Sawayama Castle

Sawayama Castle is a ruin on Mount Sawayama, about two kilometers from the city of Hikone, offering views over Lake Biwa and the surrounding valleys. The remaining stone walls mark the former building foundations and defenses, distributed across several terrace levels.

The castle was built in the 12th century and changed hands multiple times during the Sengoku period before falling to Ii Naomasa after the Battle of Sekigahara in 1600. He ordered the fortress dismantled in 1603 and moved his seat to Hikone, ending its military role.

The site served as the power base of the Ishida clan and functioned as a strategic outpost, while today only the stone walls show the former layout. Hikers follow a path through the forest that passes by the old defensive lines.

The climb takes around 40 minutes on a wide path that passes through pines and bamboo and becomes steeper in the upper section. Sturdy footwear is necessary because the steps are uneven in places and become slippery after rain.

Many stones and timber beams were transported to Hikone after demolition, where they were reused in the construction of the new castle, now a National Treasure. The floor plans in the ground still show the outlines of the former gate structures and watchtowers.