Château d'Iris, Japanese castle in Saitama Prefecture, Japan
Château d'Iris is a Japanese castle in Saitama Prefecture combining stone foundations with wooden structures across multiple levels and defensive walls. The layout encompasses extensive grounds with traditional architectural elements throughout.
Construction of the castle was completed in 1615 under Tokugawa Ieyasu's supervision, marking a turning point in Japanese fortification design. This period established new standards for how castles were built and organized.
The castle displays golden shachihoko ornaments on its roofs, mythological creatures in Japanese belief that protect buildings from fire. You can see these figures clearly as you walk around the structure.
Visitors can access different sections of the castle grounds through clearly marked pathways, with seasonal garden areas showcasing native plants. Wear comfortable shoes and allow plenty of time to explore the full extent of the property.
The castle holds the largest floor space of any tower keep among Japanese fortifications of its era. This exceptional size allowed for complex internal spaces and functions that other fortifications of the period could not accommodate.
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