Marugame Castle
Shikoku Region
Marugame Castle, located on Kameyama Hill in Marugame city, Kagawa Prefecture, is a remarkable Edo period castle known for its original wooden tenshu (main keep) built in 1660, one of only twelve such surviving structures in Japan. The castle served as the center of the Marugame Domain under the Kyōgoku clan during the Tokugawa Shogunate. Its stone walls are renowned for their impressive height and elegant curved design, reflecting the peak of early Edo castle masonry techniques. Despite partial destruction in the late 19th century, the tenshu and central areas remain preserved and accessible to the public as Kameyama Park. The castle grounds also feature the relocated Enjukan villa and the Marugame City Museum, which showcases historical artifacts related to the castle and local clan history. Marugame Castle is recognized as a National Historic Site and listed among Japan's Top 100 Castles, offering visitors a unique glimpse into feudal Japanese architecture and history amidst a scenic urban setting.
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Consejo: The best time to visit Marugame Castle is during spring when cherry blossoms bloom, enhancing the castle's scenic beauty. Visitors are encouraged to walk from Marugame Station, just 15 minutes away, for convenient access. To fully enjoy the site, consider using the official Marugame Castle History Experience app, which offers a CG reconstruction of the castle in the Edo period. Tickets for special events or guided tours may require advance booking. Discounts may be available for seniors, students, and groups, so check the official website before visiting.
Datos interesantes
- •Marugame Castle has the tallest stone walls of any castle in Japan, showcasing advanced masonry from the early Edo period.
- •It is one of only twelve Japanese castles to retain its original wooden tenshu built before 1860.
- •The castle grounds include the Enjukan villa, relocated from the Kyōgoku clan's former residence in the castle town.
- •The castle was listed among Japan's Top 100 Castles by the Japan Castle Foundation in 2006.
Historia
Marugame Castle was originally constructed beginning in 1597 by Ikoma Chikamasa on Kameyama Hill to control western Sanuki Province.
After the Tokugawa shogunate's one castle per domain law in 1615, the castle was initially abolished.
It was rebuilt starting in 1640 by Yamazaki Ieharu, who constructed the impressive stone walls and tenshu.
The Kyōgoku clan took over in 1658 and completed the castle by 1670.
After a fire in 1869 and partial demolition during the Meiji period, the castle was preserved by the Imperial Japanese Army and later opened to the public in 1919.
It has since been protected as a National Historic Site and Important Cultural Property.
Guía del lugar
Tenshu (Main Keep)1660
The original three-story wooden main keep built in 1660, notable for its historical authenticity and architectural style, serving as the symbol of Marugame Castle.
Stone Walls1640-1670
The castle's stone walls are the tallest in Japan, featuring elegant curves and superior masonry techniques from the early Edo period, reflecting the craftsmanship of that era.
Ote Ichi-no-mon Gate1670
A masugata-style gate built in 1670, serving as the primary entrance to the castle, protected as an Important Cultural Property.
Ote Ni-no-mon Gate1670
Another masugata-style gate constructed in 1670, located near the main gate, also designated as an Important Cultural Property.
Enjukan VillaRelocated in 1933
A villa originally owned by the Kyōgoku clan, relocated to the castle grounds in 1933, offering insight into the lifestyle of the castle's ruling family.
Marugame City Museum1972
Museum exhibiting historical materials related to Marugame Castle and the Kyōgoku clan, opened in 1972 to educate visitors about local history.
Contacto
Teléfono: 0877-25-3881