Strolling the castle grounds

I enjoy taking photos of my morning walks and strolls. I modestly describe myself as a history buff; but the truth is have a graduate degree is history and that is a love that never left. I take photos and keep notebooks about the temples, shrines, and castles I visit. These are a few lesser known castles that I visit now and then.

Sumpu Castle, Shizuoka city

This is a restored castle museum and moat. It’s a park now and there are often events and festivals held on the grounds. It’s across from the Shizuoka City Museum of History - which I have been to three times.

Kakegawa Castle, Kakegawa City, Shizuoka

This was really beautiful, though I’ve only been once so far. And it was raining that day, so I only got a few photos. I do remember vividly the long, winding steps leading up to the castle keep. This site includes a restoration of the palace grounds-which were used for clan meetings- and the separate castle keep.

Hamamatsu Castle

This are ruins of the castle slowly restored and combined with replicas. It’s stunning to see it rising out of nowhere driving by. There are also displays of samurai armor.

Hamamatsu Castle

These are just a few photos of places I’ve visited. I have also visited Matsumoto Castle and Odawara Castle. Odawara Castle used to be a go to spot when husband and I wanted a day out. I haven’t been in some time. I want to visit Himeji Castle soon. I am a fan of all manor of castles all over the world. If you have a Substack featuring castles, let me know.