1/3

Show All Image

Marugame Castle

香川県

4.2

Tourist Information of This Area

general.prefecture.

Marugame Castle, one of Japan's Top 100 Castles, is the symbol of Marugame City.

Marugame Castle is a famous castle with a beautiful stone wall called "Ogi no Kakehashi" that draws a beautiful curve from the inner moat to the castle tower. One of the attractions of Marugame Castle is that you can see various types of stone walls such as "Nomaseki", "Uchikomi Hagi", and "Takagaki".

Features & How to Enjoy

Classic HistoryRainny day

Highlights

Point 1

Designated National Treasure: Hiraizumi Castle Ruins

Marugame Castle is a designated National Treasure in Japan, known for its Hiraizumi Castle Ruins. The castle contains historical buildings and exhibits, making it a recommended spot for those interested in history. Additionally, from the top of the castle's steep stairs, visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of the city of Kagawa. However, it's important to note that the stairs are quite steep, so those with concerns about their legs or feet should climb them with caution. The castle town atmosphere is also preserved, making it enjoyable to take a stroll around. Access is about a 10-minute walk from JR Marugame Station.

Point 2

Famous as a Cherry Blossom Viewing Spot

Marugame Castle in spring is known as a famous cherry blossom viewing spot, with approximately 700 cherry trees in full bloom on the premises. The castle is also illuminated at night, creating a fantastic atmosphere. During the cherry blossom viewing season, food and souvenir stalls are set up, allowing visitors to enjoy the cherry blossoms while purchasing local treats. Let's fully enjoy Marugame Castle in spring along with the cherry blossom festival held during the season.

Point 3

The Main Gate, a Valuable Cultural Property, is Open to the Public for Free

The Main Gate at Marugame Castle is a valuable building designated as an important cultural property by the government. As it is open to the public for free, you can appreciate this precious cultural property up close. The gate, built during the Edo period, has a stone-throwing mechanism used to drop stones on enemies during battles, giving a sense of the remnants of the Warring States period. In addition, various exhibits such as shachihoko and taiko drums are on display, so be sure to take a look.

Point 4

Japan's Tallest Stone Wall

The stone wall of Marugame Castle is said to be the tallest in Japan, with a height of about 60 meters from the moat to the castle tower. Although some parts have collapsed, the stone wall of the third bailey is still intact and shows its beautiful appearance to visitors. By the way, there are lucky stones in some parts of the stone wall that are said to bring good relationships, so please try to find them when you visit Marugame Castle.

Point 5

Join a Free Guided Tour

At the tourist information center located in Marugame Castle, you can request to join a free tour led by local volunteers. When touring the castle, if you know the highlights and history beforehand, your enjoyment will be multiplied. The volunteers kindly explain the background and history of each spot, so you can learn about the history and culture of Marugame Castle through the tour.

Access

A Castle 15 Minutes on Foot from Marugame Station

Marugame Castle is a tourist spot located nearest to JR Marugame Station. It takes about 10-15 minutes on foot from the station to Marugame Castle, and since there are steep stairs inside the castle, it's recommended to wear comfortable clothing. In addition, there are two types of parking lots around Marugame Castle: a free one and a municipal paid one, so depending on the congestion, it's best to use both parking lots. Even if you use the paid parking lot, you can park for free for up to 2 hours by processing it at the certification machine at the castle tower, the tourist information center, or the museum.

Basic Information

	Address	1-1 Marunouchi, Marugame, Kagawa 763-0025
	Business Hours	Open Monday to Sunday from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
	TEL	0877-25-3881
	Web Site	https://www.city.marugame.lg.jp/site/castle/

Better Visit Together

Recommended Spots

地元の高原品を展示する資料館