Suko Castle

Suko Castle is a castle ruin in Shiroishi featuring extensive stone walls and earthwork fortifications arranged in a double moat system. The site preserves the layout and defensive structures typical of Japanese castle design from the medieval period.

The castle was captured by the Ryūzōji clan from the Hirai clan in 1574 and subsequently expanded into a major stronghold. This transformation made it a key strategic center in the northern part of the island.

The castle remains represent the architectural techniques of Japanese fortification systems during the Muromachi and Sengoku periods.

The site is open for visitors to explore the stone walls and earthwork structures, though some sections have steep slopes. Comfortable footwear and time to walk around all the fortification sections are recommended.

From this castle, the Ryūzōji clan controlled five provinces: Hizen, Higo, Buzen, Chikugo, and Chikuzen, making it a center of power in Kyushu.

Location: Shiroishi

GPS coordinates: 33.17997,130.10417

Latest update: December 12, 2025 09:05