At first glance, Japanese castles ("shiro") and European fortified castles are quite different in terms of architecture, materials and function... But both served a vital need: to control a territory and defend a power.
The European castle, a massive stone fortress, favored passive defense: high ramparts, moats, battlements, archery towers. They were designed to withstand prolonged sieges, centralize lordship and assert the suzerain's power.
By contrast, Japanese castles, often built of wood and plaster on high stone bases, focus on visual strategy and mobility. Their tiered architecture, with cascading roofs, concealed labyrinths of corridors and traps to trap attackers. The castle was also the administrative center and prestige symbol of the daimyō.
Two strategic visions of power: one locks down, the other dissuades. Which would you choose to establish your dominance?
From the Forge to Your Hand: Handcrafted Katanas and Exceptional Swords
Samurai & Katana | Middle Ages & Swords | Templar | Legend & Cinema 
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