Shibata Castle

Shinhadaka Castle was originally the residence of Shinhadaka Shigeki, a warlord from the Sado region in northern Niigata Prefecture during the Warring States period. Shigeki was a vassal of the Uesugi family, but he rebelled against the head of the Uesugi family at the time and attacked Kasugajo, a castle town of the Uesugi family. However, the rebellion was suppressed by the Uesugi family, and Shinhadaka Shigeki committed suicide. Afterward, Hideshige Mizoeguchi entered the castle at the command of Toyotomi Hideyoshi, and he began to build the current Shinhadaka Castle as the lord of the Shinhadaka domain. It was completed in 1654 during the reign of the third lord, Nobunaoshi.

Shibata Castle has been designated as one of Japan's Top 100 Castles due to its unique triple turret adorned with three shachihoko (mythical fish) and the former Ninomaru Sumiyagura turret, which has been designated as an important cultural property by the government. In addition, a stamp rally for Japan's Top 100 Castles, organized by the Japan Castle Foundation, is available. From April to November, stamps can be collected at the front gate of Shibata Castle, and from December to March, they can be collected at the main building of the city hall or the Hakabei Barracks Public Relations Historical Museum, as the castle is closed during this period.

There is a free parking lot located next to Shibata Castle in Shibata Castle Ruins Park. The number of parking spaces is not very large, with only 25 available. Usually, there are no problems with parking, but during peak seasons such as cherry blossom and iris season when visitors increase, it is recommended to check nearby parking lots in advance.