Monday, February 11, 2008

Black Plover -Matsue Castle-


We went to Matsue city, Shimane prefecture. Matsue is famous for a beautiful castle, Matsue-jyo(castle) which is not replica! There are only 12 original (there are levels of how much is original though) castle constructions in Japan. Matsue castle has a nick name as Plover Castle because of its beautiful triangular roof. The Plover Gable looks like the shape of a plover's outspread wings. Also, black wooden paneling makes this castle stunning. Most of the walls of the castle are painted black as it was popular style of Momoyama era.

Unfortunately, I did not have time to explore inside. On the way back I picked up some brochure about Matsue-city and Matsue Castle. There are lots of stuff I missed to see! A water well in the basement, where was used as storage as well, when they locked themselves during a siege....Large holes to drop stones for enermy....even though they must have some repairs and mends, this castle was built in 1611. I hope I can go back some day and take a good look and nice long walk to enjoy the area.

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