Aizuwakamatsu Castle, Japanese castle in Aizuwakamatsu, Japan
Aizuwakamatsu Castle is a Japanese castle in Aizuwakamatsu, Japan, resting on a hill within the city and built from wood with stone foundations. The main tower rises over several floors and is surrounded by walls and moats that reveal its former defensive character.
Ashina Naomori founded the site in 1384 under the name Kurokawa Castle, and it served for centuries as the power center of the Aizu region. After defeat in the Boshin War, the new government ordered its demolition in 1874, but the main tower was rebuilt in 1965.
The place is often linked to the story of the Byakkotai, a group of young warriors whose fate continues to shape the region today. Many visitors come here to understand the connection between the structure and this local memory.
Access is through the main entrance, from where you walk through the grounds to reach the tower. Once at the top, the observation platform offers a wide view over the surrounding landscape and helps with orientation in the city.
The reconstructed tower uses modern reinforced concrete instead of the original wooden framework, which is noticeable when walking through due to the even stability of the floors. Despite this change, the outer form follows the historical model and preserves the traditional appearance.
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