Mini Guide to Japan

Hirosaki Castle

Hirosaki Castle is one of Japan’s original 12 castles that wasn’t destroyed during World War II. The castle started being built in 1603 by the Tsugaru Clan lord and it was only finished in 1611. It used to have a five-story tower, but in 1627, the castle was struck by lightning and it burned down. The new three-story tower was built in 1810 to replace it.

The castle housed the Tsugaru Clan for many generations and has museums with samurai swords, armors, and helmets from the era.

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