Tatebayashi Castle, Japanese castle in Tatebayashi, Japan

Tatebayashi Castle is a former fortress site in Tatebayashi, Japan, with preserved stone walls, restored gates, and earthwork defenses. The grounds today house administrative buildings and public facilities among the historic structures.

The fortress originated in the 15th century and was upgraded in 1590 by Sakakibara Yasumasa into a fortified complex with stone walls. The stronghold remained active until the abolition of feudal rule in the 19th century.

The city park around the old walls serves locals as a spot for walks under cherry blossoms in spring. Families often gather near the entrance to the city hall, where some of the original earthworks remain visible.

The site is freely accessible and works well for a short walk among the remains of the old fortifications. Several parking areas make it easier to reach the different parts of the former fortress grounds.

The castle's alternative name, Obiki Castle, comes from a legend that a fox dragged the layout of the fortifications with its tail. The Obiki Inari Shrine was built in the castle's Inari enclosure to honor the fox, and the castle was completed in 1556 according to the Edo-period Tatebayashi-ki.