Katsuyama Castle Museum

Overview

The Katsuyama Castle Museum is a museum built to replicate the castle keep of the former Katsuyama Castle. Katsuyama Castle, built as the residence of the Katsuyama clan during the Edo period, never had its castle keep completed. Later, the castle ruins disappeared. The current Katsuyama Castle Museum opened in 1992 to preserve the history of Katsuyama Castle for future generations. The museum's castle keep stands at 57.8 meters, making it the tallest in Japan. Its majestic presence is visible from afar. Its design is said to be based on the Himeji Castle keep. Inside, the museum houses valuable materials, including Edo-period samurai weaponry, textiles, battle scene byobu (folding screens), and more. These materials offer insights into the lives and battles of samurai during that era. The top floor features an observation deck providing panoramic views of Katsuyama City and the surrounding mountains. On clear days, you can see far into the distance, enjoying a magnificent vista. The Katsuyama Castle Museum is a recommended spot for history buffs and those who appreciate stunning scenery. Katsuyama City is also famous for its dinosaur fossil discoveries. The Fukui Prefectural Dinosaur Museum, a short 10-minute drive from the Katsuyama Castle Museum, is known as one of the world's three major dinosaur museums. Visiting both the Katsuyama Castle Museum and the Fukui Prefectural Dinosaur Museum is highly recommended.