Gujo Hachiman Castle (Gifu Prefecture) Complete Guide | History, Highlights, and Access Information for Japan’s Oldest Wooden Reconstructed Castle
About Gujo Hachiman Castle
Gujo Hachiman Castle (郡上八幡城) is a mountain castle located at the summit of Hachiman Mountain, at an elevation of 353 meters, in Yanagi-cho, Hachiman-machi, Gujo City, Gifu Prefecture. Also known by the alternate name “Sekisui Castle (積翠城),” it originated from a fortress built by Endo Shigetokazu in Eiroku 2 (1559), during the late Sengoku period.
The current main tower was reconstructed in 1933 (Showa 8), and is known nationally as Japan’s oldest wooden reconstructed castle. With a structure of four stories and five floors, it is designated as a Gujo City tangible cultural property, while the castle ruins are designated as a Gifu Prefecture historic site and have been selected as the 141st castle in Japan’s Top 100 Continued Castles.
The castle is also famous for being praised by author Shiba Ryotaro as “the most beautiful mountain castle in Japan.” In recent years, it has become known as the “Castle in the Sky,” and the fantastic sight of the castle floating in a sea of clouds occurring from autumn to winter has been captured by local photographers, making it a suddenly popular tourist destination.
History of Gujo Hachiman Castle
Founding in the Late Sengoku Period
The history of Gujo Hachiman Castle began when Endo Shigetokazu built a fortress at the summit of Hachiman Mountain (called Ushikubi Mountain at the time) in Eiroku 2 (1559). Endo Shigetokazu served the Azai clan, but when the Azai were attacked by Saito Tatsuoki and perished, he came to rule the Gujo region.
In Eiroku 9 (1566), Endo Shigetokazu’s son, Endo Yoshitaka, constructed Gujo Hachiman Castle as a full-fledged castle complex. Yoshitaka served Oda Nobunaga and Toyotomi Hideyoshi, and in the Battle of Sekigahara, he sided with the Eastern Army (under Tokugawa Ieyasu) and earned merit.
Interestingly, the eldest daughter of the first castle lord, Endo Shigetokazu, is said to have been Yamauchi Kazutoyo’s wife, Chiyo (also known as Kensho-in). Statues of Yamauchi Kazutoyo and his wife Chiyo are erected at the base of the castle mountain.
Changes During the Edo Period
After entering the Edo period, Gujo Hachiman Castle changed castle lords multiple times. After the Endo clan, the Inaba clan, Inoue clan, and Kanamori clan followed in succession, and in Horeki 8 (1758), the Aoyama clan moved in. The Aoyama clan ruled the castle as lords of Gujo Domain until the end of the Edo period, with a rice yield of 48,000 koku.
Throughout the Edo period, Gujo Hachiman Castle functioned as the political and military center of Gujo Domain, and the castle town was gradually developed. The beautiful townscape that remains today is a remnant of the urban planning formed during this era.
Abandonment and Reconstruction After the Meiji Restoration
After the Meiji Restoration, the Gujo Domain was abolished with the abolition of the domain system in Meiji 4 (1871), and following the castle abolition order in Meiji 6 (1873), Gujo Hachiman Castle was demolished. The main tower, towers, and other structures were dismantled, leaving only some of the stone walls and defensive positions.
Later, in 1933 (Showa 8), a wooden mock main tower was reconstructed, taking the former Ogaki Castle as a reference. This is the current main tower, which has become a precious cultural property as Japan’s oldest wooden reconstructed castle. In 1955 (Showa 30), the castle ruins including the stone walls were designated as a Gifu Prefecture historic site, and in 1987 (Showa 62), the reconstructed tower was designated as a Gujo City cultural property.
In 2017 (Heisei 29), it was recognized as one of Japan’s Top 100 Continued Castles. From November 2022 (Reiwa 4) to April 2023 (Reiwa 5), seismic reinforcement work was conducted, and it reopened on April 29 of the same year.
Highlights of Gujo Hachiman Castle
Japan’s Oldest Wooden Reconstructed Main Tower
The primary highlight of Gujo Hachiman Castle is the wooden main tower reconstructed in 1933 (Showa 8). Rather than reinforced concrete construction, this main tower was reconstructed using traditional wooden architecture and is the oldest of its kind in Japan, making it extremely valuable from an architectural history perspective.
The interior of the four-story, five-floor main tower displays historical materials from Gujo Domain, heirlooms of successive castle lords, armor, swords, and more, allowing visitors to learn about Gujo’s history. By climbing the steep stairs to the top floor, one encounters a 360-degree panoramic view overlooking the Gujo Hachiman castle town.
The warmth of wooden construction and the creaking sound of the wooden floor are unique charms that cannot be experienced in reinforced concrete castles.
Stone Walls with Nozura-zumi Masonry
A must-see when visiting Gujo Hachiman Castle are the nozura-zumi (野面積み) stone walls built from the Sengoku period through the early Edo period. Nozura-zumi is a technique of stacking natural stones with minimal processing, which appears rough at first glance but actually requires advanced skill.
The gaps between stones provide good drainage and earthquake resistance. The stone walls of Gujo Hachiman Castle are designated as a Gifu Prefecture historic site as valuable remains conveying late Sengoku period construction techniques.
The stone walls around the main enclosure are particularly well-preserved and retain much of their original appearance. Walking through the castle while viewing the stone walls allows one to sense the breath of the Sengoku period warriors.
Spectacular Views as the Castle in the Sky
In recent years, Gujo Hachiman Castle has attracted national attention as the “Castle in the Sky.” When weather conditions are favorable in the early morning from autumn through winter, particularly from early to mid-November, a sea of clouds forms around Hachiman Mountain, creating a fantastic sight where the castle appears to float above the clouds.
This spectacular scene was photographed by local photographers and became famous through social media. The sight of Gujo Hachiman Castle floating in a sea of clouds is truly worthy of the name “Castle in the Sky,” with its mysterious and ethereal beauty.
To view the sea of clouds, it is necessary to photograph from a viewing spot some distance from the castle town in the early morning. The Castle Mountain Park and surrounding high points are known as popular photography spots.
Famous Castle for Autumn Foliage
Gujo Hachiman Castle is also popular as a “famous castle for maple leaves.” From early to mid-November, the area surrounding the castle turns brilliant red with autumn foliage, creating a magnificent contrast with the white main tower.
The view of the foliage-colored castle town seen from within the castle is particularly splendid, and many tourists visit during this time. During the foliage season, nighttime illumination is sometimes provided, allowing visitors to enjoy an atmosphere different from the daytime.
The castle approach also is colored with autumn foliage, making it an ideal autumn walking route. Hiking takes approximately 20 minutes, but the ascent while viewing foliage has a special charm.
Panoramic View of the Castle Town
The panoramic view from the top floor of the main tower is another major attraction of Gujo Hachiman Castle. From the summit of Hachiman Mountain at 353 meters elevation, one can overlook the beautiful castle town of Gujo Hachiman in all directions.
The clear waters of the Nagara River, the neatly gridded town layout, and the surrounding mountains allow comprehensive understanding of Gujo Hachiman’s geography and history. On clear days, one can even see the distant Hakusan Mountain Range.
The castle town features various tourist facilities scattered throughout, including the “Sogi Mizu” famous water spot and the Gujo Hachiman Museum, making it enjoyable to identify and plan future visits while viewing them from the castle.
Basic Information about Gujo Hachiman Castle
Address and Location
Address: 〒501-4214 Yanagi-cho, Hachiman-machi, Gujo City, Gifu Prefecture 1-659
Gujo Hachiman Castle is located at the summit of Hachiman Mountain in the center of Gujo City. It is within walking distance from the castle town.
Business Hours
Business hours for Gujo Hachiman Castle vary by season:
- March-May, September-October: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- June-August: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- November-February: 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM
※Last admission is 30 minutes before closing time.
※The castle may be closed during year-end/New Year holidays (December 20 – January 10).
※Business hours may change due to weather or facility circumstances, so it is recommended to check the official website before visiting.
Admission Fees
- Adults (high school students and above): 400 yen
- Children (elementary and junior high school students): 200 yen
- Preschool children: Free
Discounted Combination Ticket:
- Gujo Hachiman Castle and Museum combined ticket: 750 yen for adults, 400 yen for children
Group discounts (20 or more people) are also available. Please inquire at the site for details.
Parking Information
Gujo Hachiman Castle has the following parking facilities:
- Castle Mountain Park Parking (free, approximately 20 spaces): You can drive right up to the castle. However, the roads are narrow and steep, so those not confident in driving are advised to use the downtown parking and walk up to the castle.
- Downtown Parking (paid): There are several paid parking lots in the Gujo Hachiman downtown area. When combining a castle visit with downtown sightseeing, this option is convenient.
Parking becomes congested during the autumn foliage season and summer tourism season, so early arrival is recommended.
Access Methods
Access by Train and Bus
Nearest Station: Nagara River Railway “Gujo Hachiman Station”
- From Nagoya Area:
- JR Tokaido Main Line to Gifu Station in approximately 20 minutes
- Transfer to Nagara River Railway at Gifu Station, reaching Gujo Hachiman Station in approximately 1 hour 20 minutes
- From Gujo Hachiman Station to the castle: approximately 30 minutes on foot or about 5 minutes by taxi
- Express Bus:
- Express bus “Gujo Hachiman Line” from Nagoya Station in approximately 2 hours
- Get off at “Downtown Plaza,” approximately 20 minutes walk to the castle
From Gujo Hachiman Station or the Downtown Plaza to the castle is approximately 20-30 minutes on foot. Walking up the castle while enjoying the charm of the castle town is recommended, though community buses are also available.
Access by Car
- From Nagoya Area:
- From “Gujo Hachiman IC” on the Tokai-Hokuriku Expressway, approximately 10 minutes (approximately 5 km)
- From Takayama Area:
- From “Gujo Hachiman IC” on the Tokai-Hokuriku Expressway, approximately 10 minutes (approximately 5 km)
Set your navigation to “Gujo Hachiman Castle” or telephone number “0575-67-1819.”
When driving to Castle Mountain Park parking, note that the road from downtown to the summit is narrow and steep. There are sections where passing oncoming vehicles is difficult, so it is best to avoid approaching the castle with large vehicles.
Hiking Route to the Castle
When hiking from downtown Gujo Hachiman to Gujo Hachiman Castle, the following routes are available:
- Main Castle Path: Approximately 20 minutes from downtown via a mountain trail with stone steps. Stone walls can be viewed up close along the way.
- Paved Road Route: A walking route on paved roads. Takes approximately 25-30 minutes, with gentler slopes but longer distance.
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Care is needed during rainy or winter weather when footing can be slippery.
Tourist Spots Around Gujo Hachiman Castle
Gujo Hachiman Museum
Approximately 15 minutes’ walk from the castle, the Gujo Hachiman Museum is a facility introducing the history, culture, and traditions of Gujo Hachiman. Visitors can see performances of Gujo Odori dancing, learn about the region’s water history and the formation of the castle town, and more. A combination ticket with Gujo Hachiman Castle is available for efficient sightseeing.
Sogi Mizu (宗祇水)
This spring water was selected as the first of Japan’s Top 100 Waters. Named after Iio Sogi, a linked verse poet from the Muromachi period, it continues to be used by local residents as water for daily life, exemplifying why Gujo Hachiman is called the “town of water.”
Yanaka Water Path (やなか水のこみち)
A picturesque small path with stone paving and willow trees planted along waterways. Popular as a walking path where visitors can enjoy the water and greenery scenery characteristic of Gujo Hachiman.
Gujo Hachiman Former Government Building Memorial Hall
A facility preserving and opening to the public the former Hachiman Town Hall built in the Taisho period. The Western-style architecture evoking Taisho romanticism is beautiful, with exhibits related to Gujo Odori and regional history.
Gujo Odori
Held from mid-July through early September, this is Gujo Hachiman’s largest event. The “All-Night Dancing” from August 13-16 is particularly famous as one of Japan’s premier Bon dances where people dance through the night. When visiting the castle, planning your visit to coincide with the Gujo Odori season is highly recommended.
Photography Spots at Gujo Hachiman Castle
Castle Town View from the Main Tower Top Floor
The top floor of the main tower offers views of the entire Gujo Hachiman castle town. The flow of the Nagara River and the grid-pattern town layout are beautiful, and particularly during autumn foliage season and spring greenery season, this is an excellent photography spot.
Collaboration of Stone Walls and Main Tower
There are several points within the castle where you can photograph the stone walls and white main tower together. The contrast between the power of the nozura-zumi stone walls and the elegance of the wooden main tower creates striking photographs.
Distant View from the Castle Town
The view of Gujo Hachiman Castle seen looking up from the alleys of the castle town is also an excellent subject. The main tower visible over the roofs of the traditional townhouses expresses the relationship between the castle town and castle.
Sea of Clouds Photography Spot
For photographing Gujo Hachiman Castle as the “Castle in the Sky,” the area around Castle Mountain Park or high points across from Hachiman Mountain are recommended. Early morning (around sunrise), autumn through winter, and days with large temperature differences from the previous day are conditions for sea of clouds formation.
Notes When Visiting Gujo Hachiman Castle
Clothing and Belongings
- Comfortable walking shoes: The castle interior features many steep stairs, and the ascent path has stone steps and slopes. Sneakers or other comfortable walking shoes are essential.
- Season-appropriate clothing: The mountain summit is cooler than downtown areas, so bring an extra layer, especially in spring and autumn.
- Beverages: Especially in summer, bring water or drinks for hydration while ascending.
Notes About the Main Tower Interior
- The wooden structure features steep, narrow stairs. Those with concerns about their legs and feet should be cautious.
- Photography of exhibits is allowed, but flash photography is prohibited.
- While shoes are not prohibited inside the main tower, walk carefully to avoid damaging the wooden floors.
Crowded Periods
The following periods are particularly busy:
- Golden Week
- Summer vacation period (late July – August)
- Autumn foliage season (early to mid-November)
- Gujo Odori period (especially during the all-night dancing period)
Weekday mornings are recommended to avoid crowds.
Successive Castle Lords of Gujo Hachiman Castle
Gujo Hachiman Castle changed castle lords multiple times throughout the Edo period. The principal successive castle lords were as follows:
Endo Clan Era (1559-early 1600s)
- Endo Shigetokazu: First castle lord. Built a fortress in Eiroku 2 (1559).
- Endo Yoshitaka: Endo Shigetokazu’s son. Constructed a full-fledged castle complex in Eiroku 9 (1566). Sided with the Eastern Army in the Battle of Sekigahara and earned merit.
Inaba and Inoue Clan Era (early 1600s)
After the Battle of Sekigahara, when the Endo clan was transferred, Inaba Sadasada entered the castle. Subsequently, the Inoue clan served briefly as castle lords.
Kanamori Clan Era (mid-1600s-1758)
The Kanamori clan ruled Gujo for an extended period. Castle fortifications and castle town development progressed during this era.
Aoyama Clan Era (1758-Meiji Restoration)
In Horeki 8 (1758), Aoyama Masao was invested with the domain. The Aoyama clan thereafter served as Gujo Domain lords through the end of the Edo period.
Summary
Gujo Hachiman Castle is historically valuable as Japan’s oldest wooden reconstructed castle and is known as the “Castle in the Sky” and “Castle of Autumn Foliage,” making it a representative tourist destination of Gifu Prefecture. It contains many attractions including long history from the late Sengoku period, nozura-zumi stone walls, the warmth of wooden main tower construction, and spectacular views overlooking the castle town.
Visiting the castle alongside the beautiful Gujo Hachiman castle town allows for deeper understanding and appreciation of Gujo’s history and culture. Gujo Hachiman Castle presents different seasonal faces—spring greenery, summer Gujo Odori, autumn foliage, and winter sea of clouds—making it a fascinating castle worth visiting multiple times.
Please visit this beautiful mountain castle and experience the charm of what author Shiba Ryotaro called “Japan’s most beautiful mountain castle.”
