Guida
Nobeoka Castle is a historic castle site located in Nobeoka City, Miyazaki Prefecture. It was once known as "Agata-jo" or "Kamei Castle." Today, the site is developed as Shiroyama Park, allowing visitors to feel the traces of history amidst lush natural surroundings. Its historical significance is officially recognized as one of the "Top 100 Japanese Castles."
Nobeoka Castle is a flatland castle (hirayamajiro) built by Takahashi Mototane during the Edo period. The area was originally controlled by the Tomochi clan since ancient times, and the castle was constructed by renovating and expanding upon the existing fortifications of the Tomochi clan. While originally called Agata-jo, it was later renamed Nobeoka Castle. It served as the administrative center for the Agata Domain and later the Nobeoka Domain, acting as a vital regional stronghold.
One of the most striking features of Nobeoka Castle is its stone walls. Among them is a section known as "Sennin-goroshi" (The Thousand-Man Killer). Legend says that if a single stone were removed, the entire wall would collapse instantly, capable of killing a thousand enemy soldiers at once. Another highlight is the "Kane-tsuki-do" (Bell Hall) at the former keep site. Even today, the bell rings six times a day to signal the time to local citizens, a scene once poetically celebrated by the famous poet Wakayama Bokusui.
Shiroyama Park (Nobeoka Castle) offers different beauties throughout the seasons. The scenery is particularly stunning during the spring (around April) and autumn (October and November), making it an ideal time for a stroll. To truly appreciate the structural complexity of the stone walls and hear the resonance of the bell, we recommend visiting during the bright daylight hours.
Visitors can observe the intricate construction techniques of ancient Japanese fortifications up close. The stone walls utilize materials such as granitic porphyry, sandstone, and Aso pyroclastic flow deposits, some of which still bear ancient markings. These serve as precious records of the architectural technology and material distribution of the era. Listening to the bell echoing from the keep site is a unique way to connect with the breath of history.
The area surrounding the castle retains the atmosphere of the former castle town. The layout of modern-day Nobeoka City is still shaped by the urban planning and castle town development initiated by Takahashi Mototane. Walking through the neighborhood allows you to trace the footsteps of ancient-era urban planning and daily life.
Comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended. Because the site features various elevation changes and stone steps, please prepare for a light hike. As this is a public historical site, please respect the environment and the local community.