OLIVIER ROBERT PHOTO

It is an honor to be invited to write an article on the history and architecture of Japanese castles for the Royal Society for Asian Affairs (RSAA) in London. This article, published in their magazine Caravanserai n°7 (July 2025), is illustrated with several of my photographs. In this publication focused on the architecture of Japanese castles, I address the essential events that, through important periods of history, allowed castles to develop. I also discuss the five major

Japan is home to a rich architectural heritage, featuring unique examples of feudal art and engineering. Among the most remarkable are 5 castles designated as National Treasures, a distinction that highlights their historical, cultural, and artistic significance. Here’s an overview of these 5 iconic structures, which also make for excellent photographic subjects. Fine Art Prints © O. Robert (Purchase here) Let me be clear right from the start, Himeji Castle will always remain

Lake Biwa, located in the Shiga Prefecture of Japan, is the country's largest freshwater lake and plays a crucial role both ecologically and culturally. It is renowned for its natural beauty, unique biodiversity, and historical significance. It has also been a source of inspiration for many photographers in recent years. Fine Art Print © O. Robert (Purchase here) Certainly, Lake Biwa is the most interesting lake I have had the pleasure of working on in the last 15 years, afte

Hikone Castle, located near Lake Biwa in Shiga Prefecture, is a historical monument of significant importance. It played a key role in Japan's history, especially during the Edo period. Designated as a National Treasure, its history begins in the early 17th century, shortly after the end of the Sengoku period. Photographing in the footsteps of the Shogun TV series. © O. Robert An Original Nickname Hikone Castle is often referred to as " The Castle of the Golden Turtle " (金亀城,

Chomeiji Temple, located in Shiga Prefecture, has a rich and fascinating history. Founded in the early 7th century, this temple is one of the many significant sites in the Lake Biwa region and is one of the oldest Buddhist temples in the country. Its privileged location makes it a must-visit site in the region for photography. © O. Robert Chomeiji is notably known as the 31st temple in the Saigoku Kannon pilgrimage, which consists of 33 temples in total. This pilgrimage is on

Lake Yogo, often referred to as the "Mirror of the Sky", is a small lake located north of Lake Biwa in Shiga Prefecture, Japan. Although much smaller than Lake Biwa, it maintains a close and interesting relationship with the latter, both geologically and in historical and cultural terms. Another gem for minimalist lake photography. Fine Art Print © O. Robert (Purchase here) Relationship with Lake Biwa Geologically, Lake Yogo and Lake Biwa are both situated in a region charact

The Biwako Marsh, also known as the "Wetland," refers to a wetland ecosystem located to the north of Lake Biwa in Shiga Prefecture, Japan. Classified as a Ramsar priority site, this marshland area is also a prime location for wildlife and landscape photographers. Fine Art Print © O. Robert (Purchase here) It is undoubtedly in winter that I have spent my best moments as a photographer in this region. The morning frost on the branches of submerged trees gives the images a surre

The Biwa Lake Museum is an institution dedicated to presenting and preserving the natural and ecological history of the Biwa Lake region. This cultural establishment plays a crucial role in raising awareness about the lake's ecology and in the preservation of local heritage. Fine Art Print © O. Robert (Purchase here) History and Foundation The Biwa Lake Museum was inaugurated in 1996 . Its creation was in response to a growing need to preserve and study the unique ecosystem o