The Basic Types of Japanese Castle

This computer-generated image is a reconstruction of Odani Castle in Nagahama, Shiga Prefecture, the residence for the Azai clan for three generations. It shows how the fortifications on the ridges were connected. The castle was abandoned after Azai Nagamasa was defeated by Oda Nobunaga. (Computer graphics courtesy of Naruse Kyōji)

Bitchū Matsuyama Castle, classed as one of the three great yamajiro of Japan, is referred to as a “castle in the sky,” and renowned for its beauty as it seemingly floats on a sea of clouds. (© Pixta)

In 1644, the shogunate ordered a drawing of Mogami’s Yamagata Castle to be made. It is representative of the type of hirajiro constructed during the Warring State period. (Courtesy National Archives of Japan)

Marugame Castle still remains in its lofty position on the hill above the city. (© Pixta)

The defense network of shijō built by the Hōjō clan, showing provinces in what is now Kantō. This map, dated around 1585, is when the network was at its largest. The head of the clan at that time was Hōjō Ujimasa.

Hachiōji Castle in Tokyo is a typical example of a Hōjō clan shijō. (© Pixta)

The series of jinshiro used by Hideyoshi to attack Tottori Castle, now known as Taikōganaru, is located 1.5 kilometers away from the castle itself. (© Pixta)