What other travelers are saying about Shiroishi Castle
An underrated castle which not many people know about, this was originally the resident castle of the Katakura clan. Don't miss out the spectacular views after climbing to the top.
Shiroishi Castle is a city castle in Shiroishi City, and it is a rebuild of the castle which was damaged in war. Original Castle was built in 1591 and continued in use until 1871; then, when Meiji Emperor ended Endo Shogunate, in 1874, Meiji Emperor ordered abolishment of the feudal or shogun castles, and it included Shiroishi Castle. Current Shiroishi Castel was rebuilt in 1995 with wood material and traditional techniques, and it is integrated with a city park with an upgrading of lawn and other green improvement.
Shiroishi Castle is included as one of 100 Castles in Japan. However, because it is a rebuilt from 1995, it is extremely new. For visitors to the Shiroishi Castle, they may feel going to park with a new building, instead of going to a historical architecture. It is really a completely different feeling or experience for visiting and stopping at this newly built castle when it is compared to Himeji Castle or Hikone Castle.
If visitors want to enjoy classic and/or historical architecture, a castle, then, Shiroishi Castle is probably NOT the right one for you. But if visitors want to see and feel the re-build effort of Japanese castle, then, maybe, it is a good choice.
There is bathroom inside Castle-park area. The entrance fee for adult is $ 400 Yen and visitors should buy tickets via Ticket machines outside Castle entrance.
The place is small but well maintained and the view is amazing. For 400 yen it's a steal!
Wow what an amazingly well restored castle tower and well maintained grounds we only had a few hours but could easily take an entire day and not fully see it all.
Traditional style castle (rebuilt) with a great view of the city and various info cards displayed around describing the history. You can scan the QR codes on them for an English translation.
It’s 300JPY to get in, or you can pay 800JPY for an “all access” pass which includes the castle, samurai village/hut which is about a kilometre away, and a 3D showing.
Be careful going up and down the stairs, they are very steep and since you cannot wear shoes inside will be quite slippery on socks.
Just around the corner to the castle is a small shrine you can visit. Basic amenities such as vending machines and toilets are available
Frequently Asked Questions
The castle is a reconstruction completed in 1995. The original was dismantled in 1875 during the Meiji period. It was rebuilt using traditional wooden construction methods based on historical records, replicating its 17th-century design.
Early to mid-April for cherry blossoms, when 300 cherry trees bloom on the grounds. Autumn offers good weather and foliage. The castle is open year-round.
Take the Tohoku Shinkansen to Shiroishi-Zaō Station (2 hours), then transfer to a local train to JR Shiroishi Station. From there, it's 25 minutes walking or 10 minutes by bus.
The three-story interior has historical exhibits about the Katakura clan. The top floor has observation views. The grounds include the Katakura House ruins and traditional gates. Admission is ¥400 for adults, ¥200 for children.
