Japanese castles were built mainly for military control during times of war and civil unrest, but soon became centers of political life and culture. They were used for "defence, strategic control, impressing people who might cause trouble, centre of government, and al residence for feudal lords and their families," (10). Many castles were built so impressively, they were considered superhuman. They often had gold leaf wallpaper, hundreds of paintings, and other works of art displayed throughout the castle. The pillars were often gilded and carved to look golden, and the towers were tall and imposing - usually from 2 to 5 levels. It was also common for a castle to have an exquisite garden, and many turrets, walls, and moats in rings surrounding the main keep. Only about 100 of about 5,000 castles have survived, and many that have survived are now tourist attractions and museums.
This page was created by Brendan Sobolewski
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