Historic Castles and Ruins

Explore the architectural evolution of Shiga and Kyoto through this selection of feudal strongholds and imperial retreats. This collection includes Hikone Castle, one of Japan's five national treasure castles with its original keep, and the ruins of Azuchi Castle, the former seat of Oda Nobunaga. The list also features the UNESCO-listed Enryakuji Temple complex on Mount Hiei and the 17th-century Shugakuin Imperial Villa, showcasing the transition from military fortifications to refined Edo-period aesthetics.

Daderot / CC BY-SA 3.0

A

Shugakuin Imperial Villa

This astonishing villa, which dates back to the 17th century, is a former estate of the Japanese emperor.

2008/7/30 / Public domain

B

Hikone castle

Hikone Castle is an Edo-period Japanese castle located in the city of Hikone, Shiga Prefecture, Japan.

C

Enryakuji Temple

Founded in 788 by Saicho, this UNESCO World Heritage site is the headquarters of the Tendai sect of Japanese Buddhism. Located on Mount Hiei, the expansive temple complex served as a powerful monastic center for centuries.

663highland / CC BY 2.5

D

Konpon Chu-do

The National Treasure-designated main hall of Enryakuji Temple. It houses the "Inextinguishable Dharma Lamp," which has reportedly burned for over 1,200 years since the temple's founding by Saicho.