Hisamatsu Park (Tottori Castle Ruins)

Overview & Charm

Hisamatsu Park is a historic urban park located in Higashimachi, Tottori City, built upon the site of the former Tottori Castle. The site is steeped in history, once serving as the stage for the siege of Tottori Castle during the Sengoku period led by Toyotomi Hideyoshi. Although most of the original structures were dismantled, the robust stone walls and castle tower foundations remain, and a project to restore the site to its Edo-period appearance is currently underway. The park features wide lawns and offers breathtaking views of Yoshino cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant autumn foliage.

Historical Background

The history of this site dates back to the Sengoku period. It played a crucial role as a strategic fortress during the historic siege by Toyotomi Hideyoshi. Over the centuries, the area has been preserved as a site of cultural heritage. Notably, the area holds historical significance as a site visited by Emperor Showa in 1947. Recent efforts to restore the castle's grandeur are visible through the reconstruction of the main entrance bridge and the Otemon Gate, allowing visitors to experience the atmosphere of the Edo period.

Main Highlights

The park offers a unique blend of historical and modern architecture. A standout feature is 'Jofukaku,' a stunning white western-style building that once served as the villa for Marquis Ikeda Narihiro of the Tottori Clan and as a residence for the Crown Prince during the Taisho era. Other essential sights include the castle's stone walls, the tower foundation, and the reconstructed Otemon Gate and bridge. For those seeking a view, a 10-minute walk leads to Ninomaru, and a 40-minute walk reaches Yamanouchinomaru, offering elevated perspectives of Tottori City. The surrounding area is also home to the Tottori Prefectural Museum and various modern heritage facilities.

Seasonal Recommendations

The scenery changes beautifully with the seasons. In spring (March–April), the park becomes a major destination as it is recognized as one of Japan's top 100 cherry blossom spots, thanks to the blooming Yoshino cherry trees. In autumn (October–November), the landscape is painted with the colors of autumn leaves against the backdrop of Mount Hisamatsu. Additionally, the annual 'Tottori 320,000 Koku Castle Festival' takes place in autumn, bringing a lively historical atmosphere to the park. Whether for a daytime stroll or a seasonal photo op, the park is spectacular year-round.

Activities & Experiences

Visitors can enjoy walking through history while exploring the castle ruins. Walking near the stone walls and foundations provides a visual sense of ancient fortification structures. The reconstructed gates and bridges offer a glimpse into Edo-period architectural styles. The park is also perfect for a scenic walk that combines historical architecture with natural beauty. For a modern twist, digital technology is utilized through VR content, allowing visitors to experience the historical background of the Tottori Castle ruins and Jofukaku digitally.

Surrounding Area

The area surrounding the park is a hub for culture and history. Within a 10-minute walk, you can visit the white western-style Jofukaku, the Tottori Prefectural Museum, Warabe-kan, Kozen-ji Temple, and Shinkyo Park. Exploring these sites provides a multi-faceted understanding of Tottori's history. Nearby, the 'Takasagaya' cultural center also offers a way to connect with local traditions.

Preparation & Etiquette

As the park is quite large and features uneven terrain, we highly recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes or sneakers, especially if you plan to walk near the stone walls or higher elevations.

• Payment: Entrance to the park is free. However, please prepare cash, transit IC cards, or credit cards for nearby facilities and bus usage.
• Language Support: English information is available via signage at nearby facilities like Jofukaku and through VR content.
• Reservations: No prior reservation is required to enter the park.
• Photography: Photography is permitted, but please follow the specific rules of surrounding facilities regarding tripods or commercial use.
• Accessibility: Some areas of the park have steps or slopes; please check for accessible paths if using a wheelchair.
• Manners: Pets are not allowed in the park. Please take your trash home and respect the historical structures.