Nijo Castle (Nijo-jo Castle): A World Heritage Site in Kyoto

Plum blossoming status in Nijo Castle (confirmed date: 02/22/2024)

If you're interested in Japanese history, architecture, or just want to experience a unique and beautiful location, then Nijō Castle ⭐⭐is a must-visit during your time in Kyoto!

History:

• Built in 1603 by Tokugawa Ieyasu(徳川家康), founder of the Edo Shogunate.
• Served as the residence of the Tokugawa Shogun family for over 260 years.
• Later became a palace for the Imperial family.
• Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994.

Highlights:

• Ninomaru Palace: Features stunning murals and decorations.
• Karamon Gate: A Chinese-style gate with ornate decorations.
• Gardens: Beautiful gardens offering scenic views throughout the year.

Ninomaru Palace

After entering Nijo Castle through the large east gate, you can rent English audio guides at the nearby kiosk. Continue on to explore the Chinese-style Karamon Gate. This leads to the Ninomaru (secondary defense area) where you'll find the beautiful Ninomaru Palace, the castle's highlight.

Ninomaru Palace: A Legacy of Japanese Architecture

Composed of six buildings, Ninomaru Palace stands as a prime example of Shoin-zukuri architecture, a style that emerged during the early Edo period. This significant structure played a vital role in the history of Japanese architecture.

Today, Ninomaru Palace holds the distinction of being the only remaining palace complex within a Japanese castle, as other prominent palaces like Edo Castle, Osaka Castle, and Nagoya Castle have been lost. This unique status has earned it national treasure designation.

Stepping inside, visitors are greeted by a breathtaking display of luxury befitting a shogun's residence. The Kano school, the most prominent school of Japanese painting throughout history, adorns the walls with vibrant murals. Intricate transom carvings and decorative metal fittings further enrich the ambiance, creating a truly magnificent space.

Key Features:

• Located within the secondary circle of defense (Ninomaru).
• Served as the residence and office of the shogun during visits to Kyoto.
• Original form preserved.
• Consists of multiple separate buildings connected by corridors with “nightingale floors” (squeaking floors as a security measure).
• Rooms feature tatami mats, decorated ceilings, and beautifully painted sliding doors (Click here to see the awe-inspiring wall paintings of Ninomaru Palace).

Photo Gallery

On a rainy day, May 14th, 2023, we began our visit at the Ninomaru Palace, the castle's main attraction. Photography and videography are not allowed inside the Ninomaru Palace to help preserve the historical and delicate nature of its interior, including the original paintings and decorations.

We then explored the castle's sprawling gardens, which feature ponds and meticulously landscaped areas. As it was not cherry blossom season, we didn't see any in bloom. However, according to available information, cherry blossoms typically begin blooming around late February.

Karamon Gate

Entrance of Ninomaru Palace (二の丸御殿)

Ceiling paiting of Ninomaru Palace (Source: commons.wikimedia.org)

Tokugawa Yoshinobu in the Kuroshoin  (邨田丹陵, Tanryō Murata, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons)