Panduan
Bekisawara Castle Ruins is a nationally designated historical site located in Shimada City, Shizuoka Prefecture. The site preserves the essential structures of a castle, including the Honmaru (inner circle), Ninomaru (second circle), and Sanmaru (third circle), which remain visible through their original earthen walls (dorui) and dry moats (karabori). In 2017, a wooden Yakuimon gate was reconstructed at the Ninomaru area, providing a visual and tangible way to understand the scale and architectural style of a traditional Japanese fortification.
This site is a significant location where the topographical features of the castle have been exceptionally well-preserved. Visitors can observe unique defensive structures such as the fan-shaped layout and 'madashi' (outlets) that utilized the natural terrain. The site serves as an educational hub for learning about regional history, with various explanatory boards installed to guide visitors through the historical significance of the ruins.
The primary attractions are the three main areas: Honmaru, Ninomaru, and Sanmaru. These areas allow visitors to feel the boundaries and structural depth of the castle through the surviving earthen walls and moats. The reconstructed Yakuimon gate is a vital element for understanding ancient Japanese architectural styles. Additionally, the area is dotted with other historical monuments, such as the monument marking the site where Emperor Meiji is said to have gazed at Mount Fuji, the tomb of Chonagon Muneyuki, and the Bako-ku Monument, making it a rich cultural landscape.
Since the castle ruins are integrated into the natural landscape, the scenery changes beautifully with the seasons. The lush greenery of summer and the clear views of the dry moats on sunny days are particularly recommended for observing the terrain. While there are no specific opening hours for the site itself, visiting during daylight hours is highly recommended to clearly observe the contours of the earthen walls and the depth of the moats.
The main activity here is 'Castle Walking' (Shiro-aruki). By walking along the maintained paths, you can physically experience the height of the earthen walls and the depth of the moats, gaining a deep understanding of ancient defensive-strategies and topographical engineering. Exploring the nearby historical stone monuments and inscriptions offers a unique way to connect with the past.
The area surrounding the ruins is filled with historical charm. Within walking distance, you can find stone-paved paths related to the old Tokaido road, monuments related to Emperor Meiji, and various historical tombs. After your walk, you can relax at local establishments like 'Alm Coffee Shop' to enjoy a peaceful break.
Because the site consists of natural terrain like earthen walls and dry moats, the ground can be uneven and difficult to walk on. We strongly recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes or sneakers. As this is a quiet, historical environment, please maintain a respectful and quiet demeanor to preserve the atmosphere.