Hikawa Castle (Okutama Town, Tokyo) Complete Guide | History, Highlights, Access, and Surrounding Tourist Information
Hikawa Castle, located in Hikawa, Okutama Town, Nishitama District, Tokyo, is a medieval mountain castle built in the forest along the Tama River. Also known as “Hikawa Castle” or “Masakado’s Castle,” it is associated with legends about Taira no Masakado, a military commander of the Heian period. Although now a forest, it is a valuable historical site where traces of the castle’s remains can be traced, attracting attention from castle enthusiasts and history buffs.
Overview and Basic Information of Hikawa Castle
Hikawa Castle is a medieval mountain castle located in the Hikawa area of Okutama Town, Nishitama District, Tokyo. Despite being relatively easily accessible within walking distance of Okutama Station, its existence is not widely known.
Basic Castle Data
- Alternate Names: Hikawa Castle, Masakado Castle
- Location: Hikawa, Okutama-machi, Nishitama-gun, Tokyo
- Builder: Unknown (Tradition suggests a connection to Taira no Masakado)
- Year of Construction: Unknown (Estimated to be late Heian period to Kamakura period)
- Year of Abandonment: Unknown
- Current Status: Forest
- Castle Structure: Mountain Castle
- Remains: Earthworks, bailey remains (estimated)
Regarding the evaluation of Hikawa Castle, the average rating in the castle enthusiast community is around ★★★☆☆ (2.70), positioning it as a medium-sized historical site. The recommended visiting time is approximately 30 minutes, and the number of visitors is limited to around 15 people.
History and Construction Background of Hikawa Castle
The Legend of Taira no Masakado and Hikawa Castle
A legend related to Taira no Masakado remains at Hikawa Castle. Taira no Masakado was a military commander of the mid-Heian period, known for attempting to establish his own government in the Kanto region. He is said to have established bases throughout the Kanto region until his defeat in 940, and Hikawa Castle is believed to be one of them.
However, this legend lacks historical evidence, and it has been suggested that it may have been fabricated in later times. The actual construction period is estimated to be from the late Heian period to the Kamakura period, and it is considered highly likely that it was built by local samurai of Musashi Province.
The Role of Mountain Castles in Musashi Province
In the western region of Musashi Province during the medieval period, many mountain castles were built, mainly along the Tama River basin. These were primarily constructed for the following purposes:
- Monitoring of Transportation Routes: Monitoring bases for major roads such as the Ome Kaido.
- Bases for Territorial Control: Residences and fortified castles of local lords.
- Military Strategic Point: Defense bases during wartime.
Hikawa Castle is located at a strategic transportation point along the Tama River, and it is highly likely that it was a base for a samurai group that controlled this region.
Medieval History of the Okutama Region
In the medieval period, the Okutama region was within the sphere of influence of the Nishito clan, one of the seven Musashi clans. The Nishito clan was based in the upper reaches of the Tama River, and many branches were distributed around Hinohara Village and Okutama Town. It has been suggested that Hikawa Castle may have been built by samurai associated with the Nishito clan.
During the Sengoku period, the region came under the influence of the Odawara Hojo clan, and military tensions increased due to its location on the border with the Kai Takeda clan. It is possible that Hikawa Castle was renovated and used during this period, but the details are unknown.
Hikawa Castle’s Layout and Structure
Location and Topographical Characteristics
Hikawa Castle was built on a hill on the right bank of the Tama River. It overlooks the current Hikawa district of Okutama Town, making it a strategically important location for monitoring the Tama River and the Ome Highway (old road).
The castle’s location is as follows:
- Elevation: Approximately 400-450m (estimated)
- Relative Height: Approximately 50-80m
- Topography: Ridge from the hilltop
- View: Tama River basin, Hikawa district urban area
Estimated Castle Structure
Currently, due to extensive forestation, it is difficult to confirm clear remains, but the following structure is estimated from the topography:
Main Enclosure (Honmaru)
It is thought that the main enclosure was located at the highest point of the hill. Its scale was relatively small, suggesting it had a strong character as a fortified outpost. **Enclosures
It is possible that multiple enclosures (flat areas) were arranged around the main enclosure. However, their original form has been lost due to later development and natural erosion.
Earthworks and Moats
Some topographical features suggesting earthworks remain, but clear identification is difficult. The same applies to moats; it is difficult to distinguish them from natural terrain.
Castle Area Scope
The exact boundaries of Hikawa Castle are not definitively established, but it is estimated to be approximately 100m east-west and 150m north-south, centered on the hilltop. It is considered relatively small for a medieval mountain castle, and is thought to have served more as an emergency refuge or observation post than as a permanent residence.
Hikawa Castle’s Highlights and Remains
Remains Visible on-site
Hikawa Castle is now completely covered in forest, making it difficult to clearly identify castle remains. However, careful observation can reveal the following traces:
Topographical Features
- A flat surface that appears to have been artificially leveled
- A depression that seems to cut off the ridge (possibly the remains of a moat)
- An earthen embankment-like elevation (difficult to distinguish from natural terrain)
Surrounding Environment
- A view overlooking the Tama River and the Hikawa area
- The location of the old highway
- The arrangement of water sources (streams)
Precautions for Visiting
When visiting Hikawa Castle, please note the following:
- Movement within the forest: There is no clear path to the castle, and bushwhacking may be necessary.
- Safety Equipment: Long-sleeved shirt and long pants, trekking shoes, gloves, etc.
- Season: Winter, when vegetation has withered, is the best time to visit.
- Bear Precautions: The Okutama region is a bear habitat. Equipment such as a bell is recommended.
- Private Property: The castle site may be private property. Prior confirmation and permission are recommended.
Castle Notes (Highlights)
Historical Romance
The greatest appeal lies in the historical romance evoked by the legend of Taira no Masakado. Regardless of whether it’s historically accurate, the very tradition of a castle existing in this area since ancient times is invaluable.
The Brilliance of the Location
Its location overlooking the Tama River and the highway allows one to appreciate its importance as a strategic transportation and military point in the Middle Ages.
Integration with Nature
The castle ruins, completely returned to nature, evoke a sense of the transience of a medieval mountain castle and the passage of time.
How to Access Hikawa Castle
Access by Public Transportation
By Train
- Get off at Okutama Station on the JR Ome Line
- The castle ruins are approximately 10-15 minutes on foot from the station
- Approximately 2 hours from central Tokyo
Specific Route
- Take the JR Chuo Line Rapid from Shinjuku Station to Tachikawa Station (approximately 40 minutes)
- Transfer to the JR Ome Line at Tachikawa Station
- Transfer to the train bound for Okutama at Ome Station
- Get off at Okutama Station (approximately 30 minutes from Ome)
Access by Car
From Central Tokyo
- Via National Route 411 (Ome Kaido) from Hachioji IC on the Chuo Expressway
- Travel time: Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes
- Distance: Approximately 60 km
Parking Information
- Public parking is available around Okutama Station (e.g., Hikawa Parking)
- There is no parking directly next to the castle ruins
- After using the parking lot near the station, access the castle on foot.
Castle Ascent Route
There is no clearly defined trail to Hikawa Castle. You will need to leave the urban area of the Hikawa district from Okutama Station and find the starting point for accessing the forest. For first-time visitors, it is recommended to consult with a local tourist information center or someone knowledgeable about the history beforehand.
Recommended Route (Outline)
- From Okutama Station to the center of the Hikawa district
- Head upstream along the Tama River
- Find the starting point for accessing the hill where the castle ruins are located
- Carefully ascend through the forest
Nearby Tourist Spots and Attractions
Here are some tourist spots around Okutama Town that can be enjoyed in conjunction with a visit to Hikawa Castle.
Hikawa Campground
This campground is conveniently located a 5-minute walk from JR Okutama Station. The Hikawa Valley, with its wide sandbars and rapids along the Tama River, is a popular spot for camping, fishing, and river activities within the main river basin.
- Operating Period: April to November (typically)
- Usage Fee: Varies by site
- Facilities: BBQ facilities, toilets, cooking area
Okutama Onsen Moegi no Yu
A day-trip hot spring facility located a 10-minute walk from Okutama Station, using hot spring water that gushes from the Paleozoic strata, said to be the oldest geological layer in Japan.
- Opening Hours: 9:30 AM to 8:00 PM (Last entry 7:00 PM)
- Closed: Mondays (or the following day if Monday is a public holiday)
- Admission Fee: Adults 780 yen, Elementary school students 410 yen
- Facilities: Open-air bath, indoor bath, restaurant
Perfect for relaxing after a tiring stroll around the castle ruins.
Hikawa International Trout Fishing Ground
A trout fishing ground utilizing the main stream of the Tama River. Enjoy fishing in a natural mountain stream.
- Operating Period: Year-round (Closed during floods)
- Usage Fee: Includes rod and bait rental
- Fish Species: Rainbow trout, cherry salmon, etc.
Okutama Lake (Ogouchi Dam)
A huge artificial lake known as Tokyo’s water reservoir, about 20 minutes by bus from Okutama Station.
- Highlights: Dam embankment, lake cruises, hiking in the surrounding area
- Access: Nishi-Tokyo Bus from Okutama Station
- Sightseeing Time: 1-2 hours
Mount Mitake
A sacred mountain, with Mitake Station being the nearest station, about 10 minutes by train from Okutama Station.
- Elevation: 929m
- Attractions: Musashi Mitake Shrine, Rock Garden, Renge-shoma (Japanese anemone)
- Access: Cable car available
Nearby Castles and Historical Sites
Introducing nearby castles and historical sites to visit along with Hikawa Castle.
Hinohara Castle
A mountain castle located approximately 10km southwest of Hikawa Castle. Known as the residence of the Hirayama clan, it was a base for the Nishito (Western) branch of the Musashi Seven Clans.
- Location: Hinohara Village, Nishitama District, Tokyo
- Builder: Hirayama clan
- Remains: Enclosures, earthworks, moats
Takiyama Castle
A large-scale mountain castle from the Sengoku period located in Hachioji City. Famous as the residence of Hojo Ujiteru, it is designated as a national historical site.
- Location: Tanuki-cho, Hachioji City, Tokyo
- Builder: Oishi Sadashige (Renovated by Hojo Ujiteru)
- Remains: Enclosures, earthworks, dry moats, gate
- Access: Approximately 40 minutes by car from Hikawa Castle
Hachioji Castle
A mountain castle built as the main castle of Hojo Ujiteru, and one of Japan’s 100 Famous Castles.
- Location: Moto-Hachioji-cho, Hachioji City, Tokyo
- Builder: Hojo Ujiteru
- Remains: Stone walls, baileys, main palace ruins
- Access: Approximately 50 minutes by car from Hikawa Castle
History of Okutama Town and the Hikawa District
Establishment of Okutama Town
The current Okutama Town was established on April 1, 1955 (Showa 30) through the merger of Hikawa Town, Furuzato Village, and Ogouchi Village. Hikawa Town ceased to exist due to the merger, but the district name remains.
History of the Hikawa District
The Hikawa district has long developed as a transportation hub in the Tama River basin.
Ancient and Medieval Periods
- A mountain village located at the western edge of Musashi Province
- Border region with Kai Province
- A place of worship centered around Hikawa Shrine
Early Modern Period (Edo Period)
- Developed as a post town on the Ome Kaido road
- A center for forestry (timber rafting)
- A limestone producing area
Modern Era and Beyond
- 1944: Relocation site for the village submerged under the lake due to the completion of the Ogouchi Dam
- 1955: Developed as the central district of Okutama Town
- Present: A base for tourism and outdoor leisure
Origin of the Name Hikawa
The name Hikawa originates from Hikawa Shrine located in this area. Hikawa Shrine is a type of shrine with the Hikawa Shrine in Saitama City, Saitama Prefecture as its head shrine, and is widely distributed throughout Musashi Province.
Model Course for Visiting Hikawa Castle
We propose a model course for Okutama sightseeing centered around Hikawa Castle.
Day Trip Course (Beginner-Friendly)
9:00 Arrive at Okutama Station
9:15 Gather information at Okutama Tourist Information Center
9:30 Explore the area around Hikawa Castle Ruins (1 hour)
10:30 Stroll through Hikawa Valley
12:00 Lunch near the station
13:00 Bath at Okutama Onsen Moegi no Yu
15:00 Stroll around Hikawa Campsite
16:00 Depart from Okutama Station
2-Day/1-Night Course (Focus on Castle Tours)
Day 1
- Morning: Arrive at Okutama Station, explore Hikawa Castle
- Afternoon: Visit Hinohara Castle
- Evening: Stay at accommodation in the Hikawa area
Day 2
- Morning: Visit Takiyama Castle
- Afternoon: Visit Hachioji Castle
- Evening: Return home
Literature and Materials on Hikawa Castle
This section introduces reference materials for those who want to learn more about Hikawa Castle.
Recommended Books
“Medieval Castles and Residences in Tokyo” (Tokyo Metropolitan Board of Education)
This is a comprehensive report on medieval castles and residences within Tokyo. It also includes information on Hikawa Castle.
“Castles of Musashi” (Arimine Shoten Shinsha)
This book broadly introduces castles in Musashi Province, and also touches upon castles in the Okutama region.
“Comprehensive Survey of Japanese Castles,” Volume 6: Chiba, Saitama, Tokyo, Kanagawa (Shin Jinbutsu Oraisha)
This is the Tokyo edition of a comprehensive collection systematically compiling information on Japanese castles.
Related Materials
- Okutama Town History
- Nishitama County History
- Musashi Seven Clans Related Materials
- Taira no Masakado Related Literature
Visitor Reviews and Ratings
This section summarizes the evaluations of Hikawa Castle within the castle enthusiast community.
Visitor Rating Trends
- Average Rating: ★★★☆☆ (2.70)
- Visiting Time: Approximately 30 minutes
- Number of Visitors: Around 15 people (Minor Castle)
- Difficulty: Intermediate
Visitor Comments (Trends)
Positive Reviews
- Romantic connection to the legend of Taira no Masakado
- Relatively easy access
- Easy to combine with Okutama sightseeing
- Quiet and peaceful atmosphere
Negative Reviews
- Few clear remains
- Unclear access route
- Limited information
- Overgrown
How to Enjoy Hikawa Castle
Beginner’s Approach
For castle beginners, we recommend enjoying Hikawa Castle by following these steps.
- Pre-visit study: Acquire basic knowledge from this article and related books.
- Focus on surrounding sightseeing: Observe the location from the surrounding area without forcing your way into the castle ruins.
- Accompany a guide: Participate in a local guided tour if available.
- Visit in a group: Avoid going alone for safety reasons.
Advanced Approach
This is a way to enjoy castles for those who want to deepen their research.
- Creating a Castle Layout: Observe the terrain in detail and create a unique layout map.
- Comparison with Other Castles: Compare and study the structure with surrounding mountain castles.
- Literature Research: Explore the castle’s history through ancient documents and local histories.
- Seasonal Observation: Visit multiple times in different seasons to confirm the remains.
Photography Tips
- View: View overlooking the Tama River and the Hikawa area.
- Topography: Distant views that reveal the castle’s location.
- Details: Traces of earthworks and baileys (if found).
- Surrounding Environment: Hikawa Shrine, Tama River, and the nature of Okutama.
Summary
Hikawa Castle is a medieval mountain castle located in Hikawa, Okutama-machi, Tokyo. It has a legend associated with Taira no Masakado and was a strategically important castle built at a key transportation point in the Tama River basin. Although now completely covered in forest, its location and historical background make it a valuable historical site that offers a glimpse into the regional governance of Musashi Province during the medieval period.
While there are few clearly identifiable remains, it is a place worth visiting for castle enthusiasts, offering a sense of historical romance amidst the rich natural beauty of Okutama. Its convenient location within walking distance of Okutama Station makes it ideal for combining with visits to nearby attractions such as Hikawa Campground and Okutama Onsen.
When visiting, please take full precautions for safety, respect the natural environment and private property, and enjoy the charm of this medieval mountain castle. Starting from Hikawa Castle, you can also enjoy a tour of medieval castles in western Tokyo.
