Differences between Japanese castles and foreign castles
The most significant difference lies in the design of the fortifications. Japanese castles were enclosed by walls that protected only the central keep and its immediate grounds. In contrast, European-style castles were often at the heart of walled cities, with fortifications surrounding the entire town.
This structural difference led to different defensive strategies. In a European walled city, the entire town was the primary defensive unit, so the ruling lord typically remained within the fortress. In Japan, however, the castle was a strategic military command post. If a battle was lost, the defending lord could abandon the castle to retreat and fight another day. It functioned as a temporary seat of power for the ruler of the era.
The number and classification of castles in Japan
The number of castles with a main keep (tenshu), whether original or reconstructed, is approximately 90. If castles without a main keep are included, the total number reaches about 200. Of these, only twelve castles have an original main keep that has survived from the feudal era.
Castles are classified into four main types based on their location: mountain castles (yamajiro), hilltop castles (hirayamajiro), plain castles (hirajiro), and water castles (mizujiro).
The construction and structure of Japanese castles
Tenshukaku (Main Keep): This is the highest and most imposing tower in the castle, typically with two to five external stories and a corresponding number of interior floors. Contrary to what many might think, it was not the lord’s residence. Its primary purpose was to serve as a symbol of the lord’s power and prestige.
Stone Walls: These were constructed with a steep, almost vertical incline from large stones to prevent enemies from climbing them. The slopes curve gracefully, creating a structure that is both formidable and aesthetically beautiful.
Moats: As a critical defensive feature, moats were dug wide enough to place attackers out of range of arrows and bullets from the walls. Filled with water, they created a significant barrier that made it difficult for enemies to approach the stone walls.
Yagura (Turrets): These watchtowers, often situated at the corners of the stone walls, are much smaller and lower than the main keep. However, they were vital for defense, as their elevated position allowed guards to use weapons in all four directions.
Gates: The gates were thickly built from stone and reinforced with strong wooden doors. Breaking through these heavily fortified entry points was extremely difficult for any attacking force.
Defensive Devices:
Sama: Earthen walls were constructed on top of the stone walls. These walls featured small openings, allowing defenders to shoot arrows and fire bullets from a protected position.
Ishiotoshi: The towers built on the stone walls featured overhanging floors with holes in them. When enemies came close to the base of the walls, defenders could drop rocks directly on them through these openings.
Shinobigaeshi: Instead of holes, these were floors studded with metal spikes. They were designed to injure enemies who managed to climb the walls.
Zig-zag paths: The paths within the castle grounds were intentionally built in a winding, labyrinthine pattern. This design reduced the enemy’s ability to charge and made them vulnerable to attack from the sides.
Popular Castles
There are only twelve main keeps that retain their original form from the time of their construction. Of these twelve, five are designated as National Treasures.
According to surveys, the top five most popular castles, including reconstructed ones, are Himeji Castle, Osaka Castle, Matsumoto Castle, Kumamoto Castle, and Nagoya Castle.
Why do Japanese people love castles?
Why do Japanese people love castles?
The top reason is that castles have very beautiful, high, and imposing figures. They can be a symbol of the town that local people take pride in. Many history fans are attracted to the association with samurai and samurai culture. They can immerse themselves in a dream-like fantasy world.
Why do so few castles remain today?
Japanese castles have faced numerous threats throughout history. During the Meiji Restoration, the government dismantled many castles due to the high cost of maintenance, and the iron and other materials from them were repurposed. Later, during World War II, many of the remaining castles became targets for U.S. air raids. This continued a trend of reduction that began much earlier, under the Tokugawa shogunate, which had established a policy of “one castle per domain” to consolidate power.