Matsumoto-jo Second Moat

Matsumoto Castle

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September 24th 2008
Yesterday was all about Matsumoto-jo (Jo meaning Castle). Matsumoto-jo was built in the early 1500s, making it older then the other castle I saw last trip, Himeji-jo. Himeji is about 10x larger, but this castle makes up for it in breathtaking splendor... which explains the over 100 pictures I ended up taking today lol. I've uploaded “the best” pics here for you to check it out. I accidenta ... read more

Asia » Japan » Nagano

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In 1603, a Tokugawa shogunate (military dictatorship) ushered in a long period of isolation from foreign influence in order to secure its power. For 250 years this policy enabled Japan to enjoy stability and a flowering of its indigenous culture. Fol... ... read more