Top 10 Most Visited Castles in Japan (2023) – Best Historical Spots by Attendance

Japan is home to some of the most beautiful and historically significant castles in the world.

 

While many travelers flock to shrines, temples, and anime hotspots, Japanese castles offer a unique glimpse into the country's feudal past—filled with tales of samurai, political intrigue, and architectural brilliance.

 

In this article, we reveal the Top 10 Most Visited Castles in Japan for 2023, based on official attendance figures. Whether you're a history buff, a photography lover, or simply want to step into a real-life samurai drama, these castles are perfect additions to your itinerary.

🏆 The Top 10 Most Visited Castles in Japan (2023)

1. Osaka Castle (Osaka)

大阪城（大阪府）
Visitors: 2,402,157
One of Japan’s most famous landmarks, Osaka Castle is surrounded by massive stone walls, moats, and cherry trees. Though the current keep is a 20th-century reconstruction, the castle grounds and museum offer impressive exhibits on Toyotomi Hideyoshi and the history of the Sengoku era.

 

Access: 10 min walk from Osakajokoen Station (JR Loop Line)
Don’t Miss: The panoramic view from the top floor.

 

2. Nagoya Castle (Aichi)

名古屋城（愛知県）
Visitors: 2,059,707
Once a center of power for the Tokugawa shogunate, Nagoya Castle features iconic golden shachihoko (tiger-headed carp) on its roof. While the main keep is under reconstruction, the Hommaru Palace has been beautifully restored.

 

Access: 5 min walk from Shiyakusho Station (Subway Meijo Line)
Tip: Visit the Ninomaru Garden for quiet views.

 

3. Nijo Castle (Kyoto)

二条城（京都府）
Visitors: 1,856,673
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Nijo Castle was once the Kyoto residence of Tokugawa Ieyasu. Famous for its “nightingale floors” and lavish interiors, it offers a glimpse into elite samurai life.

 

Access: 2 min walk from Nijojo-mae Station (Subway Tozai Line)
Highlight: Walk through the ornate Ninomaru Palace rooms.

 

4. Himeji Castle (Hyogo)

姫路城（兵庫県）
Visitors: 1,479,567
Often called the "White Heron Castle," Himeji is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Japan’s most well-preserved feudal castle. Its elegant white facade and multi-layered design make it a top photo destination.

 

Access: 15 min walk from Himeji Station (JR/Sanyo Line)
Best Time: Spring (cherry blossoms) or fall foliage season.

 

5. Kumamoto Castle (Kumamoto)

熊本城（熊本県）
Visitors: 1,353,520
Badly damaged by a 2016 earthquake, Kumamoto Castle has undergone impressive restoration. Its black-and-white facade, stone walls, and reconstructed turrets are symbolic of southern Japan’s feudal pride.

 

Access: 15 min walk or tram from Kumamoto Station
Unique: You can view interior quake damage via glass walkways.

 

6. Shuri Castle (Okinawa)

首里城（沖縄県）
Visitors: 959,458
Once the royal palace of the Ryukyu Kingdom, Shuri Castle blends Chinese and Japanese architectural styles. Although the main hall was lost to fire in 2019, restoration is ongoing, and the outer grounds remain open.

 

Access: 15 min walk from Shuri Station (Yui Rail)
Fun Fact: It’s bright red—unlike any other castle in Japan!

 

7. Matsumoto Castle (Nagano)

松本城（長野県）
Visitors: 897,424
Known as the “Crow Castle” for its black exterior, Matsumoto is one of Japan’s few remaining original castles. Surrounded by a picturesque moat and mountains, it’s beloved by photographers and historians alike.

 

Access: 15 min walk from Matsumoto Station (JR Shinonoi Line)
Bonus: Climb steep wooden stairs inside the original tower.

 

8. Hikone Castle (Shiga)

彦根城（滋賀県）
Visitors: 651,149
Another of Japan’s original keeps, Hikone Castle sits atop a gentle hill overlooking Lake Biwa. The grounds feature historical residences, cherry trees, and the beloved mascot Hikonyan.

 

Access: 15 min walk from Hikone Station (JR Line)
Highlight: Visit Genkyu-en Garden just outside the main keep.

 

9. Inuyama Castle (Aichi)

犬山城（愛知県）
Estimated Rank: 9
This National Treasure is the oldest original wooden castle keep in Japan (built in 1537). Perched above the Kiso River, it offers a rare look at pre-modern architecture.

 

Access: 20 min walk from Inuyama Station (Meitetsu Line)
Photo Spot: View from the riverside promenade.

 

10. Matsue Castle (Shimane)

松江城（島根県）
Estimated Rank: 10
Known as the "Black Castle," Matsue is one of only 12 remaining original castles. It features an elegant, multi-tiered structure and stunning views over Lake Shinji.

 

Access: 20 min walk or bus from Matsue Station
Tip: Don’t miss the nearby samurai district and horikawa boat tour.

 

📊 Ranked by the Numbers

🗺️ Which Castle Should You Visit?

• 📸 Best for Photography: Himeji or Matsumoto
• 🌆 Best for City Access: Osaka or Nagoya
• 🧘 Best for Peaceful Atmosphere: Matsue or Hikone
• 🏝️ Best Cultural Blend: Shuri (Okinawa)
• ⚔️ Best Original Castle: Inuyama or Matsumoto

🧭 Castle Visiting Tips

• 👟 Wear comfortable shoes—some castles involve lots of stairs or hills
• 📆 Check seasonal events (like sakura or autumn illuminations)
• 🎫 Buy combo tickets for nearby museums or gardens when available
• 📕 Consider getting a Japanese Castle Stamp Book (御城印帳) for collecting stamps at each site!

🇯🇵 Final Thoughts

Japanese castles are more than just photogenic backdrops—they're living testaments to the country’s dramatic history and regional diversity. Whether you start with Osaka Castle or seek out the quiet elegance of Matsue, there’s a castle for every kind of traveler.

 

So pack your camera and imagination—Japan’s castles are ready to welcome you.