Wakabayashi Castle (Miyagi Prefecture) Complete Guide | A Thorough Explanation of the History, Remains, and Highlights of Date Masamune’s Later Residence
Wakabayashi Castle was a flatland castle located in Kojō, Wakabayashi-ku, Sendai City, Miyagi Prefecture, and is known as the castle where Date Masamune, the first lord of the Sendai Domain, spent his later years. Currently, the site is occupied by Miyagi Prison and entry into the castle is prohibited, but the remaining earthworks and moat traces allow us to imagine its former appearance. This article provides a thorough explanation of Wakabayashi Castle, from its historical background and construction process to its structural details and the remains that can be seen today.
What is Wakabayashi Castle? | Date Masamune’s Later Residence
Wakabayashi Castle was built in 1628 by Date Masamune. Although Masamune already had Sendai Castle (Aoba Castle) as his main castle, he deliberately built a new castle in his later years, after the age of 60. This castle was used as Masamune’s daily residence for approximately eight years, until his death in Edo in 1636.
Basic Information
- Location: 2-chome, Kojō, Wakabayashi-ku, Sendai City, Miyagi Prefecture
- Alternate Name: None (Registered as “Residence” with the Edo Shogunate)
- Castle Structure: Flatland Castle
- Year of Construction: Kan’ei 4 (1627) – Kan’ei 5 (1628)
- Builder: Date Masamune
- Year of Abandonment: Kan’ei 13 (1636), after Masamune’s death
- Remains: Earthworks, moat remains
- Designated Cultural Property: Sendai City Registered Cultural Property (Historic Site)
- Current Status: Miyagi Prison
- Area: Approximately 119,600 m²
Wakabayashi Castle Ruins are located approximately 3 km southeast of JR Sendai Station, on a natural levee at an elevation of approximately 12 m on the left bank of the Hirose River. Located in the southern part of Sendai City, this area was a crucial transportation hub along the Oshu Kaido road.
Historical Background of Wakabayashi Castle’s Construction
Why Did Masamune Build a New Castle?
There are several theories regarding the reasons why Date Masamune built Wakabayashi Castle. While it was traditionally understood as a “retirement castle,” recent research has revealed different aspects.
Detailed Design by Masamune Himself
It is said that Masamune personally oversaw the construction of Wakabayashi Castle down to the smallest detail. This suggests that it was not merely a retirement residence, but rather an attempt to realize Masamune’s ideal castle.
Function as a Place of Practical Work
Research has revealed that Wakabayashi Castle functioned more as an actual place of work than as a retirement residence. Masamune only visited Sendai Castle about once a year, conducting daily domain administration at Wakabayashi Castle. He only visited Sendai Castle for official ceremonies.
Consideration for the Edo Shogunate
What’s interesting is the notification to the Edo Shogunate. Masamune registered this castle as a “residence” and did not refer to it as a “castle.” This is thought to be a consideration to avoid violating the prohibition on new castle construction under the Buke Shohatto (Laws for Military Households). However, internally it was called “Wakabayashi Castle” and effectively functioned as a castle.
Construction History and Period
Construction began in 1627 (Kanei 4) and was completed the following year, 1628 (Kanei 5). Masamune was 61 years old at the time and would spend eight years in the completed castle. The short construction period demonstrates Masamune’s strong will and the mobilization capabilities of the Sendai Domain.
Structure and Layout of Wakabayashi Castle
Scale and Arrangement of the Castle
Wakabayashi Castle was a flatland castle with a vast site of approximately 119,600 square meters (approximately 36,000 tsubo). The castle was situated on a natural levee of the Hirose River and was surrounded by earthen ramparts and a moat.
Structure of Earthen Ramp and Moat
The castle was surrounded by compacted earthen ramparts. These ramparts still remain beneath the wall of Miyagi Prison, giving a glimpse into its former scale. A moat surrounded the ramparts, providing defensive functionality. According to Masamune’s will, only the moat was preserved after the castle was abandoned.
Layout of Buildings within the Castle
Within Wakabayashi Castle, several turrets were built, including the palace where Masamune resided. A garden was also constructed, reflecting Masamune’s aesthetic sensibilities.
Legend of the Korean Plum
It is said that a “Korean plum” tree, believed to have been brought back by Masamune during the Bunroku-Keicho War (the Japanese invasions of Korea), was planted within the castle grounds. This plum tree is said to still exist on the grounds of Miyagi Prison.
Relationship with the Oshu Kaido Road
Wakabayashi Castle was located along the Oshu Kaido road. This location likely held strategic significance, controlling the transportation route connecting Edo and Sendai. Accessible from the north via the Oshu Kaido, it’s thought that it was intended to have a different function than Sendai Castle.
Masamune’s Death and the Abandonment of Wakabayashi Castle
Masamune’s End in 1636
On May 24, 1636, Date Masamune passed away at his Edo residence at the age of 70. Masamune’s death also determined the fate of Wakabayashi Castle.
Abandonment and Relocation of Buildings
After Masamune’s death, it was decided that Wakabayashi Castle would be abolished. In 1638, the castle buildings were dismantled and relocated to Sendai Castle’s Ninomaru (second bailey) and other locations. This relocation meant that the buildings of Wakabayashi Castle were utilized for the expansion of Sendai Castle.
Masamune’s Will
Interestingly, Masamune instructed in his will that only the moat be left intact. Even though the buildings were dismantled, the moat remained. It is thought that there was some intention behind this on Masamune’s part, but the details are unclear.
Wakabayashi Medicinal Herb Garden in the Edo Period
Conversion to a Medicinal Herb Cultivation Site
After the castle was abandoned, the site of Wakabayashi Castle was used as the “Wakabayashi Medicinal Herb Garden” throughout the Edo period. Various medicinal herbs were cultivated here, playing a role in the medical policy of the Sendai Domain.
Function as a Medicinal Herb Garden
The Wakabayashi Medicinal Herb Garden primarily cultivated medicinal herbs used as raw materials for traditional Chinese medicine. Its vast grounds and good water supply are thought to have made it suitable for medicinal herb cultivation. This garden continued until the end of the Edo period, contributing to the development of medicine and pharmacy in the Sendai Domain.
Current Use of Wakabayashi Castle Site | Miyagi Prison
Changes Since the Meiji Era
After the Meiji Restoration, the land of Wakabayashi Castle was used for various purposes, but ultimately became the site of Miyagi Prison. Since it is still used as a prison, entry to the interior is strictly prohibited.
Preservation of the Prison’s High Walls and Remains
The Miyagi Prison site is surrounded by high walls built on top of the earthworks of Wakabayashi Castle. While these walls make it virtually impossible to see inside, the earthworks and moat remains are remarkably well-preserved.
Surrounding Facilities
Around the Wakabayashi Castle site are buildings such as Kojō Elementary School and prison dormitories. The place name “Kojō” (古城) still conveys the fact that a castle once stood here.
Highlights and Remains of Wakabayashi Castle
While it is currently impossible to see inside Wakabayashi Castle, there are remains and points of interest that can be seen from the surrounding area.
Stone Monument and Information Board on the North
A stone monument and information board are located along the road on the north side of the Wakabayashi Castle ruins. This is one of the main viewpoints for Wakabayashi Castle. The information board provides detailed explanations about the history and structure of Wakabayashi Castle, helping visitors understand the overall layout of the castle.
Moat and Earthworks Viewed from the East
From the road on the east side, you can see the relatively well-preserved remains of the moat and earthworks. The compacted earthworks retain their original appearance, allowing you to appreciate the scale of Wakabayashi Castle. Photography is permitted, albeit through a fence.
Remains of the Surrounding Moat
Walking around Wakabayashi Castle, you can see traces of the moat in various places. While some parts are completely filled in, the location of the moat can be estimated from the topography.
Condition of the Earthworks
The earthworks still function as the foundation for the Miyagi Prison wall, and therefore are in relatively good condition. Their height and width allow us to imagine their defensive function at the time.
Access and Visitor Guide
Access by Public Transportation
From JR Sendai Station
- Get off at the “Kojō 2-chome” bus stop (Sendai City Bus), approximately 3 minutes on foot.
- Approximately 15 minutes by taxi from Sendai Station (approx. 3 km).
By Subway
- Approximately 20 minutes on foot from “Yakushidō Station” on the Sendai City Subway Tōzai Line.
Access by Car
- Approximately 15 minutes from Sendai Station via Prefectural Road 23.
- Approximately 10 minutes from “Sendai East IC” on the Sendai Eastern Expressway.
Parking Information
There is no dedicated parking lot for Wakabayashi Castle Ruins. We recommend using nearby coin-operated parking lots or public transportation.
Precautions During Your Visit
Restricted Areas
Entry to the Miyagi Prison grounds is strictly prohibited. Please refrain from getting too close to the walls or attempting to photograph the inside of the prison.
Visiting Hours
While viewing from the surrounding roads is possible 24 hours a day, please avoid visiting early in the morning or late at night, as it is a residential area. Visiting during daylight hours is recommended.
Estimated Visiting Time
Please allow 30 minutes to 1 hour to walk around the Wakabayashi Castle ruins and examine the remains.
Related Historical Sites in the Surrounding Area
When visiting Wakabayashi Castle, visiting the surrounding historical sites related to the Date family will deepen your understanding of history.
Sendai Castle (Aoba Castle)
Sendai Castle, the main castle of Date Masamune, is located approximately 4 km northwest of Wakabayashi Castle. Currently, it is maintained as Aoba Castle Ruins Park, where you can see the stone walls and the reconstructed Otemon Gate turret. From the main keep site, where the equestrian statue of Lord Masamune stands, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Sendai city.
Zuihoden (Masamune’s Mausoleum)
Zuihoden, the mausoleum of Date Masamune, is located southeast of Sendai Castle and approximately 3 km northwest of Wakabayashi Castle. This magnificent building, a testament to the opulent Momoyama culture, is a must-see spot as Masamune’s burial place.
Mutsu Kokubunji Temple Ruins
Approximately 2 km southeast of Wakabayashi Castle are the ruins of Mutsu Kokubunji Temple, built during the Nara period. It is an important historical site for understanding Sendai’s ancient history.
Tomizuka Kofun (Tomizuka Tumulus)
This keyhole-shaped tumulus is located within Wakabayashi Ward, approximately 1.5 km southeast of Wakabayashi Castle. It offers insights into the area during the Kofun period.
Materials and Research Related to Wakabayashi Castle
Materials at the Sendai City Museum
The Sendai City Museum houses illustrations and documents related to Wakabayashi Castle. In particular, Edo period illustrations provide detailed information about the structure of Wakabayashi Castle before its abandonment.
Results of Archaeological Excavations
While full-scale archaeological excavations are difficult due to the site being part of Miyagi Prison, research in the surrounding area and documentary studies are gradually revealing the true nature of Wakabayashi Castle.
Recent Research Trends
New insights are accumulating, such as the fact that Wakabayashi Castle was not merely a retirement residence but also functioned as a place of practical work, and the circumstances under which it was registered as a “residence” due to political considerations toward the Edo Shogunate.
Historical Significance of Wakabayashi Castle
Key to Understanding Date Masamune’s Later Years
Wakabayashi Castle is an important historical site for understanding the life and political activities of Date Masamune in his later years. Considering Masamune’s intentions in building this castle and how he spent his time there helps us understand the figure of a warlord who lived during the transition period from the Sengoku period to the Edo period.
One Aspect of Sendai Domain Administration
The existence of Wakabayashi Castle illustrates the complexity of the administration of the Sendai Domain. The distinction between Sendai Castle, the official main castle, and Wakabayashi Castle, the practical administrative center, is an interesting example for understanding the realities of a daimyo’s rule.
Position in Castle History
In the early Edo period, when new castle construction was prohibited by the Buke Shohatto (Laws for Military Households), Wakabayashi Castle is a unique example in castle history as it was built as a de facto castle while registered as a “residence.”
Significance of Visiting Wakabayashi Castle
Currently, the Wakabayashi Castle site is occupied by Miyagi Prison, and it is not possible to see inside. However, the remaining earthworks and moat traces certainly tell the story of Date Masamune, who built a castle here nearly 400 years ago and spent his later years there.
The Wakabayashi Castle site is blocked by high walls and not easily accessible, but that is precisely why it offers the pleasure of using one’s imagination to envision its former glory. What kind of days did Masamune spend in this castle, which he himself designed and built with meticulous attention to detail? What was the intention behind the distinction in its use compared to Sendai Castle?
Visiting the Wakabayashi Castle ruins with these questions in mind will provide a deeper historical experience than simply viewing the remains.
Summary
Wakabayashi Castle was a flatland castle where Date Masamune spent the last eight years of his life. Built in 1628 (Kanei 5), it was abandoned in 1636 (Kanei 13) after Masamune’s death. While registered as a “residence” with the Edo shogunate, it functioned internally as a “castle,” and Masamune conducted his official duties there.
Currently, the site is occupied by Miyagi Prison, and entry into the interior is prohibited. However, the remaining earthworks and moat traces offer a glimpse into its former scale. The main points of interest are the stone monument and information board on the north side, and the moat and earthworks visible from the east.
After its abandonment, the site became the Wakabayashi Medicinal Herb Garden, contributing to the medical policies of the Sendai Domain throughout the Edo period. Wakabayashi Castle is a valuable historical site for understanding the later years of the Sengoku period warlord Date Masamune and the realities of daimyo rule in the early Edo period.
When you visit Sendai, why not also visit the ruins of Wakabayashi Castle, along with Sendai Castle and Zuihoden, and reflect on the history of the castle built by Masamune?
