Nijo Castle, located in Kyoto, Japan, is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Japanese history and culture. The castle was built in 1603 by the first shogun of the Edo period, Tokugawa Ieyasu, and was the residence of the shogun and his representatives for the next two centuries. The castle is an impressive example of feudal architecture, and its grounds are filled with beautiful gardens, moats, and stone walls. Here are 10 things to do in Nijo Castle when you visit:
1. Tour the Ninomaru Palace – The Ninomaru Palace is the main building of Nijo Castle and is the best-preserved example of Edo period castle architecture in Japan. The palace is divided into five sections, each with its own unique design and features. As you explore the palace, you’ll be able to see where the shogun and his court lived and worked, as well as the stunning art and craftsmanship used to decorate the interior.
2. Explore the Nightingale Floors – One of the most unique features of Nijo Castle is its “nightingale floors.” These special floors were designed to make a chirping sound when stepped on, alerting the shogun to any intruders. You can still hear the chirping today if you walk on the floors!
3. Visit the Honmaru Palace – The Honmaru Palace is the oldest building in the castle, and it was the residence of the shogun during the Edo period. The palace is surrounded by a beautiful garden filled with cherry trees, and it’s the perfect place to take a break and enjoy the scenery.
4. See the Tea House – The tea house at Nijo Castle is a traditional Japanese building that was once used by the shogun to entertain guests. The tea house is a great place to learn about Japanese tea ceremonies and the culture surrounding them.
5. Stroll Through the Gardens – Nijo Castle is home to several beautiful gardens, including the Ninomaru Garden and the Honmaru Garden. These gardens are filled with lush greenery and colorful flowers, making them a great place to relax and take in the beauty of nature.
6. Watch the Cherry Blossoms – Nijo Castle is one of the best places in Kyoto to see the cherry blossoms in spring. The castle’s grounds are filled with hundreds of cherry trees, and the sight of the trees in full bloom is truly breathtaking.
7. Learn About the History – Nijo Castle is an important part of Japanese history, and there are several museums and exhibitions on the grounds that provide an in-depth look at the castle’s past. You can also take a guided tour of the castle to learn more about the Edo period and the shogun who lived there.
8. Visit the Markets – Nijo Castle is located in the center of Kyoto, and there are several markets and shops nearby. The markets are a great place to pick up souvenirs and traditional Japanese crafts, and you can also sample some of the local cuisine.
9. Take a Boat Ride – Nijo Castle is surrounded by a moat, and there are several boat rides available that will take you around the castle grounds. The boat rides are a great way to get a different perspective of the castle and to take in the scenery from the water.
10. Enjoy the Nightlife – Nijo Castle is located in the heart of Kyoto, and there are plenty of bars, restaurants, and clubs nearby. After a day of exploring the castle, you can enjoy the nightlife and experience the vibrant culture of the city.
Nijo Castle is one of the most iconic and important sites in Japan, and it’s a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Japanese history and culture. Whether you’re exploring the castle’s grounds, learning about its past, or enjoying the nightlife, there’s something for everyone at Nijo Castle.