Iwakiri Castle, Mountain castle ruins in Miyagino-ku, Japan.
Iwakiri Castle sits on the slopes of Mount Takamori in Miyagino-ku and spreads across a large site with separate areas for different functions. The layout shows typical features of Japanese mountain fortresses with defensive walls and residential zones.
The Isawa family built this fortress in the 14th century and later became known as the Rusu family while serving a regional power. Its position at a river junction made it a key point for controlling the surrounding territory.
The eastern section shows where castle residents once lived, following the building methods of medieval Japan. Visitors can see how the layout reflects the daily life and needs of the people who occupied this fortress centuries ago.
The site sits about two kilometers northwest of Iwakiri Station and is part of Takamoriyama Park, making it easy to reach. Clear pathways and markers help visitors navigate through the castle grounds and explore the different sections.
The fortress controlled the junction of two rivers, making it a key point for communication between distant outposts. This location allowed its inhabitants to monitor movement and activity across the wider region.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
