Takanabe Castle (Miyazaki Prefecture) Complete Guide: A Thorough Explanation of the History, Highlights, and Lantern Festival of Maizuru Castle
Located in Takanabe Town, Koyu District, Miyazaki Prefecture, Takanabe Castle is a hilltop castle that once flourished as the center of a castle town ruled by the Akizuki clan. Also known as “Maizuru Castle,” it is now maintained as Maizuru Park. This article thoroughly explains the charm of this historic castle site, from its history and highlights to the annual Lantern Festival.
Basic Information on Takanabe Castle
Takanabe Castle was a Japanese castle located in Takanabe Town, almost in the center of Miyazaki Prefecture. During the Edo period, it functioned as the administrative center of the Takanabe Domain, which had a 27,000 koku (unit of rice production) yield. The castle structure is a terraced hilltop castle, built on a hill approximately 40 meters above sea level.
Alternate Names and Former Names
- Former Name: Takarabe Castle
- Alternate Name: Maizuru Castle
- Origin: The castle’s topography resembles a crane in flight, hence the name “Maizuru Castle” (Dancing Crane Castle).
Location and Access
- Address: Minami-Takanabe, Takanabe-cho, Koyu-gun, Miyazaki Prefecture
- Transportation: Approximately 15 minutes on foot from JR Takanabe Station
- Parking: Free parking available at Maizuru Park
History of Takanabe Castle
From Construction to the Sengoku Period
The history of Takanabe Castle dates back approximately 1000 years. Originally called “Takarabe Castle,” it is believed to have been built by a local powerful family in Hyuga Province.
During the Sengoku period, it played an important role as one of the “Forty-Eight Castles of the Ito Clan,” who ruled Hyuga Province. The Ito clan expanded their power as a powerful daimyo in Hyuga Province, and Takarabe Castle became a key strategic point in their control. ### The Akizuki Clan’s Arrival and the Establishment of the Takanabe Domain
In 1587 (Tensho 15), following Toyotomi Hideyoshi’s conquest of Kyushu, the Akizuki clan of Chikuzen Province (present-day Fukuoka Prefecture) was transferred to Hyuga Province. Akizuki Tanenaga entered Takarabe Castle and renamed it “Takanabe Castle.” From then until the Meiji Restoration, the Akizuki clan ruled the Takanabe Domain for approximately 280 years.
Although a small domain of 27,000 koku as an outside daimyo, the Akizuki clan emphasized education and culture in their domain administration. During this period, Takanabe became known as a “town of learning,” producing many talented individuals.
The Takanabe Domain in the Edo Period
During the Edo period, the Takanabe Domain was known as “Akizuki 30,000 koku” (actual yield was 27,000 koku), and despite being a small domain, it focused on educational policies. In particular, Uesugi Yozan (Harunori), born as the second son of the 6th lord of the Takanabe domain, Akizuki Tanemi, later left his mark on history as a wise ruler of the Yonezawa domain.
Although the Takanabe domain was not financially wealthy, it established the domain school “Meirindo” and devoted itself to Confucian education. This educational policy produced many talented individuals from the late Edo period to the Meiji Restoration.
From the Late Edo Period to the Meiji Restoration
During the late Edo period, the Takanabe domain acted as a supporter of the shogunate, but sided with the new government during the Boshin War. The lord at the start of the war was Akizuki Tanetomi, who was 50 years old at the time.
With the abolition of the feudal domains and establishment of prefectures in 1871 (Meiji 4), the Takanabe domain was abolished, and Takanabe Castle was also abandoned. The castle buildings were demolished, and today only parts of the stone walls and moats remain as a trace of its former glory.
Layout and Structure of Takanabe Castle
Castle Layout
Takanabe Castle was a flatland castle with a stepped layout, consisting of the following main enclosures:
- Honmaru: The central part of the castle, where the lord’s residence was located.
- Ninokuruwa: An important enclosure protecting the Honmaru, located in the center of the current Maizuru Park.
- Sannomaru: The outer enclosure, where the residences of retainers were located.
- Sotobori: A defensive structure surrounding the entire castle.
Characteristics of Defensive Structures
Takanabe Castle, as a flatland castle, had a defensive system that skillfully utilized the natural terrain. Built on a hill approximately 40 meters above sea level, it was surrounded by a moat.
The stone walls employed techniques ranging from rough-hewn stonework to fitted stonework, showcasing castle construction techniques from the early to mid-Edo period. Even today, the original stone walls around the Ninokuruwa remain in good condition.
Highlights of Takanabe Castle Ruins
Maizuru Park
Currently, the site of Takanabe Castle’s second bailey has been developed into “Maizuru Park,” a place of relaxation for the townspeople. Numerous cherry trees are planted within the park, making it a popular spot for cherry blossom viewing in spring.
From the park, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Takanabe town, and on clear days, you can even see the Hyuga Sea. The view from the elevated position, unique to a castle ruin, evokes a sense of historical romance in visitors.
Remaining Stone Walls and Moats
Within Maizuru Park, the stone walls from the Edo period remain in excellent condition. The stone walls around the second bailey are particularly impressive, allowing visitors to observe the castle-building techniques of the time up close.
Parts of the moat also remain, giving a glimpse into the scale of the former defensive facilities. These remains are valuable historical assets that convey to the present day that Takanabe Castle was an actually functioning fortress.
Maizuru Shrine
Maizuru Shrine is located within Maizuru Park. This shrine is dedicated to the Akizuki clan and is beloved by the local people. The shrine grounds are enveloped in a tranquil atmosphere, making it a must-visit spot during a historical walk.
Monument to Lord Akizuki Tanetatsu’s Chinese Poetry
A monument commemorating Akizuki Tanetatsu, the 10th lord of the Takanabe Domain, stands on the castle ruins. Akizuki Tanetatsu was a lord during the late Edo period and is known for his efforts in reforming the domain’s administration. The monument is inscribed with a Chinese poem composed by Lord Tanetatsu, demonstrating the high level of cultural sophistication of the time.
Nagatomo Kan’emon and Waterways
Remnants of waterways built by Nagatomo Kan’emon remain around Takanabe Castle. Nagatomo Kan’emon was a civil engineer in the mid-Edo period and made significant contributions to the agricultural development of Takanabe. The waterways he designed are still partially functional today, serving as important industrial heritage that tells the story of the region’s history.
The Legend of the Flying Plum Tree
Within Maizuru Park stands a plum tree called the “Flying Plum Tree.” Planted in honor of the legend of the flying plum tree at Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine, it symbolizes devotion to Sugawara no Michizane, the god of learning. It can be seen as a symbol of the Takanabe Domain’s emphasis on education.
Takanabe Castle Lantern Festival
Festival Overview
The Takanabe Castle Lantern Festival is the largest event in Takanabe Town, held annually in mid-October (around the weekend of October 10th). Approximately 10,000 lanterns are lit around Maizuru Park, illuminating the autumn night with a magical glow.
Although this festival is relatively new, having started in 1996, it has now become a representative autumn tradition of Miyazaki Prefecture, attracting many tourists from both within and outside the prefecture.
Highlights and How to Enjoy
The greatest charm of the Takanabe Castle Lantern Festival is the fantastical scenery created when the historic castle ruins are enveloped in the light of countless lanterns. The stone walls and trees are illuminated, revealing a completely different appearance from the daytime.
The lanterns are handmade by local elementary and junior high school students and residents, each adorned with pictures and messages. The warm glow of these handmade lanterns soothes the hearts of visitors.
During the festival, you can also enjoy stage events and local food stalls, making it a fun experience for families.
Event Information
- Date: Mid-October every year (weekend around October 10th)
- Venue: Maizuru Park and the area around Takanabe Castle Ruins
- Lighting Hours: Approximately 18:00 to 21:00
- Admission Fee: Free
- Parking: Temporary parking will be available (public transportation is recommended due to expected congestion)
History and Culture of Takanabe Town
Development as a Castle Town
Takanabe Town developed as a castle town throughout the Edo period. Even today, remnants of samurai residences and merchant buildings remain scattered throughout the town, preserving the atmosphere of the past.
The town center retains a grid-like road layout, reflecting the systematically planned development of the castle town. You can experience the Edo-period town layout while taking a historical stroll.
Takanabe: A Town of Education
Takanabe Domain, though small, is known for its emphasis on education. The domain school, “Meirindo,” provided education centered on Confucianism and produced many outstanding individuals.
This educational tradition continues to this day, and Takanabe Town cherishes its regional identity as a “town of education.”
Great Figures Produced by Takanabe Town
Takanabe Town has produced many great figures:
- Uesugi Yozan (Harunori): Born as the second son of the lord of the Takanabe domain, he later became a wise ruler of the Yonezawa domain and successfully reformed the domain’s administration.
- Ishii Juji: A social worker known as the father of child welfare in Japan.
- Akizuki Taneki: Lord of the Takanabe domain during the late Edo period, he dedicated himself to reforming the domain’s administration.
- Ozawa Jisaburo: A military officer in the former Imperial Japanese Navy, he served as Chief of Staff of the Combined Fleet.
The achievements of these great figures can be learned in detail at the Takanabe Town Historical Museum.
Tourist Attractions in Takanabe Town
Takanabe Town Historical Museum
The Takanabe Town Historical Museum, built on the site of Takanabe Castle (also known as Maizuru Castle), exhibits the history, cultural assets, and folklore of Takanabe Town. It features extensive exhibits on local figures such as Ishii Juji, Akizuki Taneki, and Ozawa Jisaburo, allowing visitors to deeply learn about Takanabe’s history.
Mochida Kofun Cluster
Takanabe Town is home to the large-scale Mochida Kofun Cluster, a group of ancient burial mounds from the Kofun period. Designated a national historic site, it is an important historical site demonstrating the existence of powerful local clans in ancient Hyuga Province. It’s a place where you can truly feel that Takanabe’s history has continued since the Kofun period.
Takanabe Daishi Temple
Takanabe Daishi Temple is known for its spectacular scenery, featuring over 700 gigantic stone statues. The statues, carved by a single monk over 50 years starting in the early Showa period, are breathtaking and one of Takanabe Town’s representative tourist attractions.
Hyuga Sea and Surf Spots
Takanabe Town faces the Hyuga Sea and boasts a beautiful coastline. The town has surf spots suitable for surfing, making it popular with surfers. The rich natural environment, surrounded by the sea and mountains, is also a major attraction of Takanabe Town.
Access and Surrounding Information
Access by Public Transportation
- By JR: Get off at Takanabe Station on the JR Nippo Main Line, approximately 15 minutes on foot.
- By Bus: Get off at Takanabe bus stop on the Miyazaki Kotsu Bus, approximately 10 minutes on foot.
Access by Car
- From Miyazaki City: Approximately 40 minutes via National Route 10.
- From Miyazaki Airport: Approximately 50 minutes.
- Higashi-Kyushu Expressway: Approximately 5 minutes from Takanabe IC.
Parking Information
Free parking is available at Maizuru Park. However, during the Takanabe Castle Lantern Festival, the area becomes extremely crowded, so we recommend using temporary parking lots or public transportation.
Nearby Accommodations
There are numerous accommodations in Takanabe Town and the neighboring cities of Miyazaki and Saito. You can check the latest accommodation information on the Takanabe Town Hall and Tourism Association websites.
Points to Note When Visiting Takanabe Castle
Recommended Time to Visit
- Spring (Late March to Early April): Cherry blossom season; Maizuru Park is bustling with cherry blossom viewers.
- Autumn (Mid-October): The Takanabe Castle Lantern Festival takes place; this is the busiest time for tourists.
- Early Summer/Autumn: The weather is mild, allowing for a leisurely historical stroll.
Estimated Time Required
- Castle Ruins Only: 30 minutes to 1 hour
- Castle Ruins and Historical Museum: 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours
- Tour of Historical Spots in the Town: Half a day to a full day
Clothing and Items to Bring
The castle ruins are maintained as a park, but there are some stairs and slopes. Comfortable shoes and clothing are recommended. In summer, the sun is strong, so don’t forget to bring a hat and sunscreen.
Takanabe Town Local Information
Support for Relocation and Settlement
Takanabe Town is actively promoting relocation and settlement, and the Takanabe Town Hall’s Regional Policy Division serves as the relocation consultation desk. Despite being a compact town, it boasts excellent infrastructure such as hospitals and schools, and is strengthening its efforts to welcome new residents as a “first-class compact city.”
Area and Population
- Area: Approximately 43.8 square kilometers
- Population: Approximately 20,000 (as of 2023)
- Characteristics: Located almost in the center of Miyazaki Prefecture, a transportation hub in Kyushu
Contact Information
Takanabe Town Hall
- Address: 8437, Kamie, Takanabe-cho, Koyu-gun, Miyazaki Prefecture
- Phone: 0983-26-2015 (Main)
- Regional Policy Division: Consultation desk for relocation and settlement
Takanabe Town Tourism Association
- Contact desk for tourism information and various event information
Summary
Takanabe Castle (Maizuru Castle) is one of Miyazaki Prefecture’s representative castle ruins, with a history of approximately 1,000 years. As the administrative center of the Takanabe Domain ruled by the Akizuki clan, it flourished as a center of education and culture during the Edo period.
Currently, it is maintained as Maizuru Park, and the remains such as stone walls and moats convey the atmosphere of its former glory. In particular, the Takanabe Castle Lantern Festival, held every October, has become a representative autumn event of Miyazaki Prefecture, with approximately 10,000 lanterns illuminating the castle ruins in a fantastical way.
Takanabe Town is a charming town where history and nature harmonize, boasting not only the castle ruins but also the Mochida Kofun burial mounds, Takanabe Daishi temple, and surf spots on the Hyuga Sea. Located almost in the center of Miyazaki Prefecture and easily accessible, it is a must-visit spot when sightseeing in Miyazaki.
Why not visit the Takanabe Castle ruins, steeped in historical romance, and spend some relaxing time soaking up the atmosphere of the castle town built by the Akizuki clan?
