Himeji Castle | Edo Japan, 1609
Having spent many years at war during the chaotic feudal period, at the turn of the 17th century, Japan entered their version of the Renaissance—the Edo period—characterized by peace, economic prosperity and an embrace of the arts. This led to many of Japan’s most spectacular structures, not least of which is Himeji Castle, thought of as the best example of Japanese castle architecture.
Left: Svetlana Gumerova on Unsplash & Raku Karai on Unsplash
Himeji Castle was originally built in the 14th century but was given as a gift to Ikeda Terumasa, a feudal lord who was decisive in one of the final battles of the feudal period. Terumasa would completely rebuild the castle from 1601 to 1609 from which point it has remained more or less intact. Himeji is one of three famous castles in Japan to exhibit the Hirayama style, the other two being Matsuyama Castle, built in 1603 and Tsuyama Castle, which was also rebuilt in the Edo period.
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This post is part of an expanded series taken from 37 Wonders of the World in Chronological Order. You can click the link to read more or navigate between individual photo posts beneath the gallery.
Left: Roméo A on Unsplash & Right: Perry Merrity II on Unsplash
