Takamatsu Castle (Tamamo Castle)
Shikoku Region
Takamatsu Castle, located in central Takamatsu on the island of Shikoku, Japan, is a unique coastal fortress famed for its seawater moats, one of only three castles in Japan with such a feature. Built between 1588 and 1590 by Ikoma Chikamasa following Toyotomi Hideyoshi's conquest of Shikoku, the castle served as the headquarters of the Takamatsu Domain. Its strategic position facing the Seto Inland Sea was vital for controlling sea lanes and defending against rival clans. The castle complex, covering 400 by 200 meters, featured a three-story main keep accessible only by bridge, surrounded by stone walls, water moats, and traditional masugata compound gates. Over centuries, it changed hands from the Ikoma clan to the Matsudaira family, who enhanced the castle with a five-story tenshu. Though the main keep was dismantled in 1884, several Edo-period watchtowers and gates remain, designated as Important Cultural Properties. The castle grounds, now a public park, also include the Hiunkaku villa and gardens, recognized for their cultural and scenic significance. Despite damage during World War II, restoration efforts have preserved key structures, making Takamatsu Castle a celebrated historic site and a highlight for visitors interested in Japan's feudal past and coastal defenses.
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Tip: Visitors should aim to visit Takamatsu Castle during spring for cherry blossoms or autumn for colorful foliage, enhancing the scenic beauty of the seawater moats and gardens. It is advisable to purchase tickets or check opening hours in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons. The castle is conveniently located within a 10-minute walk from JR Shikoku Takamatsu Station, making it easily accessible. Discounts may be available for groups, seniors, and students. Guided tours can enrich the experience by providing detailed historical context.
Interesting facts
- •Takamatsu Castle is one of only three castles in Japan with seawater moats, the others being Imabari Castle and Nakatsu Castle.
- •The castle’s main keep (tenshu) was dismantled in 1884 due to aging but several Edo-period watchtowers and gates remain as Important Cultural Properties.
- •The castle grounds include the Hiunkaku villa and its gardens, designated a National Important Cultural Property and Place of Scenic Beauty respectively.
- •The Sakuragomon gate, destroyed in World War II air raids, was rebuilt in 2022.
- •Takamatsu Castle was listed among Japan's Top 100 Castles by the Japan Castle Foundation in 2006.
History
Takamatsu Castle was constructed between 1588 and 1590 by Ikoma Chikamasa after Toyotomi Hideyoshi's conquest of Shikoku to establish a strategic stronghold in Sanuki Province.
Initially overshadowed by Marugame Castle due to its small size, it became the main seat of power after the Battle of Sekigahara in 1600.
The Ikoma clan was replaced by the Matsudaira family in 1642, who rebuilt parts of the castle including adding a five-story main keep.
The castle was turned over to the Imperial Japanese Army in 1868 and many structures were demolished or destroyed by 1884.
Surviving buildings were designated as Important Cultural Properties post-World War II, and the site opened as a public park in 1955.
It was recognized among Japan's Top 100 Castles in 2006.
Place Guide
Kita-no-maru Tsukimi Yagura and Nanmen Tsuzuki Yagura1676
Two connected watchtower structures from the middle Edo period (1676), designated as Important Cultural Properties. These towers offer insight into the castle’s defensive architecture and historical samurai presence.
Kita-no-maru Mizute Gomon Gate1830-1867
A late Edo period gate (1830-1867) that served as a key entry point within the castle’s northern enclosure, showcasing traditional Japanese castle gate construction.
Kita-no-Maru Watari Yagura1676
A middle Edo period watchtower (1676) forming part of the castle’s northern defenses, exemplifying the architectural style of the period.
Higashi-No-Maru Ushitora Yagura1677
A middle Edo period watchtower (1677) located in the eastern enclosure, serving as part of the castle’s defensive network.
Hiunkaku Main Building1917
The former Matsudaira family villa built in 1917 on the castle grounds, now recognized as a National Important Cultural Property, illustrating early 20th-century Japanese residential architecture.
Hiunkaku Kura Warehouse1917
Warehouse associated with the Hiunkaku villa, built in 1917 and designated as a National Important Cultural Property, reflecting the estate’s historical significance.
Hiunkaku Warehouse1926
Additional storage building on the Hiunkaku estate, constructed in 1926 and recognized for its cultural value.
Contact
Phone: 087-851-1521