Shinjō Castle, Medieval castle in Shinjo, Japan
Shinjō Castle is a castle ruin in Yamagata with the remains of three concentric fortified areas, moats, and earthen walls that show its original layout. The site functions today as a park where visitors can walk through and see the preserved foundation traces and wall structures.
The castle was founded in 1625 by Tozawa Masamori, establishing control over the region for generations. Its three-story central tower burned down in 1636 and was never rebuilt, marking a turning point in its history.
The Tozawa Shrine on the grounds honors the founding lords and remains central to how locals connect with this place. Summer festivals here bring people together and show how this site continues to matter to the community.
The castle grounds are now accessible as Mogami Park, located about a 10-minute walk from Shinjo Station. Wear comfortable shoes as you will be walking over uneven terrain with moats and raised earth banks to explore the site.
The Tenmangu Shrine at the southwest corner of the main bailey is the only structure that survives from the feudal era. This small shrine is easy to overlook, but it offers a direct connection to the castle's original period.
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