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Construction on Matsue Castle,
the symbol of the castle town of Matsue, began in 1607 and took four years
to complete. The castle was designed to withstand attack during warfare,
and evidence of this can be found throughout the castle compound. Its characteristic
simplicity and sturdiness are typical of castles build just after the Battle
of Sekigahara (1598). In contrast to Himeji Castle's nickname of "White
Heron Castle," Matsue Castle is known as the "Plover Castle." The view from
the Goblin Room on the top floor, unobstructed in all four directions, is
spectacular. The staircase is made of paulownia wood, and several iron bands
encircle each of the structurefs pillars. The donjon houses a display of
battle weapons and other historical artifacts, including a scale model of
Matsue Castle which is said to have been made around the time Matsue Castle
itself was built. |
