Koriyama Castle (Yamato-Koriyama Castle) Complete Guide: History, Highlights, and Cherry Blossom Spots Explained in Detail
Located in Yamato-Koriyama City, Nara Prefecture, Koriyama Castle is a historical structure known as the largest flatland castle in Yamato Province. Officially called “Yamato-Koriyama Castle,” it was designated a national historic site in 2023, and its inner moat and stone walls remain well-preserved. In spring, approximately 800 cherry trees bloom, making it a popular tourist destination, selected as one of Japan’s Top 100 Cherry Blossom Viewing Spots.
This article comprehensively covers everything you need to know before visiting Koriyama Castle, including its detailed history, the secrets of its unique stone walls, seasonal highlights, and access information.
History of Koriyama Castle: From the Sengoku Period to the Edo Period
Construction by Tsutsui Junkei (1580)
The history of Koriyama Castle begins in 1580 (Tensho 8), when the Sengoku daimyo Tsutsui Junkei began construction. Until then, the Tsutsui clan had used Tsutsui Castle as their base, but by order of Oda Nobunaga, they built a new castle in Koriyama, a location more suitable for defense.
Tsutsui Junkei is known as a warlord who unified Yamato Province, and Koriyama Castle played an important role as the central base for governing Yamato Province. However, Junkei died young in 1584, and his adopted son, Tsutsui Sadatsugu, became the castle lord.
The Era of Toyotomi Hidenaga: Large-Scale Expansion of the Castle
Koriyama Castle was expanded to its current size after Toyotomi Hidenaga, the younger brother of Toyotomi Hideyoshi, entered the castle in 1585. Hidenaga entered Koriyama Castle as a powerful daimyo with a domain of 1 million koku and undertook large-scale renovation work.
Hidenaga proceeded with the construction of the castle tower, the expansion of the moats, and the development of the castle town, completing Koriyama Castle as a modern castle. During this period, Koriyama Castle became an important military and political center of the Toyotomi regime in western Japan, serving as a base for governing Yamato, Kii, and Izumi. Hidenaga’s reign was a time of prosperity, known as “Koriyama, 1 million koku,” and the castle town also flourished greatly.
Edo Period: As a Residence of a Fudai Daimyo
After the death of Toyotomi Hidenaga, Koriyama Castle passed through the hands of Masuda Nagamori and others before Mizuno Katsunari, a trusted lord of Tokugawa Ieyasu, entered the castle in 1601, after the Battle of Sekigahara. Subsequently, Matsudaira Tadaaki took over, and in 1724, Yanagisawa Yoshisato entered the castle, and the Yanagisawa family served as lords until the Meiji Restoration.
The Yanagisawa clan were hereditary daimyo who were transferred from Kai Province and ruled over a territory of 150,000 koku. Throughout the Edo period, Koriyama Castle functioned as the political center of Yamato Province, and the castle town continued to develop as a commercial center. Goldfish farming, in particular, flourished, and even today, Yamato-Koriyama City is known as the “City of Goldfish.”
After the Meiji Era: Dismantling and Preservation of the Castle
Following the abolition of the feudal domains and establishment of prefectures after the Meiji Restoration, Koriyama Castle was abandoned in 1873 (Meiji 6). Many buildings were demolished, and major structures such as the keep and turrets were lost. However, the stone walls and inner moat remained in relatively good condition, and still convey the appearance of the time.
In 1987, the Otemon Gate was restored, followed by the Ote-mukai Turret in 1990, and the Ote-higashi-sumi Turret in 2017, allowing visitors to imagine its former appearance. In 2023, it was designated a national historic site, reaffirming its historical value.
Secrets Hidden in Koriyama Castle’s Stone Walls
Use of Repurposed Stones: An Innovative Construction Method
The most noteworthy feature of Koriyama Castle’s stone walls is the use of “repurposed stones.” When Toyotomi Hidenaga undertook a large-scale expansion project, he needed to gather a large quantity of stone in a short period. Therefore, he collected stone Buddhas, five-ringed stupas, and stone sarcophagi from surrounding temples and burial mounds and repurposed them for the stone walls.
This creative solution resulted in the incorporation of parts of Buddhist statues and tombstones into Koriyama Castle’s stone walls, including the “upside-down Jizo,” a stone Buddha embedded upside down. This is valuable historical evidence illustrating the construction techniques and material procurement methods of the time.
Hidden Buddhist Statues in the Stone Walls
While strolling through the castle grounds, you can find parts of stone Buddhas and five-ringed stupas embedded within the stone walls. Many repurposed stones were used, particularly around the castle tower base, and careful observation can reveal the faces and body parts of Buddhist statues.
These repurposed stones were not merely a solution to a shortage of materials, but also a result of the pragmatic thinking of the people at the time and their priority on a strong structure to protect the castle. Today, the use of such repurposed stones is a major feature of Koriyama Castle, attracting the interest of history enthusiasts and tourists.
Structure of the Castle Tower Base
The castle tower base of Koriyama Castle remains in good condition and can be climbed. From the base, one can enjoy a panoramic view of Yamato-Koriyama city, the Nara Basin, and the surrounding mountains—a truly spectacular viewpoint.
The stone walls of the castle tower base were constructed using the Nozura-zumi technique, characterized by its powerful appearance achieved by stacking natural stones with minimal processing. This technique was prevalent from the Sengoku period to the Azuchi-Momoyama period, and speaks to the historical value of Koriyama Castle.
One of Japan’s Top 100 Cherry Blossom Viewing Spots: A Stunning Springtime Location
Castle Ruins Adorned with Approximately 800 Cherry Trees
Koriyama Castle is selected as one of “Japan’s Top 100 Cherry Blossom Viewing Spots,” and in spring, approximately 800 cherry trees, mainly Somei Yoshino varieties, adorn the entire castle ruins. During the blooming season from late March to early April, the area along the inner moat and around the castle tower base is dyed in a soft pink, creating a beautiful landscape with the contrast between the stone walls and the cherry blossoms.
The reflection of the cherry blossoms on the surface of the inner moat is particularly enchanting, making it a popular spot for many photography enthusiasts. The castle is also illuminated at night, allowing visitors to enjoy a different, more magical atmosphere than during the day.
Castle Festival and Cherry Blossom Illumination
The “Yamato Koriyama Castle Festival” is held annually from late March to early April, featuring various events. Historical processions, goldfish competitions, and local food stalls line the streets, attracting many tourists.
At night, the stone walls and cherry blossoms are illuminated in a magical way, presenting a completely different appearance from the daytime. The night view from the castle tower base is particularly beautiful, offering a stunning scene where the lights of the castle town and the cherry blossoms blend together. The illumination usually runs from 6 PM to around 9 PM.
Cherry Blossom Photography Spots
For photographing cherry blossoms at Koriyama Castle, the following spots are recommended:
- Promenade along the inner moat: The combination of cherry blossoms reflected on the water and the stone walls is beautiful.
- Around the Otemon Gate: The contrast between the restored gate and the cherry blossoms makes for a picturesque scene.
- Overlooking from the castle tower base: A panoramic view of the entire castle grounds covered in cherry blossoms.
- Bishamon Kuruwa: A relatively less crowded, hidden gem for leisurely photography.
Early morning and twilight offer excellent lighting conditions, making them particularly beautiful times for photography.
Highlights of Koriyama Castle: Existing Remains and Restored Structures
Otemon Gate and Otemukai Turret
The Otemon Gate, the main gate of the castle, was restored in 1987. The beautiful contrast between the white walls and black tiles makes it a symbolic landmark of Koriyama Castle. Passing through the Otemon Gate opens up a path leading to the spacious castle grounds.
The Otemukai Turret, adjacent to the Otemon Gate, was restored in 1990, and its interior is sometimes used as an exhibition space. These restored structures allow visitors to imagine the castle’s grandeur in its heyday.
Tenshudai (Castle Tower Base) and Observation Point
The Tenshudai is located at the highest point of Koriyama Castle and can be reached by climbing stone steps. Although the castle tower was lost during the Meiji era, the view from the Tenshudai is magnificent, offering not only a panoramic view of Yamato-Koriyama city, but on clear days, the entire Nara Basin, the Ikoma Mountains, and the Kongo Mountains.
Many repurposed stones were used around the castle keep’s base, offering a fascinating historical exploration experience. Beautiful scenery can be enjoyed not only during the cherry blossom season in spring but also during the autumn foliage season.
Inner Moat and Stone Walls
The inner moat of Koriyama Castle is well-preserved, and a walking path encircles the castle ruins. Walking along the moat, you can observe the stone walls from various angles.
The construction methods and types of stones used vary depending on the location, allowing you to discern the castle’s construction period and restoration history. In particular, careful observation in areas where many repurposed stones were used may lead to new discoveries.
Yanagisawa Bunko (Yanagisawa Library)
Located in a corner of the castle ruins, the Yanagisawa Bunko is a facility that preserves and exhibits valuable cultural artifacts passed down through the former Yanagisawa family, the feudal lords. It houses items related to Yanagisawa Yoshiyasu and his son Yoshisato, as well as ancient documents and works of art, offering a deep understanding of the history of the Koriyama domain.
Special exhibitions are held regularly, making it a must-see spot for anyone interested in Koriyama Castle or the history of Yamato-Koriyama.
Koriyama Castle in Every Season: Attractions Other Than Spring
Summer Greenery and Goldfish Scooping Competition
In the season of fresh greenery, the castle ruins are enveloped in vibrant green. In summer, the “National Goldfish Scooping Championship” is held, a lively event related to goldfish, a specialty of Yamato-Koriyama City.
The shade of the trees around the castle ruins is cool, making it a pleasant environment for a stroll. In summer evenings, the stone walls and moats are illuminated by the setting sun, creating a picturesque scene.
Autumn Foliage
In autumn, the maple and ginkgo trees within the castle ruins change color, creating a beautiful contrast with the stone walls. It’s less crowded than the cherry blossom season in spring, making it a season to enjoy a leisurely stroll.
The autumn foliage around the castle tower base and along the inner moat is particularly magnificent, with the best viewing time being from mid to late November. On a clear autumn day, you can enjoy the beautiful scenery created by the interplay of blue sky, autumn leaves, and the stone walls.
Winter Silence and Snowscape
Winter at Koriyama Castle is a quiet season to experience history, with fewer visitors. While the Nara Basin is relatively mild, it snows a few times a year, and the snow-covered castle ruins present a fantastical beauty.
The surrounding mountains viewed from the castle tower base in the crisp winter air are exceptional. You can experience the dignified atmosphere unique to the cold season.
How to Access Koriyama Castle
Access by Train
Nearest Station:
- Approximately 7 minutes on foot from Kintetsu Koriyama Station on the Kintetsu Kashihara Line
- Approximately 15 minutes on foot from Koriyama Station on the JR Yamatoji Line
Kintetsu Koriyama Station is the most convenient, and you can walk from the station to the castle ruins through the shopping street. There are restaurants and souvenir shops along the way, making sightseeing enjoyable.
Access from Major Cities:
- From Osaka (Namba): Approximately 35 minutes on the Kintetsu Nara Line, transfer to the Kashihara Line at Yamato-Saidaiji Station, and get off at Kintetsu Koriyama Station.
- From Kyoto: Approximately 45 minutes on the Kintetsu Kyoto Line, transfer to the Kashihara Line at Yamato-Saidaiji Station, and get off at Kintetsu Koriyama Station.
- From Nara: Approximately 10 minutes on the Kintetsu Nara Line, transfer to the Kashihara Line at Yamato-Saidaiji Station, and get off at Kintetsu Koriyama Station (or approximately 5 minutes on the JR Yamatoji Line, get off at Koriyama Station).
Access by Car
Using Expressways:
- Approximately 10 minutes from the Nishi-Meihan Expressway “Koriyama IC”
- Approximately 15 minutes from the Daini-Hanna Expressway “Nakamachi Ramp”
Parking:
There are several paid parking lots around the castle ruins. Early arrival is recommended during peak seasons such as cherry blossom season. The San-no-maru Parking Lot (paid) is the closest and most convenient to the castle.
Nearby Tourist Attractions
When visiting Koriyama Castle, we recommend also visiting the following nearby spots:
- Goldfish Museum: A facility where you can learn about the history of goldfish farming in Yamato-Koriyama.
- Hakomoto-kan “Konya”: A building that recreates an Edo-period indigo dyeing merchant’s house.
- Tosenji Temple: The family temple of Toyotomi Hidenaga.
- Yakuen Hachiman Shrine: A shrine worshipped as the guardian deity of the castle town.
- Nara City: A group of tourist spots in the ancient capital of Nara, located about 10 minutes away by Kintetsu train.
Practical Information Useful for Visiting Koriyama Castle
Opening Hours and Admission Fees
Castle Ruins Park:
- Opening Hours: Open 24 hours (except during illuminations)
- Admission Fee: Free
Yanagisawa Bunko Library:
- Opening Hours: 9:00~17:00 (Last entry at 16:30)
- Closed: Mondays (or the following day if Monday is a public holiday), New Year holidays
- Admission Fee: General 300 yen, Students 200 yen, Elementary and Junior High School Students 100 yen
Estimated Time Required
- Castle Ruins Stroll Only: Approx. 45 minutes to 1 hour
- Including a visit to the Yanagisawa Library: Approx. 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours
- Enjoying the cherry blossoms at a leisurely pace during cherry blossom season: 2 to 3 hours
- Including sightseeing in the surrounding area: Half a day to a full day
Recommended Time to Visit
Cherry Blossom Season (Late March to Early April):
This is the most popular time, and it gets especially crowded on weekends. Visiting early in the morning or on weekdays is recommended.
Autumn Foliage (Mid-November to Late November):
Relatively uncrowded, allowing for a leisurely stroll.
Other Seasons:
If you want to avoid crowds and enjoy historical exploration, seasons other than spring and autumn are also attractive.
Clothing and Items to Bring
- Comfortable walking shoes: There are stone steps and slopes within the castle ruins.
- Hat/Parasol: The sun is strong in summer.
- Camera: For photographing the stone walls, repurposed stones, and scenery.
- Drinks: Especially in summer, to prevent heatstroke.
Koriyama Castle and Yamato-Koriyama, the Town of Goldfish
History of Goldfish Farming
Yamato-Koriyama City is known nationwide as the “Town of Goldfish.” Goldfish farming began in the mid-Edo period and was encouraged as a side business for samurai of the Koriyama domain. Ponds utilizing the castle moat water were created, and even today, many goldfish farms are scattered throughout the city.
Goldfish-Related Tourism
When visiting the castle ruins, you can also enjoy goldfish-related tourism:
- Goldfish Museum: Introduces the history and techniques of goldfish farming
- Goldfish Scooping Dojo: A facility where you can experience authentic goldfish scooping
- Goldfish Museum: An exhibition where you can enjoy goldfish as art
- Goldfish Decorations in the Shopping Street: Goldfish-themed decorations are scattered throughout the town
Cultural Value and Preservation Activities of Koriyama Castle
Significance of National Historic Site Designation
The designation of Koriyama Castle Ruins as a National Historic Site in 2023 signifies a renewed recognition of its historical and cultural value. As the largest flatland castle in Yamato Province, and as a site demonstrating the unique castle-building technique of repurposed stones, it holds significant academic value.
Efforts for Preservation and Utilization
Yamato-Koriyama City is actively working on the preservation and utilization of Koriyama Castle Ruins. Restoration of stone walls, archaeological excavations of remains, and development of reconstructed buildings are being systematically carried out. Furthermore, citizen-participation events and history lectures are held, making it a beloved local historical site.
Future Development Plans
Currently, development of the area around the castle tower base and further restoration of structures are being considered. In the future, it may be possible to experience the grandeur of Koriyama Castle in a form closer to its original appearance.
Points to Note and Manners When Visiting Koriyama Castle
Safety Precautions
- Do not climb the stone walls: This is dangerous and prohibited from the standpoint of cultural property protection.
- The stone steps to the castle keep base are steep, so please climb carefully.
- The stone steps become slippery in rainy weather, so extra caution is needed.
- Avoid visiting alone at night; visit during daylight hours except when the castle is lit up.
Cultural Property Protection Manners
- When touching the stone walls or repurposed stones, be gentle and careful not to damage them.
- Always take your trash with you.
- Do not break cherry tree branches or damage trees.
- Be mindful that the castle ruins are a historical heritage site and view them with respect.
Photography Manners
- Be considerate of other visitors.
- Use tripods sparingly during crowded times.
- Drone use may require permission.
- Photography may be prohibited inside the Yanagisawa Library; please check beforehand.
Summary: To fully enjoy the charm of Koriyama Castle
Koriyama Castle is a valuable historical site that conveys the history from the Sengoku period to the Edo period. Traces of various eras remain, from its construction by Tsutsui Junkei to the large-scale expansion by Toyotomi Hidenaga, and the Edo period rule by the Yanagisawa clan.
A particularly noteworthy feature is the unique use of repurposed stones incorporated into the stone walls. The sight of Buddhist statues and five-tiered pagodas integrated into the stone walls is a rare historical evidence rarely seen in other castles, and speaks to the circumstances of castle construction at the time.
In spring, during the cherry blossom season, you can enjoy a beautiful landscape worthy of being one of Japan’s Top 100 Cherry Blossom Viewing Spots. It also displays different expressions throughout the seasons: autumn foliage, summer greenery, and winter tranquility. The view from the castle tower offers a panoramic view of Yamato-Koriyama city, and on clear days, a spectacular view of the entire Nara Basin.
It is easily accessible from Osaka, Kyoto, and Nara city, making it suitable for day trips. Enjoying the culture of Yamato-Koriyama, known as the town of goldfish, along with the sights and sounds of goldfish, will make for a more fulfilling sightseeing experience.
This is a place worth visiting for a variety of reasons, whether you’re a history buff, want to enjoy cherry blossoms or autumn leaves, love photography, or simply want to enjoy a quiet stroll. Be sure to visit this precious cultural heritage site, designated as a national historical site, and experience its charm for yourself.
