Nijo-jo Castle

  Nijo-jo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Kyoto, was completed in 1603 as the residence of Tokugawa shoguns. This historic site features the iconic “nightingale floors,” designed to chirp when walked upon, serving as a security measure against intruders. Visitors can explore its beautifully landscaped gardens, which showcase cherry blossoms in March and April, offering a vibrant backdrop to the castle’s architecture. The castle complex includes impressive structures like the Ninomaru Palace, where exquisite sliding doors adorned with intricate paintings can be admired. Overall, Nijo-jo Castle serves as a stunning example of feudal-era Japan and remains a significant cultural landmark in the heart of the city.