Kuwana Castle: A Complete Explanation of the History and Highlights of the Water Castle Built by Honda Tadakatsu, One of the Four Heavenly Kings of Tokugawa
Kuwana Castle, located in Kuwana City, Mie Prefecture, is a water castle situated on the Ibi River. As a strategic point on the Tokaido highway, it played a vital role in Japanese history. Honda Tadakatsu, one of the Four Heavenly Kings of Tokugawa, carried out extensive renovations, and due to its fan-shaped form, it is also known as “Ogi-jo” (Fan Castle). Currently, it is maintained as Kyuka Park and is a popular cherry blossom viewing spot for locals.
History of Kuwana Castle: From the Medieval to the Early Modern Period
Origins of Kuwana Castle and the Medieval Period
The history of Kuwana Castle is ancient, beginning in 1186 (Bunji 2) when Kuwana Saburo Yukitsuna came to rule this area. At that time, Kuwana was located at the mouth of the Kiso River, Nagara River, and Ibi River—the three Kiso Rivers—which flowed into Ise Bay, making it an important region as a key point for water transport.
During the Sengoku period, local lords known as the “Forty-Eight Families of Hokusei” held power, and three representative castles, known as the “Three Castles of Kuwana,” existed in the Kuwana region. During this period, Kuwana’s strategic importance increased as a key transportation hub connecting Ise and Owari provinces.
Oda Nobunaga’s Invasion of Ise and Takigawa Kazumasu
In 1574, following Oda Nobunaga’s invasion of Ise, Kuwana became the territory of Takigawa Kazumasu, a subordinate of Nobunaga. Takigawa Kazumasu was known as a senior retainer of Nobunaga and solidified his control over Ise Province from Kuwana Castle. During this time, Kuwana Castle functioned as a Sengoku-era fortress, playing a crucial role as a base for regional control.
Major Renovation by Honda Tadakatsu
The most important turning point in the history of Kuwana Castle was the arrival of Honda Tadakatsu in 1601. Following his victory at the Battle of Sekigahara, Tokugawa Ieyasu granted the domain of Kuwana with a 100,000 koku stipend to Honda Tadakatsu, one of the Four Heavenly Kings of Tokugawa.
Immediately upon his arrival, Honda Tadakatsu began construction of a castle along the Ibi River, completing the massive Kuwana Castle in 1610 (Keicho 15) after 10 years. Tadakatsu’s renovation transformed the castle from a mere military facility into a magnificent fortress, a modern castle designed to protect a strategic point on the Tokaido road.
The Matsudaira Clan and the Kuwana Domain
After the Honda clan was transferred to Himeji Castle, the Matsudaira clan ruled the Kuwana Domain for generations. Under Matsudaira rule, Kuwana developed as a castle town and flourished as “Kuwana-juku,” one of the 53 stations of the Tokaido.
During the Genroku era, the administrative system of the Kuwana Domain was established, and the castle town was further developed. Kuwana Castle continued to function as an important base on the Tokaido road throughout the Edo period.
Meiji Restoration and the Dismantling of the Castle
After the Meiji Restoration, Kuwana Castle was dismantled under the Meiji government’s decree abolishing castles. Many structures, including the keep, were burned down or demolished, and only parts of the stone walls and moats remain today. Although much of the castle’s remains were lost, some castle gates were relocated to temples in the city and still convey a sense of the past.
Characteristics and Structure of Kuwana Castle: Uniqueness as a Water Castle
Unique Shape Known as the Fan Castle
Kuwana Castle was commonly known as the “Fan Castle” because its shape, surrounded on three sides by the Ibi River, resembled a fan. This unique shape was the result of a clever design that balanced a defensive system utilizing water transport with the development of the castle town.
Located near the mouth of the Ibi River, Kuwana Castle’s structure maximized its characteristics as a water castle, with the river surrounding it on three sides functioning as a natural moat. This topographical advantage not only prevented enemy attacks but also provided significant benefits for transporting goods by water.
Layout of the Main Bailey, Second Bailey, and Third Bailey
Kuwana Castle was a terraced castle composed of the main bailey, second bailey, and third bailey. The main bailey housed the keep and the lord’s residence, the main palace. The second bailey contained the residences of senior retainers and administrative facilities, while the third bailey had the residences of vassals.
The current Kyuka Park is developed using the sites of the main bailey and second bailey, covering approximately 7.2 hectares. Remnants of the original stone walls and moats remain within the park, allowing visitors to imagine the scale of the castle in its heyday.
Structure of the Keep and Turrets
The keep of Kuwana Castle is believed to have been constructed during renovations by Honda Tadakatsu. Although detailed structural records are scarce, it is said to have boasted an imposing appearance befitting a modern castle.
Regarding the turrets, the Banryu Turret is particularly famous, and its exterior was restored in 2003. This restoration was made possible because the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism’s Integrated Water Gate Management Office was built on the site of the former Banryu Turret. The current Banryu Turret is a beloved symbol of Kuwana Castle for the citizens.
Stone Wall and Moat Technology
The stone walls of Kuwana Castle were built during renovations by Honda Tadakatsu, utilizing the latest technology of the time. Built along the Ibi River, the stone walls have a robust structure capable of withstanding floods, and parts of them remain in good condition today.
Regarding the moats, they are primarily water moats that draw water from the Ibi River, enhancing the castle’s defensive capabilities and also serving to supply water to the castle town. This water management system is an important historical site demonstrating that Kuwana Castle was highly developed as a water castle.
Highlights of Kuwana Castle: Kyuka Park and Historical Site Tour
Kyuka Park: A Famous Spot for Cherry Blossoms and Azaleas
Currently, the site of Kuwana Castle has been developed into Kyuka Park, a place of relaxation for citizens. Approximately 450 cherry trees are planted in the park, and a “Cherry Blossom Festival” is held every April. During the cherry blossom season, many visitors come to enjoy the beauty of the cherry blossoms adorning the castle ruins.
In May, the “Azalea Festival” is held, with approximately 4,000 azalea bushes vividly coloring the park. Kyuka Park is a popular spot not only for Kuwana residents but also for tourists, as it offers a chance to enjoy nature throughout the seasons.
Banryu Turret: A Symbol with Restored Exterior
The Banryu Turret, whose exterior was restored in 2003, is an important structure that evokes the former appearance of Kuwana Castle. The beautiful contrast between the white walls and black roof tiles makes the castle, standing along the Ibi River, a symbol of Kuwana Castle.
The Banryu Turret is currently in use as the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism’s integrated water gate management office, and while interior tours are not permitted, its imposing presence can be enjoyed from the outside. Especially during cherry blossom season, the combination of cherry blossoms and the Banryu Turret creates a spectacular view.
Stone Walls and Moats: Remains that Evoke the Past
Within Kyuka Park, the stone walls and moats of Kuwana Castle remain in excellent condition. The stone walls around the main keep were built during the time of Honda Tadakatsu and are valuable remains with a history of over 400 years.
Regarding the moats, a portion of the water moat, which drew water from the Ibi River, remains, conveying the characteristics of Kuwana Castle as a water castle to the present day. Walking along the stone walls and moats, one can imagine the scale and structure of the castle in its heyday.
The Walls of San-no-maru
Outside Kyuka Park, within the city, a portion of the San-no-maru castle walls remains. These walls formed the outer perimeter of Kuwana Castle and are an important historical site indicating the boundaries of the castle town. The sudden appearance of these stone walls amidst a residential area tells the story of this area’s past as a fortified city.
The Gate of Ryōjunji Temple: A Relocated Castle Gate
The gate of Ryōjunji Temple in Kuwana City is said to be a gate that was relocated from Kuwana Castle. Among the structures of Kuwana Castle that were dismantled after the Meiji Restoration’s castle abolition decree, this is a valuable historical relic that survived to the present day by being relocated to a temple.
This gate retains the structure of a Kuwana Castle gate and is an important resource for understanding the architectural techniques of the time. Visiting Ryōjunji Temple allows you to see a structure of Kuwana Castle that cannot be seen in Kyuka Park.
The Fifty-Three Stations of the Tokaido and the Shichiri no Watashi (Seven-Mile Ferry)
Kuwana-juku: A Key Point on the Tokaido
North of Kuwana Castle lay Kuwana-juku, one of the fifty-three stations of the Tokaido. Kuwana-juku was the 42nd station on the Tokaido and a bustling gateway to Ise Province, attracting many travelers.
Developed as a castle town, Kuwana-juku boasted numerous inns, including the main inn (honjin), secondary inns (wakihonjin), and other lodgings, serving as an important resting place for daimyo processions, merchants, and travelers traversing the Tokaido. The prosperity of Kuwana-juku as a castle town was closely linked to its geographical location as a key point on the Tokaido.
The Shichiri no Watashi: The Starting Point of the Sea Route
North of Kuwana Castle was a ferry crossing called the “Shichiri no Watashi” (Seven-Mile Ferry). This was the only sea route on the Tokaido road, a route that covered a distance of approximately 7 ri (about 28 kilometers) by boat from Kuwana-juku across Ise Bay to Atsuta-juku (present-day Nagoya City).
The Shichiri-no-watashi (Seven-Mile Ferry) was an important means of transportation for travelers on the Tokaido, and Kuwana Castle also played a role in managing and guarding this ferry crossing. Currently, a monument stands at the site of the Shichiri-no-watashi, commemorating the importance of Kuwana as a transportation hub at the time.
Kuwana’s Temple District and Castle Town Culture
Formation of the Temple District
The castle town of Kuwana Castle developed a temple district with a concentration of many temples. This was a typical urban planning technique in a castle town, where the placement of temples also served as a defensive base.
Many temples, including Josenbo, still remain in Kuwana’s temple district, conveying the history and culture of the castle town. Visiting these temples allows one to imagine the former appearance of Kuwana’s castle town.
Structure and Town Planning of the Castle Town
The castle town of Kuwana Castle was systematically developed simultaneously with the castle’s renovation by Honda Tadakatsu. Samurai residences, merchant districts, and temple districts were arranged around the castle, and a post town developed along the Tokaido road.
This town planning forms the basis of the current Kuwana city center, and parts of the streetscape retaining its former appearance are preserved along the old Tokaido road. Kuwana’s history as a castle town continues to influence the modern urban structure.
Tourist Attractions Around Kuwana Castle
Kuwana City Museum: Learning History
The Kuwana City Museum is a facility where you can learn about the history of Kuwana Castle and the Kuwana Domain, as well as the culture of Kuwana. It has a rich collection of materials related to Kuwana Castle and exhibits related to the Matsudaira clan, who were the lords of the Kuwana Domain. Visiting before or after visiting the castle ruins will allow you to gain a deeper understanding of Kuwana Castle’s history.
The museum displays old maps of Kuwana Castle, materials depicting the castle town, and documents related to the history of the Kuwana Domain, making it a must-see spot for Kuwana Castle enthusiasts.
Rokkakuen: A Meiji-era Western-style building
Located within walking distance of Kuwana Castle, Rokkakuen is a beautiful facility where a Western-style building built during the Meiji era harmoniously blends with a Japanese garden. Built as the residence of Seiroku Moroto, a Kuwana businessman, it is designated as a National Important Cultural Property.
While it dates to a different era than the history of Kuwana Castle, it is an important spot for understanding Kuwana’s modern history, and visiting it in conjunction with a tour of the castle ruins allows you to truly appreciate the depth of Kuwana’s history.
Shichiri no Watashi (Seven-Mile Ferry Crossing) Site
The Shichiri no Watashi site, known as the sea route of the Fifty-Three Stations of the Tokaido, is a historical site closely related to the history of Kuwana Castle. Currently, a monument and a stone lantern stand there, allowing visitors to imagine the bustling activity of the past.
Located along the Ibi River, this spot offers a view of the Banryu Turret of Kuwana Castle, allowing you to appreciate the relative positions of the castle, the post town, and the ferry crossing.
Kuwana Castle Area Cuisine & Local Specialties
Clam Dishes: A Kuwana Specialty
Kuwana is famous for its clam dishes. Kuwana clams have been known since ancient times, even appearing in the Edo-period pun, “That trick is like Kuwana’s grilled clams.” There are many restaurants around Kuwana Castle that serve traditional clam dishes.
You can enjoy clams prepared in various ways, such as grilled, shabu-shabu, and in soup, making it an ideal meal after visiting Kuwana Castle.
Yasunaga Mochi: A Kuwana Confection
Yasunaga Mochi is a representative confection of Kuwana, and has been a popular souvenir for travelers on the Tokaido road since the Edo period. This simple confection, made by wrapping sweet bean paste in mochi and baking it, is loved by many for its rustic flavor.
There are shops selling Yasunaga Mochi around Kuwana Castle, and it’s a popular souvenir for visitors to the castle ruins.
Access, Parking, and Opening Hours
Access by Train
Kuwana Castle Ruins (Kyuka Park) is approximately a 15-minute walk from JR/Kintetsu Kuwana Station. Kuwana Station is a major station served by the Tokaido Main Line, Kansai Main Line, and Kintetsu Nagoya Line, making it easily accessible from both Nagoya and within Mie Prefecture.
The recommended route from the station to Kyuka Park is along the old Tokaido Road, where you can see remnants of the castle town and historical sites along the way.
Access by Car and Parking
By car, it’s approximately 15 minutes from the Tomeihan Expressway “Kuwana IC” and approximately 20 minutes from the Isewangan Expressway “Wangan Kuwana IC”. Kyuka Park has its own parking lot with a capacity of approximately 100 cars.
During the cherry blossom and azalea festivals, congestion is expected, so using public transportation is recommended.
Kyuka Park Opening Hours and Admission Fee
Kyuka Park is open year-round, and admission is free. There are no specific opening hours, and you can stroll around freely. However, lighting is limited at night, so visiting during the day is recommended.
The Kuwana City Local Products and Tourism Information Center is located near Kuwana Station and provides tourist information about Kuwana Castle and Kuwana City. You can also get your castle tour stamp rally stamps here.
Map and Location
Kuwana Castle Ruins (Kyuka Park)
- Address: 5-1 Yoshinomaru, Kuwana City, Mie Prefecture
- Phone: 0594-21-9932 (Kuwana City Tourism Division)
Kyuka Park is located on the eastern edge of Kuwana city, facing the Ibi River. The surrounding area is dotted with historical sites such as the Kuwana City Museum, the Shichiri-no-Watashi ferry crossing site, and Teramachi, all of which can be explored on foot.
Kuwana Castle Photo Spots & Scenic Viewpoints
The Collaboration of Banryu Turret and Cherry Blossoms
The most popular photo spot at Kuwana Castle is the combination of cherry blossoms and Banryu Turret in spring. Photographing Banryu Turret from around the main keep in Kyuka Park allows you to capture a beautiful harmony of cherry blossoms and the white-walled turret.
Especially recommended are photos taken in the soft light of early morning or evening, attracting many photography enthusiasts.
View from Along the Ibi River
The view of Banryu Turret from the embankment along the Ibi River is also popular. You can capture the turret’s reflection on the river surface and create a composition that truly captures Kuwana Castle’s location as a water castle.
Scenery of Stone Walls and Moats
The stone walls and moats within Kyuka Park are a classic spot for castle photography. The stone walls around the main keep, in particular, are well-preserved, allowing for powerful photographs that convey the castle’s former grandeur.
Kuwana Castle: Knowledge and Records from Castle Fans
The Position of Kuwana Castle in Castle Research
Kuwana Castle holds an important position in castle research due to its characteristics as a water castle, its strategic location on the Tokaido road, and its construction by the renowned warlord Honda Tadakatsu. Its castle structure, especially its utilization of water resources, is a fascinating case study in the history of Japanese castles.
Activities of the Kuwana Castle Research Committee
In Kuwana City, the Kuwana Castle Research Committee has been established to conduct research on the history and structure of Kuwana Castle. In 2018, a research report was published, summarizing the latest research findings on Kuwana Castle.
Through these research activities, the historical value of Kuwana Castle has been re-evaluated, and efforts toward its preservation and utilization are underway.
Expectations for Restoration and Development
Currently, while the Banryu Turret has been restored to its exterior, major structures such as the main keep and the Honmaru Palace have not yet been restored. However, expectations for further restoration and development are growing among castle enthusiasts and local residents.
Restoring Kuwana Castle requires long-term efforts, including the collection of historical materials and archaeological excavations, but it is possible that in the future, we may see Kuwana Castle recreated in its former glory.
Summary: The Charm and Future Prospects of Kuwana Castle
Kuwana Castle, built by Honda Tadakatsu, one of the Four Heavenly Kings of Tokugawa, holds an important place in the history of Japanese castles. Its location as a strategic point on the Tokaido Fifty-three Stations, its structure as a water castle utilizing the Ibi River, and its unique fan-shaped design make it a castle with many appealing features.
Currently developed as Kyuka Park, it’s a popular spot for locals to enjoy cherry blossoms and azaleas, but remnants of its former glory remain, such as stone walls, moats, and the restored Banryu Turret. The surrounding area also boasts numerous historical sites that tell the story of the castle town, including the Shichiri no Watashi ferry crossing and the temple district, making it an ideal spot for a historical stroll.
By learning about the history of Kuwana Castle, exploring its remains, and experiencing the culture of the castle town, you can truly appreciate the importance of Kuwana in Japanese history. With easy access from Nagoya and within Mie Prefecture, we highly recommend visiting and experiencing the charm of Kuwana Castle for yourself.
