Koriyama Castle Ruins

Overview

Koriyama Castle, built by Tsutsui Junkei in 1580, is the largest castle in Yamato. Many prominent warlords served as its lords, including Toyotomi Hidetada, Mizuno Katsunari, Matsudaira Tadateru, Honda Tadatoki, and Yanagizawa Yoshizane. It was largely completed during Hidetada's time, and its scale was solidified by Masuda Nagamori's construction of the outer moat. This resulted in a castle with a triple moat system (inner, middle, and outer), a formidable defense. The central area housed the castle keep, Bishamongaku, Hoingaku, and other structures, surrounded by samurai residences and the castle town. While the castle keep no longer stands, the core structures such as the castle keep foundation, Bishamongaku, and Hoingaku are designated as Nara Prefectural Historic Sites. The inner moat and stone walls are well-preserved. Recently, gates and turrets like the Otemon Gate, Otemuke Yagu, and Higashi Sumi Yagu have been restored, allowing visitors to imagine its former grandeur. The site is now developed as Koriyama Castle Ruins Park, with well-maintained walking paths for a relaxing stroll. Koriyama Castle is also famous for its cherry blossoms. In spring, the entire area is awash in pink, creating a magnificent spectacle. The annual "Oshiro Matsuri" (Castle Festival) held in April draws large crowds. Koriyama Castle is a recommended spot to enjoy both history and nature. The view from the castle keep foundation is particularly stunning, offering a panoramic view of the Nara Basin. On a clear day, you can see Wakakusayama mountain and the five-storied pagoda of Kofuku-ji Temple in the distance. Within the castle ruins park, there are many other attractions such as Yanagizawa Shrine and Sagiai Pond. Yanagizawa Shrine, dedicated to Yanagizawa Yoshizane, a former lord of Koriyama Castle, is also known for its cherry blossoms. Sagiai Pond, once used as an inner moat, is filled with cherry blossoms in spring and various birds in autumn and winter. Koriyama Castle Ruins is a highly recommended tourist destination offering a blend of history and natural beauty. Be sure to visit!