Walking through the history of Iwamura Castle ruins | A journey to encounter the fantastical foggy castle [Iwamura Castle] and spectacular views

The ruins of Iwamura Castle in Ena City, Gifu Prefecture, is a historic site that is counted among the three great mountain castles in Japan. Built on the summit of a mountain at an altitude of 717m, the castle is also known as Kirigajo (Kirigajo) due to the fantastic scenery of the mist that surrounds it.

The castle is home to anecdotes about the female lord, Otsuya no Kata, and the remains of the magnificent stone walls still remain, making it a recommended spot for history fans, photography enthusiasts, and nature-loving travelers.

History of Iwamura Castle

The origins of Iwamura Castle date back to the early Kamakura period, when Kato Kagetaka, a senior vassal of Minamoto no Yoritomo, was appointed as the local land steward. The Toyama clan later became the lord of the castle and ruled the Iwamura region until the Sengoku period.

During the Sengoku period, Oda Nobunaga's aunt, Otsuya no Kata, appeared as the female lord of the castle. In 1572, she defended the castle through a political marriage with Akiyama Torashige of the Takeda clan, but in 1575, the castle was captured by the Oda army and the couple was executed, making it the scene of a tragedy.

Sights and ruins

The biggest highlight is the six-tiered stone wall known as the "Rokudanbeki." The sturdy and beautiful stonework is a typical example of a mountain castle, and is so impressive that it makes you forget the fatigue of climbing the castle.

In addition, the "Kirigai" well at the site of the main citadel is a mystical well from which mist is said to gush forth, creating a fantastical scene when the entire castle is enveloped in mist. Depending on the time of your visit, you may be able to see the ruins standing in the mist.

Learning at the Iwamura Historical Museum

At the foot of the mountain, there is the Iwamura Historical Museum, which has a wide range of exhibits on the origins of the Iwamura Domain, the structure of the castle, and the female lord of the castle. By stopping by before visiting the castle, you can gain a deeper understanding of the local remains.

Additionally, the adjoining folk museum displays everyday items and farming tools from the Edo period, allowing visitors to experience the lifestyle and culture of those times.

Access and points to note when climbing the castle

The most common route to Iwamura Castle ruins is via a 60-minute walk from Iwamura Station on the Akechi Railway. As some parts of the path to the summit are steep, it is recommended that you wear hiking boots or sneakers.

If you are coming by car, park in the parking lot of the Iwamura Historical Museum and head to the area on foot. In winter, there is a possibility of snow and ice, so be sure to bring appropriate gear for the weather.

Nearby stopover spots

• Iwamura Castle Town:Take a stroll down Hondori, an old street that still retains the atmosphere of the Edo period. It's also fun to sample gohei mochi (rice cakes), castella cakes, and other snacks while walking around.
• Japanese Taisho Village:A tourist spot that recreates the romantic streets of the Taisho era. There are also plenty of experience facilities inside the building.
• Roadside Station Granny City Yamaoka:Its symbol is a 24m diameter wooden waterwheel. Locally grown vegetables and specialty products are also available for purchase.

summary

The ruins of Iwamura Castle are a historical spot with many charms, including the scenery and magnificent stone walls that can only be found in a mountain castle, and the story of the female castle lord, "Otsuya no Kata." Climbing the castle requires some physical strength, but the spectacular views and stories that await you are well worth it.

Be sure to visit the Iwamura Castle ruins, one of the must-see spots when sightseeing in Ena.