Himeji Jo Photo | TrekEarth

Photographer’s Note

Himeji Jo is the best period castle of Japan still in its original condition. Finished in 1609, it employs a genius system of defences, from lock out doors in interior spaces to steps that are spaced so as to be inconvenient for those climbing them. The way to the keep is convoluted, and doesn't follow logic (ie the path that appears to go up to the keep twists away back to the base).

After the Meiji restoration of the 1860's, when the emperor was once again in control, castles like this one were seen as a threat by the government. Thus, they fell into disrepair. Himeji Jo suffered being used as military barracks, and was once put up for public auction for about $1 000 000. There were no buyers.

This photo was cropped a little, and I admit to a little desaturation, because it just seemed to add more of a period feel.

ocskaymarci, dragonslayero has marked this note useful

Critiques | Translate

dragonslayero (3108) 2006-10-31 10:52

Hello Andrew

This is really a beautiful photo, the distance to the target is good so you get the entire castle well within the frame.
I'm getting a feeling that the castle is somewhat out of focus, it is really hard to tell if it even is. But I'm just getting the feeling.
What settings did you use for this shot?

Odd Jarle

ocskaymarci (2510) 2006-10-31 10:52

Hi Andrew,
Very nice photo of the monumental castle. I like the POV! But I think it needs saturation, so I took the plunge and made a workshop. I hope you don't mind!
Best wishes,
Marton

[workshop] [compare] +

toto (18783) 2006-10-31 11:02

Superbe ce temple Japonnais,merci de le partager avec votre photo, cela me permet de visiter un peu le Japon. Thomas

battousai (827) 2006-10-31 12:11

Hi Andrew,

Nice picture - very well composed, balanced and executed. I haven't been to Himeji Jo, but I've heart it's extremely beautiful and, unlike most of Japanese castles, it's not only preserved from outside but also inside.

Best regards

Pawel