Marugame Castle

Traditional castle architecture near Shikoku’s sacred walking route

Marugame Castle, located near the sacred walking route in Shikoku, has a rich history dating back to 1587. Despite being damaged in a fire, the castle has undergone a major restoration in 1950, and it still retains part of its traditional wooden structure. This makes Marugame Castle one of the twelve castles in japan that showcase the country’s traditional castle architecture.

To reach Marugame Castle, visitors can take a 15-minute walk from Marugame Station. Alternatively, they can take a train from Takamatsu Station directly to Marugame, which takes around 25 minutes on limited express services. Buses also operate between Marugame station and the bus stop in front of the castle, providing convenient transportation options for visitors.

One of the notable features of Marugame Castle is its prime location on top of a hill. It used to be surrounded by a double moat, with the outer moat now filled in. However, the inner moat near the keep still remains as it was in the old days. The castle keep, or donjon, has been designated an Important Cultural Property, adding to its historical significance.

As visitors approach the castle after ascending a steep incline, they are greeted by the sight of the three-tiered castle keep and beautiful curved stone walls. The castle offers a stunning view of the surrounding area, making it a popular spot for photography enthusiasts. Admission to the castle is 200 yen per person, and it is open from 9:00 a.m. until 4:30 p.m., allowing visitors ample time to explore and appreciate its architectural beauty.

Apart from exploring the castle itself, there are also various activities to enjoy in the vicinity. Marugame Castle is close to New Reoma World, one of Shikoku’s largest amusement parks. The park offers a range of rides and attractions aimed at families, including roller coasters, a Ferris wheel, hot springs, and a hotel complex. This makes it an ideal destination for a fun-filled day trip with family and friends.

Additionally, three temples from the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage are located close to Marugame Castle. These temples, namely Konzoji, Doryuji, and Goshoji, are numbers 76, 77, and 78 respectively. Many pilgrims, known as ohenro in Japanese, walk this sacred route each year, and combining a visit to Marugame Castle with a hike along a section of this route can provide a unique cultural and spiritual experience.

In conclusion, Marugame Castle stands as a testament to Japan’s rich architectural heritage. Its traditional wooden structure and prime location on top of a hill make it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and architecture lovers alike. With its convenient transportation options and proximity to other attractions, Marugame Castle offers a memorable experience for visitors of all ages. So, if you find yourself in Shikoku, don’t miss the opportunity to explore this fascinating piece of Japanese history.

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