Guide
Ogaki Castle is a historic flatland castle located in Ogaki City, Gifu Prefecture. It is renowned for its pivotal role as the headquarters of the Western Army during the Battle of Sekigahara, one of Japan's most significant conflicts. Today, the site features a reconstructed four-story keep that serves as a museum to preserve and share this rich history. It has also been selected as one of the '100 Famous Castles of Japan,' making it a significant landmark for understanding Japanese castle culture.
The history of Ogaki Castle dates back to around 1535, when it was reportedly built by Miyagawa Yasusa. During the Sengoku (Warring States) period, it was a strategic stronghold contested by various powers, including the Oda and Saito clans. Most notably, it served as the base for Ishida Mitsunari's Western Army during the Battle of Sekigahara, marking a major turning point in Japanese history. During the Edo period, the castle was renovated and developed as a castle town under the direction of the Ishikawa clan and later the Toda clan of the Ogaki Domain. Despite facing challenges such as the Meiji-era abolition of castles and damage from air raids in the Showa era, the castle has been beautifully restored to its current form.
The interior of the Ogaki Castle keep is organized into themed exhibition floors. The 1st floor features displays related to the Battle of Sekigahara and the castle's history, allowing visitors to learn about the strategic roles of the castle and the flow of the battle. The 2nd floor showcases the daily lives and culture of samurai and commoners, including various historical tools and artifacts. On the 4th floor, the observation room offers an expansive, open view of the Ogaki cityscape. Additionally, the museum utilizes modern VR technology, providing a multi-dimensional way to experience the castle's appearance through digital displays.
Ogaki Castle offers different charms depending on the season. In spring and autumn, the surrounding park is a beautiful place for a stroll, allowing you to enjoy the changing colors of the landscape. Daytime visits are ideal for exploring the detailed exhibits in the keep, and the 4th-floor observation deck provides a bright, clear view of the city under the sunlight. Visiting in the late afternoon offers a more serene and tranquil atmosphere as you observe the castle's silhouette.
There are various ways to engage with history at the castle. In certain exhibition corners, you can experience a hands-on connection to the past by interacting with replicas of weapons such as matchlock guns (hinawaju), spears, and bows. Furthermore, the site offers VR content that can be viewed via computers or smartphones, allowing you to observe the castle from a 360-degree perspective using the latest digital technology.
The castle is integrated into 'Ogaki Park,' a popular recreational space for local citizens. You can enjoy a walk through the historic atmosphere of the former castle town. Some historical elements and structures from the site have been preserved in nearby residences or displayed in museums in neighboring Kakamigahara City, allowing for a deeper historical exploration of the wider region.
As the castle interior involves climbing stairs, we highly recommend wearing comfortable, easy-to-move-in clothing and shoes. Since the keep houses many precious historical artifacts, please follow all instructions regarding touching exhibits. Commercial photography requires prior application. Payment can be made via cash or credit card. There is also a rest area located on the 3rd floor for your convenience.