Fumoto-machi, Hitoyoshi, Kumamoto Prefecture
Rating
Cost per person
¥500
Explore the historic Hitoyoshi Castle Ruins, also known as Sengetsu Castle, located in Kumamoto Prefecture. This site, originally a mountain castle, became the stronghold of the Sagara clan for 700 years. While the castle buildings no longer stand due to fires and war, the impressive stone walls, stone steps, and ancient wells from the early modern period remain. See the unique 'musha-gaeshi' (samurai repellent) at the Sujimon Gate, inspired by Goryokaku in Hokkaido. Note that some areas are currently restricted due to heavy rain damage. The ruins are a 20-minute walk from Hitoyoshi Station and are designated as a National Historic Site and one of Japan's Top 100 Castles.
Era: Early Kamakura Period