Guida
Nakatsu Castle is a historic fortress located in Nakatsu City, Oita Prefecture. Its origins date back to the 16th century, with the construction started by the famous strategist Kuroda Kanbei and later completed by Hosokawa Tadaoki. Today, the site features the 'Okudaira Family Historical Museum,' which houses precious documents and artifacts related to the history of the Nakatsu domain and the Okudaira clan. As the heart of the castle town area, the castle remains a symbol of Nakatsu's rich historical identity.
The history of Nakatsu Castle began with the construction by the renowned Sengoku-era strategist Kuroda Kanbei (also known as Kuroda Takataka). Following his work, the castle was completed by Hosokawa Tadaoki, and during the Edo period, it served as the residence of the Okudaira family. As a designated cultural property and historical site of Oita Prefecture, it serves as a vital hub for understanding the history of the Nakatsu domain. The surrounding area is dotted with historical landmarks, such as the former residence of Fukuzawa Yukichi and various temples associated with successive feudal lords, creating a cohesive historical landscape.
The greatest attraction of Nakatsu Castle is the combination of its historical ruins and the adjacent Okudaira Family Historical Museum. The museum provides an immersive look into the history and culture of the Okudaira family that once ruled this land. Furthermore, the entire castle town area maintains a preserved historical atmosphere. Walking through the quiet streets and observing the traditional architecture allows visitors to truly understand the cultural background of Nakatsu. Nearby, you can also find the former residence of Fukuzawa Yukichi, a famous figure known for his portrait on the former 10,000 yen banknote.
The scenery around Nakatsu Castle changes beautifully with the seasons. In spring, the entire city is adorned with cherry blossoms, offering a picturesque view of the castle town. In autumn, the nearby Yabakei area becomes a stunning destination for viewing colorful foliage. The castle town area is a peaceful environment, making it an ideal location for a relaxing daytime stroll.
Visitors can enjoy exploring the historical sites and wandering through the charming streets of the castle town. A culinary highlight of Nakatsu is its famous 'Karaage' (Japanese fried chicken); enjoying this local specialty in the castle town area is a must. For those who prefer cycling, it is possible to travel from Nakatsu Station to the castle area by bicycle, making it easy to visit multiple historical spots. Additionally, depending on the season, you can enjoy water sports in the Yabakei area or relax in local hot springs.
The castle town area near Nakatsu Castle includes the Nakatsu City Historical Museum, the Fukuzawa Yukichi Former Residence/Memorial Museum, and Komori Shrine. If you venture a bit further, you can enjoy trekking at Mount Hachimen, viewing the night scenery from observatories certified as 'Japan Night View Heritage,' or exploring the beautiful natural landscapes of Hon-Yabakei and Yabakei.
When visiting Nakatsu Castle and the museum, please keep the following in mind: