Castle Life in Feudal Japan
Initially, in Japan, Castles were built along the mountains as a form of defence. The first Castles built were small and simple but during the Shogun period the castles became bigger and more complex. During this period, the Daimyo (military lords) used the castles for defense and also to display their wealth. As well as the castles used by the Daimyo, there were also smaller castles built as “watch towers.” The layout of the larger castles included a very large gate at the front, a courtyard, a reception and a number of small towers surrounding the castle for extra protection. Castles were usually built on a hill or elevated piece of land. They usually featured stone walls and were surrounded by
large moats.
Towns were constructed around castles. The land near castles became perfect for the Japanese to establish themselves and the towns provided extra defense around the castles. Castle towns were called “Jokamachi.” The roads and streets that surrounded the Castles were windy and included many cul-de-sacs. Besides temples, only a samurai could build a home near a castle and the size of a samurais home was an indication of their rank. Lower classes like merchants had to build further away and each class lived in separate sections or wards.
In 1873, two thirds of the castles built during the shogun period were destroyed by the government. Other castles have been destroyed through earthquakes, fire and the bombings of World War 2. The castles were destroyed because they were seen as a reminder of Feudalism. There are only 12 castles still surviving today that are considered to be 'original' however they are not in good condition.
large moats.
Towns were constructed around castles. The land near castles became perfect for the Japanese to establish themselves and the towns provided extra defense around the castles. Castle towns were called “Jokamachi.” The roads and streets that surrounded the Castles were windy and included many cul-de-sacs. Besides temples, only a samurai could build a home near a castle and the size of a samurais home was an indication of their rank. Lower classes like merchants had to build further away and each class lived in separate sections or wards.
In 1873, two thirds of the castles built during the shogun period were destroyed by the government. Other castles have been destroyed through earthquakes, fire and the bombings of World War 2. The castles were destroyed because they were seen as a reminder of Feudalism. There are only 12 castles still surviving today that are considered to be 'original' however they are not in good condition.
Questions
1. What did the Daimyo use castles for?
2. Why do you think the roads around the castles were confusing?
3. Why did the government decide to destroy the castles in the 1800's?
4. How many castles are still considered original?
5. Describe the materials and layout used to create castles.
6. Describe how the layout and surroundings of the castle provided protection.
1. What did the Daimyo use castles for?
2. Why do you think the roads around the castles were confusing?
3. Why did the government decide to destroy the castles in the 1800's?
4. How many castles are still considered original?
5. Describe the materials and layout used to create castles.
6. Describe how the layout and surroundings of the castle provided protection.