Japan

2025-05-20
7 minutes read

Matsumoto Castle Travel Guide: Samurai History & Visiting Tips

I still remember the way my footsteps slowed as I approached Matsumoto Castle for the first time. It was early April, the sky clear, the air thick with the faint scent of cherry blossoms, and there it was—this brooding, beautiful fortress reflected in the still waters of its moat. Black, bold, and silent. Locals call […]

Himeji Castle surrounded by cherry blossoms and a traditional boat on the moat during spring.

2025-03-23
7 minutes read

Himeji Castle: A Timeless Icon of Japan’s Samurai Age

I’ve seen castles that sit atop cliffs, ones nestled in forests, and even a few that look like they were conjured straight out of a fairytale. But Himeji Castle? It’s different. It doesn’t just sit on a hill overlooking the city of Himeji—it owns it. Gleaming white like a heron taking flight, this castle has […]