Hanakura Castle, Japanese castle in Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan
Hanakura Castle is a Japanese fortress built on elevated terrain in Shizuoka Prefecture and features traditional defensive elements such as wooden gates and stone walls. The structure comprises multiple concentric fortification rings that follow the natural topography and create layered lines of defense.
The castle was built during the Sengoku period when regional lords needed fortified positions to protect against rival clans competing for territory. This era of ongoing conflict drove the construction of many such fortifications as lords sought to secure and expand their domains.
The castle layout reflects Japanese architectural principles with distinct areas for military purposes, administrative functions, and residential quarters for feudal lords.
Access to the grounds is provided through marked pathways that connect the main bailey and the secondary fortification rings scattered across the site. Plan your visit to explore the different defensive sections, as the spread-out layout means you will walk between various areas.
The fortification system includes strategic positions that allowed defenders to monitor approaching forces from multiple angles across the surrounding valleys.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.