Скачать или смотреть Virtual Tour | Honmaru Goten: One of Japan’s Last Two Examples of a Lord’s Palace Residence

Step inside Kawagoe Castle’s Honmaru Goten, the last surviving piece of a once-mighty Edo-period fortress and a rare glimpse into Japan’s feudal past. Located just outside Tokyo, Kawagoe Castle was originally built in 1457 and played a vital role as a defensive stronghold north of Edo (modern-day Tokyo). Over the centuries, it became home to 21 powerful lords closely tied to the Tokugawa Shogunate.

Today, only the Honmaru Goten (本丸御殿) - the main palace - remains. Built in 1848 by Lord Matsudaira Naritsune, it served as the residence and administrative center for the domain's ruling lord. It’s one of just two surviving castle palaces in Japan (the other being at Kōchi Castle), and it offers a rare look at the inner workings of a daimyo’s court.

Explore its tatami-lined rooms, elegant pine-painted doors, and minimalist yet imposing architecture. You can even sit beside life-sized figures of a lord and his vassals, imagining the weighty decisions made within these walls. Exhibits and historical displays bring the region’s political and military past to life, while the serene atmosphere preserves the dignity of samurai-era governance.

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➡️ Explore Japan's rich history with engaging video content, including in 360°. Designed to be a fun and interactive way to learn about the fascinating history of Japan, discover the wonders of this incredible country. Educators of Japanese history and culture are welcome to download free image content.

📚 Educators: Links 360° images for download and classroom use will be available soon.

🔗 Access to 360° images coming eventually at www.socialstudiessamurai.com!

Thumbnail image by the channel author.