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Minami Yagura / Matsue Castle

The “Minami Yagura” (south turret) of Matsue Castle is located in the inner wall of Matsue Castle and is one of the most important accessory structures built as a key part of the castle's defense. This turret was designed to protect the south side of the castle and to serve as a base from which to prevent enemy invasion. It is a multi-story wooden structure designed to blend in with the surrounding landscape. Its solid construction not only served a defensive function, but also enhanced the overall dignity of Matsue Castle. The history of the south turret can be traced back to the early Edo period, when Matsue Castle was built, when it was completed as part of the castle fortifications, and thereafter it was utilized as the castle's defense mechanism throughout the domain period. Especially during the Edo period, the turret was strictly maintained in case of war, but in times of peace, it was also used as a facility for storing supplies and as a watchtower. Later, many of the castle buildings were lost due to the decree to abolish castles in the Meiji era, but the historical value of the main part of Matsue Castle was recognized, and part of the castle was preserved. However, like other turrets, the south turret was swallowed up by the wave of modernization after the Meiji era and has not been preserved in its original form. In recent years, attempts have been made to restore Minami Yagura as well as other buildings in Matsue Castle. In restoring it, efforts have been made to reproduce its original appearance as accurately as possible, based on historical data and construction techniques of the time. Today, it is open to tourists as a symbolic part of Matsue Castle and conveys the ingenuity and beauty of Edo period castle architecture.


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