Aichi: 2012

Aichi 2012 Inuyama Castle

Inuyama Castle is one of the 12 Japanese castles still in existence which were built before the Edo period. The castle was the center of power for the Naruse clan, retainers of the Matsudaira clan and rulers of the Inuyama Domain. Inuyama Castle was unique in Japan in that it was privately owned. The donjon (tenshu) has been designated as national treasure. However, it was seized by the Japanese government as part of the Meiji Restoration. In 1891, the castle was damaged in the Great Nōbi Earthquake, and it was returned to the Naruse family in 1895, on the condition that they repair and maintain it. In 2004, ownership of the castle was turned over to a foundation set up by the Aichi Prefecture's Board of Education.

Beautiful Aichi gotochi sent by my friend Risa.

Received 2 April 2013