Japan has many examples of its traditional architecture preserved into the modern era. While in Japan, we were able to visit many of their buildings. Still, the most interesting one was that of Osaka Castle, which played a significant role in Japanese history as it was once the site of a major battle that led to the unification of Japan. The Castle was originally completed in 1597 but was burned down in the summer of 1615 by the attacking Tokugawa clan. Buildings burning down due to conflict or accidents is a pervasive theme in Japanese history, and many of these buildings have been destroyed and rebuilt over the years. The current Osaka castle we visited had completed restoration in 1997 after the castle's final destruction during World War II. The castle has become a museum to highlight its role in Japanese history and how it has changed. It is also an excellent example of how Japan takes great measures to preserve their history and architectural works. The castle being repurposed as a museum ensures that it will be protected for centuries to come as well as the outside of the castle being repurposed into a public park which benefits the people living in Osaka while also allowing people to get a view into pre-modern Japan up close. Osaka Castle?s location in the middle of a major metropolitan area also allows for a great observation of how Japanese architecture has changed as you compare this old building to the newer modern skyscrapers. My experience in the castle was very memorable as we got a great tour of the interior and were given time to see the featured exhibits. The exhibits were mainly about the castle and the clans that once inhabited it.
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