Guide
Sakai-jō Atto Park is a designated historical park located in Bando City, Ibaraki Prefecture. It sits upon the site of the former Sakai-jō, a stronghold used by samurai during the Sengoku (Warring States) period. Today, the park is meticulously maintained as a place to not only study history but to truly feel the atmosphere of that era. Within its vast grounds (approx. 63,000 m²), original earthen walls (dorui) and moats remain preserved, offering a profound sense of historical weight. Furthermore, through careful archaeological research and historical verification, several wooden structures—including watchtowers (yagura), a two-story tower, and the main hall (shuden)—have been faithfully reconstructed, inviting visitors to step back into the Sengoku period.
The history of Sakai-jō began under the rule of the Sakai clan. In 1536, the site was attacked by the forces of the Hōjō clan from Odawara, after which it became a vital strategic base for the Hōjō clan's expansion into Northern Kanto. Records show that in 1577, engineers were brought in from Fujisawa to rebuild the site into a more robust fortification. The location was strategically critical, situated on the borders of powerful forces such as the Hitachi Satake, Yuki, and Tagaya clans. Following the fall of the Hōjō clan during Toyotomi Hideyoshi's campaign against Odawara in 1590, the castle was eventually abandoned, yet its historical value remains highly regarded today.
The park features numerous reconstructed buildings that bring history to life. The watchtower gate (yaguramon), wooden bridges, two-story watchtowers, and the main hall are essential for understanding the structural design of ancient Japanese castles. Additionally, the West Nino-kurawa area contains relocated or reconstructed elements from other famous sites, such as the Yakui Gate from Sekiyado Castle and the study room foundation from Koga Castle, allowing visitors to experience a variety of historical architectural styles. Another famous landmark is the