Takatō Castle

Takatō Castle is a fortress site in Ina, Nagano Prefecture, set on a natural hill and surrounded by old stone walls and groves of trees. The remains of the wooden buildings are gone, but the foundations and ramparts still show the layout of the original defensive complex.

The castle was built in the 16th century as a stronghold for the feudal lords who controlled the Ina Valley, and it served as a defensive position during the wars of the Sengoku period. After the end of the fighting, the fortress lost its military importance and was gradually abandoned.

The name Takatō refers to the elevated position of the fortress, and today locals visit the grounds especially during cherry blossom season in spring. The paths fill with families who walk beneath the old trees and admire the pink petals.

The park is open daily and free to enter, and the marked trails lead through the different areas of the former fortress complex. The cherry tree groves bloom in April, when most visitors arrive, but outside this period the site is quieter and better suited for longer walks.

The fortifications were adapted to the steep slopes and narrow valleys of the surrounding mountains, incorporating natural barriers into the defense strategy. This arrangement differs from the flatter castle sites found in other regions of Japan.