Maruoka Castle: A National Treasure in Fukui Prefecture
Maruoka Castle, situated within the small metropolis of Sakai inside the Fukui Prefecture, stands as one in every of solely 12 authentic fortress towers (Genzou Tenshu) in Japan that have been constructed earlier than the Edo interval. Constructed by Shibata Katsutoyo in 1576 amidst the Sengoku interval, this Hirayama-style fortress is very distinguished by its pentagonal-shaped moat and beautiful structure.
Nestled alongside the freeway connecting the Kaga and Echizen provinces, Maruoka Castle is a distinguished image for the Hokuriku area. In 1934, it was formally acknowledged as a nationwide treasure and designated an Important Cultural Property in 1950.
The fortress’s allure is undeniably amplified throughout cherry blossom season, when guests might witness picturesque views of the encompassing panorama.
Rebuilt after Earthquake and Legend Surrounding O-shizu
Unfortunately, the Maruoka Castle tenshu (fortress tower) collapsed as a result of Great Fukui Earthquake in 1948. However, it was later painstakingly reconstructed utilizing largely its authentic supplies and bolstered with fashionable know-how all through seven years.
Among native folklore, there exists a legend surrounding a widow named O-shizu. The story claims that in the course of the fortress’s building, the tower repeatedly collapsed till it was decided {that a} human sacrifice was wanted to appease the gods. O-shizu volunteered for this job with one situation: that her youngster be adopted and educated by Katsutoyo as a samurai. Although Katsutoyo left earlier than fulfilling this promise, O-shizu’s sacrifice has not been forgotten by locals who erected a tomb in her honor.
Visiting Maruoka Castle: Practical Information and Cherry Blossom Season
Although the fortress isn’t significantly massive, guests can take pleasure in exploring its wealthy historical past as they stroll by means of its breathtaking grounds. One notable function is that pictures is allowed inside all fortress areas.
Visitors can entry the panoramic view of Fukui Prefecture from the third ground of the tenshu. To attain the highest, one should climb two steep stairs sporting slippers supplied to guard the fortress’s flooring.
The finest time to go to Maruoka Castle is throughout March and April when cherry blossoms are in full bloom. Over 400 Yoshino cherry bushes encompass the fortress throughout this time, creating a surprising distinction in opposition to its majestic structure. This scene has led to Maruoka Castle being listed amongst Japan’s prime 200 cherry blossom viewing spots.
Visiting hours are from 8:30 a.m. to five p.m., with the final entry at 4:30 p.m. Admission charges are ¥450 for adults, ¥150 for elementary and junior highschool college students, with reductions accessible for teams, and free entry for youngsters aged seven and beneath.
To entry Maruoka Castle, company can journey by practice to JR Fukui station, take the native Hokuriku Line to Maruoka station, or go to through bus or automotive. Free parking is offered on-site.
Preserving Castles with Rich Cultural Significance
Despite quite a few castles that have been demolished throughout Japan’s period of Westernization beneath the Meiji authorities in 1873, these authentic 12 castles stay invaluable historic monuments and engaging vacationer locations.
Maruoka Castle is a testomony to preserving Japanese cultural historical past whereas charming guests with its timeless magnificence–a real nationwide treasure value visiting.