Complete Guide to Sadowara Castle (Miyazaki Prefecture) | A Thorough Explanation of History, Highlights, and Access to the Continued Top 100 Japanese Castles
What is Sadowara Castle? | An Overview of Miyazaki’s Representative Mountain Castle
Sadowara Castle is a mountain castle located in Kamitajima, Sadowara-cho, Miyazaki City, Miyazaki Prefecture. It is designated as one of the Continued Top 100 Japanese Castles (No. 197) and a National Historic Site. Built on a steep hillside approximately 70 meters above sea level, this castle is known as one of the 48 castles of the Ito clan and played an important role as the political and military center of Hyuga Province (present-day Miyazaki Prefecture) from the Sengoku period to the Edo period.
Also known as “Tajima Castle” and “Kakusho Castle,” it is surrounded by mountain ranges such as Benten-yama and situated in a natural stronghold bordered by the Hitotsuse River to the north. Its structure combines a mountaintop castle with a residence at the foot of the mountain, and it is highly valued for its historical significance as a valuable site showing the evolution of castles from the medieval to the early modern period. During the Edo period, it functioned as the administrative center of the Sadowara Domain, boasting a maximum yield of 30,000 koku (a unit of rice production). Today, the remains of major baileys such as the main keep, the southern castle, and Matsuo-maru, as well as remnants like dry moats and masugata koguchi (square-shaped gate), remain, conveying the appearance of a Sengoku period mountain castle.
History of Sadowara Castle | From the Tajima Clan to the Ito Clan and then the Shimazu Clan
Construction Period: Construction of Tajima Castle by the Tajima Clan (14th Century)
The history of Sadowara Castle dates back to the mid-14th century (Nanboku-cho period). It is believed to have begun as “Tajima Castle” built by Tajima Kyusuke, a member of the Hyuga Ito clan. At that time, the Sadowara region was called “Tajima,” and the Tajima clan ruled this area.
The Tajima clan, while related to the Ito clan, built their own independent power base and maintained influence over the surrounding region by constructing a castle in this strategically important location in the Hitotsuse River basin. It is believed that from its initial construction, the castle was a hybrid of a mountain castle and a flatland residence, with defensive structures positioned on the mountaintop and a residence at the foot of the mountain.
The Ito Clan’s Golden Age: The Golden Age of Sadowara Castle (15th-16th Centuries)
In 1427 (Oei 34), the main branch of the Ito clan, expanding its power, destroyed the Tajima clan and entered Sadowara Castle. From this period, the name “Sadowara Castle” became commonly used.
During the 16th century, under Ito Yoshisuke, the Ito clan grew into a powerful force controlling almost the entire Hyuga Province, and Sadowara Castle reached its peak as the Ito clan’s base. Yoshisuke actively adopted Kyoto’s court culture, and Kyoto-style culture flourished at Sadowara Castle. The castle town was also developed and flourished as a center of commerce and culture.
The castle was destroyed by fire in 1536, but it was rebuilt as “Tsurumatsu Castle” on the site of Tajima Castle between 1542 and 1543. It is said that this reconstruction further expanded the size of the castle grounds and even included the construction of a keep.
The Shimazu Invasion and the Downfall of the Ito Clan (Late 16th Century)
The Ito clan’s prosperity did not last long. In 1577, Shimazu Yoshihisa of Satsuma intensified his invasion of Hyuga Province, and Ito Yoshiyuki suffered repeated defeats against the overwhelming military power of the Shimazu army. In December of the same year, Ito Yoshiyuki abandoned Sadowara Castle and fled to Bungo Province (present-day Oita Prefecture), marking the end of the Ito clan’s rule over Hyuga.
Subsequently, Sadowara Castle came under the control of the Shimazu clan, with Shimazu Iehisa becoming its lord. The Shimazu clan, aiming to unify Kyushu, positioned Sadowara Castle as a crucial base and proceeded with renovations to the castle and development of the surrounding town.
Edo Period: Establishment of the Sadowara Domain and Shimazu Clan Rule
In the Battle of Sekigahara in 1600, the Shimazu clan sided with the Western Army, but through skillful diplomacy, their territory was secured. Afterward, a branch of the Shimazu clan settled in Sadowara, establishing the Sadowara Domain.
Throughout the Edo period, the Sadowara Domain remained under the control of the Shimazu clan and functioned as a branch domain of the Satsuma Domain. The domain lords were successive members of the Shimazu clan, and it held a maximum yield of 30,000 koku. During this period, the castle was clearly divided into a military facility on the mountaintop and a residential area at the foot of the mountain with administrative functions. In peacetime, the residential area at the foot of the mountain became the center of the domain’s administration.
After the Meiji Restoration, the Sadowara Domain was abolished due to the abolition of the feudal system and the establishment of prefectures, and Sadowara Castle was also abandoned. While many of the buildings were demolished, remnants such as stone walls, baileys, and moats remain to this day.
Structure and Layout of Sadowara Castle | A Complex Form of Mountain Castle and Residence
Castle Structure on the Mountaintop
The mountaintop of Sadowara Castle is built on a hill approximately 70 meters above sea level, and is centered around three main baileys: the Honmaru, Minami-no-shiro, and Matsuo-maru.
The Honmaru is the central part of the castle and is located at the highest point. The remains of the castle tower base are still visible, confirming that a castle tower once stood here. From the Honmaru, one could see the castle town of Sadowara and the flow of the Hitotsuse River, and it functioned as a military observation post.
Minami-no-shiro is a bailey located south of the Honmaru, and played an important role as a key defensive point. The castle is characterized by its defensive structure utilizing steep slopes, and various ingenious measures are visible throughout to make enemy intrusion difficult.
Matsuo-maru is a fortified enclosure located on the west side, functioning as a secondary defensive base protecting the main keep. These fortified enclosures were separated by dry moats and earthen ramparts, forming a complex defensive network.
Residences at the Foot of the Mountain: Ninomaru and Kakushokan
At the foot of the mountain lay a residential area called Ninomaru. This area housed the lord’s residence and buildings with administrative functions, serving as the center of domain administration during peacetime.
Currently, a portion of the Ninomaru residence has been restored as “Kakushokan,” and is open to the public on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays. At Kakushokan, visitors can tour the interior of the building, which recreates the architectural style of the time, and learn about the history and culture of Sadowara Castle. The exhibition room displays castle models, excavated artifacts, and historical materials, helping to understand the overall picture of Sadowara Castle.
Defensive Structures: Dry Moats, Earthworks, and Masugata Gate
Sadowara Castle retains numerous defensive structures characteristic of medieval mountain castles.
Dry moats are moats dug between baileys, serving to prevent enemy intrusion and restrict movement between baileys. Even today, traces of deep dry moats can be seen, attesting to the high level of defense at the time.
Earthworks are earthen walls built around baileys, protecting against enemy arrows and firearms, and also obstructing visibility. Some earthworks remain in good condition today.
Masugata gates are defensive structures with a square space in front of the castle gate, designed to allow attacks on invading enemies from three sides. The Masugata gates of Sadowara Castle are important remains demonstrating the advanced castle-building techniques of the Sengoku period.
Highlights of Sadowara Castle | Stamp and Historical Site Exploration (Continued Top 100 Japanese Castles)
Location of the Stamp for the Continued Top 100 Japanese Castles
Sadowara Castle was selected as one of the Continued Top 100 Japanese Castles in 2017. The stamp can be obtained at the following locations:
- Sadowara Castle Station Iroha-kan: Open on weekdays, making it the most easily accessible stamp location. Materials and pamphlets about Sadowara Castle are also available.
- Tsurumatsu-kan: Open only on Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays. The stamp is located inside the reconstructed Ninomaru Residence, allowing visitors to learn more about the castle’s history while collecting the stamp.
For those enjoying castle tours, we recommend visiting Tsurumatsu-kan on Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays when it is open. You can experience the life and culture of the time while viewing the reconstructed residence.
Main Enclosure and Castle Tower Base Ruins
The main enclosure can be accessed in about 15-20 minutes by hiking up the mountain trail from the foot of the mountain. While the path is well-maintained, there are steep slopes typical of mountain castles, so comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
Upon reaching the main enclosure, you can see the castle tower base ruins. The stone foundation remains, allowing you to truly appreciate the presence of the castle tower that once stood here. The castle tower of Sadowara Castle was a rare sight in southern Kyushu and symbolized the authority of the Ito clan.
The view from the castle tower base is magnificent, offering panoramic views of the town of Sadowara, the Hitotsuse River, and even the Hyuga Sea in the distance. Especially on a clear day, it’s a spectacular spot to enjoy a magnificent view of Miyazaki’s beautiful natural landscape.
Remains of Enclosures and Dry Moats
Around the main enclosure, the remains of enclosures such as Minami-no-shiro and Matsuo-maru can be found. By actually walking along the passages connecting these enclosures and the dry moats separating them, you can experience the structure of a Sengoku period castle.
The deep dry moats, in particular, demonstrate the high level of castle-building technology of the time and reveal the ingenuity employed to prevent enemy intrusion. Walking along the bottom of the dry moat, you will be overwhelmed by the height of the earthen ramparts on either side, and you will truly appreciate their function as defensive structures.
Masugata Koguchi and Stone Walls
The remains of a Masugata Koguchi (square-shaped gate) are still present within the castle grounds, showcasing a clever design for repelling enemies. The structure, which lures enemies into a square space and attacks them from three sides, reflects the practical castle-building philosophy of the Sengoku period.
Furthermore, some stone walls remain, allowing you to observe the changes in castle-building technology from the medieval to the early modern period. These stone walls are thought to be the result of later renovations, showing traces of castle development during the Shimazu clan’s era.
Excavation of Gold-Leaf Tiles
During the excavation of Sadowara Castle, gold-leaf tiles were unearthed. These special tiles, used only in the castles of powerful rulers, are important artifacts demonstrating the prosperity and cultural sophistication of the Ito clan. These excavated items are on display at the Miyazaki City Sadowara Historical Museum, offering a glimpse into the opulent castle culture of the time.
Miyazaki City Sadowara Historical Museum | Deep Learning about the Castle’s History
Museum Overview and Exhibits
The Miyazaki City Sadowara Historical Museum is a facility that introduces the history of Sadowara Castle and the culture of the Sadowara region. While it’s located a short distance from the castle ruins, it’s a must-see spot when visiting Sadowara Castle.
The museum displays a reconstructed model of Sadowara Castle, excavated gold-leaf tiles, ceramics, and armor, allowing visitors to learn in detail about the castle’s history and life at the time. It also houses a wealth of historical materials and ancient documents related to the Ito and Shimazu clans.
Of particular note are the models and drawings illustrating the castle’s transformation, allowing for a visual understanding of its evolution from Tajima Castle to Tsurumatsu Castle, and its appearance as a castle of the Sadowara Domain during the Edo period.
Merchant House Museum “Former Sakamoto Residence”
The Miyazaki City Sadowara Historical Museum also houses the Merchant House Museum “Former Sakamoto Residence.” This museum preserves a merchant house building dating back to the Edo period, offering insights into the lifestyle and commercial activities of merchants at that time.
However, due to earthquake damage, there may be restrictions on visiting the Former Sakamoto Residence. It is recommended to check the latest information on the Miyazaki City Sadowara Historical Museum’s official website before visiting.
Changes to Opening Days and Hours
Effective April 1, 2017, the opening days of the Miyazaki City Sadowara Historical Museum have changed. Those planning a visit should check the opening days and hours on the official website beforehand. While generally open on weekdays, it may be closed on Mondays and the day after national holidays.
Tsurumatsukan (a reconstructed facility of the Ninomaru residence) is only open on Saturdays, Sundays, and national holidays, so visiting on a weekend is ideal for efficiently seeing both facilities.
Access to Sadowara Castle | Transportation and Parking Information
Location
Sadowara Castle Ruins
〒880-0301 Kamitajima, Sadowara-cho, Miyazaki City, Miyazaki Prefecture
Miyazaki City Sadowara Historical Museum
〒880-0301 8202-1 Kamitajima, Sadowara-cho, Miyazaki City, Miyazaki Prefecture
Sadowara Castle Station Iroha-kan
〒880-0301 1270-1 Kamitajima, Sadowara-cho, Miyazaki City, Miyazaki Prefecture
Access by Car
From Miyazaki City Center
Head north on National Route 10 and you will arrive in the Sadowara area in about 30 minutes. Follow the signs for Sadowara Castle Ruins and you will arrive at the parking lot. From Miyazaki Airport: Approximately 40 minutes via National Route 220 and National Route 10.
Parking:
- Around Tsurumatsukan: Free parking available (approx. 20 cars)
- Sadowara Iroha-kan Castle Station: Free parking available
- Miyazaki City Sadowara Historical Museum: Dedicated parking available
Access by Public Transportation
By JR:
Get off at Sadowara Station on the JR Nippo Main Line. From the station to Sadowara Castle Ruins is approximately 30 minutes on foot or 5 minutes by taxi.
By Bus:
Take a Miyazaki Kotsu bus bound for Sadowara from Miyazaki Station and get off at the Sadowara Exchange Center bus stop. From there, it’s approximately a 10-minute walk to Tsurumatsukan and the castle ruins entrance.
Bus schedules differ between weekdays and weekends/holidays, so it is recommended to check the Miyazaki Kotsu timetable in advance.
Estimated Time Required for a Castle Ruins Walk
- Visit to Tsurumatsukan: 30 minutes to 1 hour
- Climbing to the main keep and sightseeing: 1 hour to 1 hour 30 minutes
- Visit to Miyazaki City Sadowara Historical Museum: 30 minutes to 1 hour
Allow approximately 2 hours 30 minutes to 3 hours 30 minutes for a leisurely visit. If you wish to take photographs or observe the ruins in detail, it is advisable to allocate more time.
Sadowara Castle and Other Famous Castles in Miyazaki Prefecture | Castles of the Ito and Shimazu Clans
Three Famous Castles of Miyazaki Prefecture
Sadowara Castle is counted as one of the “Three Famous Castles of Miyazaki Prefecture.” The other two castles are as follows:
Obi Castle
Located in Nichinan City, Obi Castle was the final residence of the Ito clan and served as the administrative center of the Obi Domain (51,000 koku) during the Edo period. A beautiful castle town remains, and it has been selected as one of Japan’s Top 100 Castles.
Nobeoka Castle
Located in Nobeoka City, Nobeoka Castle is known for its high stone walls and the “Stone Wall that Killed a Thousand Men.” During the Edo period, it functioned as the administrative center of the Nobeoka Domain. It has been selected as one of Japan’s Continued Top 100 Castles.
Visiting these three castles will give you a comprehensive understanding of Miyazaki Prefecture’s history from the Sengoku period to the Edo period.
Tonokori Castle
Located in Saito City, Tonokori Castle was the base of the Ito clan before Sadowara Castle. It was the central castle among the Ito clan’s 48 castles and is a mountain castle with a vast castle grounds. Visiting it together with Sadowara Castle will give you a deeper understanding of the Ito clan’s expansion of power.
Notes and Recommendations for Visiting Sadowara Castle
Clothing and Items to Bring
Since Sadowara Castle is a mountain castle, we recommend the following preparations if you plan to climb to the main keep:
- Comfortable walking shoes: The hiking trail is well-maintained, but there are steep slopes and stone steps. Sneakers or hiking boots are suitable.
- Drinks: Hydration is especially important in the summer.
- Hat and sunscreen: There are areas with little shade from trees.
- Insect repellent: There may be many insects from spring to autumn.
Photography
Photography is generally permitted at the Sadowara Castle ruins and Tsurumatsukan, but prior confirmation is required for photography inside the Miyazaki City Sadowara Historical Museum. Photography may be restricted depending on the exhibit.
For commercial photography or photography using drones, prior permission from Miyazaki City is required.
Best Season
Sadowara Castle can be visited throughout the year, but the following times are particularly recommended.
- Spring (March-May): Beautiful cherry blossoms and fresh greenery, mild weather, ideal for visiting the castle.
- Autumn (October-November): Enjoy the autumn foliage, and the cool weather makes for a comfortable stroll.
- Winter (December-February): Clear air and excellent views, fewer crowds for a peaceful visit.
Summer (June-September): High temperatures and humidity, so heatstroke prevention is necessary.
Nearby Tourist Attractions
The following tourist attractions are located near Sadowara Castle:
- Sadowara Doll Workshop: Observe the production process of Sadowara dolls, a traditional craft of the Sadowara region.
- Hitotsuse Riverbank: Enjoy walks and picnics on the riverbank surrounded by nature.
- Miyazaki City Center: Approximately 30 minutes by car, providing access to tourist attractions such as Miyazaki Shrine and Aoshima.
Cultural Property Designation and Preservation Activities of Sadowara Castle
National Historic Site Designation
Sadowara Castle ruins were designated a National Historic Site in 2000. This was due to the recognition that Sadowara Castle is an important historical site showing the evolution of castles from the medieval to the early modern period, and an indispensable cultural property for understanding the history of the Sengoku period in southern Kyushu.
Following the designation as a National Historic Site, preservation and development of the castle ruins are progressing, including archaeological excavations, preservation of remains, and installation of information boards.
Selection as one of the Continued Top 100 Japanese Castles
In 2017, Sadowara Castle was selected as one of the Continued Top 100 Japanese Castles by the Japan Castle Association. This means that it was recognized as an important castle second only to the Top 100 Japanese Castles.
The selection as one of the Continued Top 100 Japanese Castles has increased attention from castle enthusiasts nationwide, and the number of visitors has also increased. For those who enjoy visiting castles, Sadowara Castle is one of the important destinations when visiting Kyushu.
Preservation and Development Efforts
Miyazaki City is undertaking the following initiatives to preserve and utilize the Sadowara Castle ruins:
- Continued Archaeological Excavations: Academic research is being continuously conducted to clarify the structure and changes of the castle.
- Preservation and Development of Remains: Development is underway to appropriately preserve remains such as stone walls, earthworks, and dry moats.
- Restoration of the Second Bailey Residence: Part of the residence has been restored as Tsurumatsu-kan, allowing visitors to experience the architecture of the time.
- Enhancement of Information Boards and Pamphlets: Information boards have been installed within the castle ruins, and a Sadowara Castle Ruins pamphlet has also been created.
History and Culture of the Sadowara Domain
Establishment of the Sadowara Domain and its Rice Yield
During the Edo period, the Sadowara Domain was established in Sadowara. The domain was ruled by members of the Shimazu clan for generations and functioned as a branch domain of the Satsuma Domain. While its rice yield fluctuated over time, it reached a maximum of 30,000 koku.
Although a small domain, Sadowara Domain enjoyed relative economic stability due to its thriving commerce utilizing the Hitotsuse River’s water transport, as well as its agriculture and forestry industries.
Culture and Industry of Sadowara
In Sadowara Domain, the traditions of Kyoto-style culture were carried on into the Edo period, fostering a unique culture. In particular, local toys known as Sadowara dolls developed under the domain’s protection and continue to be passed down as a traditional craft today.
Sadowara also flourished as a commercial town, conducting trade with various regions via its river port on the Hitotsuse River. The prosperity of merchant families can still be seen in historical buildings such as the former Sakamoto residence.
Sadowara Domain in the Late Edo Period
During the late Edo period, Sadowara Domain, in cooperation with the Satsuma Domain, weathered the turmoil of the Meiji Restoration. Due to its influence under the Satsuma Domain, Sadowara Domain had some involvement in the movement to overthrow the shogunate, but as a small domain, it did not play a major role.
With the abolition of the feudal domains and establishment of prefectures in 1871 (Meiji 4), the Sadowara Domain was abolished and incorporated into Miyazaki Prefecture via Sadowara Prefecture.
Summary | The Charm and Value of Visiting Sadowara Castle
Sadowara Castle, a representative mountain castle of Miyazaki Prefecture, is a valuable historical site that conveys the history of Kyushu from the Sengoku period to the Edo period. It is a place where you can experience the flow of history—the rise and fall of the Ito clan, the rule of the Shimazu clan, and the establishment of the Sadowara Domain—through its remains.
Selected as one of the Continued Top 100 Japanese Castles and protected as a National Historic Site, Sadowara Castle is a recommended spot not only for castle enthusiasts but also for history buffs and nature lovers. The view from the main keep, the deep dry moat, the restored Tsurumatsukan, and the learning at the Miyazaki City Sadowara Historical Museum will leave a deep impression on visitors.
When visiting Miyazaki Prefecture, be sure to visit Sadowara Castle and experience the atmosphere of the Sengoku period in southern Kyushu. It’s relatively easy to access, being close to Miyazaki city center and Miyazaki Airport, making it a convenient addition to your sightseeing plans.
Why not spend some time at Sadowara Castle, the stage of history, imagining the battles fought between the Ito and Shimazu clans, and the peaceful Edo period administration of the domain?
