White Heron Castle travel tips and stories. Vacations ideas, cruises, spa and resorts

Few original Japanese landmark survive because their wooden structures were so vulnerable to fire. White Heron Caste, however is perfectly preserved because its walls were covered and reinforced with white fireproof plaster. The building’s name derives form this peculiarity as well as of its gracefully upturned eaves, which gave the impression of a heron taking flight. Built on Mount Himeyama, the castle was originally a fortification for the Akamatsu clan against attacks from local shoguns. Photo by: JP in Dublin

The effective organization of its key buildings, the high stone foundations, watch-towers, fortified passageways, and ramparts confirm the White Heron Castle was built as an impenetrable defense stronghold but also devised to wield subtle psychological warfare. The theory has never been tested after all, but the gates, baileys, and outer walls of the complex laid out so that the enemy would be to forced the circle around the castle. Today, the seemingly endless stairs and passages continue to confuse people trying to get in-or out – and visitors easily lose their way. Location: Himeji, Japan. Photo by: BratoDB