The Unique Charm of Japan’s “Three Great Night Castles
When it comes to captivating foreign tourists with Japan’s scenic beauty, nothing stands out more than its distinctive castles. Standing amidst modern buildings, they give visitors the sensation of traveling back in time.
Moreover, the “night castles,” which reveal a different charm from their daytime appearance, are sure to enthrall even more people.
Today, let’s take a closer look at three particularly famous castles in Japan that are illuminated at night, showcasing their breathtaking views—collectively known as the “Three Great Night Castles”!
The castles included in this trio are Osaka Castle, Kochi Castle, and Takada Castle. In this guide, we will share the unique historical backgrounds of these castles and the beauty of their night-time illuminations.
First, it’s important to note that the title of “Three Great Night Castles” has not been officially certified by any particular institution. It is a term used by local and tourism organizations to promote the charm of these castles. This label is widely used to enhance the value of castles as tourist attractions across various regions. In particular, the castles chosen for their beautiful night-time illuminations have become a key focus for drawing in visitors.
For instance, Takada Castle in Joetsu City (Niigata Prefecture) is included in the “Three Great Night Castles” as part of a tourism promotion campaign. However, this designation is less about historical recognition and more about highlighting the region’s tourism and cultural value.
The Allure of Osaka Castle and Its Nighttime Beauty
Japan is home to numerous beautiful castles, with Osaka Castle standing out as one of the most famous. Built by the warlord Toyotomi Hideyoshi during the Sengoku period, Osaka Castle is a historical landmark that symbolizes Japan’s history and culture. While its usual appearance is impressive, the castle transforms at night when it is illuminated, showcasing a mystical and captivating side that contrasts with its daytime look.
History of Osaka Castle
Osaka Castle was constructed in 1583 by Toyotomi Hideyoshi. Hideyoshi, a key figure in Japan’s unification, built this grand castle as a political and military center, influencing both domestic and international audiences with its scale and opulence. However, after Hideyoshi’s death, the castle was captured by Tokugawa Ieyasu’s forces in the 1615 Summer Siege of Osaka and was eventually destroyed by fire. It was later rebuilt under the Tokugawa shogunate but suffered several fires and destructions throughout the Edo period.
The current version of Osaka Castle was reconstructed in 1931 through public donations. Post-war restorations and renovations continued, culminating in a comprehensive renovation in 1997. Today, the main keep functions as a museum, showcasing exhibits related to Osaka’s history and Toyotomi Hideyoshi.
Architectural Features of Osaka Castle
Osaka Castle’s architecture reflects the luxurious style of the Azuchi-Momoyama period. The main keep, or tenshu, stands out with its golden ornaments and elegant roof curves. Surrounded by stone walls and moats, the castle’s robust structure exemplifies the advanced defensive technology of its time.
The tenshu rises about 55 meters above the ground, offering panoramic views of Osaka city. The contrast with modern skyscrapers provides a striking visual of history intersecting with the present.
Night Views of Osaka Castle
While Osaka Castle is magnificent during the day, its beauty is truly highlighted at night. The castle is beautifully illuminated, with its white walls and golden decorations glowing under the lights, creating a majestic and otherworldly appearance.
The illumination enhances the castle’s presence, seamlessly blending with the surrounding nightscape. The soft light reflected on the castle’s white walls and the contrasting lights on the moat’s surface create a captivating spectacle. Additionally, the stone walls and surrounding greenery are subtly lit, offering a balanced and picturesque view.
Seasonal illuminations add special effects to the lighting, making it particularly popular during cherry blossom season in spring or winter illumination events.
Seasonal Night Views
In spring, cherry blossoms in Osaka Castle Park are illuminated, creating a stunning collaboration of nighttime sakura and the castle. The park is renowned for its cherry blossom viewing, attracting many tourists to experience the dreamy sight of illuminated blossoms against the castle backdrop.
In winter, Osaka Castle participates in events such as “Osaka Light Renaissance,” featuring special illuminations. Both the tenshu and the entire park are decorated with lights, offering a unique charm during the cold season.
When visiting Osaka Castle, you can enjoy not only the nighttime illumination but also various activities around the park. The tranquil environment from evening to night provides a peaceful opportunity to appreciate the castle. Nearby restaurants and cafes offer dining with views of the nightscape, making it a perfect spot for a relaxing meal.
Osaka Castle captivates people with its historical value and beautiful night views. Its dual expressions in day and night offer a rich experience that cannot be fully appreciated in a single visit. When in Osaka, make sure to experience the magical beauty of Osaka Castle at night and enjoy a special moment where history and modernity intertwine. The sunset views are also highly recommended.
For further information, we recommend you this website: https://www.osakacastle.net/
Source: Osaka Castle
The Beauty of Kochi Castle and Its Night Views
source：https://kochipark.jp/kochijyo/highlights/
Kochi Castle, located in Kochi Prefecture on Shikoku Island, is a symbol of the region with its historical significance and stunning nighttime scenery. Renowned for its excellent preservation and grandeur, Kochi Castle is a popular tourist spot. Its beauty is further highlighted during the nighttime illumination, providing visitors with a magical experience. Let’s explore the history, architectural features, and nighttime allure of Kochi Castle.
History of Kochi Castle
Kochi Castle was built in 1601 by Yamauchi Kazutoyo, a loyal retainer of Toyotomi Hideyoshi, who became the first lord of the Tosa Domain due to his incredible achievements. The construction of Kochi Castle was indeed intended to demonstrate his political and military power and served as the center of the Tosa Domain.
The castle was built with a strong defensive structure, utilizing the natural terrain for protection. Surrounded by moats and high stone walls, it exemplifies the advanced defensive techniques of the time. Major renovations during the Edo period enhanced its beauty.
Architectural Features of Kochi Castle
Kochi Castle’s tenshu is one of the few remaining castle buildings, drawing many visitors with its beautiful appearance. The wooden structure, characterized by white walls and black tiled roofs, is a rare style among castles, reflecting the high architectural skills of the era.
Notably, the castle’s exceptional preservation allows visitors to experience its historical ambiance authentically. The view from the tenshu harmonizes with the surrounding nature, offering a picturesque blend of history and modernity.
Night Views of Kochi Castle
Kochi Castle transforms into a different realm at night, with its illuminated beauty providing a transcendent experience. The lighting design highlights the castle’s grandeur, creating a magical scene as the tenshu and stone walls are softly lit against the night sky. The lights around the castle’s perimeter enhance its contours and emphasize its majesty in the quiet night.
Many seasonal lighting variations occur at Kochi Castle. During cherry blossom season in spring and autumn foliage, special illuminations enhance the natural beauty of the castle.
In spring, cherry blossoms around Kochi Castle are illuminated, creating a striking contrast with the castle. This period attracts many tourists for the enchanting night views of sakura. Strolling under the cherry blossoms while admiring Kochi Castle’s illuminated beauty is a memorable experience.
In autumn, the lighting of the fall foliage around the castle provides a stunning visual contrast. The illuminated combination of the castle and autumn leaves showcases the beauty of the changing seasons, attracting both domestic and international tourists.
When visiting Kochi Castle, you should explore its beautiful gardens and walking paths during the peaceful nighttime hours. Local restaurants and cafes offer dining with views of the nightscape, featuring local ingredients and special evening hospitality.
Kochi Castle reveals a new charm through its night illuminations alongside its historical value. Experience the stunning nighttime views and appreciate Japan’s rich history in a serene setting. The winter candlelight illuminations are also highly recommended.
If you are interested in visiting Kochi Castle, you can check these pamphlets out:
Source: kochipark.jp
The Nighttime Charm of Takada Castle’s Imposing Defense
Takada Castle, located in Joetsu City, Niigata Prefecture, is a beautiful castle renowned for its nighttime illumination. Its charm lies in its Edo period fortifications, with special nighttime displays enhancing its beauty.
History of Takada Castle
source：https://joetsukankonavi.jp/spot/detail.php?id=366
Takada Castle was built in 1601 by Naoe Kanetsugu, the lord of the Joetsu region. Naoe Kanetsugu, a general known for his loyalty to Uesugi Kenshin during the Sengoku period, constructed Takada Castle as a political and military stronghold under his command.
The castle featured robust defensive facilities from the start, utilizing moats and stone walls for protection. The extensive moats around it contributed to its strategic defense. During the Edo period, significant renovations and additions further enhanced its appearance.
Architectural Features of Takada Castle
source：https://joetsukankonavi.jp/spot/detail.php?id=366
Takada Castle exemplifies Edo period castle architecture. The wooden tenshu features white walls and black tiled roofs, with distinct roof curves and decorations showcasing the era’s architectural skills.
The castle’s integration with its natural surroundings is notable, with expansive moats and gardens that blend the natural beauty with the castle’s grandeur. Recent restoration efforts have faithfully recreated the historical appearance, allowing visitors to experience its ambiance authentically.
Night Views of Takada Castle
Takada Castle at night offers a fantastical experience, as if stepping into a different world. The illuminated castle, blending with Niigata’s landscape, becomes even more captivating during a nighttime stroll.
The soft lighting highlights the tenshu and stone walls, with reflections on the moat’s surface creating a magical sight. Seasonal lighting variations occur, including spring cherry blossom illuminations and autumn foliage, offering a seasonal beauty that attracts tourists.
The cherry blossom illumination in spring is particularly striking, with around 3,000 lights creating an elegant display reflected on the moat. The “Sakura Road” with illuminated cherry blossom tunnels is a must-see.
There is a whole website in English dedicated to the Joetsu region:
https://joetsukankonavi.jp/lang/en/index.php
Source: Joetsu Kanko Navi
Thank you for reading this article until the end! Japan’s diverse seasonal landscapes and advanced lighting techniques offer a unique experience. We encourage you to explore these sites at different times, so you will be able to learn new aspects of their beauty.
