Guide
The Kasama Castle Ruins are a historic fortification located on Mount Sashiro in Kasama City, Ibaraki Prefecture. Originally constructed by Kasama Tokitomo during the Kamakura period, the site has been defended by various lords for approximately 750 years. Today, it is recognized as one of the '100 Famous Castles of Japan.' The site features precious historical remains, including stone walls and moats that preserve the medieval castle structure, centered around the castle summit (Tenshu Kuruwa). Its defensive design, which utilizes the natural terrain, makes it a popular destination for both history enthusiasts and nature lovers.
The history of Kasama Castle dates back to around 1205, when Kasama Tokitomo built a lower castle at the foot of Mount Sashiro. A more robust fortress was later constructed at the summit in 1219. This area served as a vital strategic point, ruled by the Kasama and Utsunomiya clans, and various other lords through the Edo period. During the Edo period, it served as the administrative center for the Kasama Domain. Although the structures were dismantled during the Meiji era due to the abolition of the feudal system, the stone walls and moats remain as enduring symbols of the region's rich history.
The primary attraction is the Tenshu Kuruwa (castle summit) located at the top of Mount Sashiro. Here, you can stand on the former castle base and feel the presence of the past. The Sashino Shrine is also located within the summit area, creating a unique landscape where castle ruins and spiritual worship coexist. Additionally, unlike many other castles in the Kanto region, the heavy use of stone walls along the castle summit and the main approach is a notable architectural feature. At the foot of the mountain, traces of the Hachiman-dai Yagura (an architectural relic moved to Shojo-ji Temple) also connect to the site'-s profound historical depth.
The Kasama Castle Ruins offer beautiful scenery throughout the four seasons. You can enjoy the fresh greenery of spring, the lush landscapes of early summer, the vibrant autumn colors, and the serene, quiet atmosphere of winter. For the best experience, we recommend visiting during the daytime when the weather is clear and visibility is high. Because the path to the summit is immersed in nature, visiting during daylight hours allows you to clearly observe the details of the stone walls and moat structures. The clear morning air during stable weather periods is also ideal for photography against the historical backdrop.
The main activity here is a 'historical stroll.' Walking along the paths of the stone walls and moats allows you to visualize the original defensive structures, providing a sense of realism that textbooks cannot match. Visiting the Sashino Shrine at the summit is another essential way to experience the fusion of history and spirituality. The area is more of a scenic hike than a rigorous mountain climb, making it perfect for a relaxing walk while learning history. To deepen your experience, we recommend researching Japanese castle structures before your visit.
The area around the castle is steeped in the unique culture of Kasama. It is particularly famous for its 'Kasama-yaki' pottery, with many kilns and shops nearby. After your historical stroll, we recommend visiting a local cafe or a pottery workshop to try your hand at ceramics. The area around the foot of Mount Sashiro is also a wonderful place to relax and enjoy the harmony of history, traditional crafts, and nature.