This year, we’re celebrating 400 years since the Oka clan began! Maruoka Castle, right in the heart of the Oka domain, is like a superstar castle — it’s even a famous cultural treasure! Just like Himeji Castle and Matsumoto Castle, it’s one of only 12 “Keep” castles from before the Edo period still standing in Japan.
When the Hokuriku Shinkansen line stretches out, Maruoka Castle will be a big hit! It’s also known as “Kasumiga Castle” and appears floating among cherry blossoms in the spring!
In Sakai City, where Maruoka Castle calls home, the folks there love their castle so much — they’ve been taking care of it for ages!
And guess what? They’re trying to make Maruoka Castle a “national treasure”! As they dive into its history, they’re finding clues to shake off that feeling of being stuck that we sometimes get in modern times.
Maruoka Castle, Symbol of Sakai
Guess what? This year is like a big birthday bash for the Maruoka Domain!
It’s turning 400 years old, located in Sakai City, Fukui Prefecture, born in 1624.
Now, let’s talk about Maruoka Castle, the heart of this domain. It was built back in 1576 by Katsuie Shibata, under the direction of Nobunaga Oda. He made it for his nephew, Katsutoyo, to get ready for the Ichimata Putsch.
Picture this: the castle tower sits atop a little hill, and it’s one of just twelve left in all of Japan! And get this — it’s the only one in the Hokuriku area.
From the outside, it looks like a two-story castle, but inside, it’s actually three stories high!
Maruoka Castle is famous for its stone walls made of special natural stones called “Nosazurazumi” and tiles made from “Shakudani” stone found in Mount Ashiba in Fukui City.
Despite being small, this castle is a real eye-catcher with its charming watchtower-style architecture. It’s like the town’s own superstar!
They even call it “Kasumiga Castle.” And you know what’s around? A lovely historical park with 400 Someiyoshino cherry trees! It’s the perfect spot for cherry blossom viewing.
Overcoming Extinction Crises!
Maruoka Castle has faced extinction crises several times throughout its history.
In 1872, when many castles in Japan were being torn down, Maruoka Castle faced the same fate. Its gates and palace were taken apart, and the castle keep was sold off at a low price.
But the locals weren’t ready to say goodbye to their cherished castle. They joined forces, repurchased the castle tower fondly called “O-Temmori,” and rescued it from vanishing.
For over 20 years, the castle served as a temple until it was generously donated to the town for public use.
Realizing its historical importance, the castle tower was declared a national treasure in 1934. Extensive repair work was carried out between 1940 and 1942 to preserve its heritage.
Yet, despite these efforts, after World War II ended in 1945, Maruoka Castle faced another threat of extinction in 1948.
In 1948, a powerful earthquake struck, causing significant damage to Maruoka Castle. Many walls and parts of the castle collapsed, leaving it in ruins. Rebuilding seemed like a daunting task, but the community was determined to restore their beloved castle.
The town’s mayor, moved by the community’s passion, worked tirelessly to secure donations and government support. Fortunately, they had preserved the old wood from the castle and had photographs to guide the reconstruction process.
With financial aid from the government and utilizing much of the original wood, reconstruction began in 1951. It took about four years of hard work, but by 1955, the new castle stood tall, closely resembling its former glory, thanks to the use of the original materials.
Celebrating the 400th Anniversary
This year, Sakai City is celebrating the 400th anniversary of the Maruoka Domain with a series of exciting events centered around Maruoka Castle.
During the enchanting cherry blossom season, don’t miss the “Maruoka Castle Cherry Blossom Festival.” Witness the breathtaking beauty of cherry blossoms surrounding the majestic castle. Join us on March 30 and 31 for special events, and enjoy the illuminated castle at night from March 23 to April 13.
Mark your calendars for October 12 and 13, when we’ll host the 55th Maruoka Old Castle Festival. Experience the grand armor parade and delve into captivating “castle events” like exhibitions and lectures commemorating the Maruoka Clan’s 400th anniversary.
On November 10, lace up your running shoes for the 17th Sakai City Old Castle Marathon. And don’t forget to visit the “Special Exhibition Commemorating the 400th Anniversary of the Maruoka Clan” at the Sakai City Ryusho Museum from October to November (tentative).
Step back in time and immerse yourself in the rich 400-year history of the Maruoka Clan. Join us for an unforgettable journey through the ages!
Experience the enchantment of Maruoka Castle events! Reach out to KIBO to plan your unforgettable trip today.
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