All About Japan

Miniature Edo Castle

Historical Site Tokyo Imperial Palace Tokyo

Good news for fans of history! A miniature model of the former Edo Castle is on display in the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace in Tokyo.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DkdqZgD5MUA

The castle housed the Tokugawa shogunate from 1600 to 1868. During that time, the main tower was rebuilt three times. The Imperial Household Agency made a replica of the third version of the structure built by shogun Tokugawa Iemitsu. The model is about 1/30th the size of the real thing.

Workers used a 3D printer to make small parts like the golden fishlike decorations on the roof. Unfortunately, the start of the exhibit was delayed by half a year due to the coronavirus, but history buffs can appreciate the model in the East Garden now!