About Maruokaojo(Castle)

Maruoka Castle, located in Sakai City, Fukui Prefecture, is a famous historical castle with the oldest castle tower in Japan, built in 1576, and is one of the few surviving castle towers that retain their appearance from the Warring States Period. The castle tower is one of the oldest of the 12 existing castle towers, and its simple and powerful wooden architecture attracts visitors. The exterior of the castle features tiles, also known as "zinc tiles," which were used to increase fire resistance in the event of a fire.

The main attraction of Maruoka Castle is its historical value and the beauty of its scenery. Inside the castle, the wooden structure has been well preserved, giving visitors a glimpse of the building techniques and lifestyle of the time. Visitors especially love the fact that the castle tower, from which a steep staircase leads to a commanding view of the surrounding landscape. The seasonal scenery is also a highlight, with cherry blossoms decorating the castle in spring, beautiful autumn leaves in fall, and the snow-covered keep in winter creating a fantastic scene.

Maruoka Castle has also been selected as one of the "100 Best Cherry Blossom Spots in Japan," attracting many tourists during the cherry blossom season in spring. Around 400 cherry trees are planted around the castle, and especially at night when they are illuminated, they create a fantastic atmosphere that attracts visitors. Furthermore, the "Maruoka Old Castle Hot Springs" are located near the castle, so visitors can enjoy relaxing in the hot springs along with sightseeing.

Maruoka Castle is also an attractive place to experience local culture and history. The Maruoka Castle Festival, held every fall, features traditional performing arts and a procession of people dressed in samurai costumes, allowing visitors to experience the local history and culture. Maruoka Castle is also easily integrated into the overall Fukui Prefecture sightseeing route, and can be visited in conjunction with other tourist destinations such as Echizen-Ono and Tojinbo.

Maruoka Castle is a fascinating tourist attraction that combines its historical value, beautiful scenery, and local culture. It is a special place that offers new discoveries and impressions each time you visit.