After a construction period of twenty years, Hikone Castle (Hikonejo) was completed in the year 1622. It served as the seat of the local Ii daimyo (feudal lords) until the end of Japan's feudal age in 1868.
Hikone Castle is an original castle, i.e. it survived the post feudal era without undergoing destruction and reconstruction. Most of the castle's inner moats, walls, guard houses and gates also remain intact, giving visitors a good impression of a relatively complete feudal castle.
Hikone Castle's three storied castle tower was uniquely constructed, using various architecture styles. This is one reason why Hikone Castle has been designated a national treasure, the highest designation for cultural properties, held by only three other Japanese castles, Himejijo, Matsumotojo and Inuyamajo.
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