The Three Great Castles of Japan refers to three castles: Osaka Castle, Nagoya Castle, and Himeji Castle (sometimes Kumamoto Castle or Matsumoto Castle is included instead). As historic structures dating back to before the Edo period, the architectural beauty and overwhelming scale of each castle embody the pinnacle of Japanese castle architecture. Visitors can learn history at museums within the castles, enjoy panoramic views from the main towers, and take leisurely strolls through gardens that change with the seasons. As tourist destinations where one can experience traditional Japanese architecture and samurai culture all at once, these castles attract numerous visitors from both Japan and abroad.