Secrets of Japanese Castles: Discover the Magic of Jō (城)

Japanese castles are more than just historical buildings — they are powerful symbols of the country’s rich cultural heritage. Scattered across the islands of Japan, these impressive structures once served as homes for samurai families and strongholds to defend towns from enemies. While the earliest castle is believed to have been built in 664 AD, most of the castles that still stand today were constructed between the Sengoku Period (Warring States Era) and the Edo Period.

What Makes Japanese Castles Unique?

Unlike the stone fortresses of Europe, Japanese castles were often made with wood and plaster, featuring elegant curved rooftops and surrounded by moats, tall stone walls, and cherry blossom trees. Many were built on hills or near rivers for strategic defense. Inside, they held multi-story towers (called tenshu) that offered panoramic views of the surrounding area.

National Treasures of Japan

Out of the hundreds of castles once built, four castles are considered National Treasures due to their historical and architectural value:

• Himeji Castle: Known as the “White Heron Castle” for its graceful, white exterior — it’s Japan’s most visited and best-preserved castle.

• Matsumoto Castle: Also called the “Crow Castle” because of its black walls. It’s one of the few castles built on flat land.

• Hikone Castle: Famous for its beautiful blend of architectural styles and original interiors.

• Inuyama Castle: Located just outside Nagoya, it holds the oldest surviving wooden tower in Japan.

Other Famous Castles Kids Can Explore

There are many other castles in Japan that offer a glimpse into samurai life and ancient Japan:

• Hirosaki Castle – famous for cherry blossoms

• Maruoka Castle – said to have the oldest stone wall in Japan

• Bitchu Matsuyama Castle – Japan’s highest mountain castle

• Matsue Castle, Marugame Castle, Kochi Castle, Matsuyama Castle, and Uwajima Castle – each with its own fascinating story

Learning Through Stories and Imagination

For children learning Japanese, discovering these castles is a fun way to connect with the country’s past. With Dinolingo’s Japanese lessons, kids can dive into stories about brave samurai, castle life, and even legends that took place in these historical spots. Through interactive videos, games, and flashcards, Dinolingo makes cultural learning exciting and accessible on all devices — whether it’s a tablet, phone, or computer.

Japanese castles aren’t just buildings — they’re gateways to Japan’s stories, heroes, and imagination. When children learn about them, they’re not only expanding their vocabulary, but also developing a deeper appreciation for the beauty and bravery of a fascinating culture.