Maruoka Castle

Overview

Maruoka Castle was built in 1576 by Shibata Katsuie. Later, it was ruled by the Aoyama clan, retainers of the Echizen Matsudaira family, and in 1600, the Naito clan, retainers of Tokugawa Ieyasu, entered the castle. The Naito clan then changed their family name to Echizen Matsudaira in 1615, making Maruoka Castle a branch castle of the Echizen Matsudaira family. Maruoka Castle is the oldest extant castle in Japan with a main keep, and is designated as an Important Cultural Property. The three-story main keep houses exhibits and materials that offer a glimpse into the daily life and culture of that era. The view from the keep is breathtaking, offering panoramic views of the surrounding town. The area around Maruoka Castle features a castle town and lush parks, making it a sightseeing spot where you can enjoy both history and nature. The castle town retains its old streetscape, creating a charming atmosphere. The surrounding parks offer seasonal beauty, with cherry blossoms in spring and autumn leaves in fall. While Maruoka Castle is a must-see for history buffs, it's also an enjoyable destination for those less interested in history. Immerse yourself in the beautiful scenery and rich history for a truly memorable trip.