A legendary castle swallowed by a mountain tsunami in the 1585 Tensho earthquake, disappearing overnight. Experience the intensity of its dramatic history.
Kieun Castle Ruins, located in Shirakawa Village, Gifu Prefecture, is a site steeped in legend. The Tensho Great Earthquake of November 29, 1585, caused the collapse of Mount Kieun, instantly engulfing the castle and its town. It is said that the lord, Uchigashima Ujimasa, his family, retainers, townspeople, and even livestock were all buried. Today, the precise location of the castle remains unknown. However, a stone monument and an information board stand at the site, allowing visitors to reflect on this tragic event. The surrounding area boasts breathtaking natural beauty, including Mount Kieun and the Shogawa River, offering a blend of history and nature. When visiting Kieun Castle Ruins, imagine the events of that fateful night and ponder the romance of history. Let the majestic mountains and the flowing Shogawa River capture your heart. It will surely become an unforgettable memory. Kieun Castle Ruins is a well-known tourist spot in Shirakawa-go. If you're visiting Shirakawa-go, be sure to stop by!