[2024 Sakai Attraction] Travel Guide for Maruoka Castle (Updated Oct)

Claim to be one of the oldest castle in Japan but being reconstructed after destroying by the earthquake a couple years ago. This is quite a small castle, but a lot of fun to climb up the steep wooden ladder like interior stairs to get to the next floor. Luckily there is a sturdy rope to hang onto to help you up and down. It's easier than it looks, but I wouldn't recommend it for the very young or very old. The views out the windows at the top are lovely. One direction you have mountains, the other direction you have the city. If I remember correctly there is a model map of the area, and old black and white photos of other famous Japanese castles up around the walls. You have to take off your shoes at the entrance so as not to scuff or dirt the lovely wooden floors. There are friendly guides and attendants at the entrance, but don't expect them to speak English. Overall it was a good experience! #givethanks #givethanks

Maruoka Castle - One of the Twelve Remaining Original Castles.

Maruoka Castle was built in 1576 during the Sengoku period by Katsutoyo, the nephew of Katsuie Shibata. The castle keep (a nationally designated Important Cultural Property) has an exterior that appears to be two stories, but the interior is actually three floors in a standalone watchtower style. The stone walls are constructed using an old method called 'Nozura-zumi,' which, despite its rough appearance with many gaps, provides excellent drainage and is said to prevent collapse during heavy rains. Additionally, in spring, the approximately 400 Somei Yoshino cherry trees, recognized as one of Japan's Top 100 Cherry Blossom Spots, add beauty to the ancient castle, befitting its nickname 'Kasumigajo' (Mist Castle). It is about a 20-minute ride on the Keifuku Bus bound for Eiheiji from JR Awara Onsen Station, getting off at Maruoka Castle, or about a 50-minute ride on the Keifuku Bus bound for Maruoka Castle from Fukui Station West Exit, getting off at Maruoka Castle. It is also a 5-minute drive from the Maruoka IC on the Hokuriku Expressway.

Maruoka Castle (Maruoka Castle) in Fukui City

Maruoka Castle, an ancient castle situated on a small hill in the northern part of Fukui City, is considered one of the oldest castle towers remaining in Japan and is the only one left in the Hokuriku region. The structure of the castle is a small wooden construction with three floors, and visitors can enter and view the inside of the castle. Around the castle, there are over 400 cherry trees planted, making it a beautiful cherry blossom viewing spot in the city (from early to mid-April) and it is recognized as one of the top 100 cherry blossom viewing spots in Japan. A cherry blossom festival is held here every year. Admission fee: 450 yen Access: 50 minutes by bus from Fukui Station