Guida
Hagi Castle Ruins, located in Hagi City, Yamaguchi Prefecture, is a historical site currently maintained as Shizuki Park. The castle was constructed in 1604 by Mori Terumoto and features a 'hirayama' structure, combining elements of both flatland and mountain castles. Although the main castle tower and turrets were dismantled during the Meiji era due to the castle abolition decree, the site remains a preserved national historical site with its stone walls, moats, and various historical structures. The surrounding area is dotted with tea rooms, shrines, and the remains of samurai residences that hold significant historical value.
Hagi Castle was built by the Mori clan as a new seat of power following the Battle of Sekigahara. Utilizing the topography at the foot of Mount Shizuki, the castle is situated on a delta surrounded by the sea on three sides. For approximately 250 years during the Edo period, it served as the political and administrative center for the Choshu Domain (Hagi Domain). While the primary buildings were removed in 1874, the site remains a vital piece of Japanese history, preserved through its impressive stone walls, moats, and reconstructed elements.
The park contains various remains that showcase the original castle structure. At the Honmaru (inner circle) site, you can see the traces of a former five-story castle tower that once stood 14.4 meters high. Other notable features include the 'Hanae Chatei,' where the last daimyo Mori Takachika reportedly discussed politics with high-ranking officials, and the 'Riba-ke Tea Room,' a historic building relocated to the park. These sites offer a window into the culture and politics of the Edo period. Near the Sannomaru area, you can also experience the atmosphere of the former samurai residences.
The landscape changes beautifully with the seasons. Spring is particularly spectacular, as the park is a famous cherry blossom destination featuring approximately 600 Yoshino cherry trees. Notably, the park hosts a single 'Midori-yoshino' tree, a rare variety with pure white petals found only in Hagi, which is designated as a natural monument of Yamaguchi Prefecture. The park also features a natural forest with trees such as Castanopsis and Machilus, providing a lush, natural environment throughout the year.
Visitors can enjoy a unique digital experience using VR (Virtual Reality) technology. By using a smartphone, tablet, or a free rental device available at the entrance, you can access the 'Hagi World Adventure.' This digital reconstruction allows you to see the lost Hagi Castle tower in its former glory. This technology helps visitors visualize the scale and shape of the castle structures that are no longer visible to the naked eye.
The area around Hagi Castle (Shizuki Park) is filled with historic streetscapes. Nearby, you will find the Samurai District, a designated Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings. The area is also closely linked to the history of the Bakumatsu period, with sites related to influential figures like Takasugi Shinsaku and Kido Takayoshi. Additionally, the Hagi Museum offers reconstructed models of the castle and the former Omono Mori family residence.
As the park covers a large area with stone walls and slopes, comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended. Please respect the local customs and maintain a quiet atmosphere, as the site contains shrines and historical-cultural assets. If you wish to use the VR experience, please prepare a smartphone or tablet. At the entrance, you can also purchase a 'Goshuin-style' castle stamp (Goshoin) for 500 JPY to commemorate your visit.