Izushi Castle Ruins (Hyogo Prefecture)

Izushi Castle Ruins (Hyogo Prefecture) Complete Guide | History, Highlights, and Access Information

Izushi Castle Ruins, located in Toyooka City, Hyogo Prefecture, is a historic landmark that symbolizes the town of Izushi, known as “Tajima’s Little Kyoto.” The remains of this yamashiro (mountain castle) built in 1604 (Keicho 9) continue to captivate many visitors while retaining strong traces of the period. This article provides detailed information about the history, highlights, and surrounding tourist attractions of Izushi Castle Ruins that you should know before visiting.

What is Izushi Castle Ruins?

Izushi Castle Ruins is a castle site located in Izushi-cho, Toyooka City, Hyogo Prefecture, built at the foot of Ariko Mountain as a yamashiro (flatland-mountain castle). A yamashiro is a castle built on hills or low mountains positioned between flatlands and mountains, characterized by a structure that combines both defensive and practical advantages.

Izushi Castle has a unique structure formed by a combination of Ariko Castle at the summit and a yamashiro on the northern foothills. Currently, parts of stone walls and kurowa (enclosures) remain, and a restored corner tower evokes the castle’s former appearance. The castle ruins are open to visitors year-round and free to enter, making it an accessible tourist spot enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.

History of Izushi Castle

Muromachi to Sengoku Periods

The Izushi area was under the control of the Yamana clan, a shugo daimyo (feudal lord), from the Muromachi period onward. The Yamana clan built a castle at the site of the present Izushi Shrine and ruled the area, but in 1580 (Tensho 8), the castle fell during Toyotomi Hideyoshi’s (then Hashiba Hideyoshi) conquest of Tajima, and the Yamana clan was destroyed.

Koide Clan’s Construction

In 1595 (Bunroku 4), Koide Yoshifusa was granted Izushi as his fief. Yoshifusa began construction of a new castle at the foot of Ariko Mountain in 1604 (Keicho 9), and Izushi Castle was completed. With this construction, the castle town was developed, forming the foundation of present-day Izushi.

The Koide clan continued to rule Izushi through successive generations, developing the castle and castle town. During the Koide period, Izushi Castle functioned as an important stronghold in the Tajima region and became a center of politics and economics.

Matsudaira and Sengoku Eras

After the Koide clan, the Matsudaira clan briefly served as castle lord, but from 1706 (Hoei 3), the Sengoku clan was granted the fief and ruled Izushi until the Meiji Restoration. The Sengoku clan transferred from Ueda Domain in Shinano Province and governed Izushi Domain as a daimyo with fifty-eight thousand koku.

During the Sengoku period, the castle was further developed, and the castle town experienced even greater prosperity. Many of Izushi’s representative cultures today, such as the spread of Izushi soba and the development of Izushi pottery, took root during this period.

After the Meiji Restoration

With the Meiji Restoration’s return of fiefs to the imperial court, Izushi Castle was abandoned as a castle. Many buildings were demolished, but stone walls and kurowa remained. In 1968 (Showa 43), a corner tower was restored on the main citadel. Currently protected as a historic site in Hyogo Prefecture, it is enjoyed by many as a representative historical tourist attraction in the Tajima region.

Highlights of Izushi Castle Ruins

Restored Corner Tower

The first thing that catches the eye when visiting Izushi Castle Ruins is the corner tower restored on the main citadel. Restored in 1968 (Showa 43), this tower with its beautiful contrast of white walls and black tiles has become an iconic structure of Izushi Castle.

A corner tower is a turret built at the corner of a castle, serving roles in defense and surveillance. The restored corner tower faithfully recreates the architectural style of the period, allowing you to observe the characteristics of Edo-period castle architecture up close. The tower is enhanced by cherry blossoms in spring and autumn foliage, making it a popular spot to enjoy scenic beauty in each season.

Stone Walls with Nozura-Zumi Technique

Particularly noteworthy at Izushi Castle Ruins are the nozura-zumi (uncut stone) stone walls that remain from the time of construction. Nozura-zumi is a technique of stacking natural stones with minimal processing, a method of stone wall construction used from the Sengoku period through the early Edo period.

The stone walls of Izushi Castle use stone materials quarried from Ariko Mountain, with irregularly shaped stones skillfully combined. These nozura-zumi stone walls remain intact despite over 400 years, testifying to the high level of stonework technology of the period.

The walls are particularly well preserved on the west and north faces, showing construction that strongly considered views from the castle town. This served both to display the castle’s grandeur to the townspeople below and to enhance defensive capabilities.

157 Stone Steps and 37 Torii Gates

Another highlight of Izushi Castle Ruins is the 157 stone steps extending from beside the corner tower. These steps are lined with 37 vermillion-painted torii gates and serve as a place of worship called “Shiroyama Inari” or “Ariko Mountain Inari Shrine.”

From the topmost inari platform reached by climbing the steps, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Izushi’s castle town. The sight of meticulously arranged streets laid out in a grid pattern, distant mountains, and the rich natural beauty of Tajima creates a spectacular view that mesmerizes visitors.

Especially during cherry blossom season in spring and autumn foliage season, the trees on both sides of the steps are beautifully colored, and many tourists visit. In winter, you can view the snow-covered castle town, making it a spot where you can enjoy the charm of each season.

Login Gate and Login Bridge

The login gate and login bridge, restored along with the corner tower, are also important highlights of Izushi Castle Ruins. The login gate was the main gate of the castle, used when the castle lord and retainers entered the castle. The restored gate recreates the style of the period, allowing you to feel the atmosphere of an Edo-period castle.

The login bridge was originally built to cross the moat and is now a restored structure. Crossing this bridge gives you the sensation of traveling back in time to the Edo period.

Main Citadel and Kurowa

Beyond the stone steps spreads the main citadel. The main citadel was the center of the castle, where the castle lord’s residence and important buildings were located. It is now an open plaza where you can closely view the corner tower and stone walls.

Multiple kurowa were arranged around the main citadel. Kurowa are divisions within a castle precinct, each with different roles. At Izushi Castle, kurowa such as the secondary citadel and tertiary citadel were arranged around the main citadel for strengthened defense.

Attractions of Izushi Castle Town

When visiting Izushi Castle Ruins, be sure to enjoy a stroll through the castle town. Izushi, known as “Tajima’s Little Kyoto,” is characterized by beautiful streets that retain strong traces of the Edo period.

Shinkorо

The Shinkoro, arguably Izushi’s symbol, is a clock tower built in 1868 (Meiji 4). Originally a tower that announced time with a drum, a clock was installed in 1881 (Meiji 14). It continues to keep accurate time and is loved as a landmark of Izushi.

Shinkoro is located a few minutes’ walk from Izushi Castle Ruins and is an ideal starting point for exploring the castle town. Izushi soba restaurants and souvenir shops line the surroundings, making it the center of tourism.

Izushi Soba

A must-try when visiting Izushi is the famous Izushi soba. The origin of Izushi soba is said to date to when the Sengoku clan transferred from Ueda in Shinano Province to Izushi, bringing soba craftsmen with them.

Izushi soba, also called “sara soba” (plate soba), is characterized by eating multiple small plates of soba. More than 50 soba restaurants line the castle town, each competing with their own unique flavors. Enjoying soba in the castle town after viewing Izushi Castle Ruins has become the standard tourist route.

Izushi Karō Residence

The residence of a karō (senior retainer) of Izushi Domain has been preserved and is open to the public. This valuable facility allows visitors to learn about the lifestyle and architectural techniques of the Edo period samurai class.

Izushi Meiji Hall

This museum is housed in a former county office building constructed in the Meiji era and features exhibitions introducing the history and culture of Izushi. Recommended for those who want to learn more deeply about the history of Izushi Castle and its castle town.

Surrounding Tourist Attractions

When visiting Izushi Castle Ruins, it is recommended to also visit nearby tourist attractions.

Ariko Mountain Castle Ruins

On the summit of Ariko Mountain rising behind Izushi Castle are the Ariko Mountain Castle Ruins. A mountain castle built by the Yamana clan, it continued to function as a tsumejiro (secondary castle) after Izushi Castle’s construction. A hiking trail is maintained, and you can reach the summit in about an hour. From the summit, you can enjoy panoramic views of the Tajima region.

Sokyo-ji Temple (Takuan Temple)

Located about 10 minutes by car from Izushi castle town, Sokyo-ji Temple is known for its connection to Takuan Soho, a prominent Buddhist monk from the early Edo period. Beautiful gardens and historic architecture are noteworthy, and you can spend peaceful time here.

Takeda Castle Ruins

About 40 minutes by car from Izushi, Takeda Castle Ruins is a nationally famous tourist spot known as the “Castle in the Sky.” Its appearance floating in sea clouds is ethereal, and it is referred to as Japan’s Machu Picchu. Many tourists visit both Izushi and Takeda castles, and they are popular as the two major castle ruins of Tajima.

Genwu Cave Park

Genwu Cave Park in Toyooka City is a geologically valuable spot where columnar jointing of basalt designated as a National Natural Monument can be seen. Located about 30 minutes by car from Izushi with good accessibility, you can enjoy natural beauty formations.

Access to Izushi Castle Ruins

Access by Public Transportation

By JR

• Get off at “Toyooka Station” on the JR Sanin Main Line
• Take the Zen’tan Bus heading to Izushi from Toyooka Station (approximately 30 minutes)
• Get off at the “Izushi Sales Office” bus stop, 5 minutes on foot

Buses run about 1-2 times per hour, so it is recommended to check the schedule in advance. Traffic information can also be confirmed on the Tajima Kuni Izushi Tourism Association website.

Access by Car

From Osaka

• Via “Yoshikawa JCT” on the Chugoku Expressway and “Kasuga IC” on the Maizuru-Wakasa Expressway to “Yagami-Hyō no Yama IC” on the Kitakinkikoku Toyooka Expressway
• Approximately 25 minutes via National Route 9

From Kyoto and Kobe

• Via Kyoto Longitudinal Expressway to “Yagami-Hyō no Yama IC” on the Kitakinkikoku Toyooka Expressway
• Approximately 25 minutes via National Route 9

Parking Information

Multiple parking lots are developed around Izushi Castle Ruins.

• Ōtemon Parking Lot: Closest to Izushi Castle Ruins (approximately 50 ordinary vehicles)
• Uchihori Parking Lot: Convenient for castle town exploration (approximately 30 ordinary vehicles)
• Nishinomaru Parking Lot: Large bus compatible

During tourist seasons (cherry blossom season, Golden Week, autumn foliage season), congestion is expected, so early arrival is recommended. Parking fees are approximately 400-600 yen per day.

Basic Information

Facility Name: Izushi Castle Ruins (Izushi-jo Ato)

Address: 〒668-0214 Izushi-cho, Toyooka City, Hyogo Prefecture

Viewing Hours: Open year-round, viewable 24 hours

Admission Fee: Free

Contact: Tajima Kuni Izushi Tourism Association

• Phone: 0796-52-4806
• Business Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Best Seasons:

• Spring (late March to early April): Popular as a cherry blossom viewing spot
• Summer (June to August): Beautiful fresh greenery
• Autumn (early to mid-November): Peak autumn foliage season
• Winter (December to February): Snowy landscape is ethereal

Tips for Visiting Izushi Castle Ruins

Time Required

Plan at least 30 minutes to 1 hour for viewing Izushi Castle Ruins. If you only view the corner tower and climb the stone steps to enjoy the views from the inari platform, 30 minutes is sufficient, but if you take time to carefully observe the stone walls or enjoy photography, it may take over an hour.

Including castle town exploration and enjoying Izushi soba, a 3-4 hour stay in the Izushi area is recommended.

Clothing and Belongings

Comfortable walking shoes are recommended due to the 157 stone steps. Special caution is needed on rainy days or in winter when the steps become slippery.

In summer, bring a hat, sunscreen, and drinking water due to strong sunlight. In winter, prepare warm clothing for Tajima’s characteristic cold and snow.

Photo Spots

Here are recommended photography points at Izushi Castle Ruins.

1. Corner Tower and Cherry Blossoms: A spectacular combination in spring
2. Stone Steps with 37 Lined Torii Gates: The sight of vermillion torii gates in succession is impressive
3. Castle Town View from Inari Platform: Panoramic view of Izushi
4. Nozura-Zumi Stone Walls: Stone walls with textures that evoke history
5. Login Bridge and Login Gate: Atmosphere of the Edo period

Event Information

Various events are held in Izushi throughout the year.

• Izushi Hatsu-uma Festival (March): Regular festival of Ariko Mountain Inari Shrine
• Izushi Soba Eating Contest (November): Izushi soba speed-eating competition
• Castle Festival: Time period procession and various events with the castle town as the stage

When events are held, more tourists than usual are expected, so congestion is anticipated.

Model Course for Enjoying Izushi

Here is a model course for enjoying Izushi in a single day.

Morning

• 10:00 Arrive at Izushi, park at Ōtemon Parking Lot
• 10:10 View Izushi Castle Ruins (corner tower, stone walls, inari platform view)
• 11:00 Explore castle town (Shinkoro, Izushi Karō Residence)

Lunch

• 12:00 Lunch with Izushi soba

Afternoon

• 13:30 Visit Izushi Meiji Hall
• 14:00 Visit Izushi pottery kiln and shopping
• 15:00 Visit Sokyo-ji Temple (Takuan Temple)
• 16:00 Depart Izushi

If time permits, consider hiking Ariko Mountain Castle or visiting Takeda Castle Ruins.

Conclusion

Izushi Castle Ruins is a historic tourist attraction representing Tajima in Hyogo Prefecture, possessing numerous charms. From castle ruins built in 1604, to the restored corner tower, 400-year-old nozura-zumi stone walls, 157 stone steps lined with 37 torii gates, and spectacular views from the inari platform, there are many highlights to see.

The castle town strongly retains its Edo-period atmosphere, with abundant elements to enjoy beyond the castle ruins including Izushi soba and other gourmet offerings, historic buildings, and traditional crafts. The ability to enjoy beauty in all four seasons—cherry blossoms in spring, fresh greenery in summer, autumn foliage, and snowy landscapes in winter—is another major appeal of Izushi Castle Ruins.

With good access—about two and a half hours by car from Osaka or Kobe, and about three hours from Kyoto—it is ideal for day trips or weekend excursions. It is recommended for history enthusiasts, those seeking beautiful scenery and traditional town streets, and those searching for delicious cuisine alike, making it a tourist destination with broad appeal.

Why not enjoy a journey through the history and traditional culture of Tajima in the Little Kyoto of Izushi? Visiting Izushi Castle Ruins allows you to experience the history and culture of Edo-period Tajima and create unforgettable memories.