Hiji Castle (Oita Prefecture) Complete Guide | A Thorough Explanation of the History, Highlights, and Townscape of Yokoku Castle
What is Hiji Castle Ruins?
Hiji Castle is an Edo period castle located in Hiji-machi, Hayami-gun, Oita Prefecture. Also known as Yokoku Castle, it is known as a seaside castle facing Beppu Bay. Built in 1602 by Kinoshita Nobutoshi, the first lord of the Hiji Domain, it served as the Kinoshita clan’s residence until the Meiji Restoration.
Although the castle tower and other structures are now gone, the site has been developed into a castle park, where the rough-hewn stone walls, moats, and pine trees still convey the atmosphere of the past. Combined with the beautiful scenery of Beppu Bay, it is a representative historical spot of Oita Prefecture, attracting many tourists and castle enthusiasts.
Basic Information on Hinode Castle
Address: 2602-1 Hinode-machi, Hayami-gun, Oita Prefecture
Alternate Name: Yōkoku Castle
Year of Construction: Keichō 6 (1601) – Keichō 7 (1602)
Builder: Kinoshita Nobutoshi
Castle Structure: Hilltop Castle (Sea Castle)
Kokudaka (Rice Production Value): 30,000 koku (later 25,000 koku)
History of Hinode Castle
Kinoshita Nobutoshi and the Circumstances of its Construction
The history of Hinode Castle begins in Keichō 6 (1601), after the Battle of Sekigahara. Kinoshita Nobutoshi was born in Owari Province as the third son of Kinoshita Iesada, the older brother of Toyotomi Hideyoshi’s principal wife, Kita-no-Mandokoro (Kōdai-in, One). He was employed by Hideyoshi, and after serving as lord of Obama in Wakasa Province, he distinguished himself on the Eastern Army side in the Battle of Sekigahara.
For his achievements, he was granted 30,000 koku of land in Hinode, Hayami District, Bungo Province by Tokugawa Ieyasu, becoming the first lord of the Hinode Domain. Immediately after arriving in the domain, Nobutoshi began construction of the castle, completing it between August of Keicho 6 (1601) and the following year, Keicho 7 (1602). By August of Keicho 7, most of the construction was complete, and Nobutoshi was able to enter the castle.
Assistance from Hosokawa Tadaoki in Castle Construction
It is believed that he received assistance from his brother-in-law, Hosokawa Tadaoki (husband of Gracia, sister of Kita-no-Mandokoro), in the construction of the castle. Tadaoki, as lord of the Kokura Domain in Buzen Province, was located nearby, and it is thought that he provided support in terms of construction techniques and materials. Because of this connection, Hinode Castle was completed as a full-fledged castle with rough-hewn stone walls and a three-story keep.
A Castle Town Associated with the Toyotomi
The Kinoshita clan had deep ties to the Toyotomi family, and the area around Hiji Castle developed as a castle town associated with the Toyotomi. Among Nobutoshi’s full siblings was Kobayakawa Hideaki, known for his role in the Battle of Sekigahara, making this a family that played an important role under the Toyotomi regime.
Throughout the Edo period, the Kinoshita clan continued as lords of the Hiji Domain, ruling for 11 generations. The domain’s administration was relatively stable, and the castle town prospered through commerce and fishing. In particular, the seafood from Beppu Bay became an important product of the domain, and the “castle town flounder” (described later) was highly prized from the Edo period onward.
The Meiji Restoration and the Abolition of the Castle
After the Meiji Restoration, under the early Meiji-era three-tiered system of prefectures, domains, and counties, the Hiji Domain’s administrative office was located there. However, with the abolition of the feudal domains and the establishment of prefectures, Hiji Castle was abandoned. The keep and many other buildings were demolished, leaving only remnants such as stone walls and moats.
Layout and Structure of Hiji Castle
Location as a Coastal Castle
Hiji Castle is a coastal castle built on a cliff at the southern end of Beppu Bay, overlooking Hiji Port. Located at the eastern entrance to the Kunisaki Peninsula in Oita Prefecture, and at the branching point to the Kanagoe Pass leading to Buzen Province, it was a strategically important location for both land and sea transportation.
Its location facing the sea offered advantages in defense against attacks from the sea and in transporting goods by sea, making it strategically and economically significant.
Castle Structure
Hiji Castle is a flatland castle composed of the main keep, second keep, third keep, and outer bailey. A three-story keep was built in the central main keep, surrounded by the second and third keep.
Main Keep: The core of the castle, where a three-story keep was built. The castle tower was situated in a prime location overlooking Beppu Bay, and the lord’s residence was also located within the main enclosure.
Second and Third Enclosures: These contained the residences of retainers and the domain’s facilities. They served both defensively and as the center of domain administration.
Outer Enclosure: An outer enclosure surrounded the castle town, containing merchant districts and temples/shrines.
Characteristics of the Stone Walls
The stone walls of Hinode Castle were built using a technique called “nozurazumi” (rough stone masonry). Nozurazumi is an old style of stacking natural stones as they are, characterized by its simple beauty with minimal processing. As a valuable historical site that conveys the castle-building techniques of the Keicho period, it remains in excellent condition today.
The stone wall next to the main gate is particularly magnificent, demonstrating the high level of skill in skillfully combining large stones. Its robust construction, which has withstood the waves and winds of Beppu Bay, remains intact even more than 400 years after its construction.
Highlights of Hinode Castle
Castle Ruins Park
The current Hinode Castle ruins have been developed into a castle ruins park and are open to the public. Stone walls, moats, and pine trees remain within the park, allowing visitors to experience the castle’s former glory. The panoramic view of Beppu Bay is spectacular, especially at sunset.
In spring, cherry blossoms bloom, making it a popular spot for cherry blossom viewing. The combination of the castle ruins, cherry blossoms, and Beppu Bay is ideal for photography, attracting many camera enthusiasts.
Kimon Turret (Relocated and Reconstructed)
The Kimon Turret of Hinode Castle has been relocated and reconstructed on the grounds of the museum. Originally an important turret protecting the castle’s northeast (demon’s gate) direction, its current location differs from its original position due to the relocation. Nevertheless, it is preserved as a valuable structure for understanding the architectural style of the time.
The Legend of Human Sacrifice
Hinode Castle has a real-life legend of human sacrifice. The legend tells of human sacrifices being made to reinforce the stone walls that repeatedly collapsed during construction. While such legends are found at castles throughout Japan, Hinode Castle has concrete records and oral traditions that have been passed down as part of the castle’s history.
Fresh Water Springing in the Sea and Castle Town Flounder
One of Hinode Castle’s most distinctive features is the spring of fresh water that gushes into the sea below the castle. This area is called “Joka-kaigan” (Castle Town Coast), and it forms a unique environment where freshwater and saltwater mix.
The flounder that grows in this environment is famous as “Joka-kaigan,” and has been prized since the Edo period for its firm flesh and unique sweetness. Because it was rare and delicious, it was also used as a tribute to the feudal lord, and even today it is known as a representative specialty dish of Hinode Town.
The local flounder from the castle town is a miraculous product born from the history and nature of Hinode Castle, and a must-try when visiting the castle ruins.
Hinode Castle Photo Spots & Scenic Viewpoints
Stone Walls Overlooking Beppu Bay
The viewpoint overlooking Beppu Bay from within the castle ruins park is one of Hinode Castle’s most representative scenic spots. The blue sea stretching beyond the rough-hewn stone walls creates a beautiful landscape where the castle and nature harmonize. The lighting is especially good on sunny mornings, making it ideal for photography.
Pine Trees and Moat
The pine trees and moat surrounding the castle are also not to be missed. The contrast between the green of the pines and the stone walls is beautiful, strongly retaining the atmosphere of an Edo-period castle. In autumn, you can enjoy the autumn foliage, and the castle shows different expressions throughout the seasons.
Beppu Bay at Sunset
At sunset, the view of the sun sinking into Beppu Bay is spectacular. The sky and sea bathed in orange light, and the silhouette of the castle ruins rising in the darkness, create a fantastical atmosphere. This time of day is popular not only with castle enthusiasts but also with photography lovers.
Tourist Spots and Historical Sites Around Hiji Castle
Hiji Town Historical Museum
This facility exhibits materials related to the history of Hiji Castle and the Kinoshita clan. You can learn in detail about the castle’s construction, the development of the castle town, and the state of the domain’s administration. The relocated and reconstructed Kimon-yagura (demon gate tower) is also located on the grounds.
Address: Hiji Town, Hayami District, Oita Prefecture
Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Please confirm)
Closed: Mondays (or the following day if Monday is a public holiday)
Tekizanso (Tekizan Villa)
This is a villa of the Kinoshita family built during the Meiji era and designated as a National Important Cultural Property. Its beautiful Japanese garden and architectural style are magnificent, making it one of Hiji Town’s representative tourist spots.
Ninomaru-kan
This tourist facility, built on the site of the second bailey of Hinode Castle, offers a chance to enjoy local Hinode specialties and dishes made with castle town flounder. It’s also an ideal rest stop during a stroll around the castle ruins.
Historical Sites Related to Toyotomi
Hidenomoto town is dotted with historical sites related to Toyotomi Hideyoshi and his wife, Kita-no-Mandokoro. Because the Kinoshita clan had deep ties to the Toyotomi family, temples, shrines, and monuments related to the Toyotomi remain in the castle town, allowing visitors to enjoy a historical walk.
Local Cuisine and Specialties Around Hinode Castle
Castle Town Flounder
When visiting Hinode town, you absolutely must try “Castle Town Flounder.” Raised in the fresh spring water of the sea, this flounder has firm flesh, no unpleasant odor, and a refined sweetness. It can be enjoyed in various ways, such as sashimi, simmered dishes, and deep-fried dishes.
The taste of Castle Town Flounder changes with the seasons, with spring and summer being considered its peak season. It is served at restaurants and inns in town, and reservations are recommended.
Seafood from Beppu Bay
Hiji Town faces Beppu Bay, so it is rich in fresh seafood. You can enjoy seasonal seafood such as horse mackerel, mackerel, and sea bream. Dishes made with fish landed at the local fishing port are exquisite.
Local Cuisine of Oita Prefecture
You can also enjoy local cuisine of Oita Prefecture around Hiji Town. There are many restaurants where you can savor Oita’s unique flavors, such as toriten (chicken tempura), dango-jiru (dumpling soup), and ryukyu (a type of sashimi dish).
Hinode Castle Access, Parking, and Opening Hours
Transportation Access
Access by Train:
Approximately 15-minute walk from Yokoku Station on the JR Nippo Main Line
or approximately 20-minute walk from Hinode Station on the JR Nippo Main Line
Access by Car:
Approximately 10 minutes from the Hinode Interchange on the Higashi-Kyushu Expressway
Approximately 30 minutes by car from Oita Airport
Approximately 20 minutes by car from Beppu city center
Parking
Free parking is available around the castle ruins park. There is space for approximately 30 regular cars, but it can get crowded during cherry blossom season and tourist season.
Opening Hours and Visiting Hours
The castle ruins park is always open and can be freely visited. However, due to limited lighting at night, daytime visits are recommended.
Estimated Visit Time: Approximately 30 minutes to 1 hour
Admission Fee: Free
Pamphlets and Tourist Information
Pamphlets about Hiji Castle and surrounding tourist spots are available at the Hiji Town Tourism Association and the Hiji Town Historical Museum. They include model courses and detailed maps, making efficient sightseeing easier.
Hotels and Accommodations near Hiji Castle
Accommodations in Hiji Town
Within Hiji Town, there are inns and guesthouses where you can enjoy local flounder. Some accommodations utilize historic buildings, allowing you to fully experience the atmosphere of the castle town.
Beppu Onsen Area
Beppu City, about a 20-minute drive from Hiji Town, is home to Beppu Onsen, one of Japan’s leading hot spring resorts. With abundant accommodations and a variety of hot springs, travel plans combining Hiji Castle sightseeing and hot springs are popular.
Beppu Onsen has eight hot spring areas known as “Beppu Hatto,” each with different water qualities and atmospheres. Relaxing in the hot springs before or after visiting Hiji Castle is highly recommended.
Accommodation in Oita City
Oita City has numerous hotels and business hotels. It’s easily accessible from Hiji Town, about 30-40 minutes by car, making it a convenient base for exploring other tourist destinations in Oita Prefecture.
Hiji Castle: Knowledge and Records from Castle Enthusiasts
Evaluation as a Castle
Among castle enthusiasts, Hiji Castle is highly regarded as a valuable castle site that preserves the excellent construction techniques of the Keicho period. In particular, the rough-hewn stone walls are an important relic demonstrating the high level of technology at the time.
Although structures such as the keep have been lost, the layout and stone walls allow us to understand the castle’s structure from that period, making it a valuable subject for castle research.
Rarity as a Coastal Castle
While many castles exist in Japan, coastal castles facing the sea are relatively rare, and Hiji Castle is one of the prime examples. Its construction, taking advantage of the favorable location of Beppu Bay, is noteworthy as a demonstration of Kinoshita Nobutoshi’s strategic vision.
Visit Records and Reviews
On castle enthusiasts’ blogs and social media, Hinode Castle is highly praised for its beautiful scenery and well-preserved stone walls. The view overlooking Beppu Bay, in particular, is often called a “must-see,” and it’s a popular spot for photography.
On the other hand, some say that because the main keep and other structures no longer remain, it’s difficult to imagine the castle’s overall structure. Advice is often given that studying at the historical museum before visiting will allow for a deeper understanding of the castle’s charm.
Model Itinerary for Visiting Hinode Castle
Half-Day Course (Approx. 3-4 Hours)
- Hinode Castle Ruins Park (1 hour): Enjoy the stone walls, moat, and the view of Beppu Bay
- Hinode Town Historical Museum (1 hour): Learn about the castle’s history and the Kinoshita clan
- Stroll Through the Castle Town (1 hour): Visit historical sites related to Toyotomi
- Castle Town Flounder Lunch (1 hour): Enjoy local specialties at a local restaurant
Full-Day Course (Approx. 6-8 Hours)
- Hinode Castle Ruins Park (1.5 hours): Take a stroll in the refreshing morning air
- Hinode Town Historical Museum (1 hour)
- Matoyama Villa (1 hour): Visit the Kinoshita family’s villa and garden
- Castle Town Flounder Lunch (1.5 hours)
- Tour of Historical Sites in the Castle Town (1.5 hours)
- Beppu Onsen (2 hours): Relax and unwind with a day trip to the hot springs.
2-Day Course (1 night, 2 days)
Day 1:
- Visit Hiji Castle Ruins Park and surrounding historical sites
- Dinner featuring flounder from the castle town
- Overnight stay at Beppu Onsen
Day 2:
- Beppu Hells Tour
- Beppu city sightseeing
- Travel to Oita city (Oita Castle Ruins, Funai Castle, etc.)
Map & Access Map
Hiji Castle Ruins are located in the center of Hiji town, Hayami district, Oita Prefecture, and are within walking distance of either Yokoku Station or Hiji Station on the JR Nippo Main Line. It’s also close to the Hiji Interchange on the Higashi-Kyushu Expressway, making it easily accessible by car.
From Beppu city center, it’s about a 20-minute drive south on National Route 10. From Oita Airport, it’s about a 30-minute drive via the prefectural road. Signage is well-maintained in the surrounding area, making it easy to find even on your first visit.
Hiji Castle Ruins are located in the center of Hiji town, Hayami district, Oita Prefecture, and are within walking distance of either Yokoku Station or Hiji Station on the JR Nippo Main Line. Searching for “Hiji Castle Ruins” or “Hiji Castle Ruins Park” in navigation apps like Google Maps will display accurate location information and route guidance.
Summary
Hiji Castle (Yōkoku Castle) is a historically significant castle site located in Hiji-machi, Hayami-gun, Oita Prefecture. Built in 1602 by Kinoshita Nobutoshi, it served as the residence of the Kinoshita clan throughout the Edo period.
Currently, it is maintained as a castle ruins park, with its rough-hewn stone walls, moats, and pine trees preserving the atmosphere of the time. With its stunning views overlooking Beppu Bay, “Jōka Karei” (flounder raised in the spring water of the sea), and a castle town associated with Toyotomi Hideyoshi, it’s an attractive tourist destination where history, nature, and gourmet food blend together.
It’s a spot that can be enjoyed by a wide range of people, including castle enthusiasts, history buffs, photography lovers, and foodies, making it a must-visit when visiting Oita Prefecture. A sightseeing plan combining this location with a visit to Beppu Onsen is also recommended, promising a fulfilling travel experience.
Its convenient access and ample parking make it easily accessible. Why not spend some luxurious time exploring the history of Hinode Castle, enjoying its beautiful scenery, and savoring local cuisine?
