Complete Guide to Fukuchiyama Castle | The History and Highlights of the Famous Castle in Tanba Built by Akechi Mitsuhide
Fukuchiyama Castle is a hilltop castle located in the heart of Fukuchiyama City, Kyoto Prefecture. It is a historic castle built around 1579 by Akechi Mitsuhide, a renowned general of the Sengoku period. This castle, the only one in northern Kinki with a keep, is characterized by its unique stone walls remaining from the time of its construction and its three-story, four-tiered keep, restored in 1986 through the enthusiasm of the local citizens. In 2017, it was selected as one of the “Continued Top 100 Japanese Castles” (No. 158), and is an important cultural heritage site that conveys the history of the Tanba region to the present day.
History of Fukuchiyama Castle
From Yokoyama Castle to Fukuchiyama Castle
The predecessor of Fukuchiyama Castle was a fort called “Yokoyama Castle,” belonging to the local powerful Yokoyama clan. This area, a strategically important transportation hub where the Yura River and Haji River converge, has long been considered a central location in Amata District of Tanba Province. During the Sengoku period, the Shiomi clan used Yokoyama Castle as their residence, but after Akechi Mitsuhide, acting on orders from Oda Nobunaga, pacified Tanba, the castle fell into Mitsuhide’s hands.
Construction of the Castle and the Pacification of Tanba by Akechi Mitsuhide
In 1575, Oda Nobunaga ordered Akechi Mitsuhide to conquer Tanba. Tanba was a strategically important location connecting Yamashiro Province and Tajima Province, and its pacification was essential for the Oda regime’s expansion westward. Mitsuhide spent approximately four years pacifying Tanba, and around 1579, he extensively renovated Yokoyama Castle, constructing Fukuchiyama Castle.
Mitsuhide incorporated the finest castle architecture of the time into the construction, developing it into a modern castle with stone walls. The castle’s name was changed from “Yokoyama” to “Fukuchiyama,” and this area became the base for governing Tanba Province. After its construction, Mitsuhide appointed his son-in-law, Akechi Hidemitsu, as the castle lord and entrusted him with the governance of the area.
Town Development under Mitsuhide’s Rule
Akechi Mitsuhide not only built the castle as a military base, but also systematically developed the surrounding castle town. He carried out flood control work on the Yura River, constructing a dike known as “Akechi Yabu” to protect the town from floods. He also introduced the Rakuichi-rakuza system to promote commerce and industry, and gathered temples and shrines in the castle town, giving it the function of a religious center.
Mitsuhide’s benevolent rule was highly praised by the people, and a strong sense of reverence for Mitsuhide remains in Fukuchiyama even today. The gratitude towards Mitsuhide is passed down to the present day, as evidenced by the annual “Mitsuhide Festival.”
Fukuchiyama Castle After the Honnō-ji Incident
In June 1582 (Tenshō 10), Akechi Mitsuhide assassinated his lord, Oda Nobunaga, in the Honnō-ji Incident. However, 13 days later, he was defeated and killed by Hashiba Hideyoshi (later Toyotomi Hideyoshi) at the Battle of Yamazaki. After Mitsuhide’s death, Sugihara Ietsugu became the lord of Fukuchiyama Castle, and the castle lords continued to change thereafter.
After the Battle of Sekigahara, in 1600 (Keichō 5), Arima Toyouji was appointed as the lord with a 60,000 koku domain, and the Fukuchiyama Domain was officially established. Throughout the Edo period, Fukuchiyama Castle functioned as the residence of the Fukuchiyama Domain, and its lords changed hands several times, including the Arima, Okabe, Inaba, and Matsudaira clans.
Fukuchiyama Castle After the Meiji Era
Following the abolition of the feudal domains in 1872 (Meiji 5), the Fukuchiyama domain was abolished, and the following year, in 1873 (Meiji 6), Fukuchiyama Castle was demolished due to the castle demolition order. Many of the buildings, including the keep, were dismantled, leaving only the stone walls and the copper gatehouse. Part of the castle gate was relocated to a temple in the castle town and is still preserved today.
Restoration of the Keep in the Showa Era
Approximately 100 years after its demolition at the beginning of the Meiji era, in 1986 (Showa 61), the Fukuchiyama Castle keep was restored thanks to the enthusiasm of the citizens. A citizen movement known as the “One Tile Movement” unfolded, with many citizens contributing tiles and donations. Through this citizen effort, the three-story, four-tiered keep was rebuilt, reviving as a symbol of Fukuchiyama.
Even in the Reiwa era, efforts to commemorate the history of Fukuchiyama Castle continue, including a special exhibition commemorating the 40th anniversary of the keep’s reconstruction.
Highlights of Fukuchiyama Castle
The Charm of the Stone Walls Remaining from the Time of Construction
The greatest highlight of Fukuchiyama Castle is its unique stone walls, which remain from the time of its construction. The stone walls built by Mitsuhide feature a characteristic called “repurposed stones.” These are stone structures such as five-ringed stupas and Hōkyōintō pagodas, as well as millstones and lanterns, which were repurposed as building materials for the walls. This is an extremely rare example in castle architecture.
The use of these repurposed stones is thought to indicate the need for rapid construction and the difficulty in securing building materials. Observing the stone walls reveals a variety of stone shapes, and imagining the origin of each stone is one of the pleasures of visiting. Many repurposed stones can be seen, especially in the stone walls of the castle tower base, making it a valuable historical site that conveys the castle-building techniques of Mitsuhide’s era.
The Only Castle Tower in Northern Kinki
Fukuchiyama Castle’s castle tower is the only castle tower in the northern Kinki region. The castle tower, restored in 1986, has a three-story, four-level structure, and its exterior boasts a beautiful contrast between black clapboard siding and white walls.
The interior of the castle tower houses a local history museum, featuring exhibits on the history of Fukuchiyama Castle, materials related to Akechi Mitsuhide, and the history and culture of Fukuchiyama. From the top floor, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Fukuchiyama city, the Yura River, and the surrounding mountains. The view from the castle tower offers a valuable opportunity to relive the scenery that Mitsuhide saw.
Copper Gate Guardhouse
The Copper Gate Guardhouse is a valuable historical structure that remained intact even after the castle abolition decree. As one of the few surviving Edo period buildings, it conveys the history of Fukuchiyama Castle to the present day. The guardhouse was where officials guarding the castle gate were stationed, and it is an important historical document for understanding the castle’s security at the time.
Fukuchiyama Castle Park
The area around Fukuchiyama Castle has been developed into Fukuchiyama Castle Park, a place of relaxation for citizens. In spring, the cherry blossoms bloom in abundance, making it a popular spot for cherry blossom viewing. Walking paths are maintained within the park, allowing visitors to enjoy a stroll while observing the stone walls up close.
Relocated Castle Gates
The gates of Fukuchiyama Castle were relocated to temples within the city after the castle was abandoned. These gates are still carefully preserved and can be viewed while walking through the castle town. Visiting the relocated gates allows you to imagine the scale and structure of the former castle.
Exhibits in Fukuchiyama Castle Keep
Exhibits on the History of Akechi Mitsuhide and Fukuchiyama Castle
The exhibits inside the keep detail the life of Akechi Mitsuhide, his pacification of Tanba, and the circumstances surrounding the construction of Fukuchiyama Castle. You can learn about Mitsuhide from multiple perspectives, including his personality, his abilities as a strategist, and his role as a benevolent ruler.
A reconstructed model of Fukuchiyama Castle during Mitsuhide’s time and materials showing the appearance of the castle town at that time are also on display, allowing you to visually understand the appearance of Fukuchiyama during the Sengoku period. ### Historical Materials on Successive Castle Lords and the Fukuchiyama Domain
The museum also boasts a wealth of historical materials on successive castle lords since Mitsuhide. It showcases the achievements of each lord who ruled the Fukuchiyama Domain throughout the Edo period, the changes in domain administration, and the development of the castle town.
History and Culture of Fukuchiyama
Fukuchiyama Castle’s keep also functions as a local history museum, featuring exhibits on the history and culture of Fukuchiyama in general. It introduces the history of Fukuchiyama from ancient times to the modern era, local industries and culture, and notable figures, allowing visitors to gain a deep understanding of the region.
Special Exhibitions and Events
The castle keep regularly hosts special exhibitions. These include the 40th Anniversary of the Keep’s Reconstruction Special Exhibition and the “Before and After Photo Exhibition,” offering multifaceted perspectives on the history of Fukuchiyama Castle. These special exhibitions sometimes feature valuable materials and photographs not normally on public display.
Fukuchiyama Castle Visit Information
Access
Access by Train
- Approximately 15 minutes on foot from JR Fukuchiyama Station
- Immediately after alighting at “Fukuchiyama Castle Park” bus stop (Kyoto Kotsu bus from JR Fukuchiyama Station)
Access by Car
- Approximately 10 minutes from the Fukuchiyama IC on the Maizuru-Wakasa Expressway
- Approximately 10 minutes from the Fukuchiyama IC on the Kyoto Jukan Expressway
- Parking: Fukuchiyama Castle Park parking available (free)
Opening Hours and Closing Days
Opening Hours
- 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Last entry 4:30 PM)
Closing Days
- Tuesdays (or the following day if Tuesday is a public holiday)
- New Year’s Holidays (December 28th – January 4th)
*Please note that closing days may change, so it is recommended to check the official website before visiting.
Admission Fees
Individual
- Adults: 330 yen
- Children (Elementary and Junior High School Students): 110 yen
Group (20 or more people)
- Adults: 260 yen
- Children: 80 yen
*Prices are subject to change. Please check the official website for the latest information.
Estimated Visiting Time
A visit to Fukuchiyama Castle’s main tower takes approximately 30 minutes to 1 hour. If you want to carefully view the exhibits and enjoy the view from the tower, allow about 1 hour. Including observing the stone walls and strolling through the park, a stay of 1.5 to 2 hours is recommended.
Attractions Around Fukuchiyama Castle
Fukuchiyama Castle Town
The area around Fukuchiyama Castle retains traces of the castle town developed by Mitsuhide. Many temples are clustered along Teramachi Street, allowing you to experience the unique town layout of a castle town. You can feel the breath of history while strolling through the old townscape. ### Goryo Shrine
Located within walking distance of Fukuchiyama Castle, Goryo Shrine is a shrine dedicated to Akechi Mitsuhide. It is a valuable example of the community’s gratitude towards Mitsuhide and is known as a rare shrine dedicated to Mitsuhide throughout Japan. The “Mitsuhide Festival” is held every October, attracting many visitors.
Flood Control Memorial Museum
The Flood Control Memorial Museum, which introduces the flood control project of “Akechi Yabu” built by Akechi Mitsuhide, is also worth a visit. It is a facility where you can learn about Mitsuhide’s civil engineering skills and consideration for his people.
Deepening Your Understanding of Fukuchiyama Castle’s Charm
Value as One of the Continued Top 100 Japanese Castles
Fukuchiyama Castle was selected as one of the “Continued Top 100 Japanese Castles” (number 158) in 2017. This was the result of a comprehensive evaluation of its historical value as a castle, the state of preservation of its remains, and its importance to the region. The stamp for the Continued Top 100 Japanese Castles can be obtained at the Fukuchiyama Castle keep. ### Importance as a Castle Associated with Akechi Mitsuhide
In recent years, interest in Akechi Mitsuhide has increased due to the broadcast of the NHK Taiga drama “Kirin ga Kuru” (The Kirin Arrives). Fukuchiyama Castle is a valuable example of a castle built by Mitsuhide, with its original remains remarkably well-preserved. Fukuchiyama Castle is an indispensable historical site for understanding Mitsuhide’s castle-building skills, governing abilities, and personality.
A Castle Walking Together with the Citizens
The greatest characteristic of Fukuchiyama Castle is that it was restored through the enthusiasm of its citizens and continues to be loved by them today. The power of the citizens, symbolized by the “One Tile Movement,” and the ongoing activities to protect and pass on the castle, represent an ideal form of cultural property preservation.
Points to Note When Visiting Fukuchiyama Castle
Recommended Time to Visit
Spring (Late March to Early April)
The cherry blossom season is the most beautiful time to visit Fukuchiyama Castle. The contrast between the castle and the cherry blossoms is magnificent, and it is bustling with many cherry blossom viewers.
Autumn (October-November)
The autumn foliage is beautiful, and October, when the “Mitsuhide Festival” is held, is especially recommended.
Summer (July-August)
This is the best season for views from the castle tower, where you can enjoy the flow of the Yura River and the lush green scenery.
Photography Tips
Recommended photography spots at Fukuchiyama Castle include angles looking up at the castle tower from below, angles that capture both the stone walls and the castle tower together, and views of the city from the castle tower. The stone walls, in particular, where repurposed stones can be seen, make for interesting close-up shots that highlight their unique structure.
Combining with Nearby Attractions
A visit to Fukuchiyama Castle is more fulfilling when combined with nearby tourist attractions. We recommend creating a half-day to full-day sightseeing plan that includes visits to Goryo Shrine, the Flood Control Memorial Museum, and a stroll through the castle town.
Summary
Fukuchiyama Castle is a historical site with many attractions, serving as the base of operations in Tanba Province built by Akechi Mitsuhide, and later restored through the enthusiasm of its citizens. From its unique stone walls, constructed using repurposed stones from the time of its construction, to its only castle tower in northern Kinki, and the castle town that still retains memories of Mitsuhide’s benevolent rule, there are endless sights for history buffs.
Selected as one of the Continued Top 100 Japanese Castles, Fukuchiyama Castle, which conveys the history of the Tanba region to the present day, is a must-see spot when visiting northern Kyoto Prefecture. Enjoy the view from the castle tower, reflect on the scenery Mitsuhide saw, and experience the history of Fukuchiyama, which has continued from the Sengoku period to the present day.
Fukuchiyama Castle is not merely a tourist spot; it is a place where the history and culture of the region, and the pride of its citizens, are condensed. It is a special castle that makes visitors feel the depth of history and a deep affection for the region.
