About Oshijo (Castle)
Oshijo Castle, located in Gyoda City, Saitama Prefecture, is a famous castle also known as “floating castle” due to its unique structure and historical background. It was built during the Warring States Period in Japan, and became famous for the Battle of Oshijo, which took place during the process of unification of Japan under the rule of Toyotomi Hideyoshi. The castle is particularly famous for its ability to withstand a water invasion by the Toyotomi forces led by Mitsunari Ishida. Oshijo Castle did not fall in this battle and has been passed down as a legendary “unbreakable castle” due to its solidity and defensive capabilities.
The castle's most distinctive feature is its excellent defensive structure and the surrounding terrain, which makes it a “floating castle” in its own right. The double structure of inner and outer moats surrounding the main castle was extremely robust for its time, and a defense system was constructed that skillfully utilized the natural terrain of the water. As a result, the castle remained calm even when surrounded by a large army, and boasted a solidity that did not allow outside enemies to easily attack. Against this background, visitors can learn about the high level of castle-building techniques of the time and the wisdom of warfare during the Warring States period, making it a particularly good spot for those with a historical interest.
The current Oshijo Castle is a reconstruction based on the one rebuilt in the Edo period, with a beautiful keep towering above it. From the castle tower, visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of Gyoda City and feel the scenery as the castle's former lords used to see it. The interior of the castle tower has been developed as a museum, where the history of Oshijo Castle and materials from the Sengoku period are on display. Visitors can learn about the culture, lifestyle, and strategies of the time through exhibits such as armor and armors, illustrations, and old documents from the Warring States period. In particular, the exhibits depicting the battle of Oshijo and the water invasion by Toyotomi's army are highlights that attract visitors' attention.
The area surrounding Oshijo Castle is maintained as a lush green park, where visitors can enjoy nature in all seasons, with cherry blossoms in the spring and autumn leaves in the fall. Especially during the cherry blossom season, the castle and the cherry blossoms blend together beautifully, attracting many cherry blossom viewers. Visitors can also relax on the surrounding walking paths and benches and enjoy a peaceful time combining historical exploration and nature walks.
The area around Oshijo Castle is also dotted with historical buildings and cultural facilities in Gyoda City. In particular, there are many spots where visitors can learn deeply about the history of Gyoda since ancient times and the culture of the city as a producer of tabi (split-toed socks), among other local attractions. When visiting, you can enjoy the charms of Gyoda City as a whole by not only visiting the castle but also experiencing the history and culture of the surrounding area.
Furthermore, Oshijo Castle is also popular as a filming location for movies and TV dramas, and after the movie “Nobo no Shiro” was released, many tourists from all over Japan visited the castle. Therefore, even today, many fans visit Oshijo Castle as a result of the movie, and can enjoy it as part of a tour of the filming locations.
Oshijo Castle is a fascinating sightseeing spot that combines its unique Sengoku-era background with the beauty of its robust fortifications. The historical romance of the moat and keep and the harmony of the surrounding nature make a visit a special experience that will stay with you forever. For those interested in history, castles, and the wisdom of the Warring States period, Oshijo Castle is definitely worth a visit.