Restored Castle Watchtower Open To Public In Mito
A restored castle watchtower in Mito, northeast of Tokyo, opened to the public on Sunday.
The Ninomaru Sumiyagura tower is said to have been lost in a fire in 1776. It was one of the main structures of Mito Castle that did not feature a keep.
Inside the tower, visitors can see pictures, videos and other displays about the restoration process and the history of the castle.
The Mito city government has been working to recreate the historic features of the area around the castle ruins with donations.
The main gate and walls surrounding the compound have been restored. The completion of the watchtower marks the end of the project.
A local resident said she hopes the restored structures will help to boost tourism.
City official Ogawa Kuniaki says the watchtower is a faithful replica of the original, and he thinks local people will be proud of the tower and tourists will be able to feel the history of Mito.