Sendai Castle, Medieval fortress in Aoba Ward, Japan
Sendai Castle sits on Mount Aoba and features restored guard towers and stone walls overlooking the modern city. The layout follows a hilltop design with multiple defensive structures arranged across the elevated terrain.
Date Masamune established this stronghold in 1601 and deliberately constructed it without a main keep to avoid suspicion from the Tokugawa shogunate. This strategic choice reflected the political tensions of the early Edo period.
The hilltop displays an equestrian statue of Date Masamune, the legendary one-eyed samurai who founded Sendai. This statue serves as a focal point for understanding the city's origins and local pride.
The site is accessible from a bus stop near Sendai Station followed by a walking path up the hill. The terrain includes slopes and stairs, so comfortable walking shoes are recommended for exploring the grounds.
The stone walls and equestrian statue are illuminated until 11 PM, offering a different perspective of the site in the evening hours. This lighting transforms the appearance of the ruins when darkness falls.
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