Ryūōkaku Castle

Overview

Ryūōkaku Castle, located in Taguchi, Saku City, Nagano Prefecture, is a five-pointed star-shaped fortress built during the late Edo period. The lord of the castle, Matsudaira Norimori, the feudal lord of the Oku-dono domain in Mikawa Province, was interested in Western military science and studied fortification methods to counter artillery attacks. Ryūōkaku Castle was designed by Norimori as a new residence, though it's believed there was no involvement from Western experts like the French. However, due to economic and time constraints, the stonework was simplified, leaving many unfinished parts. After the Meiji Restoration, Ryūōkaku Castle was demolished. However, remnants such as the stone walls, moats, and the main platform remain, allowing visitors to imagine its past glory. The castle ruins also offer stunning views of the majestic Northern Alps. Ryūōkaku Castle is a fascinating place, regardless of your interest in history.