Kawara Castle

Overview

Kawara Castle, located in Kawara-cho, Tottori City, Tottori Prefecture, was built as a supporting castle for Tottori Castle. During the Sengoku period (Warring States period), amidst the intensifying battles between the Amago and Mori clans, it is said to have been constructed by Yamanaka Shikanosuke, a general of the Amago side. Later, during Toyotomi Hideyoshi's siege of Tottori Castle, which resulted in its fall, Kawara Castle also became a battleground. In the Edo period, it functioned as an important base for the Tottori domain, and its castle keep was built. Today, the castle keep has been restored and is open to the public as an "Omoshiro Information Station" showcasing the town's history, culture, and nature. From the top floor of the keep, you can enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view, encompassing the Tottori Sand Dunes and the Chugoku Mountains. The first floor houses a town information corner featuring large photo panels illustrating the beautiful nature and daily life of Kawara-cho. The second floor showcases the town's lifestyle, handcrafted culture, and natural bounty, exhibiting traditional crafts like Gyūto-yaki pottery, local sake brewing, and food culture. The third floor features a section on legends and history, including a magical vision showcasing the legend of Yakamihime from the Kojiki (Records of Ancient Matters) in a cube-shaped 3D projection, and an exhibit on Kawara-cho's history from ancient times to the early modern era. Surrounding Kawara Castle are numerous attractions, including the naturally beautiful Mitaki Valley and Reiseiteizan, where you can enjoy various outdoor activities amid abundant nature. Mitaki Valley boasts the approximately 30-meter-high Senjō Falls, along with well-maintained walking paths, a fishing pond, and athletic facilities perfect for families. Reiseiteizan is popular for air sports, with colorful hang gliders and paragliders dotting the sky on weekends. In spring, the Nagase's weeping cherry blossoms and the rapeseed flowers blooming throughout the town create a breathtaking spectacle. Kawara Castle is a captivating tourist spot where you can experience Tottori's magnificent nature and rich history. We highly recommend a visit.