Strongholds of the Samurai: Japanese Castles 250-1877 (General Military)The first proper fortifications in Japan began to develop with the appearance of the first emperors around 250. Although initially fortifications were simply wooden constructions, as internal strife became a way of life in Japan, more and increasingly elaborate fortifications were built. By the mid 16th century elaborate and beautiful traditional stone castles were wide spread. At the same time, rivalries between different monastic orders led to the