Shizuoka > Ishiwaki Castle (石脇城): The Fuji-View Castle Ruins You’ll Have Alone
※Description:
A whisper from Japan’s war-torn past, Ishiwaki Castle (石脇城) clings to a lonely hill in Shizuoka Prefecture, its crumbling walls hiding a secret near the shadow of Mount Fuji. This forgotten Sengoku relic offers solitude and stunning views, unseen by the crowds that flock elsewhere, a haunting escape into history.
A Brief History of Ishiwaki Castle
Built during the Sengoku period in the 16th century, Ishiwaki Castle (石脇城) served as a small stronghold for local clans amid Japan’s warring states era. Little remains today beyond stone foundations and earthen walls, a testament to its abandonment after the unification under Tokugawa rule. Its remote location and lack of modern restoration keep it a secret even among castle enthusiasts.
Exploring the Castle and Surroundings
Reaching Ishiwaki Castle (石脇城) requires a short hike through quiet forest trails, but the payoff is worth it. From the summit, visitors can spot the sleek Shinkansen trains cutting across the landscape and the shimmering Sea of Enshu in the distance “a view few ever witness”, with Mount Fuji looming nearby on clear days. The surrounding area offers rustic charm with small villages and rice fields, perfect for a peaceful wander off the radar.
Nearby Attractions
- Mount Fuji (富士山): Japan’s iconic peak, visible from the region on clear days, a short trip for breathtaking views.
- Makaino Farm (牧之原): A scenic farm with stunning Mount Fuji vistas, animals, and local treats.
- Lake Hamana (浜名湖): A scenic brackish lake known for seasonal flowers and eel cuisine, just a short drive away.
- Hamamatsu Castle (浜松城): A reconstructed fortress tied to Tokugawa Ieyasu, offering history with a modest crowd.
※NTRanking: 9.5 / 10
Ishiwaki Castle (石脇城) earns its near-perfect score for its sheer obscurity and solitude. Barely known even to locals, it sees almost no visitors—Japanese or foreign—making it a true hidden gem. The stunning vistas and tranquil setting elevate its appeal, though its small size and ruins-only state keep it just shy of a perfect 10.
※How to Get There:
・From Tokyo (approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes):
Take the Tokaido Shinkansen from Tokyo Station (東京駅) to Hamamatsu Station (浜松駅), which takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes.
From Hamamatsu Station, take a local bus or taxi to Ishiwaki (石脇) area (about 45 minutes), then hike 15 minutes to the castle ruins.
・From Nagoya (approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes):
Take the Tokaido Shinkansen from Nagoya Station (名古屋駅) to Hamamatsu Station (浜松駅), which takes about 40 minutes.
From Hamamatsu Station, take a local bus or taxi to Ishiwaki (石脇) area (about 45 minutes), then hike 15 minutes to the castle ruins.
・From Shizuoka (approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes):
Take the JR Tokaido Main Line from Shizuoka Station (静岡駅) to Hamamatsu Station (浜松駅), which takes about 50 minutes.
From Hamamatsu Station, take a local bus or taxi to Ishiwaki (石脇) area (about 45 minutes), then hike 15 minutes to the castle ruins.
※Address:
636 Ishiwakikami, Yaizu, Shizuoka 425-0016
