reconstructed after being destroyed in World War II, stands as a testament to this resilience. The castle grounds provide a peaceful retreat with a variety of trees and flowers, creating a beautiful and tranquil setting for visitors. Inside the castle tower, the museum offers a chance to explore the rich history of the Hiroshima castle town and provides breathtaking views of the city from the observation platform at the top.

【Matsumoto Castle】 松本城 - Matsumoto Castle Nagano Matsumoto Castle is the oldest national treasure castle in Japan among the existing five-story and six-story castle towers. In 1936 (Showa 11), the entire site was designated as a national treasure. Later, in 1952 (Showa 27)), five buildings, the castle tower, the Inuiko castle tower, the Wataru tower, the Tatsumi tower, and the Tsukimi tower, were designated as national treasures. Half of the body is illuminated by the setting sun, and the light and shadow form a wonderful harmony. Ducks swimming leisurely in the moat accentuate the enormity of the castle.

Tamba Sasayama City Daishoin While many castles in various parts of Japan were destroyed by the decree for the abolition of castles after the abolition of feudal prefectures, Daishoin escaped the disaster, but it was unfortunately destroyed by fire in Showa 194 (1944). After that, it was rebuilt in April of 2000 (Heisei 12) (Heisei 12) with the passionate wishes and precious donations of citizens. The structure is similar to Nijo Castle in Kyoto.

Katsuren Ruins of the Castle / World Heritage Site Katsuren Ruins of the Castle located in Uruma City, Okinawa Prefecture, is a World Heritage Site. Built around 1200, it is the oldest of the World Heritage Sites of Okinawa's castles. It is said that the castle owner, Amawari, tried to take a different path from the Ryukyu royal government, but was destroyed by the Ryukyu royal government. The gracefully curved city walls are impressive, and you can see the Pacific Ocean from the top!

Katsuren Ruins of the Castle / World Heritage Site Katsuren Ruins of the Castle located in Uruma City, Okinawa Prefecture, is a World Heritage Site. Built around 1200, it is the oldest of the World Heritage Sites of Okinawa's castles. It is said that the castle owner, Amawari, tried to take a different path from the Ryukyu royal government, but was destroyed by the Ryukyu royal government. The gracefully curved city walls are impressive, and you can see the Pacific Ocean from the top!

Katsuren Ruins of the Castle / World Heritage Site Katsuren Ruins of the Castle located in Uruma City, Okinawa Prefecture, is a World Heritage Site. Built around 1200, it is the oldest of the World Heritage Sites of Okinawa's castles. It is said that the castle owner, Amawari, tried to take a different path from the Ryukyu royal government, but was destroyed by the Ryukyu royal government. The gracefully curved city walls are impressive, and you can see the Pacific Ocean from the top!

Katsuren Ruins of the Castle / World Heritage Site Katsuren Ruins of the Castle located in Uruma City, Okinawa Prefecture, is a World Heritage Site. Built around 1200, it is the oldest of the World Heritage Sites of Okinawa's castles. It is said that the castle owner, Amawari, tried to take a different path from the Ryukyu royal government, but was destroyed by the Ryukyu royal government. The gracefully curved city walls are impressive, and you can see the Pacific Ocean from the top!

It is Matsumoto Castle in Matsumoto City, Nagano Prefecture. The castle tower is thought to have been built in Bunroku 2~3 (1593~4), and is the oldest existing five-story and six-story castle tower in Japan, and is designated as a national treasure along with Himeji Castle, Hikone Castle, Inuyama Castle, and Matsue Castle. It is a famous castle with a history that has overcome many dangers.

Tsuchizu Shrine in Inawashiro Town, Fukushima Prefecture, the white Torii (shrine gate) gate and snow are very beautiful. I always come to Tsuchizu Shrine, which is famous for its children's gods, to pray for the growth of children.

"Koi Castle, Hiroshima Castle" in Hiroshima City Surrounded by cherry blossom trees, you can see a beautiful view in Spring

"Koi Castle, Hiroshima Castle" in Hiroshima City Surrounded by cherry blossom trees, you can see a beautiful view in Spring

At the Fukuoka Castle Sakura Festival. This year, a virtual Fukuoka Castle tower was built and lit up ✨?✨ I was able to take pictures of beautiful night cherry blossoms and cool Japanese scenery!

Toyotomi Hideyoshi, who lived through the Warring States period and unified the world, built Fushimi Castle in his later years. It is a collaboration between cherry blossoms ? and castles ? ?️2024.4.7 ?Canon R10 ?️Kyoto

Matsumae Castle ?? It is recommended ☺️ for a walk

Kochi Castle, located in Kochi, is one of the 12 surviving castle towers built in the Edo period. The castle tower is usually lit up at night and you can enjoy it, but in spring, the cherry blossoms in full bloom color Kochi Castle, making it even more attractive. After sightseeing in various parts of Kochi Prefecture, I visited at night in an exhausted state, but the performance of the illuminated Kochi Castle and the cherry blossoms was so beautiful that the fatigue was blown away.