Gujo Hachiman Castle

Gujo Hachiman Castle stands atop Mount Hachiman at an elevation of 354 meters, overlooking the historic castle town of Gujo Hachiman in Gifu Prefecture. Originally constructed in 1559 by Endo Morikazu, the castle served as a strategic stronghold during Japan's feudal era. The current structure is a reconstruction completed in 1933, making it Japan's oldest wooden reconstruction castle. Despite being a replica, it maintains the architectural authenticity of the original design and earned recognition as one of Japan's most beautiful mountain castles.

The castle's four-story wooden keep embodies traditional Japanese castle architecture from the Muromachi period. Its white walls and sweeping rooflines create a striking silhouette against the surrounding mountains, particularly photogenic during cherry blossom season in spring and when autumn foliage blankets the hillside. The castle's elevated position provides panoramic views of the Nagara River valley and the preserved Edo-period townscape below, where historic merchant houses and waterways have earned the town the nickname "Little Kyoto of Gifu."

Inside the castle, visitors can explore exhibits detailing the region's samurai history and the castle's role in feudal conflicts. The steep wooden staircases between floors preserve the authentic castle experience, though they require moderate physical fitness to navigate. The top floor observation deck offers 360-degree views of the surrounding Hachiman basin and mountain ranges. The grounds surrounding the castle feature walking paths through pine forests, with interpretive signs explaining the defensive features and historical significance of the site.

Gujo Hachiman Castle is accessible via the Nagaragawa Railway from Mino-Ota Station, taking approximately 40 minutes to Gujo-Hachiman Station. From the station, the castle is a 20-minute walk or short taxi ride. Alternatively, highway buses run from Nagoya, taking roughly 90 minutes. The climb from the town to the castle takes about 15-20 minutes on foot via a paved path through the forest. Admission costs ¥320 for adults, with discounted rates for children and students. The castle is closed from mid-December through mid-March due to snow conditions.