Virtual Tour | Himeji Castle: Japan’s Largest Original Castle & Powerful Feudal Lord Stronghold
The ‘White Heron Castle’ – Himeji-jo (姫路城) – is one of the most famous castles in Japan, and is one of the best preserved of the original castles in Japan. Himeji Castle has remarkably survived earthquakes, civil wars, and bombing during World War 2. This National Treasure of Japan is the most visited castle in the country and the best example of castle architecture from the 17th century. Centered between Kobe and Hiroshima, Himeji was an important transportation hub in ancient times and a key defensive position for the Tokugawa Shogunate for almost 300 years and is almost completely original (considering authentic repairs over time). The castle began as far back as 1333 when it was a fort on the hill. In 1346, it was pulled apart, remodeled, and renamed Hirayama-jo (Hirayama-jo (平山城) is a Japanese term that refers to a type of castle built on a hilltop surrounded by flat plains). In 1581, Toyotomi Hideyoshi, the second of the three ‘unifiers’ of Japan, remodeled the castle to have three stories. In 1600, Himeji was awarded to Ikeda Terumasa for his loyalty to Tokugawa Ieyasu in the Battle of Sekigahara, and he in turn remodeled the castle from 1601-1609 to create a huge castle complex with over 80 buildings. Until the Meiji Restoration in 1868, Himeji remained an important defensive location for the Tokugawa shogunate.
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➡️ Explore Japan’s rich history with engaging video content, including in 360°. Designed to be a fun and interactive way to learn about the fascinating history of Japan, discover the wonders of this incredible country. Educators of Japanese history and culture are welcome to download free image content.
📚 Educators: Links 360° images for download and classroom use will be available soon.
🔗 Access to 360° images coming eventually at www.socialstudiessamurai.com!
Thumbnail image by the channel author.