Iwamura Castle Ruins

Iwamura Jōseki

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One of Japan's Three Great Mountain Castles, boasting magnificent stone walls built atop a 717m mountain.

Historic Sites
Castle

Tourist destination images of Iwamura Castle Ruins(1)

Tourist destination images of Iwamura Castle Ruins(2)

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Tourist destination images of Iwamura Castle Ruins(4)

HighlightsPanoramic view from the 717m summit
Magnificent stone walls
One of Japan's Three Great Mountain Castles
Historic castle ruins
Designated as a National Historic Site

Basic Information

Address: Iwamura-cho, Ena City, Gifu Prefecture, Japan Search for tourist attractions in Gifu

Access: Car: Approx. 20 minutes from Ena IC on the Chuo Expressway via National Route 257. Train: Take the JR Chuo Line to Ena Station, then transfer to the Akechi Railway to Iwamura Station. It's about a 30-minute walk from the station. Show route

Op.Hours: 24 hours a day

Cld.Days: None

Fee: Free

INFO: There are two parking areas: one near Honmaru (the main keep) and another at the foot of the mountain in front of the Iwamura Castle Museum. The parking area near Honmaru is accessible via a mountain road, so if you have a low-slung car or are not confident in your driving skills, please use the parking lot at the foot of the mountain.

HP: https://iwamura.jp/

Overview

Iwamura Castle Ruins are located atop a 717m mountain in Ena City, Gifu Prefecture. It's considered one of Japan's Three Great Mountain Castles. Built during the Kamakura period by Kato Kageyasu, a retainer of Minamoto no Yoritomo, it was subsequently controlled by many prominent warlords, including the Oda and Tokugawa clans. The remaining stone walls and earthworks powerfully evoke the castle's grandeur, and the site is designated as a National Historic Site. Also known as "Kirigajo" (Castle in the Mist), its location in a frequently foggy area likely served as a natural defense against enemy attacks. Iwamura Castle Ruins are perfect for history buffs and nature lovers alike. From the summit, you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Mount Ena and the surrounding mountains. The surrounding area also features historical museums and local history museums where you can learn about the history and culture of Iwamura. Iwamura Castle Ruins are a must-see destination when visiting Gifu Prefecture.