Izushi Castle Ruins

Overview

Izushi Castle was constructed in 1604 (Keicho 9) by Koide Yoshihide at the foot of Ujiyama mountain. The development of the castle town accompanied the castle's construction, shaping Izushi's unique townscape. Governed successively by the Koide, Matsudaira, and Sengu clans, it served as the main castle of a 58,000-koku domain for 270 years until the Meiji Restoration's abolition of the han system. The castle's layout is a terraced enclosure style (teikakushiki), with Inari enclosure, honmaru (main keep), ninomaru (second ward), shimo-gaku (lower ward), and san-nomaru (third ward) arranged like steps up the mountainside. Although all buildings were demolished after the Meiji Restoration's order to dismantle castles, the remarkable dry-laid stone walls remain. Furthermore, corner turrets, the entrance gate, and the bridge leading to the castle have been restored, allowing visitors to imagine the castle's past glory. The best viewpoint is from Inari Shrine at the highest level. Climb the stone steps, pass through the beautiful vermillion torii gates, and be rewarded with a breathtaking panoramic view of the castle town below. In spring, the castle becomes a spectacular cherry blossom viewing spot, with Someiyoshino and yae-zakura (double cherry blossoms) blooming against the backdrop of the castle ruins. The Izushi Cherry Blossom Festival is held in early April, featuring lively events like the "Izushi Soba Eating Contest".