Nijo Castle: Kyoto’s Magnificent Samurai Treasure
Guide to Kyoto's Nijo Castle
Imagine stepping into a realm where samurais roamed and shoguns ruled. Kyoto’s Nijo Castle is a treasure trove of history and culture that transports you back to Japan’s feudal history through a vivid journey. Built in 1603 by Tokugawa Ieyasu, the first Tokugawa shogun, this UNESCO World Heritage Site showcases the grandeur and intrigue of the Edo period.
Its formidable stone walls, majestic gates, intricate interiors and sophisticated gardens, it captures the essence of Japan’s past, making it a must-visit for those captivated by history, architecture, or the beauty of Japanese culture. This iconic landmark keeps a lot of original structures and combines traditional and early modern styles, inviting visitors to explore its many secrets.
What is Nijo Castle?
Nijo Castle (二条城), or Nijo-jo, is a historic castle located in the heart of Kyoto. Constructed as a second residence for Tokugawa Ieyasu, it symbolizes the power and influence of the shogunate era. The castle complex includes two main structures, Ninomaru and Honmaru, surrounded by expansive gardens and fortifications. Because of its rich design that integrates several architectural styles, it is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcasing the artistry and craftsmanship of the Edo period.
What to See and Do at Nijo Castle
Explore Ninomaru Palace: Admire the beautiful and intricate wall and ceiling paintings and pay attention to the famous “nightingale floors”. These floors make a creaking noise when you walk on them. However, current historical sources do not clarify if this effect was intentional or not. Some theories believe this was probably a security mechanism against intruders since it’s impossible to walk without making a sound unless you were highly skilled and used to this place. But it seems that efforts to replicate the same effect with known construction techniques have been unsuccessful.
Stroll through Ninomaru Garden: The other main attraction of this site, designated as a Special Place of Scenic Beauty, where you can enjoy the traditional Japanese landscape with ponds, islands, and meticulously maintained plants.
Visit Honmaru Palace: Though access is limited, the exterior and surrounding gardens are worth seeing.
Discover Seiryu-en Garden: The garden design combines Japanese and Western influences, as a later addition from 1965. This is an eclectic garden that includes structures from other former buildings from the area and features two tea houses, Waraku-an and Kou-tei, although the latter is normally closed to the general public.
Attend Seasonal Events: Nijo Castle is one of the best locations in Kyoto to enjoy events like cherry blossom viewings and autumn leaf illuminations.
Visit the Painting Gallery: The latest feature of the complex, the gallery was opened in 2005 to display the original paintings preserved from the walls of Ninomaru Castle, as well as various original decorative artifacts. The exhibitions change regularly so it’s worth visiting more than once for those interested in the castle’s vast collection.
