On February 22, 2026, the Kan’ei Culture Lecture titled “The People Who Built Nijo Castle” was held. The event was organized by the Executive Committee for the 400th Anniversary of the Kan’ei Gyoko and co-hosted by Living History KYOTO.
The speakers were Mr. Naoki Tani, Professor Emeritus at Osaka City University and former Director of the Osaka Museum of Housing and Living, a position he held for twenty years until 2021, and Professor Toshikazu Inoue of Kyoto University of Arts and Crafts.
Professor Inoue spoke about the overall structure of the buildings of Nijo-jo, which underwent major renovations in preparation for the Kan’ei Gyoko (Imperial Visit by the Emperor).
Professor Tani introduced the work of the Nakai family, the chief master carpenters serving the Tokugawa Shogunate, using historical documents. His talk covered not only Nijo Castle but also examples such as Nagoya Castle and Osaka Castle.
Four hundred years ago, Nijo Castle assumed the form largely seen today. The lecture offered a moment to feel closer to the people who were involved in its construction.
We extend our sincere thanks to Professors Inoue and Tani, as well as to everyone who attended.