Marugame Castle (Marugame City, Kagawa Prefecture)
Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Marugame Castle is a mountain castle located in Marugame City, Kagawa Prefecture, and is the remains of a castle built on the summit of Mt. Kameyama (approximately 66m above sea level). The castle was constructed between the Sengoku and Edo periods in the 16th and 17th centuries, and is characterized by its magnificent stone walls and the small but stately castle tower that stands on the summit. The stone walls in particular are known for their high stone walls, and the castle tower, towering over the steeply piled stone walls, is sometimes introduced as "the tallest in Japan," making it a representative example of castle beauty. The castle tower retains Edo-period architectural techniques, and the entire castle ruins offer a panoramic view of the Seto Inland Sea and Marugame city, making it a very attractive sight.
Highlights
- High stone walls (mountain-top stone walls)The steep slope and large stone walls are very impressive, and there are many photogenic spots.
- castle tower: Although it is small, it is well preserved and you can enjoy the interior structure and the view (there may be a fee to enter the castle tower).
- OutlookFrom the summit, you can see the city of Marugame, the Seto Inland Sea, and even the islands on a clear day. The scenery is beautiful in the mornings, evenings, and on clear days.
- Cherry blossoms and autumn leavesDuring the cherry blossom season in spring and the autumn leaves in fall, the castle is decorated with colors and bustling with visitors.
- Castle town atmosphere: Around the castle, there are old townscapes, udon restaurants, and spots where you can experience traditional crafts (such as Marugame fans).
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Railway: About 15-20 minutes on foot from Marugame Station on the JR Yosan Line. From the station, the route is uphill.
- bus: You may be able to take a local bus or a city loop bus from Marugame Station (please check the operating status in advance).
- car: Accessible by car from the nearest interchange (Marugame IC, etc.) on the Takamatsu Expressway. There are municipal and private paid parking lots around the castle.
- Walking and hiking: There is a well-maintained route to the top of the mountain, with stairs and slopes to climb. Please wear comfortable walking clothes such as sneakers.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Including a tour of the inside of the castle tower and the view: Approximately 1 hour to 1 hour 30 minutes
- Walking around the area, taking photos, and eating in the castle town: Approximately 2 hours
- If you plan to take your time touring historical sites and sightseeing in the surrounding area: Half a day to a full day
Nearby spots
- Marugame city shopping street (lined with local Sanuki udon restaurants and souvenir shops)
- A facility where you can experience traditional crafts (an introduction and sales outlet for Marugame fans, etc.)
- Coasts and ports where you can enjoy the scenery of the Seto Inland Sea (some of the routes also serve as ferry routes to nearby islands)
- Nearby shrines, temples, local art museums and historical museums (please check the Marugame City tourist information for the latest information)
- If you travel a little further, you can also travel to other tourist spots in Kagawa Prefecture (such as Konpira-san = Kotohira Shrine).
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Wear comfortable clothes: As the castle is located on a mountain, there are many slopes and stairs, so we recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes.
- Slipperiness: Please be careful when it rains or when there are a lot of fallen leaves as the stone steps and stone walls can become slippery.
- congestion: The observation spots and castle tower are crowded during cherry blossom season, holidays, and weekends. If you want to avoid the crowds, we recommend going early in the morning or on a weekday.
- MannersPlease treat historical sites with care by not entering designated off-limits areas, not damaging interpretive boards or stone walls, and taking your trash with you.
- Precautions inside the castle tower: Inside the castle tower, the stairs are steep and there are narrow sections. Small children and the elderly should take particular care. Please do not touch the exhibits or objects placed there.
- Information confirmation: Please check official tourist information in advance for opening hours, admission fees, transport schedules, and partial closures due to events.
The greatest attraction of Marugame Castle is the view from its stone walls and castle tower. Combine it with a Sanuki udon tour and sightseeing in the surrounding area and take a leisurely stroll.
