Matsusaka Castle

The castle occupies a hilltop position at an elevation of 38 meters, featuring massive stone walls that demonstrate traditional Japanese construction techniques.

Constructed in 1588 by Gamo Ujisato under Toyotomi Hideyoshi's orders, the fortress required three years of continuous construction to complete its fortifications.

The castle grounds contain the relocated Suzuya residence of Motoori Norinaga, an influential 18th-century scholar of Japanese classical literature.

The castle ruins are accessible by a 15-minute walk from JR and Kintetsu Matsusaka Station, with free admission and open grounds throughout the year.

The castle's stone walls incorporate unprocessed rocks in a technique called nozurazumi, creating distinctive patterns that reflect regional building methods.

Location: Tonomachi

Inception: 1588

Founders: Gamō Ujisato

Fee: No

Part of: 100 Fine Castles of Japan

Website: https://city.matsusaka.mie.jp/site/kanko/matsusakajoato.html

GPS coordinates: 34.70917,136.52583

Latest update: May 27, 2025 08:18