Funai Castle, Japanese castle in Ōita, Japan
Funai Castle is a fortification in Ōita on the coast of Japan, located directly at the mouth of the Ōita River. The site includes reconstructed wooden gates, massive stone walls, and a wide moat that shows part of the original defense system.
Fukuhara Nagataka built the castle in 1597 under orders from Toyotomi Hideyoshi to secure control over the region. The fortress changed hands several times until it was abandoned in the 19th century during the Meiji Restoration.
The name Funai comes from the original settlement that thrived on shipping and fishing along the coast. Today, school groups visit to learn about the construction of the castle walls and the role of watchtowers in defense.
The castle ruins are located about a 20-minute walk from Ōita Station and are open year-round without restrictions. Visitors who arrive early in the morning can explore the grounds without crowds and enjoy a clear view of the sea.
The moat was designed to allow saltwater to flow in at high tide, acting as a natural barrier against attackers. Some of the stone walls still show signs of repairs made after a fire in the 17th century.
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