Château de Funaokajo

The castle features a three-story watchtower constructed in a similar style to a traditional keep, situated within a military base in Shibata.

Built in 1598 under Toyotomi Hideyoshi's orders, Mizoguchi Hidekatsu constructed the fortress in marshlands to ensure strong defensive capabilities.

The castle earned the name Ayame-jo due to the numerous Japanese iris flowers growing throughout the grounds, reflecting local botanical traditions.

While the interior remains inaccessible due to military occupation, visitors can observe the exterior structure and its T-shaped roof from designated areas.

The watchtower displays three shachi, mythological tiger-fish creatures, at the corners of its T-shaped roof, making it the only such design in Japan.

Location: Shibata

GPS coordinates: 38.05350,140.75494

Latest update: June 10, 2025 12:39