Experience the life of the shogun with a guided tour of the town of Inuyama. Standing atop a hill overlooking the Kiso River, Inuyama Castle has unchanged since its construction in 1537. Designated a National Treasure, its donjon is the oldest among Japan's existing castles. Inuyama means "dog mountain" and when you arrive, you'll find several statues of dogs around the castle's entrance believed to protect those who stroll the castle's serene grounds. Inside, you'll discover displays of remarkable samurai armor, beautiful folding screens and impressive documents from the town's historical past. Take a walk up to the top floor and you'll be rewarded with awe-inspiring views of the entire region. Next is a visit to the Karakuri Exhibition Pavilion, home to mechanical puppets. Popular during the 18th century, they operated using an intricate system of cogwheels, springs, rods, and pulleys that allowed them to perform lifelike movements.