Himeji Castle
Japan’s finest — never destroyed, never rebuilt with concrete. White exterior sparkles in sunlight. ¥1,050. 30 minutes from Osaka by Shinkansen.
Matsumoto Castle
Black walls reflected in moat — the ‘Crow Castle.’ Authentic 1597 keep. ¥700. 2.5 hours from Tokyo.
Osaka Castle
Large park, reconstructed. Best during cherry blossom season. ¥600.
Hikone Castle
One of 12 original surviving castles. On Lake Biwa near Kyoto. ¥800.
Himeji Castle day trips from Osaka and Kyoto are bookable on Klook.