Top Three Castles in Japan That You Must Visit

Japan’s castles offer a fascinating glimpse into the country’s rich history and architectural mastery. These castles, once the strongholds of samurai lords, now stand as cultural treasures attracting millions of visitors each year. If you want to explore Japan beyond its modern cities, visiting its castles is a perfect way to connect with the past and enjoy stunning landscapes. It will be a good place to visit for a school tour as well as a private tour from New Zealand.

Himeji Castle with the famous Gradan

1 Himeji Castle – The White Heron Castle

Himeji Castle is often called the most spectacular castle in Japan. Its brilliant white exterior resembles a bird taking flight, earning it the nickname "White Heron Castle." This castle survived wars, earthquakes, and fires, making it one of the best-preserved castles in the country. Himeji Castle is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for its cultural significance.

• Location: Hyogo Prefecture

• Built:  built in 1333

• Highlights: Complex defensive design, beautiful gardens, panoramic views from the top

• Why was it built - to serve as a heavily fortified samurai stronghold, a palatial residence, and a symbol of feudal power in western Japan.

• Who Built the Castle - the feudal lord Ikeda Terumasa

  
  

  

  Ikeda Terumasa

  
  

• What to do at the Castle: The visitors can go inside the castle and explore the castle’s multiple layers of defence, including maze-like paths designed to confuse attackers. The castle’s wooden interiors and original structures provide an authentic experience. The steep climbs to the top of the 6th-story wooden keep for panoramic city views, and the beautifully restored surrounding baileys.

  
  

• Admission Fees

  • Adults (Ages 18+ ): ¥2,500

  • Children and Youth (Under 18): Free.

• Opening hours: 9 am to 5 pm.

How to get there - From Osaka

• Take the JR Special Rapid train from Osaka Station to Himeji Station.

• Travel time: about 1 hour.

• Cheaper than the Shinkansen.

2 Nagoya Castle – The Golden Shachihoko

Nagoya Castle

Nagoya Castle is famous for its golden shachihoko, mythical tiger-headed fish statues perched on the roof. These ornaments symbolise protection against fire and disaster.

The castle was largely destroyed during World War II but has been carefully reconstructed. You could explore the Hommaru Palace, which was completed in 1615 and was originally used as the administrative offices and residences of the first feudal lord of Owari. The palace's interior was richly decorated with gorgeous wall and screen paintings, and fine, decorative metal fittings, earning it a high reputation for its quality art and advanced craftsmanship.

Nagoya Castle is one of Japan's most prominent castles and is designated a National Historic Site, considered the equivalent of being a National Treasure.

• Location: Aichi Prefecture

• Built:  1610, Early 17th century

• Highlights: Golden roof ornaments, reconstructed main keep, historical exhibits

• Why was it built: To solidify his military control, protect the vital Tokaido highway, and secure a strategic defensive buffer against rival clans in Osaka.

• Who Built the Castle: Ieyasu Tokugawa.

  

  Ieyasu Tokugawa

  
  

• What to do at the Castle: Unfortunately, you can not go inside the castle. But there are so many things to see from the outside. Also, there is a palace called The Hommaru Palace, which consists of 13 structures, containing over 30 rooms, and covering an area of 3,100 square meters, where you could go inside and see the luxurious architectural style, known as Shoin-zukuri, which was preferred by the samurai caste, as formality and etiquette were highly valued. Each room's styling denoted its rank, while the lord's audience chamber is positioned at a higher elevation than the other rooms as a show of authority.

  
  

• Admission Fees

  • Adults: ¥ 500

  • Children (Junior High & Under): Free

• Opening hours:  9 am to 4:30 pm. (Last entry to buildings is at 4:00 PM). Closed December 29 - January 1

How to get there - From Tokyo

• Take the Tokaido Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Nagoya Station.

• Time:

  • Nozomi: about 1 hour 40 minutes

  • Hikari: about 2 hours

How to get there - From Osaka

• Shinkansen from Shin-Osaka Station.

• About 50 minutes.

  
  

3 Osaka Castle – The Symbol of Power

Osaka Castle

Osaka Castle is one of Japan’s most famous landmarks. It symbolises the unification of Japan under Toyotomi Hideyoshi and has a dramatic history of battles and reconstructions.

• Location: Osaka Prefecture

• Built: 1583 Late 16th century

• Highlights: Large stone walls, modern museum inside, panoramic city views

• Why was it built: as a military stronghold and a monument to his supreme power.

• Who Built the Castle: Toyotomi Hideyoshi

  
  

  

  Toyotomi Hideyoshi

• What to do at the Castle: What to do at the castle:  explore a reconstructed 16th-century samurai fortress, a museum detailing the city's history, and a panoramic observation deck. The current main tower is a modern reconstruction with a museum that tells the story of the castle and Hideyoshi’s rise to power. The surrounding park is a popular spot for hanami (cherry blossom viewing) and seasonal festivals.

• Admission Fees

  • Adults: ¥ 600

  • Children aged 15 or younger: Free

• Opening hours:  9:00 AM to 5:00 PM

How to get there - From Osaka

• JR Osaka Loop Line to Osakajokoen Station.

• About 10 minutes.

Why Visiting Japanese Castles Matters

Exploring these castles offers more than just sightseeing. Each castle tells a story about Japan’s feudal past, samurai culture, and architectural innovation. Many castles are surrounded by beautiful parks and gardens, making them perfect for leisurely walks and photography. They are perfect sightseeing spots for Japan holiday packages, family holidays, and small group tours from New Zealand.

If you are planning a ski trip to Japan from New Zealand, why not visit the castles in winter as well? The castles with snow look stunning as well.

When planning your visit, consider the following tips:

• Check opening hours and admission fees as they vary by castle.

• Visit during cherry blossom season for spectacular views.

• Wear comfortable shoes since many castles involve walking on uneven paths and stairs.

• Take guided tours when available to learn detailed history and anecdotes.

  
  

These castles are not only historical sites but also cultural hubs where you can experience traditional festivals, tea ceremonies, and local crafts. They are perfect spots to visit for a tour, a family tour, or a school trip from New Zealand.