Guida
Ryooka Castle, located in Taguchi, Saku City, Nagano Prefecture, is a Japanese castle site constructed during the late Edo period. It served as the seat of the Ryooka Domain (Tanoguchi Domain). It is renowned as one of only two star-shaped pentagonal fortresses in Japan, a rare architectural feat. Due to its unique shape, it is often compared to the Goryokaku in Hokkaido and is sometimes referred to as 'Kikyo Castle' (Bellflower Castle) because of its resemblance to the flower. Today, it is a designated national historical site, preserving the design philosophy of that era.
Constructed during the late Edo period, the site was originally the base for the Ryooka Domain, a small domain of 16,000 koku. Because the status of the lord was not officially recognized in certain ways, it was historically referred to as the 'Tanoguchi Jinya.' The history of the site after it ceased to be a military stronghold is equally fascinating. Much of the castle grounds were converted into farmland, and the 'Odaidokoro' (the former residence) was once used as a warehouse for agricultural tools. From 1875, the building even served as a local elementary school. This transition from a military stronghold to a center for agriculture and education shows how the site evolved alongside the local community. Today, parts of the original castle buildings have been relocated to nearby temples, shrines, and private homes, offering a unique way to see how the castle's components integrated into the local social fabric.
The castle ruins feature bastion-style stone walls, water moats, and the remains of the former residence. These structures serve as precious historical records of advanced fortification techniques of the time. To the northwest, the remains of a 'Masugata' (square gate structure) can be observed, showcasing the meticulous defensive design. Because the site once functioned as a school, traces of its educational history also remain. For a panoramic view, an area near the former Taguchi Castle site to the north allows visitors to look down upon the entire structure. If you obtain permission from the Saku City Hall, you can even use a drone to capture the spectacular star-shaped layout from directly above.
Ryooka Castle is currently open for free, self-guided exploration. You can stroll through the historical ruins regardless of the season. The atmosphere is particularly profound during quieter hours of the day when the stillness allows you to truly feel the weight of history. The observation area to the north provides a great vantage point to see the castle's structure in relation to the surrounding landscape. While the scenery changes with the seasons, the historical charm of the ruins remains constant throughout the year.
Several facilities nearby offer a deeper understanding of the site. The 'Saku City History no Sato Goryokaku Aino-kan' near the main gate features valuable exhibits regarding Ryooka Castle, making it an ideal spot for learning. Additionally, by making a reservation in advance, you can tour the interior of the 'Odaidokoro,' allowing you to see the intricate details of the historical architecture and former way of life up close. Nearby, the 'Kawamura Gozo Memorial Museum' showcases the works of the local sculptor, offering a touch of the region's artistic culture.
The area around Ryooka Castle is rich with historical connections. For example, the large hall that was once the center of the palace has been relocated to Jisso-ji Temple in Naruse, Saku City. The east gate was moved to Narayasan Yakushi-ji Temple, and the walls were relocated to a private residence near Shinmai Sansha Shrine. This practice of preserving castle elements within local temples and homes is a unique cultural characteristic of this region. To the north, a path leads up to the former Taguchi Castle site, offering a view from an elevation of about 160 meters.
When visiting the castle ruins, please keep the following in mind: