Gujō Hachiman Castle, Gifu Prefecture, Japan Sep. 18, 2024

In Japan"s Gifu Prefecture, Gujō Hachiman Castle stands majestically on Hachiman Mountain. Originally constructed in 1559, this castle has witnessed centuries of Japanese history, including the rise and fall of powerful clans. It was torn down during the tumultuous Meiji Restoration—the period that marked the return of imperial power in the country— but was rebuilt in 1933. The castle seen in today"s image is a unique wooden reconstruction, a rarity among Japan"s often concrete-rebuilt castles. This five-story structure, which includes a museum, offers a glimpse into feudal Japan while providing stunning views of the valley below. In addition to the castle, the city of Gujō is also famous for hosting the Gujō Odori, one of Japan"s oldest dance festivals. Held annually from mid-July to early September, the festival sees locals and tourists alike dancing through the night in the castle town, preserving a tradition that dates back more than 400 years.

© ta2funk ito/500px/Getty Images

palette

Today in History

A grove glows green
Sep. 18, 2023Milky Way over Southwest Alentejo and Vicentine Coast Natural Park
Sep. 18, 2025Dunquin Pier, County Kerry, Ireland

More Desktop Wallpapers:

Jan. 21, 2024Eurasian red squirrel, Netherlands
Oct. 25, 2024Frankenstein Friday
Sep. 16, 2023Oktoberfest begins
May 27, 2024Mingan Archipelago National Park Reserve
May 23, 2025World Turtle Day
Apr. 16, 2025Anniversary of Natural Bridges National Monument, Utah, United States
Jul. 18, 2025Orosei, Sardinia, Italy
Mar. 7, 2024Roques de Benet, Els Ports Natural Park, Catalonia, Spain
Do pandas enjoy winter?
Nature’s own canvas
Whats blooming so brightly?
The largest gypsum dune field
Jun. 9, 2024Bardenas Reales Biosphere Reserve and Natural Park, Navarra, Spain
A very public display of affection
Where did you drop the fish, son?
Mar. 27, 2025World Theatre Day
Mar. 22, 2024World Water Day
The healing powers of wastewater
Jun. 23, 2024Dhaka, Bangladesh
Say hello to these halophytes!
A convocation of eagles assembles
Nov. 20, 2025World Childrens Day
Aug. 29, 2024Castellfollit de la Roca, Catalonia, Spain
Keep practicing, little guy
City of ice
Sunlight turning silver to gold
Jan. 5, 2024International Ice and Snow Sculpture Festival, Harbin, China
May 15, 2024The Blue City of Jodhpur, Rajasthan, India
You might be a red-necked grebe if…
Im ready for my close-up, Mr. DeSquirrel