Complete Guide to Hichiya Castle (Miyazaki Prefecture) | A Thorough Explanation of the Remains and Highlights of the Forty-Eight Castles of the Ito Clan
What is Hichiya Castle?
Hichiya Castle is a medieval castle located in Ise-do, Hichiya, Hyuga City, Miyazaki Prefecture. Built on the tip of a cape facing the Hyuga Sea, it was a coastal castle and one of the forty-eight castles of the Ito clan, serving as an important base for controlling Hyuga Province. Currently, it is maintained as part of Ise-ga-hama Seaside Park, and visitors can see the remains such as the gate, main enclosure, stone walls, earthworks, and dry moats.
Hichiya Castle is counted as one of the “Three Castles of Hyuga” along with Kadokawa Castle and Shiomi Castle, and is characterized by its layout that skillfully utilizes the terrain extending out into the sea. Next to the castle ruins is the Omi Shrine, known as the second-ranked shrine of Hyuga Province, and it is a place where history and faith intersect, attracting many history enthusiasts and tourists.
Hichiya Castle is counted as one of the “Three Castles of Hyuga” along with Kadokawa Castle and Shiomi Castle, and is characterized by its layout that skillfully utilizes the terrain extending out into the sea. ## History of Hichiya Castle
Construction and the Rule of the Ito Clan
Hichiya Castle is believed to have been built during the Bunmei era (1469-1487). The Ito clan expanded their power as a powerful local family in Hyuga Province, establishing a network of branch castles known as the Forty-Eight Castles of Hyuga. Hichiya Castle, in particular, held a crucial position as a key point for maritime traffic, serving as a base for transporting goods and gathering information across the Hyuga Sea.
The castle was traditionally ruled by members of the Ito clan and their retainers. Records indicate that retainers of the Ito clan, such as Fukunaga, Fukumoto Shinjuro, and Ujimoto Suruga-no-kami, served as castle lords. Hichiya Castle was not merely a military base, but also played a role in controlling economic activity along the Hyuga Sea coast.
Conflict with the Shimazu Clan
In the late Sengoku period, Hyuga Province became the stage for fierce conflict between the Shimazu and Ito clans. After the Ito clan’s defeat by the Shimazu clan at the Battle of Kizakihara in 1577, Ito Yoshisuke fled to the Otomo clan of Bungo Province, and the 48 castles of the Ito clan in Hyuga Province fell one after another into the hands of the Shimazu clan.
Hichiya Castle also came under Shimazu control, and Ijiri Iga-no-kami was appointed as its lord. To solidify their control over Hyuga Province, the Shimazu clan emphasized coastal castles, including Hichiya Castle, and strived to control maritime traffic.
The Road to Abandonment
After Toyotomi Hideyoshi’s conquest of Kyushu, Hyuga Province was ruled by Takahashi Mototane, and then by Ito Suketake, but after the Battle of Sekigahara, it once again came under Shimazu control. It is believed that Hichiya Castle was abandoned in 1615 due to the Edo Shogunate’s “One Castle Per Province” decree.
After the castle was abandoned, the site was left neglected for a long time. However, in recent years, local governments have been developing the area, installing walking paths and information boards. Currently, it serves as a place of recreation for citizens as Isegahama Seaside Park, while also being preserved as a valuable historical site.
Structure and Layout of Hichiya Castle
Location as a Coastal Castle
The most distinctive feature of Hichiya Castle is that it is a coastal castle that takes full advantage of the topography of a cape jutting out into the Hyuga Sea. Built on a hill approximately 40 meters above sea level, the east and south sides face the sea with sheer cliffs. This topography restricts enemy approaches from three sides, leaving only the northwest direction to be defended.
The advantages of a coastal castle extended beyond defense to include monitoring and controlling maritime traffic. By keeping watch on ships navigating the Hyuga Sea and having the authority to permit or deny entry as needed, economic benefits could also be gained.
Arrangement of Enclosures
Hichiya Castle is composed of multiple enclosures. The castle grounds are arranged in a stepped fashion, with the main enclosure (honmaru) at the highest point, surrounded by the second and third enclosures (ni-no-kuruwa). The main enclosure measures approximately 50 meters east-west and 30 meters north-south, and is presumed to have housed the lord’s residence and important facilities.
Each enclosure is surrounded by earthen ramparts, and the enclosures are separated by dry moats and trenches. A particularly deep trench is located on the northwest side of the main enclosure, demonstrating a defensive measure against intrusion from the land. This trench remains clearly visible today, making it a valuable historical site for understanding the castle’s defensive system.
Stone Walls and Entrance Gate
Partial stone walls remain at Hichiya Castle. While the use of stone walls was limited in medieval castles in the Kyushu region, Hichiya Castle features stone walls around the entrance gate (koguchi) to the main enclosure. These stone walls were constructed using the nozura-zumi technique, providing valuable evidence of castle construction techniques from the late Sengoku period.
The main entrance to the main enclosure is a square-shaped gate (masugata koguchi) with stone walls on both sides. This structure, designed to delay enemy advances and lure them into a narrow space for attack from above, demonstrates the advanced castle-building techniques of the time.
Earthworks and Dry Moats
Earthworks surround each enclosure, including the main enclosure. The height of the earthworks varies depending on the location, but the highest points reach over 2 meters. It is believed that fences or walls were built on top of the earthworks, enhancing their defensive capabilities.
The dry moats not only separated the enclosures but were also important defensive structures to prevent attacks from the land. In particular, the moat separating the main enclosure and the second enclosure is over 3 meters deep, and its scale can still be seen today. Obstacles may have been placed at the bottom of the moat, forming multiple lines of defense.
Highlights of Hichiya Castle
View from the Main Enclosure
The greatest highlight of a visit to Hichiya Castle is the view from the main enclosure. To the east lies the vast expanse of the Hyuga Sea, and on clear days, the horizon is visible. To the south, the city of Hyuga and the beautiful coastline of the Hyuga Sea can be seen in their entirety. The former lords of the castle must have contemplated their domain’s management while gazing upon this view.
The view is particularly spectacular at sunrise; the sight of the sun rising from the sea and painting the Hyuga Sea red is breathtaking. It’s a popular spot for photography, attracting many camera enthusiasts.
Remains of Stone Walls and the Entrance Gate
Around the entrance gate (koguchi) to the main enclosure, the stone walls from the Sengoku period remain in excellent condition. The rough-hewn stone walls, constructed by stacking natural stones as they are, with plants growing through the gaps, evoke a sense of history.
Observing the structure of the entrance gate reveals numerous ingenious features designed to prevent enemy intrusion. The winding passageways and the narrowed spaces created by the stone walls demonstrate a design that anticipated actual combat. Guide boards are also installed, so even first-time visitors can understand the significance of the remains while viewing them.
Earthworks and Moats
The earthworks surrounding the main enclosure have withstood hundreds of years of wind and rain and remain to this day. There are places where you can walk on top of the earthworks, allowing you to experience the perspective of the castle’s soldiers at the time. The depth of the moats, viewed from the earthworks, gives a real sense of their practicality as defensive structures.
Moats are located in multiple places, such as between the main enclosure and the second enclosure, and between the second and third enclosures. By walking along the promenade, you can view these moats in order and understand the entire defensive system of the castle.
Integrated Landscape with Omi Shrine
Immediately next to the Hichiya Castle ruins stands Omi Shrine, the second-ranked shrine of Hyuga Province. The shrine has a long history and was a center of local faith even before Hichiya Castle was built. The adjacent placement of the castle and shrine demonstrates the strategy of a Sengoku-period daimyo who governed his people through both military force and religious influence.
The grounds of Omi Shrine are home to centuries-old giant trees, creating a sacred atmosphere. Visiting the shrine in conjunction with a tour of Hichiya Castle will allow you to gain a deeper understanding of the region’s history and culture.
Development of Ise-ga-hama Seaside Park
The Hichiya Castle ruins have been developed into Ise-ga-hama Seaside Park, featuring walking paths and rest areas. The paths are laid out to traverse the entire castle site, allowing for easy viewing of the main remains. Information boards and explanatory signs are placed throughout the park, providing detailed information about the castle’s history and structure.
The park also has a parking lot, making it easily accessible by car. With restrooms and vending machines available, it provides an environment where you can take your time and enjoy your visit.
Access Information
Location
Address: Ise-do, Hichiya, Hyuga City, Miyazaki Prefecture
Designation: Hyuga City Designated Historic Site
Access by Public Transportation
Approximately 10 minutes by car or 30 minutes on foot from JR Nippo Main Line “Hyuga-shi Station”. Taking a taxi from the station is convenient. Since bus services to Omi Shrine are limited, it is recommended to check the timetable in advance.
Access by Car
Approximately 15 minutes from Higashi-Kyushu Expressway “Hyuga IC”. Proceed along National Route 10 towards Hyuga city center and follow the signs towards Omi Shrine and Isegahama.
Parking
You can use the parking lot at Isegahama Seaside Park. There are approximately 30 spaces available free of charge. It can get crowded on holidays and during tourist seasons, so visiting earlier in the day is recommended.
Visiting Hours
The castle ruins are open as a park and are generally accessible all day. However, since there is no lighting at night, daytime visits are recommended. A leisurely tour of the ruins takes approximately one hour. Including a visit to Omi Shrine, allow 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours.
Nearby Tourist Attractions
Omi Shrine
Located next to the Hichiya Castle ruins, this is the second-ranked shrine of Hyuga Province. Within the shrine grounds is a stone called “Sazareishi,” mentioned in the national anthem “Kimigayo,” and it is known as a power spot. The view from the torii gate facing the sea is spectacular, attracting many visitors.
Kadogawa Castle
Like Hichiya Castle, it is one of the three castles of Hyuga Province, located in Kadogawa Town, adjacent to the north of Hyuga City. As one of the 48 castles of the Ito clan, it worked in conjunction with Hichiya Castle to defend the northern part of Hyuga Province.
Shiomi Castle
Another of the three castles of Hyuga, located within Hyuga City. Along with Hichiya Castle and Kadokawa Castle, it formed a defensive line along the Hyuga Sea coast.
Mimitsu Townscape
Located in the south of Hyuga City, the Mimitsu district preserves the atmosphere of an Edo-period port town. Designated as an Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings, it’s ideal for historical walks.
Cruz Sea
A scenic spot in the southern part of Hyuga City, named for its rock formation resembling a cross. The observation deck offers spectacular views of the Hyuga Sea.
Points to Note When Visiting Hichiya Castle
Clothing and Equipment
The castle ruins are maintained as a park, but there are some undulating walking paths. Comfortable shoes and clothing are recommended. In summer, the sun is strong, so a hat and sunscreen are also necessary.
Best Time for Photography
The time when the sun rises, painting the Hyuga Sea red, is an excellent time for photography. Beautiful scenery can also be enjoyed at sunset. Sunny days are ideal, but even on cloudy days, the rugged appearance of the Hyuga Sea can be seen.
Preparing to Learn History
Gaining basic knowledge about the Ito clan and the Sengoku period history of Hyuga Province before your visit will make your visit to the ruins more fulfilling. While there are plenty of information boards on site, prior learning will deepen your understanding.
Enjoying the Site in Each Season
Spring is beautiful with its fresh greenery, and summer showcases the stunning blue of the Hyuga Sea. Autumn offers mild weather perfect for strolling, and winter provides clear air and expansive views. Each season has its own unique charm, so you’ll discover something new every time you visit.
Summary
Hichiya Castle is a historical site with a unique charm as a sea castle facing the Hyuga Sea. As one of the 48 castles of the Ito clan, it played an important role in Hyuga Province during the Sengoku period, and its remains, such as the castle gate, stone walls, earthworks, and dry moats, are still well-preserved today.
The castle ruins, which have been developed into Isegahama Seaside Park, are popular not only with history buffs but also with tourists visiting scenic spots. The view of the Hyuga Sea from the main enclosure is magnificent, and visiting it together with the adjacent Omi Shrine will give you a deep understanding of the history and culture of the region.
When you visit Hyuga City in Miyazaki Prefecture, be sure to visit Hichiya Castle and experience its unique structure as a seaside castle and the spirit of the Sengoku period. A stroll through the castle ruins while feeling the sea breeze of the Hyuga Sea will surely be an unforgettable experience.
