Shiga > Azuchi Castle (安土城): Nobunaga’s legacy
※Description:
Nestled in the peaceful hills of Shiga Prefecture, Azuchi-jō (安土城) is a place steeped in history and mystery. Built in 1579 by the legendary feudal lord Oda Nobunaga (織田信長), this castle marked a new era in Japanese architecture. Azuchi not only served as a military stronghold, but also as an expression of power and sophistication, noted for its innovative design and elaborate decorations.
Although the original castle was destroyed in 1582 following Nobunaga’s death, the ruins of Azuchi-jō offer a window into the past, inviting visitors to explore its fascinating history. From the base of the hill where it sits, you can walk along a path surrounded by nature, which leads to the remains of the main tower (tenshukaku 天守閣) and to other key points such as the stone walls and the reconstructed gates. Climbing the ancient steps to the top of the hill provides a stunning view of Lake Biwa (Biwa-ko 琵琶湖), the largest lake in Japan.
The story behind Azuchi-jō
Oda Nobunaga, one of the three unifiers of Japan, built Azuchi Castle as his base of operations. What made Azuchi unique was its revolutionary architecture: it was the first castle to include a multi-story main tower, decorated with murals and gilded details. This design became the model for the Japanese castles we know today. However, its glory was short-lived, as the castle was burned down just three years after its construction.
What to see in the surroundings
In addition to the castle ruins, the Azuchi area offers several interesting attractions:
Azuchi History Museum (安土城郭資料館): Models of the castle and artifacts related to Oda Nobunaga and his era are on display here.
Soken-ji Shrine (総見寺): A place of peace that pays homage to Nobunaga.
Quiet walks in the countryside: Being far from the big cities, Azuchi is ideal for enjoying tranquility and nature, with views that combine rural and mountainous landscapes.
Traditional houses: Nearby, you can find villages where time seems to have stopped, perfect for exploring foot.
A trip to the past
Visiting Azuchi-jō is a unique experience that combines history, nature and tranquility. The absence of large crowds makes it a perfect destination for those looking for an escape from urban areas, offering the opportunity to immerse oneself in history while enjoying the stunning natural surroundings.
※NTRanking: 8.0 / 10
Azuchi-jō (安土城) is a fascinating place that combines history and natural scenery, offering a unique experience for those looking to discover a quieter, more authentic side of Japan. Being away from the big cities, this destination remains free of the crowds that usually crowd other historic castles, allowing you to explore its ruins and surroundings in complete calm. The views of Lake Biwa and the connection to the legacy of Oda Nobunaga make every corner full of meaning.
Although not much remains of the original castle, the walk to the ruins, the rural air that surrounds the area, and the interesting attractions nearby, such as the museum and temples, make it worth visiting. With a rich history and a serene atmosphere, Azuchi-jō is a hidden treasure that combines culture, nature, and an aura of mystery.
※How to Get There:
・From Kyoto (50 minutes):
Take the JR Biwako Line from Kyoto Station (京都駅) to Azuchi Station (安土駅).
From Azuchi Station, walk about 20 minutes to the castle.
・From Nagoya (1 hour 20 minutes):
Take the JR Tokaido Line from Nagoya Station (名古屋駅) to Maibara Station (米原駅).
Take the JR Tokaido Line from Nagoya Station (名古屋駅) to Maibara Station (米原駅).
Transfer to the JR Biwako Line and get off at Azuchi Station (安土駅).
From Azuchi Station, walk about 20 minutes to the castle.
・From Fukui (1 hour 50 minutes):
Take the JR Hokuriku Line from Fukui Station (福井駅) to Maibara Station (米原駅).
Transfer to the JR Biwako Line and get off at Azuchi Station (安土駅).
From Azuchi Station, walk about 20 minutes to the castle.
※Address:
6371 Azuchicho Shimotoira, Omihachiman, Shiga 521-1311
