Japan's Most Spectacular Castles and Temples (20 Photos)

Japan's castles and temples stand in stark contrast to their European counterparts. Embodying the rich cultural heritage of the nation, these architectural marvels strike a perfect balance between human craftsmanship and nature.

Crafted from natural stone and wood, more than 50 of these majestic historic structures endure today, with many surviving in their original form.





Odawara Castle



Odawara Castle in Odawara, Japan. Originally built in 1418; reconstructed in 1960. (Agustin Rafael Reyes)

Osaka Castle





Osaka Castle in Osaka, Japan. Founded in 1585.



(Nico)

Himeji Castle



Himeji Castle in Himeji, Japan. Founded in 1333. (Bernard Gagnon)



(Sam Gao)

Nijo Castle



Nijo Castle in Kyoto, Japan. Built in 1603. The castle grounds comprise numerous structures, including Ninomaru Palace, the Southeast Watchtower, the North and East Gates, and surrounding gardens. (Morten Legarth)



The Southeast Watchtower. (Morten Legarth)



The Castle Gardens. (lacinda)



Ninomaru Palace. (LASZLO ILYES)

Aizuwakamatsu Castle



Aizuwakamatsu Castle in Aizuwakamatsu, Japan. Founded in 1384. (かがみ～)



(yisris)

Senso-ji Temple



Senso-ji Temple in Tokyo, Japan. Founded in 628. (Antonio Tajuelo)



(Antonio Tajuelo)

Kinkaku-ji Temple (The Golden Pavilion)



Kinkaku-ji Temple in Kyoto, Japan. Founded in 1397. (themonnie)



(ajari)

Inuyama Castle



Inuyama Castle in Inuyama, Japan. Built in 1537; reconstructed in 1965. (Yamaguchi Yoshiaki)



(Odyssey)

Tokyo Imperial Palace



Tokyo Imperial Palace in Tokyo, Japan. (yasa_)



Gardens at the Tokyo Imperial Palace in Tokyo, Japan. (Juan Pablo Colasso)