Editor’s Note: Wow — lots of good castle news again this week. There were so many potential articles and duplicates that I actually broke the script I use to create this newsletter from my notes and had to reconfigure the workflow. After sorting through more than 140 articles, here are a few stories that particularly caught my attention:

Sakamoto Castle (Shiga): Otsu City is moving toward purchasing the land where significant stone walls from Sakamoto Castle were discovered. This could eventually become an amazing castle park, perhaps even with a small museum or interpretive facility on the site. I’ll be very interested to see how they present Akechi Mitsuhide and the castle’s later history under Hideyoshi.

Kumamoto and Kagoshima: The national government announced plans for tourism discounts to encourage travel to areas affected by the recent earthquake and help support the local economy. It is not specifically castle-related, but it is a good opportunity for castle fans.

Tsu Castle (Mie): Excavation work confirmed an inubashiri, and an Excavation Briefing (Gensetsu) was held on August 29. I really wish I could have gone, but I had conflicting plans this weekend. I know several castle fans who visited, though, so I’m sure reports and photos will be forthcoming.

Hashimoto Jin’ya (Kyoto): Thanks to the efforts of local volunteers, a citizens’ group has petitioned Yawata City to conduct a comprehensive survey of the Hashimoto Jin’ya site, which had been facing demolition and redevelopment.

Hikone Castle (Shiga): Hikone has launched a crowdfunding campaign to restore the Komegura Suimon stone walls after torrential rains caused further damage. It is another reminder of how expensive and constant the preservation of these historic sites can be.

🏯 HOKKAIDO TOHOKU

AOMORI — HIROSAKI CASTLE

1,000 help tow 400-ton castle keep closer to original position

Summary: Approximately 1,000 participants joined an event in Aomori Prefecture to manually tow the 400-ton keep of Hirosaki Castle. This effort moved the keep 109 centimeters closer to its original location, from which it was relocated in 2015 for essential stone wall repairs. The castle keep is expected to be moved a total of 78 meters back to its original spot by the end of the year, with 4,000 people scheduled to participate in similar towing events over the course of a week, aiming to move it about 5 meters in total.

🏯 CHUBU

AICHI — NAGOYA CASTLE

Nagoya Castle’s Golden Shachihoko: “Scales Peeled Off Due to Domain’s Financial Difficulties” Has No Basis; True Intent Revealed by Cosmic Ray “Muon” Research

名古屋城の金シャチ「藩の財政難でうろこ剥がした」は根拠なし　宇宙線「ミューオン」で分かった本当の意図は…

Summary: A long-held belief in Nagoya City that the Owari Domain peeled off scales from Nagoya Castle’s golden shachihoko to make coins during financial difficulties in the Edo period has been found to be baseless by research from the Nagoya Castle Research Center and others. While recasting did occur, it was for repair purposes, and techniques were used to make the surface shine brighter. The “Nagoya Castle History” (1959) stated that the scales were recast to lower the gold concentration and use the surplus for domain finances. However, new research using cosmic ray “muon” technology has revealed that the recasting was primarily for maintenance and to enhance their brilliance, debunking the popular myth.

FUKUI — KITA-NO-SHO CASTLE

Despite Having a Path to Live Under Hideyoshi... Why Oda Nobunaga’s Sister Oichi Perished with Shibata Katsuie

秀吉のもとで生きる道もあったのに…信長の妹･お市が娘3人だけを城から逃がし､37歳で柴田勝家と果てたワケ

Summary: This article explores the tragic end of Oda Oichi, Nobunaga’s sister, who chose to die with her husband Shibata Katsuie at Kita-no-sho Castle rather than escape with her three daughters to Toyotomi Hideyoshi. The article highlights the dramatic scene where Oichi, despite the danger, appeared at the castle’s outermost gate to see her daughters off, demonstrating a mother’s strong will to ensure their survival. It suggests that Oichi’s decision was not only driven by maternal love but also by a desire to preserve the Oda lineage through her daughters, rather than having them perish with the Shibata clan. The article references the NHK Taiga drama ‘Toyotomi Kyodai!’ and historical documents like ‘Keishinin no Fumi’ to infer Oichi’s strong character and her possible “indignation” at the men who dictated her fate. It also notes that her daughters were not blood relatives or adopted by Katsuie, allowing them to leave the castle without being bound by the Shibata clan’s fate.

FUKUI — KITA-NO-SHO CASTLE

“I Will Die Tomorrow”: The Too Tragic End of Shibata Katsuie, Surrounded by Hideyoshi’s Army and Prepared for Death

｢もう明日にはこの世を去る｣秀吉軍に包囲され死を覚悟した《柴田勝家》の”あまりに壮絶すぎた最期”

Summary: This article vividly describes the tragic final moments of Shibata Katsuie after his defeat by Toyotomi Hideyoshi’s forces at the Battle of Shizugatake in April 1583. Katsuie retreated to his home castle, Kita-no-sho Castle in Echizen, which was then besieged by Hideyoshi’s army. Accounts from ‘Taikoki’ and ‘Tenshoki’ detail the siege, with Hideyoshi’s forces setting fire to the castle, creating a smoke-filled darkness. Despite Katsuie’s initial valiant defense, the capture of his son and Sakuma Morimasa led to a collapse in morale. Katsuie then gathered his family and retainers for a final banquet, a somber affair filled with underlying sadness. In the dead of night, Katsuie urged his wife, Oda Oichi, to escape, assuring her safety with Hideyoshi. However, Oichi refused, expressing her desire to die with him, though ‘Taikoki’ suggests her primary concern was the safety of her three daughters. The article recounts Katsuie’s gruesome suicide, where he killed Oichi and other women before disemboweling himself and ordering his retainers to follow suit. Accounts from missionary Luís Fróis also corroborate the tragic and resolute end of Katsuie and his family, emphasizing his desire for his honorable death to be known to the enemy.

GIFU — TAKAYAMA CASTLE

Excavation Briefing (Gensetsu) on Stone Walls from Kanamori Nagachika’s Takayama Castle Construction Era, Northeast Corner Yagura of Ninomaru

金森長近が高山城築城当時の石垣、現地で調査結果説明会　二ノ丸北東部の鬼門櫓

Summary: The Takayama City Board of Education held an Excavation Briefing (Gensetsu) on August 22nd at the site near Shiroyama Park in Takayama City, where stone walls from the time Kanamori Nagachika built Takayama Castle are believed to remain. The first survey in 2025, based on the “Takayama Castle Kuruma Layout Map” left by the Kaga Domain when the castle was dismantled in 1695, identified an 8-meter long, 1.7-meter high stone wall in the northeast of Shiroyama Park as belonging to the Kimon Yagura (demon gate turret) of the Ninomaru (second bailey). Approximately 40 residents attended the briefing. City Board of Education officials explained that the “sanagi-zumi” technique, which makes stone walls resistant to collapse, was used, and the lower part of the wall is presumed to be original based on the size of wedge holes used for quarrying stones. Participants were allowed to enter the normally restricted slope to view the findings.

GIFU — GIFU CASTLE

Gifu Castle’s Golden Shachihoko Temporarily on Ground for Re-gilding, Returns to Keep in February 2027

岐阜城「金のしゃちほこ」しばし地上に　金箔張り直しで、2027年2月に再び天守へ

Summary: On August 26th, the golden shachihoko (mythical dolphin-like creatures) of Gifu Castle in Gifu City were lowered to the ground for the first time since their installation during the 1997 renovation. The male and female shachihoko, each 110 cm tall and weighing about 100 kg, are made of tile. Workers carefully lowered them from the roof of Gifu Castle, located on Mount Kinka (329 meters above sea level). Each shachihoko was then placed on a ropeway to be transported down to the base of the mountain. Visitors had the rare opportunity to touch and photograph the shachihoko up close. Gifu Castle, rebuilt in 1956, has been closed since May this year until late October next year for seismic retrofitting. The shachihoko will undergo re-gilding of their surfaces. They are expected to return to the keep in February 2027.

GIFU — SEKIGAHARA BATTLE SITES

Walk Through the History of Kamiishizu, Including Jin’ya Sites: Guided Tours in Ogaki City, 3 Times in October-November

陣屋跡など上石津の歴史歩こう　10～11月に3回、大垣市でガイドと巡るツアー

Summary: The “Kamiishizu Historical Road Experience Tour” will be held three times in October and November, offering participants a chance to explore the history and nature of the Kamiishizu region in Ogaki City. The tour will trace sites related to the Battle of Sekigahara, such as “Shimazu no Nokikuchi” (Shimazu’s retreat), where Shimazu Yoshihiro of the Western Army broke through enemy lines, and the jin’ya (encampment) site of the Nishi-Takagi clan, Edo period hatamoto who managed the Kiso Three Rivers flood control project. The first tour (October 10th) will visit Sekigahara battlefield sites like Sasao Mountain and Shimazu Yoshihiro’s encampment, then proceed to Kamiishizu to visit Rinkoji Temple, where Shimazu’s chief retainer Chojuin Moriatsu is buried, and Katsuchi Pass.

GIFU — GIFU CASTLE

Gifu Castle: Traces of Buildings Investigated on Mountain Top; Gifu City Excavates Passageways Alongside Keep Renovation

岐阜城、山上部で建物の痕跡調査　岐阜市、天守閣改修に合わせ通路も発掘

Summary: Gifu City began its annual excavation survey on the mountaintop of Gifu Castle on August 28th. Coinciding with the ongoing renovation of Gifu Castle’s keep, the survey will investigate two areas, including a passageway, that are usually difficult to excavate. Scheduled until late November, the survey aims to uncover traces of buildings used to entertain guests on the mountaintop. The “Tenshu Minami Tsuro” (Keep South Passageway) and “Kami Daidokoro” (Upper Kitchen) areas, totaling 46 square meters, will be examined. The Tenshu Minami Tsuro is composed of stone walls built by Oda Nobunaga.

MIE — TSU CASTLE

Tsu Castle: “Inubashiri” Excavated; Excavation Briefing (Gensetsu) Tomorrow; 4.5-Meter Wide Path to be Reburied

津城跡「犬走り」発掘　あす現地説明会　幅4．5メートル、今後埋め戻し　／三重

Summary: The Tsu City Board of Education announced the discovery of an “inubashiri” (dog run), a flat path along the base of a stone wall, during an excavation survey of the Prefectural Historic Site Tsu Castle. Roof tiles from the castle were also unearthed. The excavation is part of a development project to transform the southeast plaza into “Oshiro Park,” with the aim of confirming the exact width of the inubashiri. The path, approximately 2 meters wide and 9 meters long, was found at the lower part of the stone wall remaining on the south side of the main bailey. An Excavation Briefing (Gensetsu) will be held tomorrow, August 29th, to explain the findings. The inubashiri, measuring 4.5 meters wide, is believed to have been constructed over 400 years ago, prior to the major renovations by Todo Takatora, a master castle builder. It had been buried underground since the Meiji era due to the reclamation of the moat. The city’s Board of Education is pleased that the existence of the inubashiri, depicted in Edo period castle maps, has been confirmed. After the briefing, the excavated area will be reburied.

NAGANO — OKAYA’S FOUR MAJOR CASTLES

Exhibition “Four Major Castles” at Okaya Museum of Art and Archaeology Introduces Mountain Castles Built in the Kamakura Period

鎌倉期築造の山城紹介　岡谷美術考古館で「四大城址」企画展

Summary: The Okaya Museum of Art and Archaeology is hosting a special exhibition titled “Okaya City’s Four Major Castles – Overlooking War-Torn Shinano,” introducing four mountain castles built in Okaya City during the Kamakura period. The exhibition, running until September 13th, features “Nawabari-zu” (castle layout maps), three-dimensional models created by curators based on these maps, and photographs of the current castle sites, showcasing their historical appearance. The four castles highlighted are Hanaoka Castle, Kosaka Castle, Takaosan Castle, and Minehata Castle. Unlike modern castles, these utilized natural mountains and hills. The exhibition also includes materials on the history of Okaya from the Kamakura to Sengoku periods and the background of mountain castle construction. A related event on August 29th will feature a guided tour of Hanaoka Castle, coinciding with the Takeda Shingen Beacon Relay, to deepen understanding of medieval mountain castles.

SHIZUOKA — SUNPU CASTLE

Sunpu Castle Revived with Augmented Reality; Shizuoka City Aims for Full Operation in FY2027 - Asahi Shimbun

拡張現実でよみがえる駿府城 静岡市、27年度の本格運用目指す - 朝日新聞

Summary: According to the city’s History and Culture Division, the Sunpu Castle AR is a digital content currently under development as part of the Sunpu Castle Keep Base Outdoor Exhibition Project. It allows users to view the castle’s past appearance by scanning the site with a smartphone camera. Shizuoka City aims for full operation in fiscal year 2027.

GIFU — OGA CASTLE

“Talking About National Historic Site Oga Castle! ~What We Should Know About the Castle Now That It’s a Historic Site...” - Gifu Prefecture

山県市連携セミナー 「国史跡『大桑城跡』を語る！～史跡になった今こそ知りたい城の ... - 岐阜県

Summary: Gifu Prefecture is hosting a collaborative seminar with Yamagata City titled “Talking About National Historic Site Oga Castle!” The seminar will delve into the history of Oga Castle, built by the Toki clan who served as Shugo of Mino Province during the Sengoku period, from its construction to its abandonment, including its baileys and stone wall remains. Oga Castle was designated a National Historic Site in February of this year.

ISHIKAWA — TAKAO CASTLE

Cultural Property Lecture “Approaching the True Nature of Takao Castle ~From Excavation Results~” - Nonoichi City Hall

文化財講演会「高尾城の実像に迫る～発掘成果より～」 - 野々市市役所

Summary: Kanazawa City is currently aiming for historic site designation for Takao Castle. An excavation official from Kanazawa City will be invited as a lecturer to discuss the latest research findings on the Togashi clan’s mountain castle, whose full extent is yet to be revealed.

NAGANO/YAMANASHI — SENGOKU PERIOD BEACON RELAY

Beacon Relay on the 29th: Connecting Ina Valley to Kofu for the First Time in 5 Years | Shinshu Shimin Shimbun Group

29日のろしリレー ５年ぶり伊那谷から甲府までつなぐ | 信州・市民新聞グループ

Summary: A beacon relay, recreating the communication method used by Sengoku period warlord Shingen, will connect various mountain castle sites over a distance of approximately 300 kilometers from Ina Valley to Kofu for the first time in five years. This event aims to evoke a sense of romance and history in today’s digital society.

🏯 KANSAI

HYOGO — KUROI CASTLE

Akai Naomasa’s Eldest Son, “Red Demon of Tanba,” Survived After Castle’s Fall by Relying on the Mori Clan

「丹波の赤鬼」赤井直正の長男　落城後も毛利氏を頼り生き延びていた

Summary: New historical documents reveal that Akai Naomasa’s eldest son, Akai Akushichiro, known as the “Red Demon of Tanba” for resisting Oda Nobunaga’s conquest of Tanba and defeating Akechi Mitsuhide’s forces, survived after the fall of Kuroi Castle by relying on the Mori clan, contrary to established theories. The Tanba City Board of Education confirmed this by re-examining “Akai Senzo Saiki,” a document written in 1692. Previously, it was believed that Akushichiro died after Kuroi Castle fell during Mitsuhide’s second Tanba campaign. However, “Akai Senzo Saiki” states that Akushichiro escaped to the Mori clan, later served Hideyoshi, but was suspected of rebellion and forced to commit seppuku at age 19. The document also sheds light on the fate of his second son, Naoyoshi, who changed his name to Kinzaemon and served Todo Takatora to avoid scrutiny due to his brother’s actions. Naoyoshi reportedly played a significant role on the Tokugawa side during the Summer Siege of Osaka. The original “Akai Senzo Saiki” will be displayed at a mini-exhibition from October 3rd to November 29th at the Tanba City Kasuga Historical Folk Museum.

HYOGO — AMAGASAKI CASTLE

New Footbridge Completed to Tourist Attraction Amagasaki Castle, Featuring Crests of Former Castle Lords

New Footbridge Completed to Tourist Attraction Amagasaki Castle, Featuring Crests of Former Castle Lords

Summary: A new footbridge leading to Amagasaki Castle, a popular tourist attraction near Hanshin Amagasaki Station, has been completed. The railings of the bridge are adorned with the family crests of former castle lords, adding a unique design element. A stone monument dedicated to Toda Ujikane, the first lord of the domain, is also found near the castle, featuring the same crest. The improved footbridge enhances accessibility and the overall visitor experience to Amagasaki Castle.

KYOTO — HASHIMOTO JIN’YA

Hashimoto Jin’ya discovered in Yawata City, Kyoto Prefecture; Volunteers request full investigation from city

京都府八幡市で発見、幕末の「橋本陣屋跡」　住民有志らが市に全容調査を要望

Summary: A group of local volunteers, “Hashimoto Jin’ya Ato wo Kangaeru Kai,” has submitted a request to Yawata City and its board of education in Kyoto Prefecture, calling for a comprehensive investigation of the Hashimoto Jin’ya site, which was discovered in front of Keihan Hashimoto Station. The Hashimoto Jin’ya, built in 1860 as a base for Kyoto’s defense during the Bakumatsu period, was destroyed in the 1868 Battle of Toba-Fushimi. Excavations for a condominium development by Keihan Electric Railway Real Estate (Osaka City) unearthed stone walls and building remains. Although initially slated for demolition, the city’s board of education issued a notice in March significantly restricting excavation, effectively halting the development plan. The request seeks a full investigation of the remains, public disclosure of information, and designation as a cultural property by the city. The vice mayor acknowledged the site’s importance and stated that discussions with the developer would proceed, as the land is privately owned.

SHIGA — MAEDA TOSHIIE / SHIZUGATAKE BATTLE

Betrayed Shibata Katsuie, yet became a “Pillar of Toyotomi”... The “Loser of Shizugatake” relied upon by Hideyoshi and more popular than Ieyasu

柴田勝家を裏切ったのに”豊臣の大黒柱”に…秀吉に頼られ､家康より人望を集めた”賤ヶ岳の敗者”の名前

Summary: This article explores the life of Maeda Toshiie, a samurai who “betrayed” Shibata Katsuie during the Battle of Shizugatake (1583) by siding with Toyotomi Hideyoshi. Despite this, Toshiie was heavily favored by Hideyoshi and, in his later years, was more respected than Tokugawa Ieyasu at Osaka Castle. The article questions how a man who could have been labeled a “traitor” became a central figure in the Toyotomi government. It details Toshiie’s early career, including his participation in the Echizen Ikko Ikki, where he earned recognition. He was part of the “Fuchu San-ninshu” (Three Men of Fuchu) along with Fuwa Mitsuharu and Sassa Narimasa, serving as Katsuie’s assistants and also as monitors for Nobunaga. This complex relationship meant Katsuie’s army was not unified, leading to defections, including Toshiie’s, during the Battle of Shizugatake. Toshiie’s strategic shift ultimately led to his rise as a prominent figure in Hideyoshi’s regime and later as a daimyo of Kaga with a million koku under the Tokugawa shogunate.

SHIGA — HIKONE CASTLE

Hikone Castle Crowdfunding Round 2: “Komegura Suimon Stone Wall” Restoration Project Launched!

奇跡の城「彦根城」クラウドファンディング 第2弾「米蔵水門石垣」復旧へ を実施します！

Summary: Hikone City is launching a second crowdfunding campaign to restore the “Komegura Suimon Stone Wall” of Hikone Castle, a National Treasure and Special Historic Site. In July 2024, a part of this stone wall collapsed due to record heavy rains. After two years of investigation, meticulous recording of each fallen stone, and dismantling work, restoration was about to begin. However, in June 2026, heavy rains from a typhoon caused the opposite side of the stone wall to collapse as well, forcing a complete re-evaluation of the restoration process. The total project cost has now swelled from an initial estimate of approximately 60.44 million yen to over 100 million yen. Despite this, the Hikone City Cultural Properties Division is seeking public support through crowdfunding to restore the stone wall to its original state and preserve this “miracle castle” for future generations. The article highlights Hikone Castle’s unique status as a castle that retains its original Edo period appearance, having survived the Meiji Restoration’s 폐성령 (abolition of castles decree) and wartime destruction, thanks to local efforts and Emperor Meiji’s intervention.

SHIGA — SAKAMOTO CASTLE / TOYOTOMI HIDEYOSHI AND OTSU

Hideyoshi’s Sakamoto Castle: A Military Base Towards Becoming Ruler of Japan; Explained with Abundant Materials at Otsu City Museum of History Exhibition Until 30th

秀吉の坂本城　天下人に向かう軍事拠点　豊富な資料で解説　大津市歴博で企画展30日まで

Summary: The 100th special exhibition “Toyotomi Hideyoshi and Otsu” at the Otsu City Museum of History reveals Sakamoto Castle, famously known as Akechi Mitsuhide’s residence, as a crucial military base for Toyotomi Hideyoshi in his path to becoming the ruler of Japan, particularly against Tokugawa Ieyasu after defeating Shibata Katsuie at Shizugatake. Sakamoto Castle, built by Mitsuhide in 1571 after Nobunaga’s burning of Mt. Hiei, was praised by Luís Fróis as magnificent. After Mitsuhide’s defeat, the Shiga and Takashima districts, including Sakamoto Castle, were given to Niwa Nagahide. A letter from Hideyoshi to Nobunaga’s third son, Nobutaka, indicates Sakamoto’s strategic importance. After Shizugatake, Hideyoshi moved Nagahide to Echizen and appointed Sugihara Ietsugu, a chief retainer and relative, as Sakamoto Castle lord, highlighting its significance. Ietsugu was later replaced by Asano Nagayoshi (formerly Nagakichi), another relative and future Toyotomi Five Bugyo member, who had previously governed Seta Castle, emphasizing Hideyoshi’s focus on Otsu. The exhibition also details Sakamoto’s role as a supply base during the Battle of Komaki-Nagakute and Hideyoshi’s declaration of transcending the Oda family by allowing the rebuilding of Enryakuji Temple. The castle was abandoned after the Tensho Earthquake in 1586, and Otsu Castle was built. The exhibition, running until August 30th, also features the first public display of artifacts from Sakamoto Castle’s San-no-maru excavation, including lacquerware bowls and wooden clogs.

SHIGA — SAKAMOTO CASTLE

Otsu City, Shiga Prefecture, to purchase land where Sakamoto Castle’s main keep stone walls were found; Supplementary budget of 138 million yen allocated, tourism PR also planned

滋賀県大津市、坂本城の本丸石垣発見地を購入へ　1億3800万円の補正予算計上　観光PR事業も実施｜京都新聞デジタル　京都・滋賀のニュースサイト

Summary: Otsu City, Shiga Prefecture, announced on the 24th a supplementary budget of 138 million yen for the current fiscal year’s general account, which includes funds for purchasing land in Shimosakamoto 3-chome where the stone walls of Sakamoto Castle’s main keep were discovered. The stone walls, believed to be the southern end of Sakamoto Castle’s main keep, were recommended for additional designation as a National Historic Site by the Council for Cultural Affairs in June. The supplementary budget allocates 37 million yen for the city to acquire the land for preservation.

HYOGO — NEW CASTLE DISCOVERIES VIA LASER SURVEY

Topographic maps created from airborne laser surveys released to the public, leading to successive discoveries of new castles... “On the map...”

航空機からのレーザー測量でできた地形図を一般公開、新たな城跡の発見相次ぐ…「地図上で ...

Summary: Topographic maps generated from airborne laser surveys have been made public, leading to a series of new castle discoveries. Hyogo Prefecture, located near ancient capitals like Nara and Kyoto and a crucial transportation hub since ancient times, is home to numerous castles. The number of castles, including lesser-known mountain castles, is said to exceed 1,300.

🏯 CHUGOKU

HIROSHIMA — HIROSHIMA CASTLE

Interim Report on Excavation Survey: Experts Attend Hiroshima Castle Preservation and Utilization Meeting; Development of Paths, Stairs, and Rainwater Drainage to Proceed in “Honmaru Jodan” Area; Underground Structures to be Confirmed

発掘調査の中間報告も　国の史跡・広島城跡の保存活用会議　有識者が出席 「本丸上段」には園路や階段・雨水排水の整備進める　地下遺構も確認へ

Summary: A meeting of experts was held to discuss the preservation and utilization of the National Historic Site Hiroshima Castle, where an interim report on the excavation survey was also presented. The meeting, established by Hiroshima City four years ago, included experts such as Chairman Masayuki Miura, an emeritus professor at Hiroshima University. Discussions focused on the development of the “Honmaru Jodan” (upper main keep) area, which will see the installation of garden paths, stairs, and rainwater drainage. Before this development, an excavation survey will be conducted to investigate underground structures. Opinions were raised regarding the importance of drainage for protecting the stone walls, as the drainage function in the Honmaru Jodan has deteriorated in the past year or two. Additionally, the interim results of this year’s excavation confirmed the discovery of stone masonry believed to be the “entrance” connecting to the keep, constructed in the early stages of the castle’s building near the keep base. Chairman Miura expressed his desire to enhance Hiroshima Castle’s value and make it a magnificent castle that everyone can appreciate, noting the construction of very high stone walls on soft ground. Hiroshima City plans to finalize a revised “Maintenance Basic Plan” for Hiroshima Castle by the end of the next fiscal year.

HIROSHIMA — JAPANESE CASTLE CONSTRUCTION

Explaining Japanese Castle Construction with Materials and Models: Hiroshima Prefectural Museum of History Explores the Charm of Cultural Heritage

日本の城づくり、資料と模型で解説　広島県歴博館、文化遺産の魅力に迫る

Summary: The Hiroshima Prefectural Museum of History in Fukuyama City is hosting a special exhibition titled “Japanese Castle Construction,” running until September 6th. It features 73 historical materials that explain the structure, decoration, and construction process of keeps, palaces, and stone walls, and delve into the charm of these magnificent cultural heritage sites. The exhibition is divided into five chapters: “Nawabari” (designing the layout), “Fushin” (civil engineering), and “Sakuji” (architectural construction). For Fukuyama Castle, a cedar door from the Fushimi Goten (palace) in the main bailey is displayed, adorned with the Mizuno family crest. A highlight in the “Nawabari” section is a detailed wooden model (1/650 scale) of Marugame Castle, believed to be a copy from its 1670 reconstruction, showcasing its entire layout. The “Fushin” corner explains stone wall construction with models, while “Sakuji” displays a pair of gilded and red-painted shachihoko tiles excavated near Hiroshima Castle. Related events include a lecture on August 29th and a curator’s explanation on September 5th.

HIROSHIMA — HIROSHIMA CASTLE

Numerous Historical Materials Detailing Hiroshima Castle’s Pre-War Appearance Discovered

広島城 戦前の姿を詳細に記録した史料多数見つかる

Summary: Researchers have discovered numerous historical materials that provide detailed records of Hiroshima Castle’s pre-war appearance. Hiroshima Castle, built approximately 430 years ago, collapsed due to the atomic bomb in 1945 and was later rebuilt, but was closed in March this year due to aging. While organizing Hiroshima Castle’s historical materials, the Nara National Research Institute for Cultural Properties found 142 detailed records of its pre-war state. These newly confirmed materials include full-scale rubbings of roof gargoyles and precise survey maps of the castle, detailing roof slopes, pillar dimensions, and stone wall sizes. The institute states that these materials, believed to be from the early Showa period, are rare for castles that were destroyed or collapsed in wartime. Tomohiro Suzuki, head of the institute’s building remains research lab, emphasized the significance of these full-scale records in conveying the pre-war appearance of Hiroshima Castle. Satoshi Fukano, Hiroshima City’s Hiroshima Castle Revitalization Section Chief, expressed surprise and delight at finding such detailed materials, calling them a crucial first step towards the feasibility of wooden reconstruction for the closed castle.

HIROSHIMA — FUKUYAMA CASTLE

Fukuyama Castle (Hiroshima Prefecture): History Fans Enthusiastic About Fushimi Yagura Structure; Special Opening at Castle Anniversary Event

福山城（広島県）伏見櫓の構造に歴史ファン熱視線　築城記念日イベントで特別公開

Summary: A celebratory event for Fukuyama Castle’s construction anniversary was held on August 28th, featuring a Special Opening of the Fushimi Yagura (turret), which is said to have been relocated from Kyoto’s Fushimi Castle and is a National Important Cultural Property. The event also included koto performances, a traditional product encouraged by successive Fukuyama domain lords, attracting many history enthusiasts. The Fushimi Yagura is believed to have been moved from Fushimi Castle’s “Matsu no Maru Higashi Yagura” by Tokugawa Hidetada for the construction of Fukuyama Castle in 1622 by Mizuno Katsunari, the first lord. It was designated an Important Cultural Property in 1933 and survived the Fukuyama air raid in 1945. During the Special Opening, volunteer guides from the Fukuyama Castle Museum Friends Association explained its structure and history. They highlighted the “shinkabe-zukuri” (true wall construction) style of the first and second floors, where structural elements like pillars and horizontal beams are plastered, creating a highly formal and “showcase” castle appearance. The inscription “Matsu no Maru no Higashi Yagura” on a beam on the second floor was emphasized as unique evidence of its relocation from Fushimi Castle, enhancing its value. Participants eagerly examined the internal structure. August 28th is designated as Fukuyama City’s castle construction anniversary, marking the day Katsunari reported its completion to the shogunate.

🏯 KYUSHU OKINAWA

OKINAWA — SHURI CASTLE

Shuri Castle Symposium “We Face Forward” to be Held on August 30th at Prefectural Museum, Okinawa

「首里城」考えるシンポ「私たちは正面を向く」　8月30日、県立博物館で開催　沖縄

Summary: A symposium titled “We Face Forward” will be held on August 30th at the Okinawa Prefectural Museum & Art Museum to discuss Shuri Castle, as its main hall is nearing completion after the 2019 fire. The symposium will begin by addressing the “orientation” of the large dragon pillars standing in front of Shuri Castle’s main hall. The article notes that the finishing carvings have begun on the large dragon pillars of Shuri Castle’s main hall, and the exterior of the left and right corridors has been completed, as of July 24, 2026.

FUKUOKA — FUKUOKA CASTLE

Fukuoka Castle: Tenshudai excavation briefing for citizens on the 29th at Fukuoka City Museum, explaining “Anagura” findings - Mainichi Shimbun

福岡城跡 天守台発掘調査 29日に市民報告会 福岡市博物館 「穴蔵」成果を説明 - 毎日新聞

Summary: An excavation briefing (Gensetsu) on the Tenshudai (castle tower base) of Fukuoka Castle (Chuo Ward, Fukuoka City) will be held on the 29th from 1:00 PM to 2:30 PM at the Fukuoka City Museum’s first-floor auditorium in Sawara Ward. Participation is free, and limited to the first 200 attendees (registration on the day). The briefing will explain the findings from the “Anagura” (underground storage) area.

NAGASAKI — SHIMABARA CASTLE

(Castle Stroll. ~A Journey Through History=21) Shimabara Castle: A Factor in the Christian Rebellion - Castle Writer Sachiko Hagiwara

(お城さんぽ。～歴史を巡る旅=21)島原城 キリシタン一揆の一因に 城郭ライター 萩原さちこ

Summary: Castle writer Sachiko Hagiwara discusses Shimabara Castle as a contributing factor to the Christian Rebellion in this 21st installment of “Castle Stroll: A Journey Through History.” The article, published on page 5 of the August 27, 2026, edition, features the castle’s stone walls and reconstructed keep in Shimabara City, Nagasaki Prefecture.

Jcastle Intelligence Desk is a curated digest of castle-related news. Paid Subscriptions offer a premium perk to those who help support the infrastructure costs of hosting Jcastle.info.

📬 Submissions & Tips: Spot an excavation briefing (現地説明会) or key regional news we missed? Drop it in the comments and we’ll add it to the next newsletter or send out an alert for an upcoming event.

⚖️ Disclaimer: Summaries are synthesized from regional Japanese press releases and wire reports. Original article copyrights belong to their respective publishers. Some links may expire or be hidden behind paywalls after the digest is created. Articles are gathered, synthesized, and translated with automated scripts and tools. I review each digest before publishing, but errors may be missed.

🏯 Explore More: The Guide to Japanese Castles

Editor’s Note: Lots of news this week, from new castle discoveries and excavation reports to museum exhibitions opening around the country.

I was pleasantly surprised and disappointed by the excavation report from Myōkenji Castle (Kyoto). The excavation itself was fascinating, but unfortunately there was no public viewing of the site, and the remains had already been reburied by the time the report was released. Located just east of present-day Nijō Castle, the site will soon be covered by a new apartment building, meaning this was the public’s only chance to see it firsthand.

Sadly, this happens far too frequently around Kyoto. The recent example of Saiin Castle comes to mind as another important site that was excavated, documented, and then disappeared beneath modern development before the public could see it for themselves. These discoveries remind us how much of Kyoto’s history is buried beneath the city and how quickly it can vanish and become inaccessible to future generations of historians.

You may also notice several articles related to the Battle of Shizugatake this week. The Toyotomi Brothers Taiga drama will feature the battle this Sunday (August 23). For additional background, you can also read my previous article on the battle here: Battle of Shizugatake on Jcastle.info.

🏯 HOKKAIDO TOHOKU

AOMORI — HIROSAKI CASTLE

Hirosaki Castle Keep’s Return Journey Begins from 21st in Hirosaki, Aomori

１１１年ぶりの天守曳戻し、２１日から催し多彩／青森県弘前

Summary: The ‘Hippare! Keppare! Hirosaki Castle’ event, celebrating the return journey of the Hirosaki Castle keep to its original location after temporary relocation for stone wall repairs, will be held from August 21st to 28th at Hirosaki Park in Hirosaki, Aomori Prefecture. The opening ceremony on August 21st will be attended by Princess Kako, the fourth daughter of Prince Hitachi, who will participate in the initial pulling. Evening events include projection mapping on the main keep, illumination, a drone show with 300 drones, and fireworks. On August 22nd and 23rd, the main keep and Kita-no-Kuruwa will offer free admission, with approximately 2,000 pre-selected participants experiencing pulling the keep. The inner moat, newly rebuilt, will also be open to the public for the first time. Night illumination of the main keep will continue until August 30th.

YAMAGATA — CASTLE DISCOVERY

Mountain Castle Discovered in Yonezawa, Yamagata, Possibly Built by Hasekura Tsunenaga’s Father, a Vassal of Date Masamune

山形・米沢で地元の考古学研究家らが山城跡発見 伊達政宗の家臣・支倉常長の実父が建造したか

Summary: Local archaeologists in Yonezawa, Yamagata Prefecture, have discovered a large mountain castle. It is believed to have been constructed by Yamaguchi Tsunenari, the father of Hasekura Tsunenaga, a vassal of Date Masamune and leader of the Keicho Embassy to Europe. A local resident in Akashiba-cho, Yonezawa City, discovered it in autumn 2023 and informed an archaeological researcher. Residents plan to form a preservation society to promote tourism and exchange related to this historical site.

🏯 KANTO

IBARAKI — MITO CASTLE

Mito Castle Guidebook Released on 24th at Mito City Hall and Bookstores, Featuring History and Local Cuisine

水戸城ガイドブック発売 ２４日、水戸市役所など 歴史や周辺グルメ

Summary: The official Mito Castle guidebook will be released on August 24th at Mito City Hall and local bookstores. The first edition includes a special castle stamp (Goshuin). Mito Castle, the residence of the Mito Tokugawa family, is one of Japan’s largest castles. Recent restorations of the Otemon Gate and Ninomaru Sumiyagura Turret have attracted many tourists, leading to high demand for a guide. The A5-sized, 128-page full-color book, produced via crowdfunding, covers the castle’s topography, construction features, and successive lords. Castle archaeologist Senda Yoshihiro discusses its unique characteristics, such as the lack of stone walls and a formal keep. It also features three historical walking routes and local souvenirs.

🏯 CHUBU

GIFU — TSURUOYAMA CASTLE

3D Data of Blue-and-White Porcelain Plate (Ming Dynasty) Excavated from Tsuruoyama Castle Released - Gifu Prefecture Official Website

鶴尾山城跡出土 青花皿（明代）の3Dデータを公開 - 岐阜県公式ホームページ

Summary: The Gifu Prefectural Government has released 3D data of a blue-and-white porcelain plate (Ming Dynasty) excavated from Tsuruoyama Castle. The 3D model is available on Sketchfab, allowing the public to view the artifact.

ISHIKAWA — NANAO CASTLE

[Japan’s Top 100 Castles - Nanao Castle] New Discovery of Illustrated Map! & Main Approach Road Fully Reopened After Earthquake Closure! (Nanao City, Ishikawa Prefecture...)

【日本100名城・七尾城】絵図の新発見！ ＆ 地震後閉鎖の大手道が全面開通！（石川県七尾市 ...)

Summary: A newly discovered illustrated map of Nanao Castle, found in a barn in Shika Town, Ishikawa Prefecture, which was damaged and on the verge of demolition after the 2024 Noto Peninsula Earthquake, is now on display at the Noto Satoyama Satoumi Museum in Nanao City. This map is believed to have been created in the early Meiji era in preparation for land tax reform. Additionally, the Otedo (main approach road) to Nanao Castle, which had been closed due to earthquake damage, has now been fully reopened. This discovery and reopening are significant for preserving and understanding this historic site.

MIE — TSU CASTLE / HISTORICAL LECTURE

Historical Lecture ‘Tsu Castle in its Heyday’ on September 4th at Tsu Region Plaza - Ise Shimbun

９月４日に歴史講演会 「在りし日の津城」 津リージョンで - 伊勢新聞

Summary: A historical lecture titled ‘Tsu Castle in its Heyday’ will be held on September 4th at Tsu Region Plaza. The speaker is a leading expert in Japanese castle research and serves as a special member of the Japan Traditional Architecture Technology Preservation Society, a councilor for the Japan Castle Association, and an architectural history consultant for NHK Taiga Dramas. The lecture will discuss how Todo Takatora contributed to building Tokugawa Ieyasu’s massive castles.

NIIGATA — SHIBATA CASTLE

Castle Stroll: Shibata Castle’s Rare Three-Story Yagura with Three Shachihoko, by Castle Writer Sachiko Hagiwara

(お城さんぽ。～歴史を巡る旅=20)新発田城 三つの鯱が載る珍しい三階櫓 城郭ライター 萩原さちこ

Summary: Castle writer Sachiko Hagiwara introduces Shibata Castle in Niigata Prefecture, highlighting its unique three-story yagura (turret) adorned with three shachihoko (mythical carp-like creatures). This article is part of a series titled ‘Castle Stroll - A Journey Through History,’ and mentions the castle’s historical context, including its defiance against Uesugi Kagekatsu.

NIIGATA — KASUGAYAMA CASTLE / KENSHIN-KO FESTIVAL

The 101st Kenshin-ko Festival in Joetsu City: A Festival Honoring the Valor and Virtues of Sengoku Warlord Uesugi Kenshin

【上越市・第101回 謙信公祭】戦国の名将・上杉謙信公の武勇と遺徳を称え行なわれるお祭り

Summary: The 101st Kenshin-ko Festival will be held in Joetsu City, honoring the valor and virtues of the Sengoku period warlord Uesugi Kenshin. The festival will feature a brave warrior parade, with the Echigo Joetsu Uesugi Omotenashi Bushotai portraying Uesugi Kenshin. Events will take place at various locations, including Kasugayama Castle and Kasugayama Castle Historic Park.

TOYAMA — TAKAOKA CASTLE

Takaoka Castle Landscape Restoration: Old Castle Park Regeneration Project Reveals Stone Walls Through Undergrowth Clearing - Kita Nihon Shimbun

高岡城の景観復活へ 古城公園再生計画、雑木伐採で石垣現る - 北日本新聞

Summary: As part of Takaoka City’s landscape regeneration project, undergrowth is being cleared at the National Historic Site of Takaoka Castle (Takaoka Kojyo Park), revealing the castle’s stone walls and restoring its original appearance. This project focuses on the main bailey and second bailey.

🏯 KANSAI

HYOGO — SUMOTO CASTLE

Sumoto Castle Celebrates 500th Anniversary of Construction with Special Exhibition at Awaji Cultural History Museum, Hyogo

洲本城の築城から今年で500年　兵庫・淡路文化史料館で特別展

Summary: A special exhibition commemorating the 500th anniversary of Sumoto Castle’s construction is being held at the Awaji Cultural History Museum in Sumoto City, Hyogo Prefecture. Sumoto Castle, a premier historical site on Awaji Island, is believed to have been built in 1526 by a branch of the Atagi clan, leaders of the Awaji naval forces during the Sengoku period. After its surrender to Hideyoshi in 1581, Sengoku Hidehisa took control, followed by Wakizaka Yasuharu, one of Hideyoshi’s ‘Seven Spears of Shizugatake,’ who undertook a major renovation, including the construction of the existing all-stone walls. The exhibition highlights the castle’s strategic importance for Hideyoshi’s Osaka Castle defense and features valuable historical documents, such as the ‘Awaji Koku Sashidashi Yorecho,’ which reveals the continued integration of local lords under Sengoku Hidehisa’s rule, contrary to previous beliefs of their complete removal. It also displays a letter from Hideyoshi immediately after the Honnoji Incident, requesting the recapture of Sumoto Castle. The exhibition runs until September 6th.

HYOGO — HISTORICAL LECTURE / TOYOTOMI BROTHERS

Unraveling ‘Toyotomi Brothers!’ from Castles: Yoshihiro Senda to Hold Lecture in Ashiya, Hyogo (Asahi Shimbun) - Yahoo! News

「豊臣兄弟！」を城から読み解く 千田嘉博さんが兵庫・芦屋で講演会（朝日新聞） - Yahoo!ニュース

Summary: Castle archaeologist Yoshihiro Senda will deliver a lecture titled ‘Considering the Toyotomi Brothers from Castles’ on September 7th at Renaissance Classics Ashiya Luna Hall in Ashiya City, Hyogo Prefecture. Organized by Ashiya City, the lecture aims to provide insights into the Toyotomi era through the lens of castle history.

HYOGO — MIKI CASTLE / HARIMA CAMPAIGN

The Siege Depicted in ‘Toyotomi Brothers!’: Special Exhibition on Hideyoshi and Hidenaga’s Harima Campaign at Miki, Hyogo - Asahi Shimbun

「豊臣兄弟！」でも描かれた兵糧攻め ゆかりの兵庫・三木で企画展 - 朝日新聞

Summary: Amidst the popularity of the NHK Taiga Drama ‘Toyotomi Brothers!’, a special exhibition titled ‘Hideyoshi and Hidenaga’s Harima Campaign and Castles’ is being held at the Miki City Museum of History in Miki City, Hyogo Prefecture. The exhibition focuses on the historical siege tactics, particularly the starvation siege, employed during this campaign.

KYOTO — MYOKENJI CASTLE

Toyotomi Hideyoshi’s ‘Mysterious Castle’ in Kyoto: First Confirmation of Moat Remains in Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto City – What Was Hideyoshi’s Aim from its Scale?

豊臣秀吉が洛中に築いた「謎の城」、堀遺構を初確認 京都市中京区、規模から見る秀吉の狙いは？

Summary: An unlined outer moat has been discovered at the Myōkenji Castle site in Nakagyō Ward, Kyoto. This marks the first confirmation of an outer moat at the site, believed to have been Toyotomi Hideyoshi’s first Kyoto base, constructed in 1583 after the Honnōji Incident.

Unlike later major fortifications such as Osaka Castle and Jurakudai, which featured more elaborate stone-lined defenses, the simple construction of this moat suggests a temporary facility built during Hideyoshi’s early consolidation of power. This is the second discovery at the site, following the identification of a pond in 2024. The excavation has already been backfilled, and no public Excavation Briefing (Gensetsu) was held.

KYOTO — JURAKUDAI

[Toyotomi Brothers!] The Truth Behind Toyotomi Hidetsugu’s Purge? Hideyoshi’s Hidden Intentions in the Jurakudai Renovation That Led to Hidetsugu’s Seppuku...

【豊臣兄弟！】豊臣秀次（山田涼介）粛清の真相は？切腹へ追い込まれた聚楽第改修に潜む“秀吉 ...

Summary: This article discusses the true intentions behind Toyotomi Hidetsugu’s renovation of Jurakudai into a combat-ready fortress while Hideyoshi was away, suggesting it might have been an act of defiance against Hideyoshi’s invasion of Korea. It explores the historical context of Hidetsugu’s eventual forced suicide.

OSAKA — OSAKA CASTLE

Two and a Half Years of Meticulous Landscape Surveys and Consultations: Balancing Cultural Property Preservation and Telecommunications at Special Historic Site Osaka Castle - SoftBank

地道な景観調査と協議を重ねた2年半。特別史跡「大坂城跡」で文化財保護と通信 ... - ソフトバンク

Summary: SoftBank details its two-and-a-half-year effort involving meticulous landscape surveys and consultations to balance cultural property preservation with telecommunications infrastructure development at the Special Historic Site of Osaka Castle. The area, a symbol of Osaka, faces strict regulations due to its historical significance.

SHIGA — SHIZUGATAKE BATTLE / HISTORICAL RESEARCH

The Tragedy of the Foremost of the ‘Seven Spears’ Who Became a Great Daimyo After Shizugatake But Lost Everything Because Hideyoshi Loved Him Too Much

すべては秀吉に愛されすぎたから…賤ヶ岳後に大大名となるも全てを没収された｢七本槍｣筆頭武将の晩年の悲劇

Summary: This article discusses the Battle of Shizugatake (1583) and its impact on the fates of various warlords, particularly the ‘Seven Spears of Shizugatake.’ It highlights how these favored generals of Toyotomi Hideyoshi, despite their initial rise to power, faced tragic later lives due to their close ties with Hideyoshi. The article mentions the strategic importance of the battle, the actions of Sakuma Morimasa, and how his disobedience led to the rise of the young generals. It also mentions Genbaoyama Castle in Nagahama City, Shiga Prefecture, and Oiwayama Fort.

SHIGA — SHIZUGATAKE BATTLE / MAEDA TOSHIIE

The ‘Loser of Shizugatake’ Who Betrayed Shibata Katsuie Yet Became a Pillar of the Toyotomi Regime, Relied Upon by Hideyoshi and More Popular Than Ieyasu

柴田勝家を裏切ったのに”豊臣の大黒柱”に…秀吉に頼られ､家康より人望を集めた”賤ヶ岳の敗者”の名前

Summary: This article focuses on Maeda Toshiie’s pivotal role in the Battle of Shizugatake (1583), where he switched allegiance from Shibata Katsuie to Toyotomi Hideyoshi. This ‘betrayal’ propelled him to a prominent position within the Hideyoshi regime and later as a powerful daimyo of Kaga Hyakumangoku under the Tokugawa shogunate. The article details Toshiie’s early career, his involvement in the Echizen Ikko-Ikki, and his appointment as one of the ‘Fuchu Sanshu’ (Three Lords of Fuchu) tasked with overseeing Katsuie in Hokuriku. It explains how the disunity within the Shibata forces, partly due to this mutual surveillance, led to their defeat and Toshiie’s strategic withdrawal. The article mentions Kitano-Sho Castle, Oono Castle, and Katsuyama Castle.

SHIGA — HIKONE CASTLE

Hikone Castle’s World Heritage Bid: Challenges and Prospects – Can it Symbolize ‘Tokugawa Peace’?

世界遺産目指す「彦根城」抱える難題と認定への勝算 「徳川の平和」の象徴と言えるのか

Summary: This article discusses the challenges and prospects of Hikone Castle’s bid for World Heritage status. It questions whether the castle can truly symbolize ‘Tokugawa peace,’ noting that unlike the Sengoku period where vassals resided in their own territories, Edo period vassals were gathered within the castle complex to govern alongside the daimyo.

🏯 CHUGOKU

HIROSHIMA — HIROSHIMA CASTLE

Numerous Historical Records Detailing Hiroshima Castle’s Pre-War Appearance Discovered

広島城 戦前の姿を詳細に記録した史料多数見つかる

Summary: Numerous historical documents, totaling 142 items, detailing the pre-war appearance of Hiroshima Castle have been discovered by the Nara National Research Institute for Cultural Properties. Hiroshima Castle, built approximately 430 years ago, was destroyed by the atomic bomb in 1945 and later rebuilt, but was ‘closed’ in March this year due to aging. The newly found materials include life-size rubbings of roof gargoyles and detailed survey maps, meticulously recording roof slopes, pillar dimensions, and stone wall sizes. Experts consider these findings rare and invaluable for understanding the castle’s original form, providing crucial information for potential wooden reconstruction efforts.

HIROSHIMA — JAPANESE CASTLE CONSTRUCTION EXHIBITION

“Japanese Castle Construction” Explained with Materials and Models at Hiroshima Prefectural Museum of History in Fukuyama City

「日本の城づくり」資料と模型で解説 広島県福山市の県立歴史博物館

Summary: An exhibition titled “Japanese Castle Construction” is being held at the Hiroshima Prefectural Museum of History in Fukuyama City until September 6th. It features 73 historical materials and models, explaining the structure, decoration, and construction processes of castles, including keeps, palaces, and stone walls. Highlights include a cedar sliding door from Fushimi Goten at Fukuyama Castle, a 1/650 scale wooden model (Kizu) of Marugame Castle from the Edo period, and gilded shachihoko tiles excavated near Hiroshima Castle. The exhibition aims to deepen public interest in Japan’s proud cultural heritage. Lectures and guided tours by curators are also scheduled.

OKAYAMA — BICCHU TAKAMATSU CASTLE

Was Toyotomi Hideyoshi Not a ‘Master of Siege Warfare’? What Was the True Genius of the Unifier of Japan? Hideyoshi’s Prolonged Encirclement Campaigns...

豊臣秀吉は「城攻めの名人」ではなかった？天下人が本当に優れていた能力とは？秀吉の長囲戦 ...

Summary: This article challenges the perception of Toyotomi Hideyoshi as a ‘master of siege warfare,’ arguing that his true genius lay in prolonged encirclement strategies. It cites Ota Castle in Wakayama City and Bicchu Takamatsu Castle in Okayama Prefecture as examples of his long siege tactics, highlighting his ability to win through attrition rather than direct assault.

SHIMANE — MATSUYAMA CASTLE (SHIMANE)

Matsuyama Castle (Shimane): 3D Model Completed for Castle Built in 1300s, Abandoned in Late Sengoku Period After Mori Clan Rule

毛利氏などの領有を経て戦国末期に廃城 1300年代に築城と伝わる「松山城」の立体模型が完成 ...

Summary: A 3D model of Matsuyama Castle, a mountain castle located downstream of the Gonokawa River in Matsukawa-cho, Gotsu City, Shimane Prefecture, has been completed. The castle, believed to have been built in the 1300s, was abandoned at the end of the Sengoku period after being held by clans such as the Mori. The model was created by a local community development council.

🏯 KYUSHU OKINAWA

FUKUOKA — FUKUOKA CASTLE

[Aug 29] Fukuoka Castle Keep Base Excavation Briefing (Gensetsu) to Announce Results of First Full-Scale Survey

【8/29】福岡城天守台の発掘調査報告会開催 初の本格調査で判明した成果を公開

Summary: Fukuoka City will host an ‘Excavation Briefing (Gensetsu) for Citizens on the Fukuoka Castle Keep Base’ at the Fukuoka City Museum on August 29th. This event will present the findings from the first full-scale excavation survey conducted in fiscal year 2025 inside the keep base (an underground space called ‘anagura’). The survey aims to understand the former appearance of the keep base, which is part of the National Historic Site of Fukuoka Castle. Discovered artifacts, including tiles with paulownia and tomoe crests and Japanese nails, will be displayed after the briefing and then publicly exhibited at the Fukuoka City Museum from September 1st to October 18th.

OKINAWA — SHURI CASTLE

Shuri Castle Steadily Progressing, Three Months Until Completion Ceremony in Okinawa

首里城、着々　完成式まであと3カ月　沖縄

Summary: The reconstruction of Shuri Castle’s main hall, which was destroyed by fire on October 31, 2019, is steadily progressing, with the completion ceremony just three months away. The exterior of the main hall is almost finished, and the completion ceremony is scheduled for November 22nd, with public opening from November 23rd. Visitors to Shuri Castle Park on August 21st expressed joy at the restoration, noting the ‘new beauty’ and ‘prettier colors’ compared to before.

OKINAWA — YARA CASTLE

[Urgent Notice] Closure of Promenade within Yara Castle Park | Kadena Town, Okinawa Prefecture

【緊急のお知らせ】屋良城跡公園内遊歩道の通行止めについて | 沖縄県嘉手納町（かでな町）

Summary: An emergency announcement from Kadena Town, Okinawa, states that the promenade within Yara Castle Park is closed due to a rockfall reported on August 20, 2026. This measure is to ensure the safety of visitors.

Jcastle Intelligence Desk is a curated digest of castle related news. Paid Subscriptions offer a premium perk to those who help support the infrastructure costs of hosting Jcastle.info.

📬 Submissions & Tips: Spot an excavation briefing (現地説明会) or key regional news we missed? Drop it in the comments, and we’ll add it to the next newsletter or send out an alert for an upcoming event.

⚖️ Disclaimer: Summaries are synthesized from regional Japanese press releases and news reports. Original article copyright remains with the respective publishers. Some links may expire or become unavailable behind paywalls after the digest is created. Articles are summarized and translated with automation and AI-assisted tools. I review each digest before publishing, but errors may remain.

🏯 Explore More: The Guide to Japanese Castles

Editor’s Note: Two new excavation briefings caught my attention this week: Takayama Castle in Gifu on August 22 and Fukuoka Castle on August 29. They’re both a little far for me to visit, but if anyone is in the area and attends, please let us know in the comments how it goes. Better yet, if you provide a short write-up and photos for this newsletter, I’ll extend your paid subscription by six months! I’m also weirdly interested in the hot-air balloon ride over Akashi Castle in September. It might be an exciting way to see this great castle.

🏯 HOKKAIDO TOHOKU

HOKKAIDO — SHIRAOI SENDAI JIN’YA

60th Anniversary Event Thrives at Shiraoi Sendai Jin’ya and Museum [Shiraoi Town]

史跡指定６０周年イベントにぎわう～白老仙台藩陣屋跡・資料館～【白老町】

Summary: The Shiroi Sendai Clan Camp and Museum in Shiraoi Town hosted a lively event to commemorate the 60th anniversary of its designation as a National Historic Site. Approximately 200 people participated in various activities, including charcoal-grilled Nanbu senbei, samurai armor try-ons, yo-yo fishing, and a historical quiz rally. The event also featured Ainu traditional dances, Mukkuri (jaw harp) and bow-and-arrow experiences, and cosplay, celebrating the milestone. Museum members and a new guide introduced exhibits to visitors.

IWATE — MORIOKA CASTLE

Citizen Group Requests Development for Morioka Castle Park to Feature Visible Stone Walls Ahead of 430th Anniversary in 2027, Iwate Prefecture

盛岡城の石垣が見える公園に 2027年に築城430年 市民団体が市に整備要望 岩手県

Summary: A citizen group, “Association to Create a Morioka Castle Park with Visible Stone Walls,” led by Sakamoto Hiroyuki, chief priest of Sakurayama Shrine, submitted a request to Morioka Mayor Shigeru Uchidate on August 12. The group advocates for ensuring clear views of Morioka Castle’s stone walls from the city center to attract more tourists and enhance the vibrancy of the central district, especially as the castle approaches its 430th anniversary in 2027.

🏯 KANTO

SAITAMA — KANO CASTLE

Kano Castle, the Motoki Clan’s Fortress of the “Konosu Seven Knights,” a Castle Nestled in a Residential Area, a Natural Stronghold Utilizing Wetlands

「鴻巣七騎」本木氏の城・加納城 住宅街にたたずむ城跡、低湿地帯を利用した天然の要害 山城 ...

Summary: Kano Castle, historically associated with the Motoki clan as one of the “Konosu Seven Knights,” is a unique castle site nestled within a residential area of Saitama Prefecture. It served as a natural stronghold, strategically utilizing surrounding wetlands. The article highlights its historical significance and unique geographical features.

SAITAMA — KAWAGOE CASTLE

Rare Existing Honmaru Goten, Stage of Historical Turning Points: Kawagoe Castle (Kawagoe, Saitama) - Shimotsuke Shimbun

珍しい現存する本丸御殿 歴史の“転換点”の舞台 川越城（埼玉・川越） - 下野新聞

Summary: Kawagoe Castle in Saitama Prefecture is highlighted for its rare existing Honmaru Goten (main keep palace), one of only four such structures remaining nationwide. This palace served as the residence of the castle lord and was often the focal point of battles. The article emphasizes its historical significance as a stage for pivotal moments.

🏯 CHUBU

AICHI — KIYOSU CASTLE / JAPAN CASTLE RESEARCH INSTITUTE

Shibata Katsuie: The Oda Clan’s Number Two General Who Was Given a Greater Role Than Hideyoshi But Was Discarded: The Biggest Loser of the Kiyosu Conference...

秀吉よりも大役を任されたのに､使い捨てに…｢清須会議｣で最も損をした”織田家ナンバー2の武将 ...

Summary: This article analyzes Shibata Katsuie, the “number two general” of the Oda clan, and his significant loss at the Kiyosu Conference, despite being entrusted with a greater role than Hideyoshi. It explores how he was ultimately discarded, drawing on historical materials from the Japan Castle Research Institute and the National Diet Library Digital Collection.

AICHI — NAGOYA CASTLE

Report on Donations for Nagoya Castle Reconstruction with Nagoya-Limited “Yukari Golden Can” - Niconico News

名古屋限定〈ゆかり黄金缶〉名古屋城復元寄附のご報告 - ニコニコニュース

Summary: Nagoya City is reporting on donations received for the wooden reconstruction of Nagoya Castle. The current ferroconcrete castle tower, rebuilt after being destroyed in wartime, is aging. Nagoya Castle is considered “the only castle where faithful reconstruction is possible,” and the city aims to restore it to its original wooden form.

FUKUI — FUKUI CASTLE

Maps of Fukui Castle Town Spark Interest at Prefectural Archives Exhibition: Nikkan Kenmin Fukui Web - Chunichi Shimbun

福井城下の地図 興味津々 県文書館で企画展：日刊県民福井Web - 中日新聞

Summary: An exhibition at the Fukui Prefectural Archives is showcasing maps related to Fukui Castle, including a “Gotenshu Ezu” (castle tower drawing) which is believed to be either a reconstruction plan before or after the castle’s burning, and a complete map of the “Matsudaira Experimental Farm” established in 1893 on the former Fukui Castle grounds purchased by the Matsudaira family. These exhibits are drawing significant interest.

GIFU — TAKAYAMA CASTLE

Excavation Briefing (Gensetsu) for Takayama Castle Ninomaru Stone Wall

高山城跡二ノ丸石垣の現地説明会

Summary: An Excavation Briefing (Gensetsu) will be held on August 22, 2026, from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM at Takayama Castle (Ninomaru Park, Shiroyama 1-1, Takayama City). The event will explain the results of the 2025 survey of the Onimon Yagura stone wall at Takayama Castle. This particular stone wall is one of the few remaining from Takayama Castle, which was almost entirely dismantled in 1695. Visitors will have a rare opportunity to see the normally unseen stone wall on the northern slope of Ninomaru Park with expert commentary. Appropriate attire for mountain walking and heatstroke prevention measures are recommended. No prior registration is required.

NAGANO — UEDA CASTLE

Nagano University Students Propose “Enjoying on Foot” Along Old Hokkoku Kaido from Ueda Castle Park to Ueda City Officials

上田城跡公園から旧北国街道沿い「歩いて楽しむ」 長野大学生が上田市職員に提案

Summary: Nine students from Nagano University’s Environmental Tourism Department presented urban development proposals to Ueda City officials on August 6. Their ideas focused on enhancing the area from Ueda Castle Park to Yanagimachi along the old Hokkoku Kaido, promoting a “walking enjoyment” experience.

SHIZUOKA — KOKOKUJI CASTLE

Numazu City’s First Phase Development of Kokokuji Castle (Around the Former Tenshudai) Basic Design Services Receives No Bids - Kentsu Shimbun

沼津市 史跡興国寺城跡第１期整備（伝天守台周辺）基本設計等業務 プロポ応募なし - 建通新聞

Summary: Numazu City announced that its public tender for the basic design and related services for the first phase of development at Kokokuji Castle, focusing on the area around the presumed castle tower base (tenshudai), received no applications. Consequently, no candidate was selected for the contract.

🏯 KANSAI

HYOGO — HIMEJI CASTLE RESEARCH INSTITUTE

Applications open for Intermediate-Level Historical Document Course | Himeji City Castle Research Institute

史料講座（中級）受講生募集 | 姫路市立城郭研究室

Summary: The Himeji City Castle Research Institute is recruiting students for its intermediate-level historical document course. The institute houses a vast collection of ancient documents, including materials from the Sakai family, which serve as valuable primary data for understanding local history.

HYOGO — SASAYAMA CASTLE

[August 15, 16] Sasayama Castle Becomes a Stage of Excitement for the Tanba Sasayama Dekansho Festival - Kobe Shimbun NEXT

【8月15、16日】篠山城跡が熱気の舞台、丹波篠山デカンショ祭 - 神戸新聞NEXT

Summary: The Tanba Sasayama Dekansho Festival, a traditional Obon season event in Tanba-Sasayama City, will be held on August 15 and 16 at the Sannomaru Plaza area of the National Historic Site, Sasayama Castle. Approximately 60,000 people from both within and outside the city are expected to attend this lively festival.

HYOGO — AKASHI CASTLE

“Hot Air Balloon Ride Festa” to Enjoy Akashi Park’s Scenery from the Sky Announced; Participation Applications on a First-Come, First-Served Basis

明石公園の景色を「空」から楽しめる『熱気球搭乗フェスタ』が開催決定。参加申込は先着順

Summary: A “Hot Air Balloon Ride Festa” has been announced to take place at Akashi Park, offering visitors the chance to enjoy aerial views of Akashi Castle. Participation applications are on a first-come, first-served basis, and a beer garden will also be held on the same day.

HYOGO — TATSUNO CASTLE

[New Discovery! Hideyoshi’s Letters] Hideyoshi’s Advantage? Ieyasu’s Advantage? Primary Historical Materials Shed Light on the Reality of the Battle of Komaki-Nagakute...

【新発見！秀吉の書状】秀吉優勢？家康優勢？「小牧・長久手の戦い」の実状に迫る一次史料 ...

Summary: Two new letters from Toyotomi Hideyoshi have been discovered in Tatsuno City, Hyogo Prefecture, at the Tatsuno City Historical and Cultural Museum (Tatsuno Castle). These primary historical materials offer new insights into the actual state of the Battle of Komaki-Nagakute, potentially revealing whether Hideyoshi or Ieyasu held the advantage.

SHIGA — AZUCHI CASTLE

Marking Azuchi Castle’s 450th Anniversary: Tracing the Dreams of Nobunaga and the Lost “Phantom Castle” That Burned Down Just Before Unification...

安土城の築城450年の節目に…天下統一を目の前に、焼失した＜幻の城＞と信長の夢の跡追う ...

Summary: As Azuchi Castle marks its 450th anniversary, an excavation briefing has begun around the castle tower base (tenshudai) of Azuchi Castle. This initiative aims to trace the legacy of Oda Nobunaga’s “phantom castle,” which burned down just before his dream of unifying Japan could be realized. The Azuchi Castle Museum also featured an exhibition this spring depicting the journey of the Tensho Embassy to Europe.

🏯 SHIKOKU

KAGAWA — TAKAMATSU CASTLE

Reiwa Edition: Kagawa We Want to Preserve = Takamatsu Castle, a “Sea Castle” Now an Oasis - Shikoku Shimbun

令和版 残したい香川＝高松城跡 「海城」、今はオアシス - 四国新聞

Summary: Takamatsu Castle, a nationally designated historic site and one of Japan’s three great water castles, is featured in the “Reiwa Edition: Kagawa We Want to Preserve” series. It holds triple designations as a Historic Site, Important Cultural Property, and Place of Scenic Beauty. The castle’s current area is approximately 80,000 square meters, about one-eighth of its original domain of 660,000 square meters. The article highlights its unique status as a “sea castle” and its current role as an urban oasis, as sung in popular folk songs.

🏯 KYUSHU OKINAWA

FUKUOKA — FUKUOKA CASTLE

Fukuoka Castle Tenshudai Excavation Briefing (Gensetsu)

福岡城天守台 発掘調査報告会

Summary: An Excavation Briefing (Gensetsu) will be held on August 29 (Saturday) from 1:00 PM to 2:30 PM to present the findings from the excavation survey conducted at Fukuoka Castle’s Tenshudai (castle tower base) during the 2025 fiscal year. The event will include explanations by staff members and an exhibition of unearthed artifacts.

KUMAMOTO — KUMAMOTO CASTLE

Kumamoto Castle Suffers New Stone Wall Collapses, Historic Inn “Kinparou” Main Gate and Walls Collapse in Kumamoto Earthquake, 234 Cultural Properties Damaged

熊本城跡は石垣が新たに崩落・老舗旅館「金波楼」は正門や塀の大半が倒壊…熊本地震で文化財２３４件被害

Summary: The recent earthquake, which registered a maximum intensity of 7 in Kumamoto Prefecture, has revealed severe damage to cultural properties, with 234 historical buildings and castle sites reported affected as of 2 PM on August 13. Kumamoto Castle, a National Special Historic Site, suffered new stone wall collapses, and the historic inn “Kinparou” in Hinagu Onsen experienced the collapse of its main gate and most of its walls. Many cultural properties, including Kumamoto Castle, were re-damaged after the 2016 Kumamoto Earthquake, indicating a prolonged recovery period.

KUMAMOTO — KUMAMOTO CASTLE

<2026 Kumamoto Earthquake> Kumamoto Castle Reconfirms Safety, Kumamoto City and Operators Conduct Joint Inspection, Reopens on 13th

＜2026年熊本地震＞熊本城、安全性を再確認 熊本市と運営事業者が巡回点検 13日開園

Summary: Kumamoto City, in conjunction with its operating partners, conducted a joint inspection of Kumamoto Castle on August 12 in preparation for its reopening on August 13, following a temporary closure due to the 2026 Kumamoto Earthquake. While 59 instances of damage, including stone wall collapses and cracks in earthen walls, were confirmed, no significant damage was found in the main keep or the special viewing passages that were open to the public before the earthquake. To enhance safety, a portion of the stone wall near the small keep entrance, though undamaged, will be restricted. The city assures visitors of the castle’s safety and invites them to visit the “symbol of reconstruction” from August 13. Visitors using the special viewing passages can observe the damage to the stone walls on the east side of the Sukiyamaru Nikaigohiroma caused by the recent earthquake. Opening hours are 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM (last entry 6:00 PM).

OKINAWA — NAKAGUSUKU CASTLE

(Castle Stroll. ~A Journey Through History=19) Nakagusuku Castle: Perry Praised Its Arch Gate - Castle Writer Sachiko Hagiwara

(お城さんぽ。～歴史を巡る旅=19)中城城 ペリーが称賛したアーチ門 城郭ライター 萩原さちこ

Summary: Castle writer Sachiko Hagiwara introduces Nakagusuku Castle in Okinawa, highlighting its distinctive arch gate which was notably praised by Commodore Matthew Perry. The article is part of a series “Castle Stroll: A Journey Through History.”

Jcastle Intelligence Desk is a curated digest of castle related news. Paid Subscriptions offer a premium perk to those who help support the infrastructure costs of hosting Jcastle.info.

📬 Submissions & Tips: Spot an excavation briefing (現地説明会) or key regional news we missed? Drop it in the comments and we’ll add it to the next newsletter or send out an alert for an upcoming event.

⚖️ Disclaimer: Summaries are synthesized from regional Japanese press releases and wire reports. Original article copyrights belong to their respective publishers. Some links may expire or be hidden behind paywalls after the digest is created. Articles are gathered, synthesized, and translated with automated scripts and tools. I review each digest before publishing but errors may be missed.

🏯 Explore More: The Guide to Japanese Castles

Last weekend, August 8–9, was the fifth annual Osaka Castle Fest. I don’t normally write reports about these kinds of events. They would be far too long for Facebook and don’t really belong on Jcastle itself, so I thought I’d make use of this Substack for something different. Here is a boots-on-the-ground look at what a Japanese castle convention is like. At the end, I will introduce some similar conventions coming up this autumn, if I’ve sparked your interest.

Castle Convention Background

The concept of a tourism-focused castle convention really took off with 城EXPO (Shiro Expo), which first launched in Yokohama in 2015. There were smaller enthusiast or locally run events of a similar nature before that, but this was the one that put the concept on the map. I think I’ve been to seven of the Yokohama Expo events now. Following its success, “traveling” versions of Shiro Expo began appearing in places such as Shiga, Himeji, Fukui, and Kumamoto, often tied to local interests, anniversaries, or current trends. I’ve attended several of those in the Kansai too.

These events typically have a large main hall filled with booths sponsored by castles, cities, prefectures, tourism organizations, and local historical groups. What you find at the booths varies enormously. Some simply hand out tourism brochures or sell 御城印 (gojoin), commemorative stamps or cards for castle visits, while others give mini lectures, display models and dioramas, or introduce recent research and preservation projects. If you were new to castle visiting, you could easily fill a backpack with free brochures, maps, and other material and have enough reading material for weeks.

There are also themed guest lectures throughout the event. The major lectures usually cost extra and require advance tickets. Depending on the size of the convention, there may also be smaller stages or adjacent rooms offering free talks, workshops, games, demonstrations, and special displays.

Finally, there is usually a books and merchandise area. The books are often slightly discounted, but more importantly, this is a rare opportunity to browse specialized castle books in person—titles that might only be stocked in the largest bookstores in Tokyo, if at all.

A word of caution: there is almost no English literature, signs, or other information at these events. They are focused on a domestic audience. That being said, I was actually surprised at the number of foreigners I saw at this one. If anyone from Kyoto is reading this, I’ll happily volunteer to help man your booth next year!

The mornings tend to be much more crowded than afternoons. Long lines that form well before the gates open are not uncommon. By afternoon, when there are fewer people, you can spend more time talking with the people at the booths, even though some of the free giveaways or limited-edition goods may have sold out.

Osaka Castle Fest

This was the fifth Osaka Castle Fest, drawing more than 9,500 attendees over the two days. By now, the organizers seem to have developed a good rhythm. Each year has a sub-theme, which means there are always a few displays and booths unique to that year’s event.

As you enter the main hall, the first row is devoted to the featured theme, with castle models, dioramas, artifacts, maps, and other displays. This year the focus was Kusunoki Masashige and the Kawachi area. Last year it was Miyoshi Nagayoshi. The first day’s lectures also tend to follow the year’s theme.

Jinaimachi display in the opening area

Occasionally a city, prefecture, or historical group has produced a small book, detailed map, or research booklet in a very limited print run. I’ve picked up excellent examples from Kyoto, Hyogo, and Mie prefectures as well as Tsuyama Castle, Wakayama Castle, and Chihaya-Akasaka Castles in the past that simply aren’t available through normal bookstores or downloadable on city websites. Those discoveries alone make a convention worthwhile.

One thing I particularly enjoy about the Osaka Castle Fest is the photo competition. Amateur photographers submit photos that are judged by a professional photographer (Oka Yasuyuki from Shiro Meguri Fan). This year, three of the winners are people I personally know. One of the winning photos was simply a dobashi, but it excellently highlighted the terrain and horikiri with light and shadows - so it’s not just sunset photos of Himeji Castle that win awards. My goal will be to get my own photo up on the wall of winners next year!

The major attraction for me is the lectures. A good panel discussion or keynote can bring together archaeologists, historians, and local researchers whose work I might not otherwise encounter. It’s also nice to put a face and personality to names you only see as bylines.

My View of the Osaka Castle Fest 2026

I visited on Sunday this year. That was a mistake.

Saturday would have been better for me because the lectures concentrated on this year’s theme - Kusunoki Masashige and the Kawachi area - a relatively rare opportunity compared to Sunday’s program, which leaned into the Taiga Drama tie-in with Toyotomi castles.

I’ve been doing this for a while, so I approach these events a little differently. I’m specifically looking for what’s new.

Main Hall

I did not see as many new materials for me this year as I have found in the past. The focus on selling gojoin felt a little overboard to me as someone trying to get access to good information, but I also understand that printing color pamphlets, renting a booth, and staffing it for a weekend are expensive. As always, the Kyoto booth does a great job with mini talks both days about the castles of Kyoto. I chatted with one of the staff about which castles in their “Mori no Kyoto / Woodland Kyoto” campaign I have visited, and she made recommendations for my next travels.

Other notable takeaways include:

• Dioramas of the Temple Towns in southern Kawachi (see photo above).

• Ayai Castle: flyer of a previously unknown castle to me. It is a small site between Sakai and Kishiwada that is now a temple. The Numana clan based here commanded some of the naval forces for Nobunaga.

• Kansai Castle Summit: flyer for the summit (Nov 28-29) focusing on Kusunoki Masashige and related castles. Maybe this is my next opportunity since I missed Saturday.

• Tanba Kameyama Castle: a new walking map of the Kameyama Castle town featuring a comparison of a modern map to an Edo Period map and highlighting historical buildings around town.

• Iimori Castle: a new stone wall map. It actually highlights some stone walls that are technically off limits and had been left off earlier maps.

I did not buy any new books or other purchases, although I was sorely tempted to pick up a signed copy of the Miyoshi Nagayoshi book by Amano Tadayuki. When I went back after lunch, it was gone. Amano-sensei writes some fantastic materials focusing on the Kansai region.

Professor Yoshihiro Senda at the Keynote Seminar on Sunday

Lectures

「秀吉の陣城」

Keynote Seminar: Hideyoshi’s Field Castles by Yoshihiro Senda

Senda-sensei explored Hideyoshi's field fortifications using the red relief image map technology pioneered by the Asia Air Survey Company. I don’t think the company even expected how big of an impact their technology would have on the archaeology community. It is now possible to identify kofun, castles, and other structures that were previously unknown or nearly invisible on the ground.

Key Takeaways:

• Using the red relief maps, we’ve discovered many new castles and castle features that could not be identified before because they were too remote or completely buried in vegetation, so you would not even know they were there if you walked across them.

• Toragozenyama Castle: Vertical embankments extend from the Hideyoshi and Nobunaga encampments to the bottom of the mountain on the east side. There is a possible road as well connecting the summit directly to the base. These are buried in vegetation today. I walked these same ridges just months ago and remember turning back rather than following the ridge down from Nobunaga’s encampment because it looked impassable!

• Tottori Castle: This was by far the most impressive. Hideyoshi built over 20 forts surrounding Tottori Castle in his brutal campaign. The forts were also connected by dry moats and even double moats criss-crossing the mountainside, strengthening the siege lines and strangling the castle. These are largely difficult to reach or buried in heavy weeds and brush. The RRIM lets you see the system: forts + dry moats + connecting defensive works = an enormous siege landscape.

• Miki Castle: Forts of the Miki castle campaign. There is not much to see today in many cases, but the relief maps help you isolate just the terrain and better understand the encirclement strategy.

• Kozuki and Takakura Castles: Analyzed the back-and-forth battle with the Mori using the red relief maps. Hideyoshi used the existing Takakura Castle but added horikiri and extended fortifications along the ridges towards Kozuki Castle. This one has been on my list to visit for some time, but now I have better insights when I do make the trip and tell the story.

• Other castles covered include: forts of the Battle of Shizugatake, Komaki Castle, and Saga Nagoya Castle. Analysis of the Maeda encampment at Nagoya Castle was particularly interesting. It’s nearly the size of the main castle and had an area specific to entertaining guests directly across from Nagoya Castle. All this and more can be revealed on the red relief maps that strip away everything but the terrain in a 3D view.

A note about using RRIM: Red Relief Image Maps are copyrighted materials, with rights held by Asia Air Survey and/or the organization that commissioned a local survey. Do not assume that maps you find online are free to reproduce. Check the usage terms and obtain permission where required. Even Senda-sensei mentioned that there was one map he had hoped to include in his presentation but could not because he could not get permission to use it.

「 豊臣一族の城 」

Forum #3 - Toyotomi Family Castles - discussion panel with five researchers

Key takeaways:

For the Ashikaga Shoguns - the brothers of the shogun typically became monks to prevent potential power conflicts with the sitting shogun. For example, Ashikaga Yoshiaki was originally a monk until his brother Yoshiteru was assassinated.

On the other hand, Hideyoshi used his family to put them in positions of power around his bases at Kyoto and Osaka. The key point is that in any conflict, family members could instantly mobilize, whereas a mere ally might weigh his options before choosing a side. One panelist suggested that the Tokugawa may have borrowed something from this concept when placing their top family members (gosanke) in key defensive positions around the country, where they too could mobilize quickly from Wakayama, Owari, and Mito.

Castles covered included:

• Tanba Kameyama Castle - famed Akechi Mitsuhide Castle, but little was done by the time Mitsuhide died. The castle and castle town were primarily developed by Toyotomi.

• Yamato Koriyama Castle - Hideyoshi’s brother Hidenaga

• Omi Hachiman Castle - Hideyoshi’s adopted son Hidetsugu

• Wakayama Castle - Technically the domain of Toyotomi Hidenaga; he could not realistically control the area along with Yamato Koriyama Castle. His trusted ally Kuwayama Shigeharu served as castellan (城代).

Rather than giving individual presentations, the five researchers had prepared and shared their materials in advance. Kitagawa-sensei led the discussion by asking questions, with the panelists freely jumping between each other’s slides as the conversation developed.

These discussion panels are often enjoyable. While there is a theme, the panelists frequently wander into areas of personal or topical interest, go deep into the weeds explaining photos and maps, and play off each other’s research. This session was scheduled for 90 minutes but ran for nearly two hours, leaving attendees no time to return to the main hall before it closed at 5 p.m.

Last year I dug into the Shincho Koki (Chronicle of Lord Nobunaga) a bit more deeply than was probably necessary. Next, I think I need to spend some time with the Tamon’in Nikki, a diary kept at Tamon-in, a sub-temple of Kofukuji, which contains a wealth of contemporary observations about the politics and events of the period. One of the presenters pulled out several passages to illustrate points during the discussion.

One thing the panelists seemed to agree on was their opinion of this year’s Toyotomi Kyodai Taiga Drama, and it wasn’t flattering. Throughout the discussion, they found plenty of opportunities to poke fun at some of its historical liberties, from Oichi somehow being present for Nagamasa’s seppuku in an otherwise deserted Odani Castle, to spending an entire episode on Hidenaga’s domestic troubles, to the increasingly benevolent portrayal of Hideyoshi.

That latter point became particularly noticeable in a discussion that had just touched on places such as Kozuki and Tottori. Hideyoshi’s campaigns could be extraordinarily brutal, and several panelists seemed uncomfortable with the drama’s tendency to smooth away those edges in favor of a kinder, more sympathetic character. Still, everyone was watching every week, self included, but one panelist admitted that he watches the Taiga at 1.5× speed.

Wrapping up

I probably chose the wrong day for my own interests this year, but Senda-sensei’s presentation alone gave me several new things to investigate, and the Toyotomi panel was both entertaining and educational. That’s really why I keep going to these events: you never know what new tidbit or comment will send you down another rabbit hole for the upcoming castle hiking season. I also happened to run into Adam from the Japanese Castles Facebook group, who is a frequent contributor to Jcastle.info.

Upcoming Castle Conventions Fall 2026

If any of this sparks your interest, there are some great conventions coming up in the latter half of the year. I’m also conflicted about which to attend because this is also the best castle’ing time of the year!

Yamato (Nara) Castle Fest: Nara (Oct 4). I went last year. Very small, but lectures are targeted and informational. Pre-registration is required. The main hall is very small, so it’s hard to justify long-distance travel for most castle fans. It is also “Kazenomori Weekend” - a local food, architecture, and sake festival sponsored by the famous sake producer Yucho Shuzo in Goze, Nara. Tough choices!

Traveling Shiro EXPO in Kumamoto: (Oct 3-4)

Traveling Shiro Expo in Shiga: Azuchi (Oct 17). This year takes place in Azuchi. The focus of the entire event is the 450th anniversary of the founding of the castle. Pre-purchase of reserved seats for the lectures is required. I already have mine.

Echizen Wakasa Castle Fest: Fukui: (Oct 31- Nov 1) Details and Link: TBD. I have never been to this one, but I’m thinking about a weekend trip combined with a day at Kuniyoshi Castle. There is much more I want to know about this region.

Yamajiro Summit in Shinshiro (Nov 28-29). This is decidedly more academic and has no main hall, but the lectures are excellent, and they have materials for the covered castles. Typically, they also have shuttle buses to nearby castles and special tours. It is in a different location every year, so watch out for ones near you. I’ve joined the events at Karasawayama Castle (Tochigi) and Takeda Castle (Hyogo) in the past.

Yokohama National Shiro Expo (Dec 19-20). This is the one to go to if you only have one chance to visit such a convention. It’s often a difficult time for me to go due to overlapping conflicts, but I’ll try to join Saturday morning.

Nagoya typically holds one of the Traveling Shiro Expos in the spring too. If you’re making plans for next year, keep this on your radar for 2027.

If you’ve visited such events before, leave a note of your own impressions in the comments below. I hope to see you at one of these events in the future. If you happen to see me, say hi.

🏯 HOKKAIDO TOHOKU

IWATE — MORIOKA CASTLE

[Morioka History and Culture Museum] Special Exhibition “Revived Cultural Properties” is Now Open - Nico Nico News

【もりおか歴史文化館】テーマ展「よみがえる文化財」開催中です - ニコニコニュース

Summary: The Morioka History and Culture Museum is currently hosting a special exhibition titled “Revived Cultural Properties.” The exhibition showcases repaired cultural artifacts, including those from Morioka Castle, along with images documenting their restoration process. The museum is part of the Morioka Castle and Castle Town Field Museum.

MIYAGI — SENDAI CASTLE

Otemon Gate Restoration Prioritized in Revised Sendai Castle Basic Plan / Sendai City

大手門復元優先に改定/仙台城跡基本計画/仙台市 | 建設通信新聞Digital

Summary: Sendai City held the 22nd Sendai Castle Research and Maintenance Committee meeting, where the basic plan for the preservation and maintenance of the Sendai Castle was revised to prioritize the restoration of the Otemon (main gate).

🏯 CHUBU

AICHI — NAGOYA CASTLE

Graffiti Resembling Characters Found on Pillar Inside Nagoya Castle; City Files Damage Report

名古屋城「西の丸御蔵城宝館」の外柱に落書き 鋭利なもので外柱を削って書かれたか

Summary: The Nagoya Castle General Office announced that graffiti resembling characters was found etched into a wooden pillar near the entrance of the Nishinomaru Okura Castle Treasure Hall within Nagoya Castle, a national special historic site. The graffiti was discovered by a security guard on July 31st and is believed to have been carved with a sharp object. The city has filed a damage report with the police and is considering strengthening security, while also consulting with the Agency for Cultural Affairs regarding the pillar’s restoration. The Nishinomaru Okura Castle Treasure Hall, opened in November 2021, preserves and exhibits cultural properties owned by Nagoya Castle and is located in a normally busy paid area.

GIFU — AKECHI JINYA CASTLE

Report on Excavation Briefing (Gensetsu) Results at Akechi Jinya Castle

明知陣屋跡の発掘調査成果を報告 - 恵那市

Summary: Ena City is conducting the “Akechi Castle Comprehensive Survey Project” over four years from Reiwa 6 (2024) to achieve national historic site designation for Akechi Castle. Recent excavations at Akechi Jinya Castle, aimed at clarifying its temporal connection to Akechi Castle, revealed a stratum containing Edo period artifacts, including 36 pottery fragments. Among these was a Tenmoku tea bowl believed to date from the early 17th century, which may provide clues about the jinya’s establishment. While no clear structures were found, the discovery of this artifact layer is considered a valuable lead in understanding the relationship between Akechi Castle and Akechi Jinya Castle. The city aims for national historic site designation after the survey’s completion in Reiwa 10 (2028).

ISHIKAWA — KANAZAWA CASTLE

“Reconstruction of Reiwa” Begins: Kanazawa Castle Stone Wall Rebuilding Starts, Prefecture Aims to Complete 3 Locations This Year After Noto Earthquake Damage

「令和の再築城」始動 金沢城石垣積み直し 県、年内３カ所完了 能登地震で損壊 - 北國新聞

Summary: The rebuilding of damaged stone walls at Kanazawa Castle, a national historic site, has begun, starting with the Ishikawa-monmae Dobashi stone wall. The Ishikawa Prefecture aims to complete three locations by the end of the year and all 28 damaged sections by fiscal year 2038. The Noto Peninsula Earthquake revealed that stone walls built after the Edo period were prone to collapse due to insufficient “guriishi” (rubble infill) and excessive soil. To address this, the prefecture will use traditional construction methods with sufficient guriishi to enhance earthquake resistance and preserve cultural value, calling it “Reconstruction of Reiwa.” Work on the Honmaru South stone wall and Gyokuseninmaru Southwest stone wall is also scheduled to begin soon. The prefecture plans to introduce progress updates on its website and offer site tours. Full restoration is estimated to take about 15 years.

SHIZUOKA — YOKOSUKA CASTLE

Yokosuka Castle, Tokugawa Ieyasu’s “First” Self-Built Castle, Features Nationally Rare “Tamagishi-zumi” Stone Walls and a Four-Story Keep

徳川家康が自ら手掛けた“最初”の城「横須賀城」 全国的にも珍しい「玉石積み」の石垣に四層の ...

Summary: Yokosuka Castle, considered Tokugawa Ieyasu’s “first” castle built by his own hand, is highlighted for its nationally rare “tamagishi-zumi” (round stone masonry) stone walls and a four-story keep. The article positions it as a significant castle following the impregnable Suwahara Castle and the formidable Takatenjin Castle.

🏯 KANSAI

HYOGO — AKASHI CASTLE

Akashi Castle, a Key Point on the Saigoku Kaido Emphasized by the Shogunate - Castle Writer Sachiko Hagiwara

(お城さんぽ。～歴史を巡る旅=18)明石城 幕府が重視した西国街道の要 城郭ライター 萩原さちこ

Summary: Castle writer Sachiko Hagiwara explores Akashi Castle, highlighting its historical significance as a crucial point on the Saigoku Kaido (Western Country Road) that was highly valued by the Shogunate. The article is part of a series “Castle Stroll: A Journey Through History.”

SHIGA — OMI CASTLES (GENERAL)

“Castles of Omi” Promotion Project - Tokyo Symposium “Omi Sengoku History 12: Northern Omi Sengoku History 3”

「近江の城」魅力発信事業・東京シンポジウム 「近江戦国史12：北近江の戦国史3」 - 滋賀県

Summary: Shiga Prefecture is hosting a Tokyo symposium as part of its “Castles of Omi” promotion project, titled “Omi Sengoku History 12: Northern Omi Sengoku History 3.” Shiga Prefecture boasts approximately 1300 castle sites, ranging from large fortresses like Azuchi Castle and Hikone Castle to smaller castle residences and forts. The symposium will explore the diverse history of these castles, including their connections to samurai, monks, and commoners.

SHIGA — NAGAHARA CASTLE, SAWAYAMA CASTLE, OTSU CASTLE

Special Exhibition on the Era of Nobunaga and Hideyoshi: What Happened in Yasu, Shiga?

信長や秀吉が生きた時代のテーマ展 滋賀・野洲では何があったのか

Summary: The Yasu City History and Folklore Museum in Shiga Prefecture is hosting a summer special exhibition titled “The Era of Rokkaku, Nobunaga, and Hideyoshi: Sengoku Period Yasu.” The exhibition features artifacts from Nagahara Castle (Kamiharahara Ruins/Kamiharahara Castle Ruins), the former residence of the Nagahara clan, who were retainers of the Rokkaku clan. Notable exhibits include a “Eiroku 11th Year” inscribed inkstone (1568), tea ceremony utensils, lacquerware, and musket balls. Nagahara Castle was later held by Sakuma Nobumori, a retainer of Oda Nobunaga, and served as Nobunaga’s lodging before Azuchi Castle was built. The exhibition also highlights a dog-shaped earthenware figurine from the late 16th to early 17th century, similar to those found at Sawayama Castle (Hikone City) and Otsu Castle. The exhibition runs until September 27th, with a lecture on “The Structure and Stone Walls of Sengoku Period Nagahara Castle” on August 29th.

SHIGA — SAKAMOTO CASTLE (HISTORICAL DISCUSSION)

[The Truth of Akechi Mitsuhide’s Survival Theory] What Really Happened in the End!? Intriguing Records in Primary Historical Sources!

【明智光秀・生存説の真偽】結局、最期はどうなったのか！？一次史料に残る気になる記録！

Summary: This article delves into the “survival theory” of Akechi Mitsuhide, examining primary historical records to determine what truly happened at the end of his life and if there is any room for the survival theory. Sakamoto Castle is mentioned in relation to Mitsuhide.

🏯 KYUSHU OKINAWA

KUMAMOTO — KUMAMOTO EARTHQUAKE CULTURAL PROPERTY DAMAGE (KUMAMOTO CASTLE, YATSUSHIRO CASTLE)

79 Cultural Properties Damaged by Kumamoto Quake, Including Kumamoto Castle and Yatsushiro Castle; Chief Cabinet Secretary Kihara Pledges “Prompt Restoration”

木原官房長官「文化財の速やかな復旧に向けて着実に取り組む」 地震により熊本城跡など79件の ...

Summary: The 7.1-magnitude Kumamoto earthquake has caused damage to 79 cultural properties across Kumamoto, Fukuoka, Nagasaki, and Kagoshima prefectures, as reported by the Cultural Affairs Agency. This includes three national treasures, eleven national important cultural properties, one special historic site (Kumamoto Castle), thirteen historic sites (including Yatsushiro Castle), two scenic spots, and twenty-three registered tangible cultural properties. Forty-eight of the affected properties are in Kumamoto Prefecture. Notably, Kumamoto Castle, already undergoing restoration from a previous quake, suffered further collapse of its stone walls in dozens of places and cracks in its main tower, potentially delaying its full reopening beyond fiscal 2052. Yatsushiro Castle also experienced significant stone wall collapse. Other damaged sites include Shohinken (a tea house in Yatsushiro), the former Iseri family residence in Hikawa, Misumi West Port (Uki City), Manda Pit (Arao City), Aoi Aso Shrine (Hitoyoshi City), and Tsujunkyo Bridge (Yamato Town). Chief Cabinet Secretary Kihara announced on August 6th that the government would steadily work towards their prompt restoration.

MIYAZAKI — TAKAJO CASTLE

“Toyotomi Brothers!” Featured: Koichiro Hidenaga’s Great Success in “Kyushu Campaign” - Collaborative Project with 4 Related Castle Regions

「豊臣兄弟！」で話題の小一郎秀長が大活躍した「九州平定」 ゆかりの城跡4地域でコラボ企画 …

Summary: A collaborative project is underway involving four regions in Kyushu with castles related to the Toyotomi brothers, focusing on Koichiro Hidenaga’s significant role in the “Kyushu Campaign,” a topic gaining attention from the drama “Toyotomi Brothers!” The article highlights Takajo Castle, where the battles of that era can be vividly imagined from its observation deck, and mentions the sale of collaborative castle stamps.

OITA — SAIKI CASTLE

National Historic Site Saiki Castle Sannomaru Development

国指定史跡・佐伯城跡三の丸整備、イベント活用を望む声が最多 市教委アンケート

Summary: The Saiki City Board of Education in Oita Prefecture has released the results of a survey regarding the development of the Sannomaru (third bailey) of the national historic site Saiki Castle (former Saiki Cultural Hall site). The survey found that the most common request for the Sannomaru’s use was for events.

OKINAWA — SHURI CASTLE (32ND ARMY HEADQUARTERS TRENCH)

Excavation Briefing (Gensetsu) of Shuri Castle’s Underground “32nd Army Headquarters Trench” Aiming for Public Exhibition Facility Opening in FY2032 | TBS NEWS DIG

2032年度の展示施設公開めざす 首里城地下の「第32軍司令部壕」 発掘調査を一般公開 | TBS NEWS DIG (1ページ)

Summary: The excavation briefing (Gensetsu) of the 32nd Army Headquarters Trench, located beneath Shuri Castle in Naha City, Okinawa, is now open to the public. This trench, estimated to be about 1 kilometer long, served as the command center for the former Japanese army during the Battle of Okinawa, where the decision for the “southern retreat” was made. The first entrance (No. 1 pit entrance), about 2 meters high and wide, is believed to have collapsed due to US naval bombardment and demolition by the Japanese army during their retreat. The current excavation aims to uncover connecting passages. The prefecture plans to open an exhibition facility for the trench by fiscal year 2032.

Jcastle Intelligence Desk is a curated digest of castle related news. Paid Subscriptions offer a premium perk to those who help support the infrastructure costs of hosting Jcastle.info.

📬 Submissions & Tips: Spot an excavation briefing (現地説明会) or key regional news we missed? Drop it in the comments and we’ll add it to the next newsletter or send out an alert for an upcoming event.

⚖️ Disclaimer: Summaries are synthesized from regional Japanese press releases and wire reports. Original article copyrights belong to their respective publishers. Some links may expire or be hidden behind paywalls after the digest is created. Articles are gathered, synthesized, and translated with automated scripts and tools. I review each digest before publishing but errors may be missed.

🏯 Explore More: The Guide to Japanese Castles

The calendar highlights ongoing or upcoming events through the end of 2026.

~edited Aug 8, 2026~ adding new events in Gifu and Nara.

🏯 HOKKAIDO TOHOKU

AOMORI — NE CASTLE

第31回 史跡根城まつり

Ne Castle Festival

📅 Schedule: Oct 3, 2026 | 🏷️ Type: FESTIVAL

🏯 KANTO

KANAGAWA — VARIOUS

お城EXPO 2026 横浜

Castle EXPO 2026 Yokohama

📅 Schedule: Dec 19, 2026 — Dec 20, 2026 | 🏷️ Type: EXPO

TOKYO — EDO CASTLE

江戸東京博物館リニューアル記念・NHK大河ドラマ特別展「豊臣兄弟！」

NHK Taiga Drama Special Exhibition “Toyotomi Brothers!” (Edo-Tokyo Museum)

📅 Schedule: Sep 15, 2026 — Nov 8, 2026 | 🏷️ Type: MUSEUM EXHIBIT

🏯 CHUBU

AICHI — NAGOYA / NAKAMURA

豊臣兄弟！ 名古屋中村 大河ドラマ館

Toyotomi Brothers! Nagoya Nakamura Taiga Drama Museum

📅 Schedule: Jan 24, 2026 — Jan 11, 2027 | 🏷️ Type: MUSEUM EXHIBIT

FUKUI — VARIOUS

越前若狭お城フェス

Echizen Wakasa Castle Festival

📅 Schedule: Oct 31, 2026 — Nov 1, 2026 | 🏷️ Type: EXPO

GIFU — ŌGA CASTLE

特別展「大桑城跡国史跡指定記念展示」

Special Exhibition “Oga Castle Ruins National Historic Site Designation Commemorative Exhibition”

📅 Schedule: Jul 25, 2026 — Aug 30, 2026 | 🏷️ Type: MUSEUM EXHIBIT

AICHI — VARIOUS

第33回全国山城サミット

33rd National Mountain Castle Summit

📅 Schedule: Nov 28, 2026 — Nov 29, 2026 | 🏷️ Type: SYMPOSIUM

SHIZUOKA — SUNPU CASTLE

企画展「徳川家康と豊臣政権」

Special Exhibition “Tokugawa Ieyasu and the Toyotomi Regime”

📅 Schedule: Oct 10, 2026 — Nov 29, 2026 | 🏷️ Type: EXHIBITION

FUKUI — MARUOKA CASTLE

丸岡城天守 保存修理特別段階公開

Maruoka Castle Keep Preservation & Phased Special Opening

📅 Schedule: Aug 1, 2026 — Aug 31, 2026 | 🏷️ Type: SPECIAL OPENING

GIFU — TAKAYAMA CASTLE

高山城跡 鬼門櫓石垣 測量調査現地説明会

Takayama Castle Kimon Yagura Stone Wall Survey Briefing

📅 Schedule: Aug 22, 2026 | 🏷️ Type: ON-SITE BRIEFING

GIFU — NAEGI CASTLE

苗木城築城500年記念企画「苗木城築城500年展」

Naegi Castle 500th Anniversary Exhibition

📅 Schedule: Jul 18, 2026 — Dec 20, 2026 | 🏷️ Type: MUSEUM EXHIBIT

🏯 KANSAI

NARA — VARIOUS

大和お城まつり2026

Yamato Castle Festival 2026 (details TBD)

📅 Schedule: Oct 4, 2026 | 🏷️ Type: EXPO

SHIGA — AZUCHI CASTLE

お城EXPO in 滋賀・びわ湖 2026

Castle EXPO in Shiga & Biwako 2026

📅 Schedule: Oct 17, 2026 | 🏷️ Type: EXPO

OSAKA — VARIOUS

第五回 大阪・お城フェス2026

5th Osaka Castle Festival 2026

📅 Schedule: Aug 8, 2026 — Aug 9, 2026 | 🏷️ Type: EXPO

OSAKA — OSAKA CASTLE

重要文化財 大阪城の櫓YAGURA特別公開 夏・乾櫓

Important Cultural Property: Osaka Castle Yagura Special Opening Summer - Inui Yagura

📅 Schedule: Jul 18, 2026 — Aug 16, 2026 | 🏷️ Type: SPECIAL OPENING

OSAKA — OSAKA CASTLE

重要文化財 大阪城の櫓YAGURA特別公開 秋・多聞櫓／千貫櫓

Important Cultural Property: Osaka Castle Yagura Special Opening Autumn - Tamon Yagura / Sengan Yagura

📅 Schedule: Sep 5, 2026 — Nov 29, 2026 | 🏷️ Type: SPECIAL OPENING

SHIGA — NAGAHAMA / ODANI / SHIZUGATAKE

豊臣兄弟！ 北近江長浜 大河ドラマ館

Toyotomi Brothers! Kita-Omi Nagahama Taiga Drama Museum

📅 Schedule: Feb 1, 2026 — Dec 20, 2026 | 🏷️ Type: MUSEUM EXHIBIT

NARA — KORIYAMA CASTLE

豊臣兄弟！ 大和郡山 大河ドラマ館

Toyotomi Brothers! Yamato-Koriyama Taiga Drama Museum

📅 Schedule: Mar 2, 2026 — Jan 22, 2027 | 🏷️ Type: MUSEUM EXHIBIT

SHIGA — AZUCHI CASTLE

企画展「秀吉の城」

Special Exhibition “Hideyoshi’s Castles”

📅 Schedule: Jul 18, 2026 — Sep 23, 2026 | 🏷️ Type: MUSEUM EXHIBIT

SHIGA — SHINJŌ CASTLE / TAKASHIMA

テーマ展示「高島の戦国時代」

Theme Exhibition “Takashima’s Sengoku Period”

📅 Schedule: Apr 7, 2026 — Dec 27, 2026 | 🏷️ Type: MUSEUM EXHIBIT

OSAKA — OSAKA CASTLE

NHK大河ドラマ特別展「豊臣兄弟！」大阪歴史博物館

NHK Taiga Drama Special Exhibition “Toyotomi Brothers!” Osaka Museum of History

📅 Schedule: Jul 8, 2026 — Aug 31, 2026 | 🏷️ Type: MUSEUM EXHIBIT

HYOGO — TAKEDA CASTLE

企画展「羽柴秀長と竹田城」

Special Exhibition “Hashiba Hidenaga and Takeda Castle”

📅 Schedule: Apr 21, 2026 — Nov 29, 2026 | 🏷️ Type: MUSEUM EXHIBIT

SHIGA — FUSHIMI CASTLE

西教寺・客殿特別公開 （伏見城移築建造物)

Saikyo-ji Temple Guest Hall Special Opening (Fushimi Castle Relocated Structure)

📅 Schedule: Nov 7, 2026 — Dec 6, 2026 | 🏷️ Type: SPECIAL OPENING

KYOTO — VARIOUS

特別展示「秀吉の京都改造」

Special Exhibition “Hideyoshi’s Remodeling of Kyoto”

📅 Schedule: Jul 11, 2026 — Nov 23, 2026 | 🏷️ Type: MUSEUM EXHIBIT

HYOGO — SUMOTO CASTLE

洲本城築城500年

500th Anniversary of Sumoto Castle Construction

📅 Schedule: July 7, 2026 — Sep 6, 2026 | 🏷️ Type: VARIOUS

KYOTO — NIJO CASTLE

「世界遺産 二条城 夏の特別事業」～国宝 二の丸御殿特別入室や障壁画の原画公開、朝御膳の提供～

Nijo Castle Summer Event (Special entry to Ohiroma)

📅 Schedule: Jul 15, 2026 — Sep 27, 2026 | 🏷️ Type: SPECIAL PROGRAM

🏯 KYUSHU OKINAWA

KUMAMOTO — KUMAMOTO CASTLE

特別版 お城EXPO in 熊本2026

Special Edition: Castle EXPO in Kumamoto 2026

📅 Schedule: Oct 3, 2026 — Oct 4, 2026 | 🏷️ Type: EXPO

OKINAWA — SHURI CASTLE

首里城正殿の一般公開

Shurijo Castle Main Hall Public Opening

📅 Schedule: Nov 23, 2026 | 🏷️ Type: REOPENING

Jcastle Intelligence Desk is a curated digest of castle related news. Paid Subscriptions offer a premium perk to those who help support the infrastructure costs of hosting Jcastle.info.

📬 Submissions & Tips: Spot an excavation briefing (現地説明会) or key regional news we missed? Drop it in the comments and we’ll add it to the next newsletter or send out an alert for an upcoming event.

⚖️ Disclaimer: Summaries are synthesized from regional Japanese press releases and wire reports. Original article copyrights belong to their respective publishers. Some links may expire or be hidden behind paywalls after the digest is created. Articles are gathered, synthesized, and translated with automated scripts and tools. I review each digest before publishing but errors may be missed.

🏯 Explore More: The Guide to Japanese Castles

Editor’s Note: This week’s castle news was dominated by another devastating earthquake in Kyushu. While Kumamoto Castle naturally received most of the media attention, reports also emerged of damage at Yatsushiro Castle, Oka Castle, and Hinoe Castle. Kumamoto Castle once again suffered collapsed stone walls, likely delaying the lengthy restoration project from the 2016 earthquake.

On a brighter note, organizers have announced that Castle EXPO in Shiga will be held on October 17 in Azuchi. Commemorating the 450th anniversary of the construction of Azuchi Castle, this year’s EXPO will feature special lectures and exhibitions focusing on Azuchi Castle.

🏯 TOHOKU

AKITA — AKITA CASTLE

Akita City seeks crowdfunding donations until September to restore Akita Castle’s scenic views by felling overgrown trees.

秋田城跡の絶景、復活へ樹木伐採 秋田市、９月までＣＦ型ふるさと納税募る - 秋田魁新報

Summary: Akita City is launching a crowdfunding initiative through its Furusato Nozei (hometown tax donation) program, running until September, to fund the removal of overgrown trees at the nationally designated historic site Akita Castle. The goal is to restore the castle’s original scenic views.

🏯 CHUBU

GIFU — MINO KANAYAMA CASTLE

National Historic Site Mino Kanayama Castle to release new Goshuin with names of successive lords, 4 types sequentially, also smartphone stands.

可児の国史跡・美濃金山城跡、新たな御城印に歴代城主の名前 4種を順次、スマホスタンドも

Summary: The national historic site Mino Kanayama Castle (Kani City, Kaneyama) is introducing a new series of Goshuin (castle stamps) featuring the names of its successive lords. Four different types will be released sequentially, and smartphone stands will also be available. This initiative is part of the volunteer group “Mino Kanayama Castle Preservation and Guide Association’s” efforts to support the castle’s preservation and guiding activities.

GIFU — NAEGI CASTLE

Naegi Castle Recapture Memorial “Castle Mountain Day” Free Admission - Nakatsugawa City.

遠山友政公苗木城奪還記念 城山の日無料デー - 中津川市

Summary: Nakatsugawa City is hosting a “Castle Mountain Day” with free admission to commemorate Toyama Tomomasa’s recapture of Naegi Castle. Visitors are encouraged to first explore the valuable historical maps and reconstructed models at the Naegi Toyama Historical Museum at the base of the mountain, which will enhance their appreciation of the impressive Naegi Castle, characterized by its giant rocks and stone walls, before ascending the site.

ISHIKAWA — NANAO CASTLE

Nanao Castle map discovered in damaged barn after Noto Earthquake, possibly from Meiji era - Shizuoka Shimbun.

被災納屋から七尾城跡図 能登地震後発見、明治作成か - 静岡新聞

Summary: A historical map of Nanao Castle, potentially dating back to the Meiji era, was discovered in a damaged barn following the Noto Earthquake. Nanao Castle served as a stronghold for the Hatakeyama clan, who were the shugo (military governors) of Noto Province during the Muromachi period.

MIE — TSU CASTLE

Approximately 300 local residents participate in cleanup activities at Tsu Castle, associated with Todo Takatora, in Tsu City, Mie.

藤堂高虎ゆかりの津城跡をきれいに 地元住民ら約300人が清掃活動 三重・津市 - Yahoo!ニュース

Summary: Approximately 300 local residents participated in a cleanup activity at Tsu Castle Park in Tsu City, Mie Prefecture, to beautify Tsu Castle, a significant symbol of the city associated with Todo Takatora. Separately, an 18-year-old high school student, Masayuki Yamamoto, inspired by Todo Takatora, has joined the “Anotsu Guide Association,” a volunteer guide group for historic sites around Tsu Castle, aiming to contribute to the community through his passion for history.

🏯 KANSAI

HYOGO — TAKEDA CASTLE

“Castle in the Sky” surrounded by green trees, filmed by drone at National Historic Site Takeda Castle.

緑の木々に囲まれた「天空の城」、ドローンで撮影 国史跡・竹田城跡 - Yahoo!ニュース

Summary: The nationally designated historic site Takeda Castle (Asago City, Hyogo Prefecture), famously known as the “Castle in the Sky,” is currently enveloped in lush green foliage, presenting a spectacular summer vista captured by drone footage. The castle is also popular for its sea of clouds from late September to early November and cherry blossoms in spring, attracting many early morning hikers during summer. Historian Atsushi Kawai recently visited the Ritsunkyo observatory for a TV shoot, highlighting the castle’s panoramic views.

KYOTO — HONNOJI TEMPLE

What was Honnoji Temple like when Oda Nobunaga fell? Tracing the true form of the mysterious temple complex with scarce historical records.

織田信長が倒れた「本能寺」の当時の姿は?　資料少なく謎の多い「伽藍」の実像を追え

Summary: Recent excavation surveys have begun to reveal the original layout of Honnoji Temple, the site of the Honnoji Incident where Oda Nobunaga fell in 1582. Despite limited historical documents, archaeological findings, including burnt roof tiles, confirm the temple occupied a 120-meter square area. Earlier theories of a larger 2-cho area were disproven by discoveries of farmlands to the north and a large moat (Sogamae) to the south. The temple was surrounded by moats, possibly incorporating the Nishinotoin River, which was later reclaimed. This reclamation and expansion are believed to have been ordered by Nobunaga in 1580 for his Kyoto residence. A 2021 discovery of a ditch-like structure with woven bamboo and wood, dating to the early 16th century, suggests earlier land development by the Sawamura family before Honnoji acquired the land, potentially explaining the narrowness of Nishinotoin Street near the site.

KYOTO — HONNOJI TEMPLE

Despite being the “greatest contributor” to Akechi’s defeat... The name of Oda family’s “veteran retainer” whose achievements were stolen by Hideyoshi, who was not on the battlefield (President Online).

明智討伐の｢最大の功労者｣だったのに…戦場にいない秀吉に手柄を横取りされた織田家の”古参家臣”の名前(プレジデントオンライン)

Summary: This article delves into the historical narrative surrounding the Honnoji Incident and Akechi Mitsuhide’s defeat, highlighting a veteran Oda retainer whose significant contributions were reportedly overshadowed by Toyotomi Hideyoshi, who was not present on the battlefield.

NARA — TAKATORI CASTLE

Yamato Forest Story: /186 Pursuing Ancient History’s Mysteries /2 Why is there a monkey stone at Takatori Castle? /Nara | Mainichi Shimbun.

大和森林物語：／186 古代史の謎を追え／2 高取城跡になぜ猿石 ／奈良 | 毎日新聞

Summary: As part of the “Yamato Forest Story” series, this article explores the intriguing mysteries of ancient history, specifically investigating the reason behind the presence of “Monkey Stones” at Takatori Castle in Nara Prefecture.

SHIGA — AZUCHI CASTLE

Castle EXPO in Shiga-Biwako.

出張！お城EXPO in 滋賀・びわ湖

Summary: The “Castle EXPO in Shiga-Biwako” will be held for the seventh time on October 17, 2026, at Bungei Seminariyo and Azuchi Mariette within Azuchi Bungei no Sato in Omihachiman City. This event, celebrating the 450th anniversary of Azuchi Castle’s construction, aims to promote and develop regional castle culture. It will feature “Selected Programs” with castle specialists, a panel exhibition of Japan’s Top 100 Castles and Continued Top 100 Castles, and a limited-edition “Iimyo Garapon” lottery, offering various activities for all ages. Additionally, the “Phantom Azuchi Castle” Restoration Project is hosting a “Gather, Castle Kids! Explore Azuchi Castle in VR!” event, offering a VR goggle experience to explore the castle.

SHIGA — SAKAMOTO CASTLE

Symposium on Akechi Mitsuhide’s “Phantom Castle” in Otsu City, featuring Rakugo performer Shunputei Shota - Kyoto Shimbun.

明智光秀、大津市に築いた「幻の城」のシンポジウム 落語家・春風亭昇太さんも登場 - 京都新聞

Summary: A symposium commemorating the national historic site designation of Sakamoto Castle (Otsu City), built by Sengoku warlord Akechi Mitsuhide, was held on July 26 at the Otsu City Lifelong Learning Center. The event featured castle tours and discussions with experts, including castle researcher Hitoshi Nakai, who spoke on the charm and true value of Sakamoto Castle, covering topics like the ingenuity of Sengoku warlords in utilizing terrain and recent development.

SHIGA — SAKAMOTO CASTLE

Why was Akechi Mitsuhide favored by Nobunaga? Examining Mitsuhide’s abilities through historical facts: the burning of Mt. Hiei, Tanba conquest, etc.

明智光秀はなぜ信長に重用されたのか？比叡山焼き討ち、丹波経略…光秀の実力を史実から ...

Summary: This article delves into the historical reasons behind Oda Nobunaga’s high regard for Akechi Mitsuhide, analyzing Mitsuhide’s capabilities through historical events such as the burning of Mt. Hiei and the conquest of Tanba. It highlights that Mitsuhide was granted the Omi-Shiga District and built Sakamoto Castle shortly after the burning of Mt. Hiei in 1571.

SHIGA — SAKAMOTO CASTLE

Akechi Mitsuhide’s “Phantom Famous Castle”... The fate of the magnificent Sakamoto Castle and the story of Mitsuhide’s head.

明智光秀が築いた”幻の名城”…豪華絢爛だった《坂本城》が辿った運命と｢光秀の首｣にまつわる ...

Summary: This article explores the destiny of Sakamoto Castle, a “phantom famous castle” built by Akechi Mitsuhide, and the legends surrounding Mitsuhide’s head. It notes that a commemorative park is not on the original castle site, and stone walls of Sakamoto Castle were discovered in 2024, contributing to a clearer understanding of its historical layout.

🏯 CHUGOKU

TOTTORI — YONAGO CASTLE

“Fun to find interesting stones” - Exploring unique stones at Yonago Castle.

面白い石探し「楽しかった」 米子城跡で奇石探検 | 日本海新聞 NetNihonkai

Summary: An event titled “Yonago Castle Miraculous Stone Exploration Team” was held at Yonago Castle (Yoneko City, Kume-cho), inviting participants to search for unique “strange stones” scattered across the site. Attendees reported enjoying the experience of discovering these interesting geological features.

🏯 SHIKOKU

EHIME — IYO MATSUYAMA CASTLE

Reiwa 8 Special Exhibition “Iyo Matsuyama Castle: Castle, Palace, and Castle Town”.

令和8年度特別展「伊予松山城 ー城郭・御殿・城下町ー」 - 愛媛新聞ONLINE

Summary: The Reiwa 8 Special Exhibition, “Iyo Matsuyama Castle: Castle, Palace, and Castle Town,” is scheduled to take place on September 19, 2026, at the Ehime Prefectural Museum of History and Culture. This exhibition will delve into the historical aspects of Iyo Matsuyama Castle, its palace, and the surrounding castle town.

🏯 KYUSHU OKINAWA

KUMAMOTO — YATSUSHIRO CASTLE

Kumamoto Castle: Stone walls collapsed in multiple locations; Magnitude 7 earthquake in Kumamoto Prefecture (Yomiuri Shimbun) - d Menu News.

熊本城、石垣が複数の場所で崩れる…熊本県で震度７（読売新聞） - ｄメニューニュース

Summary: Yatsushiro Castle, a nationally designated historic site in Yatsushiro City, Kumamoto Prefecture, sustained significant damage from the recent magnitude 7 Kumamoto Earthquake. Stone walls at the castle were confirmed to have collapsed in multiple locations, specifically the northeast, south, and east sections. Reports from FBS Announcer Matsui and NTV News NNN highlighted the extensive damage, including collapsed stone walls and other structures. Kyoto University’s Disaster Prevention Research Institute suggested that strong horizontal tremors with 2-3 second cycles may have exacerbated the damage, also noting the collapse of the main gate of Joshinji Temple near the castle. The city issued an evacuation order for the entire area and opened shelters due to the confirmed damage and reports of collapsed houses.

KUMAMOTO — KUMAMOTO CASTLE

40 sections of Kumamoto Castle’s stone walls collapsed, eight structures including nationally important cultural properties damaged; Yatsushiro’s national scenic spot “Shohinken” completely destroyed except for long wall.

熊本城跡の石垣崩落４０か所、国重文の壁など八つの建造物が損傷…八代の国名勝「松浜軒」は ...

Summary: The nationally designated special historic site Kumamoto Castle in Kumamoto City has suffered further damage from the recent earthquake, with 40 sections of its stone walls collapsing. Eight structures, including the walls of nationally important cultural properties like Kenmotsu Yagura, were also damaged. The Kumamoto Castle General Office confirmed these impacts on July 29. Additionally, the national scenic spot “Shohinken” in Yatsushiro was almost entirely destroyed, with only its long wall remaining. The Kumamoto Mayor pledged continuous night illumination of the keep despite the setbacks. News On Japan reported 28 sections of stone walls collapsed, and Kyoto University’s Disaster Prevention Research Institute suggested strong horizontal tremors may have exacerbated the damage.

NAGASAKI — HINOE CASTLE

Part of cliff face collapses at nationally designated historic site Hinoe Castle in Minamishimabara, Nagasaki due to earthquake.

地震で崖面の一部が崩落…長崎・南島原の国指定史跡「日野江城跡」 - 47NEWS

Summary: A section of the cliff face at the nationally designated historic site Hinoe Castle in Kitaharima-cho, Minamishimabara City, Nagasaki Prefecture, was confirmed to have collapsed due to the Kumamoto Earthquake. The city’s cultural property division reported that the collapse occurred after the earthquake on the evening of July 28. FNN Prime Online also reported on the slope collapse.

OITA — OKA CASTLE

Oka Castle: Section of Stone Walls Collapses Following Earthquake

竹田市の国史跡「岡城跡」の三の丸では、22日未明の地震で石垣の一部が高さ約1.5メートル、幅約4メートルの範囲で崩れた | 西日本新聞

Summary: Oka Castle in Oita Prefecture has experienced a slope collapse, attributed to heavy rainfall. Authorities are issuing strict warnings for potential further landslides in the area, emphasizing the need for caution regarding geological instability affecting the castle site.

OKINAWA — SHURI CASTLE

Shuri Castle’s Dragon Pillars under Restoration Shown to Media - JIJI PRESS

Shuri Castle’s Dragon Pillars under Restoration Shown to Media - JIJI PRESS

Summary: The dragon pillars of Shuri Castle, which are currently undergoing restoration, were recently showcased to the media. This restoration work is a significant part of the ongoing efforts to rebuild and preserve the castle.

SAGA — KARATSU CASTLE

[Video] 87 original castle illustrations from across Japan by artist Mototaro Kagawa in special exhibition “Castles and Mazes” at Karatsu City.

【動画】全国各地の城郭イラストなど原画87点 作家の香川元太郎さん特別展「お城と ... - 佐賀新聞

Summary: A special exhibition titled “Explore Castles and Mazes on Foot,” featuring 87 original castle illustrations by historical research illustrator and maze picture book author Mototaro Kagawa (1959-2024), is being held at Karatsu City. Kagawa, born in Matsuyama, Ehime Prefecture, draws many castle illustrations as bird’s-eye views based on castle layout maps.

Jcastle Intelligence Desk is a curated digest of castle related news. Paid Subscriptions offer a premium perk to those who help support the infrastructure costs of hosting Jcastle.info.

📬 Submissions & Tips: Spot an excavation briefing (現地説明会) or key regional news we missed? Drop it in the comments and we’ll add it to the next newsletter or send out an alert for an upcoming event.

⚖️ Disclaimer: Summaries are synthesized from regional Japanese press releases and wire reports. Original article copyrights belong to their respective publishers. Some links may expire or be hidden behind paywalls after the digest is created. Articles are gathered, synthesized, and translated with automated scripts and tools. I review each digest before publishing but errors may be missed.

🏯 Explore More: The Guide to Japanese Castles

Editor’s Note: Castle news continues to be dominated by the Toyotomi Brothers Taiga drama. This week’s episode should bring us to the Battle of Yamazaki, so it’s no surprise there are many related exhibitions and articles that focus on this critical turning point.

Two stories especially caught my attention this week. The first is the rare opportunity to tour the interior of Maruoka Castle’s keep while it is undergoing repairs. It’s always fascinating to see the timber framework and construction techniques normally hidden behind finished walls.

The second is the discovery of what appears to be a detailed early Meiji-period map of Nanao Castle, recovered from a barn damaged in the Noto Peninsula earthquake. Unfortunately, I haven’t yet found a high-resolution image of the map online, but if one becomes available, I’ll be sure to share it in a future issue.

🏯 KANTO

CHIBA — MASUO CASTLE

Masuo Castle in Kashiwa City: The Appeal of a Sengoku Period Castle for Beginners, Enjoyable Precisely Because its History is Unknown - A “Hidden Gem” in the Metropolitan Area

柏市の増尾城、城の歴史が不明だからこそ楽しめる、ビギナー向き戦国の城の魅力 首都圏「穴場 ...

Summary: Masuo Castle in Kashiwa City is highlighted as an appealing Sengoku period castle for beginners, particularly because its history remains largely unknown, allowing for imaginative exploration of the era. The article also touches on the true reasons behind the Battle of Nagashino and the strategies of figures like Takeda Katsuyori.

JAPAN (GENERAL) — GENERAL CASTLE RESEARCH

Ancient Castles and Battlefields in Your Town? Clear Topography with Red Relief Maps

いにしえの城や戦跡、あなたの町にも？ 地形くっきり、赤色立体地図 - 朝日新聞

Summary: Advances in surveying technology and public data have made it possible to easily investigate detailed topography hidden by trees or underwater using red relief maps. This technology allows anyone to discover ancient castle sites and battlefields, which were previously difficult to identify.

🏯 CHUBU

AICHI — NAGOYA CASTLE

Daimyo’s Individuality on Stone Walls: Hidden Markings Confirmed with 3D Measurement and Image Processing by Nara National Research Institute for Cultural Properties

石垣に浮かぶ大名の個性…見えない刻印を３次元計測と画像処理で確認、奈良文化財研究所

Summary: The Nara National Research Institute for Cultural Properties is advancing research to uncover hidden markings on castle stone walls using 3D measurement and image processing. This technique has already revealed 787 markings on Nagoya Castle’s outer moat stone walls, a fivefold increase from previous visual inspections. The study also shows differences in construction methods between daimyo, such as the Terazawa and Nabeshima clans at Nagoya Castle, and suggests some markings at Edo Castle might be ‘inspection marks’ after completion. This innovative approach is expected to provide new insights into the ‘Tenka Fushin’ (nationwide construction projects) and the organizational capabilities of feudal lords.

FUKUI — MARUOKA CASTLE

See Inside the Keep During Construction: Special Opening Next Month, Limited Edition Castle Stamps to be Distributed

工事中の天守内部見て 来月公開、限定御城印配布開始

Summary: Maruoka Castle will hold a Special Opening next month, allowing visitors to view the interior of the keep while it is undergoing construction. Limited edition castle stamps will also be distributed to commemorate the event.

FUKUI — KUNIYOSHI CASTLE

(Castle Walk. ~Journey Through History=16) Kuniyoshi Castle: A 10-Year Siege Battle on the Wakasa-Echizen Border by Castle Writer Sachiko Hagiwara

(お城さんぽ。～歴史を巡る旅=16)国吉城 若越国境で約10年の籠城戦 城郭ライター 萩原さちこ

Summary: Castle writer Sachiko Hagiwara explores Kuniyoshi Castle, focusing on its historical significance as the site of a decade-long siege battle on the border of Wakasa and Echizen provinces. The article highlights features like the Masugata Koguchi on the northwest side of the main bailey.

ISHIKAWA — NANAO CASTLE

Nanao Castle Map Discovered in Damaged Barn After Noto Peninsula Earthquake, Possibly Created in Early Meiji Period Before Land Tax Reform

能登半島地震で損壊納屋から七尾城跡図発見 明治初期、地租改正前に作成か - 日本海新聞

Summary: A map of Nanao Castle, possibly created in the early Meiji period before the land tax reform, was discovered in a barn damaged by the Noto Peninsula earthquake. The map was found in Shika Town, Ishikawa Prefecture, just before the barn was to be dismantled. This discovery provides valuable historical insight into the castle’s layout.

🏯 KANSAI

HYOGO — HYOGO CASTLE

40km Daily, Almost a Full Marathon Every Day - What’s More Amazing Than the Speed of Hideyoshi’s “Chugoku Ogaeshi”?

連日40km、ほぼ毎日フルマラソン～秀吉「中国大返し」の“速度以上にスゴいこと”とは？〈大河 ...

Summary: Castle archaeologist Yoshihiro Senda’s “Gozasho theory” is gaining attention as a reason for Hideyoshi’s successful “Chugoku Ogaeshi.” The article discusses the historical significance of castles like Hyogo Castle in this context.

NARA — KORIYAMA CASTLE

Yanagisawa Bunko Main Building in Yamato-Koriyama, Nara, Registered as Cultural Property; Former Yoshino Bank Tawaramoto Branch Also Designated by Cultural Council

奈良・大和郡山の柳沢文庫本館、登録文化財に 旧吉野銀行田原本支店も 文化審が答申

Summary: The Yanagisawa Bunko Main Building, a former feudal lord’s villa situated on the Bishamon Kuruwa site of Koriyama Castle in Yamato-Koriyama, Nara, has been registered as a tangible cultural property. This adds to the prefecture’s growing list of protected historical assets.

OSAKA — OSAKA CASTLE, KORIYAMA CASTLE

Special Exhibition “Toyotomi Brothers!” at Osaka Museum of History: Exploring the Reality of Hidenaga, the “Strongest No. 2,” Whose Sibling Bonds Moved the Nation

兄弟の絆が天下を動かした “最強のNo.2”秀長の実像に迫る特別展 大阪歴史博物館「豊臣兄弟！」

Summary: The Osaka Museum of History is hosting a special exhibition titled “Toyotomi Brothers!” focusing on Toyotomi Hidenaga. The exhibition features artifacts from Osaka Castle and Koriyama Castle (Nara Prefecture), including 16th-century tiles, offering insights into the Toyotomi period and the brothers’ influence.

SHIGA — SAKAMOTO CASTLE

“Knew Nobunaga’s Weakness”: Akechi Mitsuhide’s Rebellion Deciphered by Expert Using Historical Documents in Lecture in Oyamazaki Town, Kyoto Prefecture

「信長の弱点知っていた」明智光秀の謀反、専門家が史料で読み解く 京都府大山崎町で講演

Summary: A lecture in Oyamazaki Town, Kyoto Prefecture, by Fukushima Katsuhiko, director of the Oyamazaki Town Historical Museum, explored Akechi Mitsuhide’s rebellion against Oda Nobunaga. Analyzing historical documents, Fukushima suggested that Mitsuhide’s knowledge of Nobunaga’s vulnerabilities, possibly from his proposal to build a castle on Yoshida Mountain, and his detailed understanding of routes for Sakamoto Castle construction, enabled the swift execution of the Honnoji Incident. The lecture series “Historical Documents Narrating the Battle of Yamazaki” will continue.

🏯 KYUSHU OKINAWA

OKINAWA — SHURI CASTLE

Shuri Castle’s Dragon Pillars under Restoration Shown to Media

首里城の龍柱、修復中の姿を公開

Summary: The dragon pillars of Shuri Castle, currently undergoing restoration, were shown to the media. This marks a significant step in the ongoing reconstruction and preservation efforts of the historic site.

Jcastle Intelligence Desk is a curated digest of castle related news. Paid Subscriptions offer a premium perk to those who help support the infrastructure costs of hosting Jcastle.info.

📬 Submissions & Tips: Spot an excavation briefing (現地説明会) or key regional news we missed? Drop it in the comments and we’ll add it to the next newsletter or send out an alert for an upcoming event.

⚖️ Disclaimer: Summaries are synthesized from regional Japanese press releases and wire reports. Original article copyrights belong to their respective publishers. Some links may expire or be hidden behind paywalls after the digest is created. Articles are gathered, synthesized, and translated with automated scripts and tools. I review each digest before publishing but errors may be missed.

🏯 Explore More: The Guide to Japanese Castles

Editor’s Note: - Monday marks Umi no Hi (Marine Day) in Japan and the (un)official start of the long, hot summer. Today (Saturday) I spent the day at Shimogamo Shrine’s Mitarashi Festival to walk through the holy waters and bless my legs for another intense season of climbing mountain castles. I also pulled a daikichi (大吉) fortune (excellent luck), so I’m all set for another year of hiking!

The summer vacation event calendar is also getting active right now. Starting this weekend, Osaka Castle is opening the interior of the Inui Yagura. Over in Shiga, the Azuchi Castle Archaeological Museum has just launched a special summer exhibition highlighting the Castles of Hideyoshi, and don’t forget that the annual Osaka Castle Fest is upcoming on August 8–9 as well. I’ve got my tickets for August 9 in hand.

Lastly, the Kyoto Archaeological Museum has a fascinating exhibit on the late-16th-century urban reformations carried out by Hideyoshi, focusing on the Odoi, Fushimi, and Jurakudai fortifications and featuring some rare maps. I visited last weekend and picked up some fantastic new research materials that I’ll integrate into those castle profiles soon. You can view the exhibition details on the Kyoto Archaeological Museum Event Page.

🏯 KANTO

TOKYO — HOJO CASTLES (HACHIOJI AREA)

Citizen’s Lecture on Sengoku Hojo Clan Castles in Hachioji to be Held on August 19

戦国北条氏の城学ぶ ８月19日に市民講座 | 八王子 - タウンニュース

Summary: A citizen’s lecture titled “Sengoku Hojo Clan and Hachioji Castles” will be held on August 19 at the Hachioji City Lifelong Learning Center. The lecture will feature Professor Fukaya Koji of Teikyo University, focusing on the castles of the Hojo clan in the Hachioji area.

🏯 CHUBU

AICHI — KIYOSU CASTLE

New Historical Analysis Suggests Oda Nobuzumi’s Innocence in Honnoji Incident Conspiracy and Hideyoshi’s Role

秀吉が光秀軍を破ったワケではなかった…新発見の書状から見える｢実際に信長の仇を討った ... - PRESIDENT Online（プレジデントオンライン）

Summary: An article provides historical analysis of the Honnoji Incident, challenging the narrative that Toyotomi Hideyoshi solely defeated Akechi Mitsuhide’s forces based on new letter discoveries. It also discusses Oda Nobuzumi’s alleged complicity.

GIFU — NAEGI CASTLE

Stairs and Decks Installed on Naegi Castle Walking Paths for Enhanced Enjoyment, Gifu

苗木城跡の散策道に階段やデッキを整備 歩きながら楽しむ工夫 岐阜（朝日新聞）

Summary: New stairs and observation decks have been installed along the walking paths at Naegi Castle, a National Historic Site in Nakatsugawa City, Gifu Prefecture, which is celebrating its 500th anniversary. These improvements aim to enhance both walkability and safety for visitors.

NAGANO — MATSUSHIRO CASTLE

Matsushiro Castle in Nagano City to Hold Excavation Briefing (Gensetsu) on July 18, Featuring Ishibamon Gate and Outer Moat Remains

長野市の松代城跡、「石場門」や外堀の遺構が見学可能 18日に現地説明会 - 信濃毎日新聞

Summary: The Nagano City Cultural Properties Division will hold an Excavation Briefing (Gensetsu) on July 18 at the Matsushiro Castle National Historic Site. Visitors will be able to view the remains of the Ishibamon gate, an eastern entrance to the second bailey, and sections of the outer moat.

NIIGATA — KASUGAYAMA CASTLE

Citizen Group and High School Students Create Banner Flags to Promote Uesugi Kenshin’s 500th Birth Anniversary and Kasugayama Castle Preservation

上杉謙信生誕500年へ向け「のぼり旗」で機運盛り上げ！上越市春日山地区の市民と高校生が ... - 新潟日報

Summary: A citizen’s group and high school calligraphy students in Joetsu City are creating “nobori-bata” (banner flags) to build momentum for the 500th anniversary of Sengoku warlord Uesugi Kenshin’s birth in 2030. These efforts are part of activities to promote and preserve Kasugayama Castle, Kenshin’s former stronghold.

SHIZUOKA — YOKOSUKA CASTLE

Yokosuka Castle to be Featured on Shizuoka TV’s “Tadaima! TV” Program

【掛川市】テレビ静岡で放送中の「ただいま！テレビ」で、横須賀城跡が取り上げられます！

Summary: Yokosuka Castle in Kakegawa City, Shizuoka Prefecture, will be featured on Shizuoka TV’s program “Tadaima! TV,” airing weekdays from 4:50 PM.

TOYAMA — TAKAOKA CASTLE

Permanent Exhibition “Treasure Corner: Historical Maps of Takaoka Castle and Kojyo Park Commemorating Lord Maeda Toshinaga’s Entry”

常設展 お宝コーナー「高岡開町の祖 前田利長公入城記念 高岡城・古城公園の絵図」

Summary: A permanent exhibition titled “Treasure Corner” is being held, showcasing historical maps of Takaoka Castle and Kojyo Park. The exhibition commemorates the entry of Maeda Toshinaga, the second lord of the Kaga Maeda clan and founder of Takaoka, into Takaoka Castle on September 13, 1609.

🏯 KANSAI

HYOGO — HIMEJI CASTLE

Regarding Himeji Castle Preservation and Repair Work

姫路城保存修理工事について

Summary: Himeji City provides information regarding ongoing preservation and repair work at Himeji Castle.

HYOGO — HIMEJI CASTLE

Himeji City to Host 4th Castle Citizen Seminar: “Enjoying Flowers and Leaves: Edo Period Gardening Life”

第4回城郭市民セミナー「花を愛で葉を楽しむ～江戸時代の園芸ライフ」 - 姫路市

Summary: Himeji City will host its 4th Castle Citizen Seminar, titled “Enjoying Flowers and Leaves: Edo Period Gardening Life,” focusing on historical gardening practices.

HYOGO — RIKAMI CASTLE

Rikan Castle Guide Association Chairman Masao Haruna on Safely and Enjoyably Guiding Visitors

播磨びと＞利神城跡、安全に楽しく案内 佐用山城ガイド協会会長・春名政男さん(76)|西播

Summary: Masao Haruna, 76, chairman of the Sayo Yamajiro Guide Association, discusses his efforts to safely and enjoyably guide visitors through Rikan Castle, emphasizing the importance of preserving and sharing the historical site.

KYOTO — SHUZAN CASTLE, SAKAMOTO CASTLE, TANBA KAMEYAMA CASTLE

Kyoto Keihoku Cultural Heritage Center to Host Special Exhibition “Moats and Castles of the Rulers of Japan” and Related Events

京都市京北文化遺産センター企画展「天下人の濠と城」の開催及び関連イベントの実施

Summary: The Kyoto Keihoku Cultural Heritage Center will host a special exhibition titled “Moats and Castles of the Rulers of Japan,” along with related events. The exhibition will feature panel displays on various castles, including Shuzan Castle, Sakamoto Castle, and Tanba Kameyama Castle, with a focus on Akechi Mitsuhide’s mountain castles.

NARA — KORIYAMA CASTLE

Koriyama City to Host Early Exhibition “Deepening Koriyama after Hidenaga” (July 18 - Dec 13)

〈大和郡山市〉秀長以後の郡山を深掘りする前期企画展が開催！（7/18〜12/13）

Summary: Koriyama City will host an early-period exhibition titled “Deepening Koriyama after Hidenaga” from July 18 to December 13. The exhibition focuses on Toyotomi Hidenaga, with visitor numbers to Koriyama Castle increasing due to its connection to a historical drama.

NARA — KORIYAMA CASTLE

“Phantom Castle Keep” of Koriyama Castle in Nara Prefecture Reconstructed with CG

Phantom Castle Keep’ in Japan’s Nara Pref. Reconstructed with CG

Summary: The “phantom castle keep” of Koriyama Castle in Nara Prefecture has been reconstructed using computer graphics. The original keep was first built in 1583 by warlord Tsutsui Junkei, and later Toyotomi Hidenaga became the castle lord in 1585.

OSAKA — OSAKA CASTLE

Osaka History Museum to Host Special Exhibition “New Discoveries! Naniwa Archaeology 2026”

都市の地下は遺跡の宝庫！大阪歴史博物館 特集展示「新発見！なにわの考古学2026」を開催します

Summary: The Osaka History Museum will hold a special exhibition titled “New Discoveries! Naniwa Archaeology 2026,” showcasing archaeological findings from urban excavations, including gilded and stamped tiles from the Toyotomi-era Osaka Castle.

OSAKA — AKUTAGAWA CASTLE

Takatsuki City Selects Joint Venture for Settsukyo Park Redevelopment Plan, Incorporating Akutagawa Castle Preservation

高槻市 摂津峡公園再整備基本計画 空間創研ＪＶを選定 - 建通新聞

Summary: Takatsuki City has selected a joint venture for the basic redevelopment plan of Settsukyo Park. This plan integrates the “Akutagawa Castle Preservation and Utilization Plan,” reflecting user and citizen needs.

🏯 CHUGOKU

OKAYAMA — BITCHU TAKAMATSU CASTLE

New Book “94 Castles of the Toyotomi Brothers” Highlights Hideyoshi’s Strategy, Featuring Bitchu Takamatsu Castle

大河ドラマで注目・豊臣兄弟「94の城」書籍出版 識者解説「秀吉の抜け目なさ」とは？秀長“天空 ...

Summary: A new book titled “94 Castles of the Toyotomi Brothers” has been published, offering expert commentary on Toyotomi Hideyoshi’s strategic acumen. The book features various castles, including Bitchu Takamatsu Castle, which was under siege by Hideyoshi during the Honnoji Incident.

🏯 SHIKOKU

TOKUSHIMA — TOKUSHIMA CASTLE

What Was Awa Province? Explaining its Origin, Hideyoshi’s Shikoku Campaign, and Sengoku Awa History

阿波国とはどんな国？ 名前の由来と秀吉の四国征伐と戦国阿波の歴史を解説 - Yahoo!ニュース

Summary: An article explaining the history of Awa Province, including its name origin, Toyotomi Hideyoshi’s Shikoku campaign, and the Sengoku period. It features an image of the statue of Hachisuka Iemasa at Tokushima Castle.

🏯 KYUSHU OKINAWA

SAGA — CHIBA CASTLE

Ogi City Hosts Special Exhibition at History Museum for Chiba Clan’s 900th Anniversary, Featuring Artifacts from Chiba Castle

千葉開府900年、小城市も熱気 市立歴史資料館で特別展 関わり示す資料や系図50点 - 佐賀新聞

Summary: Ogi City is hosting a special exhibition at its Municipal History Museum to commemorate the 900th anniversary of the Chiba clan’s founding. The exhibition features 50 items, including historical records from Iwakura-ji Temple and numerous unglazed pottery shards discovered at Chiba Castle, highlighting the clan’s historical ties to the region.

Jcastle Intelligence Desk is a curated digest of castle related news. Paid Subscriptions offer a premium perk to those who help support the infrastructure costs of hosting Jcastle.info.

📬 Submissions & Tips: Spot an excavation briefing (現地説明会) or key regional news we missed? Drop it in the comments and we’ll add it to the next newsletter or send out an alert for an upcoming event.

⚖️ Disclaimer: Summaries are synthesized from regional Japanese press releases and wire reports. Original article copyrights belong to their respective publishers. Some links may expire or be hidden behind paywalls after the digest is created. Articles are gathered, synthesized, and translated with automated scripts and tools. I review each digest before publishing but errors may be missed.

🏯 Explore More: The Guide to Japanese Castles

Editor’s Note: - Special lectures for the upcoming Osaka Castle Fest in August have been announced. Saturday’s forums will focus on the castles of Southern Kawachi, including those associated with Kusunoki Masashige, as well as local temple towns and fortified residences (jinya). Sunday’s sessions shift focus to the Toyotomi clan's castles and Toyotomi Hideyoshi’s field fortifications (jinshiro). I can’t decide when to go!

🏯 HOKKAIDO TOHOKU

AOMORI — HIROSAKI CASTLE

Hirosaki City begins soliciting donations for preservation and repair of important cultural property buildings through Furusato Nozei crowdfunding ...

弘前市、重要文化財建造物の保存修理に向けた寄附募集を開始 ふるさと納税型クラウドファン ...

Summary: Hirosaki City has launched a Furusato Nozei crowdfunding campaign to solicit donations for the preservation and repair of important cultural properties, including Hirosaki Castle, which is renowned for its cherry blossoms.

🏯 KANTO

TOKYO — HACHIOJI CASTLE AND TAKIYAMA CASTLE

Learn about Hojo Ujiteru’s castles! History lectures on Hachioji Castle and Takiyama Castle to be held

北条氏照の城を学ぶ！八王子城・滝山城の歴史講座が開催

Summary: History lectures are being held to explore the castles of Hachioji, focusing on Hachioji Castle and Takiyama Castle, and the Hojo clan, a Sengoku daimyo. The lectures aim to deepen understanding of the history and appeal of castles associated with Hojo Ujiteru.

🏯 CHUBU

GIFU — NAEGI CASTLE

Naegi Castle 500th Anniversary Project “Naegi Castle 500th Anniversary Exhibition” - Nakatsugawa City

苗木城築城500年記念企画「苗木城築城500年展」 - 中津川市

Summary: Nakatsugawa City is hosting the “Naegi Castle 500th Anniversary Exhibition” at the Naegi Toyama Historical Museum, celebrating 500 years since the castle’s construction. The exhibition highlights the castle’s history and features like the Fubuki Gate, Haystack Storehouse, and Rope Storehouse.

GIFU — BODAIYAMA CASTLE

Bodaiyama in Tarui Town, Gifu Prefecture, bustling due to Taiga drama effect; local volunteers work to maintain landscape - Chunichi Shimbun

大河ドラマ効果でにぎわう、岐阜県垂井町の菩提山 地元ボランティアが景観維持に汗 - 中日新聞

Summary: Local volunteers in Tarui Town, Gifu Prefecture, are actively engaged in maintaining the landscape and clearing weeds at Bodaiyama Castle. The castle site, located on a mountaintop, features well-preserved honmaru and kuruwa (baileys) and offers panoramic views of the Nobi Plain.

GIFU — EMA CLAN CASTLES

“Castle Site Exploration” of the Ema clan, Sengoku warlords who ruled Northern Hida... New exhibition corner at Michi-no-Eki in Hida City, Gifu ...

北飛騨を治めた戦国武将・江馬氏の「城跡探訪」…岐阜・飛騨市の道の駅 展示コーナー新設

Summary: A new exhibition corner titled “Sengoku Warlord Ema Clan Castle Site Exploration” has been established at the “Skydome Kamioka” roadside station in Kamioka-cho, Hida City, Gifu Prefecture. It features panel displays on the Ema clan, who ruled Northern Hida, and their castle sites.

GIFU — OMIDO CASTLE

Perhaps a mortar used by Hanbei Takenaka... Excavated artifacts from Omido Castle in Ono Town, Gifu Prefecture, to be exhibited for the first time at a museum

竹中半兵衛が使ったすり鉢かも… 岐阜県大野町の大御堂城跡から発掘の遺物、ミュージアムで初展示

Summary: An exhibition is being held at the museum in Ono Town, Gifu Prefecture, showcasing excavated artifacts from Omido Castle, the birthplace of Hanbei Takenaka. Among the exhibits is a mortar that may have been used by Takenaka himself.

ISHIKAWA — RYUGAMINE CASTLE

Taisho Roman x Cafe: Old folk house renovation in September by residents of Kariayasu, Tsubata Town and Ishikawa National College of Technology; development of historical site walking base begins

大正ロマン×カフェ ９月に古民家改修 津幡町刈安の住民と石川高専 史跡散策拠点の整備着手

Summary: An old folk house in Kariayasu, Tsubata Town, Ishikawa Prefecture, is being renovated to serve as a base for historical site walks, including the nearby Ryugamine Castle, a town cultural property. The project involves students and residents in creating amenities like benches with snow-guard functions and underfloor heating using residual heat from a hearth.

🏯 KANSAI

OSAKA — IIMORIYAMA CASTLE

Lecture “Iimoriyama Castle and Nagamasa Kizawa” approaching the construction period of Iimoriyama Castle to be held - South65

飯盛城の築城期に迫る講演会「飯盛城と木沢長政」開催 - South65

Summary: A lecture titled “Close-up Iimoriyama Castle 2026: Approaching Nagamasa Kizawa, a Key Figure in its Construction Period” will be held on July 11, 2026, to re-examine the history of the National Historic Site Iimoriyama Castle.

SHIGA — OMIZO CASTLE

Suspected of “conspiring with Akechi Mitsuhide to kill Nobunaga” due to false rumors... The tragedy of Oda Nobusumi, Nobunaga’s beloved nephew ...

｢明智光秀と共謀して信長を討った｣ウソの噂で疑われ…織田信長が可愛がった甥・織田信澄の悲劇 ...

Summary: An article discusses the tragic end of Oda Nobusumi, Oda Nobunaga’s beloved nephew, who was falsely rumored to have conspired with Akechi Mitsuhide. Omizo Castle is mentioned in the context of this historical account.

🏯 CHUGOKU

TOTTORI — TOTTORI CASTLE

Unimaginable in a Taiga drama... Hideyoshi’s worst castle siege “Tottori’s Starvation Siege” and the further tragedy after its surrender <Taiga ...

大河では描けない…秀吉の史上最悪の城攻め「鳥取の飢え殺し」開城後のさらなる悲劇とは〈大河 ...

Summary: Tottori Castle is featured in a historical article discussing Hideyoshi’s infamous starvation siege and the tragic events that followed its surrender. The article also highlights the castle’s distinctive “maki-ishigaki” (stone walls) and the unique situation of a high school being located on its Sannomaru site.

🏯 KYUSHU OKINAWA

KUMAMOTO — KIKUCHI CASTLE

Kikuchi Castle Historical Site Panel Exhibition in Tamana City | Outing Information - Kumamoto Nichinichi Shimbun

史跡鞠智城跡パネル展in玉名市｜お出かけ情報 - 熊本日日新聞社

Summary: A traveling exhibition introduces the National Historic Site of Kikuchi Castle (Yamaga City, Kikuchi City), featuring panels on its history and excavated artifacts, a life-sized panel of the castle’s mascot “Korou-kun,” and ancient warrior armor.

MIYAZAKI — IINO CASTLE

Toasting and interacting on the riverbed: National simultaneous event in Ebino - Miyazaki Nichinichi Shimbun DIGITAL

河川敷で乾杯し交流 えびので全国一斉イベント - 宮崎日日新聞DIGITAL

Summary: Local residents participated in a weeding activity to tidy up the Iino Castle site in Ebino, Miyazaki Prefecture, as part of community maintenance efforts.

OITA — OKA CASTLE

Seismic intensity 1 Hyuganada, around 07:25 on July 04, 2026, Earthquake details | Oita News｜OBS NEWS

震度1 日向灘 2026年07月04日07:25ごろ 地震詳細 | 大分のニュース｜OBS NEWS

Summary: Oka Castle experienced slope collapse due to heavy rains, leading to landslides and transportation disruptions in Oita Prefecture. Authorities are urging strict caution against further sediment disasters.

SAGA — NAGOYA CASTLE

Taiga drama “Toyotomi Brothers!” Takaya Sakoda, Hisashi Kaku, and Gen Ito visit Nagoya Castle, impressed by the site where 200,000 people gathered, saying “The real ...”

大河『豊臣兄弟！』迫田孝也・佳久創・伊藤絃、名護屋城跡を訪問 20万人集結の地に感嘆「本当の ...

Summary: Actors from the Taiga drama “Toyotomi Brothers!” visited the Saga Prefectural Nagoya Castle Museum. They were impressed by a large diorama illustrating Nagoya Castle’s immense scale, second only to Osaka Castle at the time, and learned about its history from a curator.

Jcastle Intelligence Desk is a curated digest of castle related news. Paid Subscriptions offer a premium perk to those who help support the infrastructure costs of hosting Jcastle.info.

📬 Submissions & Tips: Spot an excavation briefing (現地説明会) or key regional news we missed? Drop it in the comments and we’ll add it to the next newsletter or send out an alert for an upcoming event.

⚖️ Disclaimer: Summaries are synthesized from regional Japanese press releases and wire reports. Original article copyrights belong to their respective publishers. Some links may expire or be hidden behind paywalls after the digest is created. Articles are gathered, synthesized, and translated with automated scripts and tools. I review each digest before publishing but errors may be missed.

🏯 Explore More: The Guide to Japanese Castles

Inside the Editor’s Desk

As the founder and editor of Jcastle.info: The Guide to Japanese Castles, I have spent nearly three decades documenting historical castles and ruins across Japan.

For years, I have maintained a collection of custom monitoring tools, news alerts, and research workflows that track archaeological discoveries, excavation briefings (現地説明会), special exhibitions, reconstruction projects, special lectures, and castle-related news and events across Japan. Historically, I only shared these updates when something really caught my eye or was of the highest importance.

Enter the Jcastle Weekly News Digest

Starting now, I am opening up this pipeline to the community. This Substack serves as a dynamic extension of the main site. It delivers a comprehensive, curated summary of the week’s castle news straight to your inbox every weekend.

How the Engine Works

To bring you this intelligence, I use scripts to aggregate the information I typically receive and track into one pipeline. I then use automation tools to synthesize and translate these updates into clean English summaries.

While I personally review each brief to weed out truly irrelevant content and to correct clearly mistranslated names, please keep in mind:

• Automation: I cannot catch every edge case. Minor translation errors or automation quirks are inevitable.

• Dynamic Links: Because we track live news, some source links may shift behind paywalls, or links may expire or change before the digest hits your inbox.

Content

There are three main types of content that will be published here

Weekly News Digest A weekly summary of castle-related news, excluding local promotional fluff and new gojoin issues.

Calendar of Events A monthly calendar tracking upcoming festivals, museum exhibitions, and other castle-related events across Japan.

Flash Alerts Time-critical updates that cannot wait for the regular weekend digest. These typically highlight short-notice excavation briefings, restricted tours, or limited special openings.

The Roadmap & Subscription Tiers

To give everyone a front-row seat for the launch, this newsletter will remain completely free through the summer pilot phase.

During this pilot, your feedback is incredibly welcome. Since I am actively tuning the automation scripts and refining the layout, please let me know what you find most valuable or if there’s specific coverage I should add.

Starting in September, the publication will transition to a highly accessible $25/year baseline subscription to unlock the full benefits. Due to Substack policies, $5/month is the lowest possible tier. I highly recommend the yearly option with a 50% discount coupon automatically applied.

Keeping the Jcastle Gates Open

Domain names, secure hosting, massive media storage, and robust security protections are the realities of maintaining independent web infrastructure today.

Subscription fees directly support and maintain Jcastle.info as an ad-free, open digital encyclopedia. I will not hide the core website’s thousands of castle profiles and original photos behind a paywall. Instead, this Substack offers appreciative patrons an original, premium perk in appreciation of their support.

🏯 HOKKAIDO TOHOKU

AOMORI — HIROSAKI CASTLE

Hirosaki Castle Keep Begins First Phase of Relocation for Stone Wall Repair

弘前城天守曳戻し 1次移動開始 - au Webポータル

Summary: The first phase of the relocation of Hirosaki Castle’s main keep has commenced. This temporary move is part of a major project to repair the castle’s stone walls, ensuring the long-term preservation of this historic structure.

HOKKAIDO — SHINORI-DATE CASTLE

Castle Walk: Shinori-date Castle, One of the “Donan Twelve Castles”

(お城さんぽ。～歴史を巡る旅=13)志苔館 「道南十二館」の一つ 城郭ライター 萩原さちこ - 公明新聞

Summary: Castle writer Sachiko Hagiwara explores Shinori-date Castle, one of the “Donan Twelve Castles,” offering a historical journey with views of the Tsugaru Strait. This article is part of a series on historical walks.

🏯 KANTO

IBARAKI — MAKABE CASTLE

Makabe Castle Exhibition Showcases 30 Years of Excavation Findings

真壁城跡 発掘の全貌 貴重な火鉢や硯並ぶ 茨城・桜川で調査30年企画展 | きたかんナビ

Summary: An exhibition in Sakuragawa, Ibaraki, is presenting the full scope of 30 years of excavation at Makabe Castle. The exhibition features valuable artifacts such as hibachi (braziers) and inkstones, offering insights into this Sengoku-period castle, characterized by its extensive moats and earthworks rather than stone walls.

🏯 CHUBU

SHIZUOKA — NUMAZU CASTLE

Numazu Historical Society Establishes New Council, Plans Lecture for Castle Restoration Anniversary

沼津史談会が協議会新設 歴史や文化 伝承へ - 静岡新聞

Summary: The Numazu Historical Society has established a new council to promote and transmit local history and culture. This initiative includes a planned lecture to commemorate the 10th anniversary of the Numazu Castle restoration.

🏯 KANSAI

HYOGO — HIMEJI CASTLE

Himeji Castle Suffers Plaster Damage from Typhoon No. 6, Repair Work Underway

【世界遺産・姫路城】台風6号で外壁の漆喰の一部が剥がれる被害 むき出しの土壁の補修工事 ...

Summary: Himeji Castle, a World Heritage site, sustained damage from Typhoon No. 6, with portions of its exterior plaster peeling off, exposing the earthen walls. Repair work is currently underway to address this damage.

HYOGO — TAKIYAMA CASTLE

Special Lecture on Sengoku-era Castles in Hanshin Area, Featuring Takiyama Castle

【8月29日(土)】文学と歴史をテーマに、田辺眞人阪神シニアカレッジ学長が特別講座を開催 ...

Summary: A special lecture titled “Sengoku-era Fortifications in the Hanshin Area: Around the Hankyu Kobe Line” will be held on August 29th, led by Masato Tanabe, President of Hanshin Senior College. The lecture will explore various castle sites from the late Sengoku period, including Takiyama Castle, located north of Sannomiya Station.

HYOGO — HIMEJI CASTLE

Additional Designation for Himeji Castle Special Historic Site

特別史跡姫路城跡の追加指定について：時事ドットコム

Summary: A section of the Bizenmon Gate site in Uomachi, Himeji City, has been recommended for additional designation as part of the Special Historic Site of Himeji Castle. This marks the first such addition since January 2012.

KYOTO — NIJŌ CASTLE

Nijo Castle to Recreate Historic Edo Period Events Focused on Peace and Culture

キーワードは「平和と文化」江戸初期の京が沸いた歴史的行事を再現へ - 朝日新聞

Summary: The Ninomaru Palace at Nijo Castle, a National Treasure and the only remaining palace complex of its kind in Japan, will be the focus of efforts to recreate historical events from the early Edo period, emphasizing themes of peace and culture.

KYOTO — YAGI CASTLE

Tracing Naito Joan’s Footsteps at Yagi Castle in Central Kyoto

京都府中部でたどる「内藤ジョアン」の足跡　山城めぐりの後は「名物オムライス」で大満足

Summary: An article explores the historical significance of Yagi Castle in Nantan City, Kyoto, focusing on its lord, Naito Joan, a Christian samurai who served during the Sengoku period. The hike to the 330-meter-high castle site reveals features like stone walls, dry moats, and the former residences of vassals, including a rock where many of Joan’s retainers were reportedly baptized. Local guides provide detailed explanations of the castle’s structures and Joan’s peaceful legacy.

OSAKA — OSAKA CASTLE

Osaka Castle Festival 2026 to Feature Castle PR Booths and Expert Forums

城ファン必見！大阪・お城フェス2026で全国のお城PRブース集結 - 公募ガイド

Summary: The “Osaka Castle Festival 2026” will be held on August 8th and 9th, 2026, bringing together castle promotion booths from across Japan. The event will feature enriching forums and seminars led by leading castle research experts.

SHIGA — AZUCHI CASTLE

New Research Reveals Unknown Palace Structures at Azuchi Castle

城をめぐる最新研究　第10回「安土城の天主と本丸御殿の間に別な御殿があった!?」

Summary: Ongoing excavations at the Special Historic Site of Azuchi Castle have uncovered the foundations of two previously unknown palace structures between the main keep and the main palace. These buildings, measuring approximately 9.5m by 17.5m and 30m by 10m respectively, were not depicted in historical maps or documents. Researchers are exploring possibilities that these were either Oda Nobunaga’s daily residence or structures prepared for an imperial visit. Further excavations are anticipated to provide more answers.

SHIGA — HIKONE CASTLE

Hikone Castle’s Yonekuramizumon Stone Wall Collapses Again Due to Typhoon Rains

台風大雨の影響か、彦根城の石垣の一部が崩落 ２年前にも崩れた「米蔵水門石垣」 - 中日新聞

Summary: A section of the Yonekuramizumon stone wall along the inner moat of Hikone Castle, a National Special Historic Site, collapsed due to heavy rains from Typhoon No. 7. This section had previously collapsed two years ago and was undergoing repair work. No injuries were reported. The city is consulting with the Agency for Cultural Affairs and the prefecture regarding the response, noting that this is not expected to impact Hikone Castle’s World Heritage registration efforts.

SHIGA — MINAKUCHI OKAYAMA CASTLE

Minakuchi Okayama Castle: A Strategic Fortress Supporting the Toyotomi Regime

滋賀県南部に「豊臣政権」支えた重要人物が守った城 市街地を一望、今なお残る石垣や土塁

Summary: Minakuchi Okayama Castle, located on Kojōyama (elevation 200m) southeast of Minakuchi Station in Koka City, Shiga Prefecture, is highlighted for its historical significance in supporting the Toyotomi regime. The article discusses its strategic location overlooking the city and the enduring presence of its stone walls and earthworks.

WAKAYAMA — SANADA FAMILY CASTLES

Forum on Sanada Family History and Castles Draws Enthusiasts in Wakayama

城でたどる真田家の歴史、和歌山 マニア詰めかけ熱気のフォーラム - 東京新聞

Summary: A forum tracing the history of the Sanada family through their castles was held in Kudoyama Town, Wakayama, attracting many enthusiasts. Castle archaeologist Yoshihiro Chida and other experts participated, discussing the Sanada family’s strategies.

🏯 CHUGOKU

OKAYAMA — OKAYAMA CASTLE

Edo Period Okayama Castle Recreated in CG for Keep Screening

江戸期の岡山城 ＣＧで再現 ３日から天守で上映（山陽新聞） - ｄメニューニュース

Summary: A 14-minute and 35-second CG video titled “Captivating Okayama Castle: A Masterpiece Reflecting the Style of a Ruler” will be screened at Okayama Castle’s keep starting July 3rd. The video, which recreates the castle as it appeared during the Edo period, was supervised by historians and castle archaeologists.

🏯 SHIKOKU

KAGAWA — TAKAMATSU CASTLE

Budget Approved for Takamatsu Castle Stone Wall Restoration

一般会計補正予算案、屋島山上社会実験のための条例改正案など可決し閉会 6月定例高松 ...

Summary: The June regular session of the Takamatsu City Assembly approved a supplementary budget, including approximately 40 million yen for restoration work on a partially collapsed stone wall at Takamatsu Castle.

TOKUSHIMA — SHIGEHISA CASTLE

Exploring Shigekiyo Castle: A Historical Mystery in Mima, Tokushima

「美馬」の歴史ミステリー 知られざるスポットをめぐる【徳島】 - 日テレNEWS NNN

Summary: Shigekiyo Castle, a site from the late Sengoku period, is featured in an article exploring historical mysteries in Mima, Tokushima. The castle is notable for its remarkably well-preserved well, a rare feature among medieval fortifications.

🏯 KYUSHU OKINAWA

FUKUOKA — FUKUOKA CASTLE

Excavation Uncovers Foundation Stones at Fukuoka Castle

【福岡検定】2026年7月3日 - 写真・画像(1/1)｜【西日本新聞me】

Summary: Excavations within the inner bailey of Fukuoka Castle have unearthed foundation stones, including “neshi” (root stones), which supported the castle tower base. This discovery provides new insights into the castle’s construction.

KAGOSHIMA — IZUMI CASTLE

Izumi Castle Recommended for National Historic Site Designation

文化審議会 出水城跡を国の指定史跡とするよう文部科学大臣に答申 鹿児島 - Yahoo!ニュース

Summary: The Cultural Council has recommended to the Minister of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology that Izumi Castle in Fumoto-cho, Izumi City, be designated as a National Historic Site. This large-scale fortification, built from the Sengoku period to the early Edo period, also served as a border castle.

KUMAMOTO — KUMAMOTO CASTLE

Special Edition Oshiro EXPO in Kumamoto 2026 to Highlight Castle Recovery

復活へ、威風堂々。10月3日・4日「特別版 お城EXPO in 熊本 2026」開催！

Summary: The “Special Edition Oshiro EXPO in Kumamoto 2026” will be held on October 3rd and 4th at Kumamoto Castle Hall, marking 10 years since the Kumamoto Earthquake. The event will focus on the castle’s recovery and restoration efforts, which are projected to be completed by 2052. It will feature lectures by prominent castle experts, special guests, and exhibits detailing Kumamoto Castle’s past and future.

KUMAMOTO — TANASHOKO CASTLE

Amakusa Sengoku Museum to Open, Showcasing Tanashoko Castle’s Appeal

「戦国ミュージアム」11月22日オープン 天草市 国指定史跡「棚底城跡」の魅力伝える

Summary: The “Amakusa Sengoku Museum” is set to open on November 22nd in Kuratake-machi, Amakusa City, Kumamoto Prefecture. The museum will highlight the historical significance of Tanashoko Castle, a National Historic Site, allowing visitors to experience its defensive structures, such as the earthworks and the depth of its moats.

MIYAZAKI — IINO CASTLE

Iino Castle Cleaned Up by Local Residents in Weeding Activity

飯野城跡すっきり 地元住民ら草刈り作業 - 47NEWS

Summary: Local residents in Ebino City’s Iino district conducted a volunteer cleanup at Kamejo Park, part of Iino Castle, on July 3rd. Approximately 20 residents participated from early morning to make the castle more accessible to visitors.

MIYAZAKI — KUSHIMA CASTLE

Kushima Castle’s Dry Moat Exposed After Tree Felling

櫛間城跡の空堀露出 串間 - 宮崎日日新聞DIGITAL

Summary: A portion of the dry moat at Kushima Castle, which existed in Kushima City from the medieval period to the early Edo period, has been clearly revealed after the felling of overgrown trees. This exposure allows for a clearer understanding of the castle’s defensive structures.

Jcastle Intelligence Desk is a curated digest of castle related news. Paid Subscriptions offer a premium perk to those who help support the infrastructure costs of hosting Jcastle.info.

📬 Submissions & Tips: Spot an excavation briefing (現地説明会) or key regional news we missed? Drop it in the comments and we’ll add it to the next newsletter or send out an alert for an upcoming event.

⚖️ Disclaimer: Summaries are synthesized from regional Japanese press releases and wire reports. Original article copyrights belong to their respective publishers. Some links may expire or be hidden behind paywalls after the digest is created. Articles are gathered, synthesized, and translated with automated scripts and tools. I review each digest before publishing but errors may be missed.

🏯 Explore More: The Guide to Japanese Castles

An archaeological field briefing (現地説明会 - gensetsu) has been announced for the ongoing field study at Fukui Castle’s Hitsujisaru Yagura. Originally built around 1606 this massive three-story, five-floor corner yagura is being excavated for reconstruction. Excavationed ruins include large foundation stones (礎石 - soseki) dating directly back to the original early-17th-century construction layer.

Event Details

According to the official briefing flyer, the excavation site and the inner-moat temporary work yard will be opened to the public for one day only:

• Date: Saturday, July 11, 2026

• Location: Fukui Castle Ruins - Yaguradai Excavation Site

• Cost: Free admission; pre-registration required for site tours

Schedule & Access

The day is split into two viewing sessions:

1. Morning Expert-Guided Sessions (Pre-Registration Required)

Archaeologists from the Fukui Prefectural Archaeological Center will conduct detailed on-site briefings for small groups.

• Time Slots:

  • ① 9:30–10:00

  • ② 10:00–10:30

  • ③ 10:30–11:00

  • ④ 11:00–11:30

• Capacity: limited to the first 20 people enrolled per session

• Deadline: Registration closes Friday, July 3, 2026, at 1:00 PM JST (or whenever capacity is reached). Registration requires submitting your name and contact information via the official QR code on the pamphlet.

2. Afternoon General Admission (No Registration Required)

If you do not register for a morning slot, open viewing hours are available in the afternoon. You can inspect the exposed masonry, trenches, and uncovered foundation stones, but no explanations will be provided.

• Hours: 11:30 to 15:30 (15:00 last entry)

• Work Yard Access: The temporary work inside the moat layout is also open from 9:30 to 15:30.

Official Links:

Editor’s Note: - The calendar is currently dominated by events and exhibits pertaining to the 2026 Taiga Drama “Toyotomi Brothers”. As we get past the summer, the Fall schedule is rapidly filling up with major castle festivals and expos, starting with the Osaka Castle Fest in August and culminating in the Yokohama Shiro EXPO in December.

🏯 KANTO

KANAGAWA — VARIOUS

お城EXPO 2026 横浜

Castle EXPO 2026 Yokohama

📅 Schedule: Dec 19, 2026 — Dec 20, 2026 | 🏷️ Type: EXPO

🏯 CHUBU

FUKUI — FUKUI CASTLE / REGIONAL CASTLES

越前若狭お城フェス

Echizen Wakasa Castle Festival

📅 Schedule: Oct 31, 2026 — Nov 1, 2026 | 🏷️ Type: EXPO

GIFU — ŌGA CASTLE

大桑城跡国史跡指定記念シンポジウム

Oga Castle Ruins National Historic Site Designation Commemorative Symposium

📅 Schedule: Jul 25, 2026 | 🏷️ Type: SYMPOSIUM

GIFU — ŌGA CASTLE

特別展「大桑城跡国史跡指定記念展示」

Special Exhibition “Oga Castle Ruins National Historic Site Designation Commemorative Exhibition”

📅 Schedule: Jul 25, 2026 — Aug 30, 2026 | 🏷️ Type: MUSEUM EXHIBIT

AICHI — VARIOUS

第33回全国山城サミット

33rd National Mountain Castle Summit

📅 Schedule: Nov 28, 2026 — Nov 29, 2026 | 🏷️ Type: SYMPOSIUM

SHIZUOKA — SUNPU CASTLE

企画展「徳川家康と豊臣政権」

Special Exhibition “Tokugawa Ieyasu and the Toyotomi Regime”

📅 Schedule: Oct 10, 2026 — Nov 29, 2026 | 🏷️ Type: EXHIBITION

🏯 KANSAI

OSAKA — VARIOUS

第五回 大阪・お城フェス2026

5th Osaka Castle Festival 2026

📅 Schedule: Aug 8, 2026 — Aug 9, 2026 | 🏷️ Type: EXPO

OSAKA — OSAKA CASTLE

重要文化財 大阪城の櫓YAGURA特別公開 夏・乾櫓

Important Cultural Property: Osaka Castle Yagura Special Opening Summer - Inui Yagura

📅 Schedule: Jul 18, 2026 — Aug 16, 2026 | 🏷️ Type: SPECIAL OPENING

OSAKA — OSAKA CASTLE

重要文化財 大阪城の櫓YAGURA特別公開 秋・多聞櫓／千貫櫓

Important Cultural Property: Osaka Castle Yagura Special Opening Autumn - Tamon Yagura / Sengan Yagura

📅 Schedule: Sep 5, 2026 — Nov 29, 2026 | 🏷️ Type: SPECIAL OPENING

SHIGA — AZUCHI CASTLE

企画展「秀吉の城」

Special Exhibition “Hideyoshi’s Castle”

📅 Schedule: Jul 18, 2026 — Sep 23, 2026 | 🏷️ Type: MUSEUM EXHIBIT

SHIGA — SAKAMOTO CASTLE

坂本城跡国史跡指定記念シンポジウム

Sakamoto Castle Ruins National Historic Site Designation Commemorative Symposium

📅 Schedule: Jul 26, 2026 | 🏷️ Type: SYMPOSIUM

OSAKA — OSAKA CASTLE

NHK大河ドラマ特別展「豊臣兄弟！」大阪歴史博物館

NHK Taiga Drama Special Exhibition “Toyotomi Brothers!” Osaka Museum of History

📅 Schedule: Jul 8, 2026 — Aug 31, 2026 | 🏷️ Type: MUSEUM EXHIBIT

SHIGA — FUSHIMI CASTLE

西教寺・客殿特別公開 （伏見城移築建造物)

Saikyo-ji Temple Guest Hall Special Opening (Fushimi Castle Relocated Structure)

📅 Schedule: Nov 7, 2026 — Dec 6, 2026 | 🏷️ Type: SPECIAL OPENING

KYOTO — VARIOUS

特別展示「秀吉の京都改造」

Special Exhibition “Hideyoshi’s Remodeling of Kyoto”

📅 Schedule: Jul 11, 2026 — Nov 23, 2026 | 🏷️ Type: MUSEUM EXHIBIT

🏯 KYUSHU OKINAWA

KUMAMOTO — KUMAMOTO CASTLE

特別版 お城EXPO in 熊本2026

Special Edition: Castle EXPO in Kumamoto 2026

📅 Schedule: Oct 3, 2026 — Oct 4, 2026 | 🏷️ Type: EXPO

OKINAWA — SHURI CASTLE

首里城正殿の一般公開

Shurijo Castle Main Hall Public Opening

📅 Schedule: Nov 23, 2026 | 🏷️ Type: REOPENING

Jcastle Intelligence Desk is a curated digest of castle related news. Paid Subscriptions offer a premium perk to those who help support the infrastructure costs of hosting Jcastle.info.

📬 Submissions & Tips: Spot an excavation briefing (現地説明会) or key regional news we missed? Drop it in the comments and we’ll add it to the next newsletter or send out an alert for an upcoming event.

⚖️ Disclaimer: Summaries are synthesized from regional Japanese press releases and wire reports. Original article copyrights belong to their respective publishers. Some links may expire or be hidden behind paywalls after the digest is created. Articles are gathered, synthesized, and translated with automated scripts and tools. I review each digest before publishing but errors may be missed.

🏯 Explore More: The Guide to Japanese Castles

🏯 HOKKAIDO TOHOKU

AOMORI — HIROSAKI CASTLE

“Hirosaki Castle Kawaraban” Vol. 17 Issued.

『弘前城かわら版』vol.17を発行しました。

Summary: Volume 17 of the “Hirosaki Castle Kawaraban” newsletter has been issued, providing the latest information on cultural property repairs, historic site maintenance, and highlights of Hirosaki Castle.

FUKUSHIMA — TAKAKURA CASTLE

Understanding of Takakura Castle Survey: Hirono’s “Furusato Koza” Lecture Series Begins | 47NEWS

高倉城跡調査に理解 広野のふるさと講座開講|47NEWS（よんななニュース）

Summary: The first session of Hirono’s “Furusato Koza” (local history lecture series) focused on the ongoing scope confirmation survey at Takakura Castle. The lecture aimed to foster understanding of the archaeological investigations being conducted within the town.

FUKUSHIMA — NIHONMATSU CASTLE

“Reviving Nihonmatsu Castle” VR Technology Allows Comparison with Old Maps and Castle Grounds Strolls, Until June 30 - UQ Life

「甦る二本松城」VR技術で古地図と比較や城内散策、6月30日まで - UQライフ

Summary: A virtual reality experience titled “Reviving Nihonmatsu Castle” is available until June 30, allowing visitors to compare the castle’s current state with old maps and take virtual strolls through the castle grounds. This VR initiative helps visualize the former appearance of Nihonmatsu Castle, one of Japan’s Top 100 Castles.

🏯 KANTO

IBARAKI — MAKABE CASTLE

Makabe Castle: Full Scope of Excavation, Valuable Hibachi and Inkstones on Display at 30-Year Survey Exhibition in Sakuragawa, Ibaraki

真壁城跡 発掘の全貌 貴重な火鉢や硯並ぶ 茨城・桜川で調査30年企画展

Summary: An exhibition titled “Makabe Castle: The Present State of Excavation” is being held at the Makabe Denshokan History Museum in Sakuragawa, Ibaraki Prefecture. It showcases the comprehensive results of 30 years of archaeological surveys at the nationally designated historic site of Makabe Castle, featuring valuable artifacts such as hibachi (braziers) and inkstones.

🏯 CHUBU

GIFU — (GENERAL CASTLE STUDIES)

First Hida Medieval Research Society Meeting Held, Delving into 16th-17th Century Castle Towns - Koubo Guide

飛騨の中世研究会が初開催、16〜17世紀の城下町に迫る - 公募ガイド

Summary: The first Hida Medieval Research Society meeting was held, focusing on “Castles and Castle Towns” of the 16th-17th centuries. Experts from various municipalities presented the latest research findings, emphasizing how ongoing surveys and research continue to update the understanding of castle sites and their surrounding towns.

NAGANO — UEDA CASTLE

Ueda Castle Restoration Promotion Council Distributes Supplementary Textbook “Discover the Secrets of Ueda Castle!” and Educational Board Game for Elementary Schools...

上田城復元推進協議会は小学校向けの副読本「上田城のひみつをさがせ！」と「学習用すごろく ...

Summary: The Ueda Castle Restoration Promotion Council has distributed a supplementary textbook titled “Discover the Secrets of Ueda Castle!” and an educational board game for elementary school students. These materials, supervised by castle archaeologist Yoshihiro Senda, a member of the Ueda Castle Historic Site Maintenance Expert Council, aim to educate children about the castle’s history and secrets. They will also be distributed to junior high schools, public libraries, and community centers.

SHIZUOKA — SUWAHARA CASTLE

[Shimada, Suwahara Castle] An “Impregnable Mountain Castle” Accessible from Kanaya Station, a Scenic Historic Site Filled with Takeda Clan Wisdom

【島田・諏訪原城跡】金谷駅から歩いて行ける“鉄壁の山城” 武田氏の知恵が詰まった絶景の史跡へ

Summary: This article highlights Suwahara Castle in Shimada, Shizuoka Prefecture, a nationally designated historic site known as an “impregnable mountain castle” built with the strategic wisdom of the Takeda clan during the Sengoku period. Visitors can explore its ancient stone-paved paths and learn about its construction.

🏯 KANSAI

HYOGO — MIKI CASTLE

Young Lord Committed Suicide... Why Did Miki Castle Meet a Tragic End? (Taiga Drama “Toyotomi Brothers!” Episode 24)

若き城主は自害…なぜ三木城は悲惨な結末を迎えたのか？〈大河ドラマ「豊臣兄弟！」第24回〉

Summary: This article delves into the tragic history of Miki Castle, exploring why its young lord committed suicide and the castle met a devastating end, as depicted in episode 24 of the Taiga drama “Toyotomi Brothers!”. It references the historical site of Miki Castle and its associated earthworks.

HYOGO — TAKEDA CASTLE

Seeking the Scenery Toyotomi Hidenaga Saw - Immerse in Historical Romance at Takeda Castle, the “Castle in the Sky” Soaring in Asago

豊臣秀長が見た景色を求めて―朝来にそびえる天空の城『竹田城跡』で歴史ロマンに浸る

Summary: This article invites readers to experience the historical romance of Takeda Castle in Asago, Hyogo Prefecture, often called the “Castle in the Sky.” It highlights the castle’s impressive stone walls and the breathtaking views that once captivated figures like Toyotomi Hidenaga.

HYOGO — MIKI CASTLE

“Toyotomi Brothers!” - A Visit to Miki Castle and Hideyoshi’s Main Camp, Preserving the Strong Spirit of Sengoku Bessho

『豊臣兄弟！』の“と”の字もない潔さ！「戦国別所の気風を濃厚に残す」三木城と秀吉本陣跡を訪問 ...

Summary: This article details a visit to Miki Castle and the Miki City History Museum, located on the former Ninomaru (second bailey) of the castle. It highlights the castle’s strong preservation of the Sengoku-era Bessho clan’s spirit and its historical significance, including Hideyoshi’s main camp.

HYOGO — YAGI CASTLE

A Bedrock with Fudo Myoo Statue, Another “Ancient Castle” Deep in the Mountains... Tracing the Remains of Yagi Castle, Residence of Bessho Shigemune...

不動明王像が置かれた岩盤、山奥にはもうひとつの“古城”が…別所重棟の居城「八木城」の遺構を ...

Summary: This article explores the historical remains of Yagi Castle, the former residence of Bessho Shigemune, located deep in the mountains. It highlights the discovery of a bedrock with a Fudo Myoo statue and mentions another ancient castle site in the vicinity, offering insights into the castle’s layout and history.

HYOGO — HIMEJI CASTLE

Hyogo’s Himeji Castle “Bizen Gate” Site to be Additionally Designated as Special Historic Site; Council for Cultural Affairs Recommends - Asahi Shimbun

兵庫・姫路城の「備前門」跡、特別史跡に追加指定へ 国文化審が答申 - 朝日新聞

Summary: The Council for Cultural Affairs has recommended that the site of the Bizen Gate at Himeji Castle in Hyogo Prefecture be additionally designated as a Special Historic Site. This addition will expand the total area of the Special Historic Site Himeji Castle to 1,078,960 square meters. According to the Himeji City Board of Education’s Cultural Properties Division, the Bizen Gate served to separate the inner and outer areas of Himeji Castle, utilizing the outer moat.

NARA — YAMATOKORIYAMA CASTLE

(Castle Stroll. ~Journey through History=12) Yamatokoriyama Castle: Magnificent Stone Walls Using Jizo Statues and Gorinto Pagodas, Castle Writer...

(お城さんぽ。～歴史を巡る旅=12)大和郡山城 地蔵や五輪塔を使った壮大な石垣 城郭ライター ...

Summary: This article, part of a “Castle Stroll” series, highlights the impressive stone walls of Yamatokoriyama Castle, which uniquely incorporate Jizo statues and Gorinto pagodas. It features insights from castle writer Sachiko Hagiwara and mentions the “inverted Jizo” on the tenshudai (castle tower base), built by Toyotomi Hidenaga.

NARA — TOICHI CASTLE

Toichi Castle, Residence of the “Four Great Families of Yamato” in the Sengoku Period: Kashihara City, Nara Prefecture, to Conduct Drone Survey This Autumn

戦国時代「大和四家」の居城・十市城跡 奈良県橿原市がドローンで今秋にも測量調査へ

Summary: Kashihara City in Nara Prefecture plans to conduct a drone survey this autumn at Toichi Castle, the former residence of the Toichi clan, one of the “Four Great Families of Yamato” during the Sengoku period. This survey aims to further investigate the historic castle site.

OSAKA — AKUTAGAWA CASTLE

Takatsuki City Announces Survey and Design for Settsukyo Pedestrian Suspension Bridge Development | Kentsu Shimbun Digital

高槻市 摂津峡人道吊橋整備に向け調査設計を公告 | 建通新聞 電子版

Summary: Takatsuki City has announced a public tender for survey and design work to develop a pedestrian suspension bridge and other access routes connecting the historic site of Akutagawa Castle and Settsukyo Park.

SHIGA — AZUCHI CASTLE

Excavation at Azuchi Castle Begins This Fiscal Year in Shiga - Keiji News, Fukui Shimbun

安土城跡の発掘 本年度調査開始 滋賀 京滋ニュース - 福井新聞

Summary: Shiga Prefecture has commenced this fiscal year’s archaeological survey at Azuchi Castle, built by Oda Nobunaga (located in Omihachiman City and Higashiomi City). This is part of the “Reiwa Grand Survey” aimed at further understanding the historic site.

SHIGA — SAKAMOTO CASTLE

Three Historic Sites in Otsu, Shiga, to be Additionally Designated as National Historic Sites; Council for Cultural Affairs Recommends to Minister of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology

滋賀・大津の3遺跡が国史跡に追加指定へ 国の文化審議会、文科相に答申

Summary: The Council for Cultural Affairs has recommended to the Minister of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology that three historic sites in Otsu, Shiga Prefecture, including Sakamoto Castle, be additionally designated as national historic sites. Sakamoto Castle is recognized as a key part of Oda Nobunaga’s “Lake Biwa Castle Network.” The other sites are the Omi-Otsunomiya Nishikori Historic Site and Binmanji Ishibotoke Valley in Taga Town.

🏯 SHIKOKU

EHIME — OZU CASTLE

Ozu City: 57 Million Yen Allocated for Ozu Castle Stone Wall Repair | Kentsu Shimbun Digital

大洲市 大洲城跡石垣修復に５７００万円など | 建通新聞 電子版

Summary: Ozu City has allocated 57 million yen for the repair of the stone walls at Ozu Castle. This funding is part of a larger budget that also includes 2.539 billion yen for the construction of a new civic cultural hall.

KAGAWA — HIKETA CASTLE

Hashiba Hideyoshi, Chosokabe Motochika... Sengoku Period History and Highlights of Hiketa Castle in Manga-style Materials

羽柴秀吉、長宗我部元親……引田城を巡る戦国時代の歴史や見どころを漫画形式の資料に

Summary: New manga-style educational materials have been created to make the Sengoku period history and highlights of the nationally designated historic site of Hiketa Castle accessible and enjoyable for all ages. Developed in cooperation with the Higashikagawa City Board of Education, these materials cover figures like Hashiba Hideyoshi and Chosokabe Motochika.

🏯 KYUSHU OKINAWA

KAGOSHIMA — IZUMI CASTLE

Kagoshima’s Izumi Castle to be Designated National Historic Site, a Mountain Castle from Sengoku to Early Edo Period - Council for Cultural Affairs Recommends - Asahi Shimbun

鹿児島・出水城跡を国史跡に、戦国～江戸初期の山城 国の文化審答申 - 朝日新聞

Summary: The Council for Cultural Affairs has recommended that Izumi Castle in Izumi City, Kagoshima Prefecture, be designated as a national historic site. This mountain castle, spanning approximately 20 hectares, dates from the Sengoku period to the early Edo period.

OITA — OTOMO CLAN HISTORIC SITE & USUKI CASTLE

Oita City’s National Historic Site “Otomo Clan Historic Site”: Northwestern Flat Area of Uehara Yakata Expected to Be Added for Defensive Purposes...

大分市の国史跡「大友氏遺跡」、上原館跡の北西部の平地を追加指定の見通し…館の防御のため ...

Summary: The northwestern flat area of Uehara Yakata, part of Oita City’s Otomo Clan Historic Site, is expected to be additionally designated as a national historic site due to its defensive significance. The article also notes that Usuki Castle, built by Otomo Sorin and later expanded by the Inaba clan, is also slated for national historic site designation, recognized as a crucial relic illustrating the evolution of castle structures.

OKINAWA — KITADANI CASTLE

Part of Kitadani Castle to be Additionally Designated as National Historic Site; Council for Cultural Affairs Recommends “Ichinokuruwa” and Other Areas

「北谷城跡」の一部、国の史跡に追加指定 文化審議会が答申 「一の曲輪」など

Summary: The Council for Cultural Affairs has recommended that a portion of Kitadani Castle, including the “Ichinokuruwa” (first bailey), be additionally designated as a national historic site. This designation will further protect and recognize the historical significance of the castle.

Jcastle Intelligence Desk is a curated digest of castle related news. Paid Subscriptions offer a premium perk to those who help support the infrastructure costs of hosting Jcastle.info.

📬 Submissions & Tips: Spot an excavation briefing (現地説明会) or key regional news we missed? Drop it in the comments and we’ll add it to the next newsletter or send out an alert for an upcoming event.

⚖️ Disclaimer: Summaries are synthesized from regional Japanese press releases and wire reports. Original article copyrights belong to their respective publishers. Some links may expire or be hidden behind paywalls after the digest is created. Articles are gathered, synthesized, and translated with automated scripts and tools. I review each digest before publishing but errors may be missed.

🏯 Explore More: The Guide to Japanese Castles

🏯 HOKKAIDO - TOHOKU

YAMAGATA — TSURUGAOKA CASTLE

After 150 Years Since Abandonment, Ridgepole of Tsurugaoka Castle Otemon Gate Returns: 14.5-meter Zelkova Beam - Shonai Nippo

廃城から150年の時を経て 鶴ケ岡城大手門の棟木戻る 全長14・5メートル ケヤキの ... - 荘内日報社

Summary: A 14.5-meter zelkova ridgepole, believed to have been used at the top of the two-story roof of Tsurugaoka Castle’s Otemon (main gate) during the Edo period, has returned to the castle site after 150 years since the castle’s abandonment. It will be publicly exhibited this summer, commemorating the 150th anniversary of Tsuruoka Park, located on the castle grounds.

🏯 CHUBU

MIE — TSU CASTLE

Hyakugo Bank’s “Small Kindness” Association Conducts Cleaning Activity at Tsu Castle with Approximately 300 Participants in Tsu City, Mie - Yahoo! News

百五銀行の「小さな親切」の会 津城跡で清掃活動 約300人が参加 三重・津市 - Yahoo!ニュース

Summary: The “Small Kindness” association of Hyakugo Bank conducted a cleaning activity at Tsu Castle in Tsu City, Mie Prefecture, a site associated with Todo Takatora. Approximately 300 participants, mainly bank employees, took part in the event on June 12th.

🏯 KANSAI

HYOGO — HIMEJI CASTLE

Special Tour into Himeji Castle’s Non-Public Areas Reveals the True Face of the Famous Castle... Broadcast Tonight on “Michifumi Isoda’s Journey Through History”

姫路城の非公開エリアに特別潜入 名城の真の姿が明らかに…今夜放送『磯田道史の歴史をゆく』

Summary: A TV special titled “Michifumi Isoda’s Journey Through History” will feature a special opening into the non-public areas of Himeji Castle. Historian Michifumi Isoda and leading castle researcher Yoshihiro Senda will conduct a thorough investigation, exploring Hideyoshi-era stone walls, architectural structures, and the ultimate defense system of linked keeps. The program aims to uncover the true nature of this beautiful and strong castle, a World Cultural Heritage site and National Treasure, and explain how it has endured for over 400 years.

HYOGO — HIMEJI CASTLE

Castle Seminar “Oda-Toyotomi Rule and Harima” - Himeji City (Application Required)

第3回城郭市民セミナー「織豊政権と播磨」申込必要 - 姫路市

Summary: Himeji City is announcing the 3rd Castle Citizen Seminar for the Reiwa 8 fiscal year, titled “Oda-Toyotomi Rule and Harima.” The seminar requires prior application.

HYOGO — HIMEJI CASTLE

Register for Historical Document Lecture (Beginner Level) | Himeji City Castle Research Laboratory

史料講座（初心者対象）受講生募集 | 姫路市立城郭研究室

Summary: The Himeji City Castle Research Laboratory is recruiting participants for a historical document lecture aimed at beginners. The laboratory houses numerous ancient documents, including the Sakai family archives, which serve as valuable primary data for understanding local history.

HYOGO — KOZUKI CASTLE

Even if Nobunaga Dies and the World Changes, We Won’t Abandon You... The Anti-Nobunaga Honganji Sent a “Passionate Message” to Murashige Araki

もし信長が死んで世の中が変わっても見放さない…反信長の本願寺が荒木村重に送った”熱烈な ...

Summary: A historical article discusses the political landscape during the Sengoku period, including the relationship between the anti-Nobunaga Honganji and Murashige Araki. Kozuki Castle is mentioned in the context of these historical events.

NARA — KORIYAMA CASTLE

Why Was the “Upside-Down Jizo” Born? Koriyama Castle, Hidenaga’s Residence: Battles and Castles of the Toyotomi Brothers ⑥ - Asahi Shimbun

「逆さ地蔵」はなぜ生まれた？ 秀長の居城・郡山城 豊臣兄弟の戦いと城⑥ - 朝日新聞

Summary: A historical article delves into the mystery of the “Sakasa Jizo” (upside-down Jizo) at Koriyama Castle, the residence of Toyotomi Hidenaga. The article explores the castle’s history and its connection to the Toyotomi brothers’ conflicts.

SHIGA — AZUCHI CASTLE

“Phantom Azuchi Castle” Restoration Project & History Seminar: Azuchi Castle Construction 450th Anniversary “Mount Azuchi Folding Screen” - Shiga Prefecture

「幻の安土城」復元プロジェクト・歴史セミナー 安土城築城450年記念「安土山図屏風 ... - 滋賀県

Summary: A restoration project and history seminar are being held to commemorate the 450th anniversary of the construction of Azuchi Castle by Oda Nobunaga. The event focuses on the “Mount Azuchi Folding Screen” and ongoing survey and maintenance work at the castle site.

SHIGA — SAKAMOTO CASTLE

June 19 Biwako Broadcasting News: Otsu City’s Sakamoto Castle - New Main Keep Stone Wall Location Recommended for Additional National Historic Site Designation

6月19日【びわ湖放送ニュース】大津市・坂本城跡 新たな本丸石垣の場所を国史跡の追加指定へ

Summary: The Cultural Council has recommended expanding the designated area of Sakamoto Castle in Otsu City, Shiga Prefecture, as a National Historic Site. This follows the discovery in May of a stone wall believed to be the southern edge of the main keep. Parts of the main keep and the third bailey were already designated as a national historic site last year. This new discovery further enhances the understanding and preservation of the castle built by Akechi Mitsuhide.

SHIGA — ODANI CASTLE

The Name of the Sengoku Warlord Who Saved Nobunaga When He Struggled to Attack the Steep Odani Castle [May 2026 BEST] | PRESIDENT Online

険しい小谷城を攻めあぐねた信長を救った戦国武将の名前【2026年5月BEST】 | PRESIDENT ...

Summary: An article from PRESIDENT Online discusses the strategic importance of Odani Castle during the Sengoku period, highlighting the warlord who aided Oda Nobunaga in his difficult campaign against the formidable mountain castle. The article includes an illustration of Odani Castle and views from the castle.

SHIGA — BATTLE OF ANEGAWA

Relearning the Battle of Anegawa: People and Battle - Lecture on June 28th in Nagahama by Former Castle History Museum Director

姉川合戦を再び学ぶ・民衆と合戦 講演会２８日、長浜で元城歴史博物館長が解説

Summary: A lecture titled “Relearning the Battle of Anegawa: People and Battle” will be held on June 28th at the Nanao Community Development Center in Nagahama City, Shiga Prefecture. The lecture, based on historical documents including an old map showing locals observing the 1570 Battle of Anegawa from Hachigo Mountain (part of Nanao Mountain), will be given by Hiroshi Ota, former director of the Nagahama Castle History Museum. The event aims to rediscover local history, especially with the current NHK Taiga drama “Toyotomi Brothers!” featuring Toyotomi Hidenaga, who fought in the Oda army.

🏯 CHUGOKU

OKAYAMA — YAHAZU CASTLE

Approaching the “Impregnable” Yahazu Castle: Okayama Prefectural Historic Site 20th Anniversary, Lecture in July - Yahoo! News

「難攻不落」矢筈城跡に迫る 岡山県指定史跡20周年、7月に講演会 - Yahoo!ニュース

Summary: Yahazu Castle (also known as Takayama Castle) in Tsuyama City, Okayama Prefecture, one of the largest medieval mountain castles in the prefecture, is celebrating its 20th anniversary as a designated prefectural historic site. A commemorative lecture will be held on July 5th to delve into its history and significance.

OKAYAMA — BITCHU MATSUYAMA CASTLE

Why Did the Toyotomi Family Perish in Two Generations? Hideyoshi’s Lack of “Samurai Common Sense” Was a Distant Cause

なぜ豊臣家は二代で滅んだのか？ 秀吉が「武士の常識」を持っていなかったことがその遠因となった

Summary: A historical article explores the reasons behind the Toyotomi family’s demise, suggesting that Toyotomi Hideyoshi’s lack of “samurai common sense” was a contributing factor. The article also mentions tracing the remains of Bitchu Matsuyama Castle, where Yamanaka Shikanosuke was assassinated in the castle town.

SHIMANE — GASSANTODA CASTLE

(Castle Stroll. ~Journey Through History=11) Gassantoda Castle, Center of the Struggle for Hegemony in San’in - Castle Writer Sachiko Hagiwara

(お城さんぽ。～歴史を巡る旅=11)月山富田城 山陰の覇権を巡る攻防戦の中心 城郭ライター 萩原 ...

Summary: Castle writer Sachiko Hagiwara presents “Castle Stroll. ~Journey Through History=11,” focusing on Gassantoda Castle, a central point in the struggle for hegemony in the San’in region. The article, published on June 18, 2026, on page 5, includes views from Yamanaka Goten.

🏯 KYUSHU OKINAWA

FUKUOKA — FUKUOKA CASTLE

Rinbo and Jar Excavated from Fukuoka Castle

福岡市 魅力発信中央区 第19回 福岡城跡から出土した輪宝と壺

Summary: Various artifacts, including roof tiles and ceramics from the Edo period, have been confirmed among the excavated items from Fukuoka Castle, a National Historic Site. In 1961, a bronze rinbo (wheel of dharma) was also discovered. This article highlights the ongoing archaeological findings and their significance.

KAGOSHIMA — IZUMI CASTLE

Izumi Castle, a Strategic Point, Expected to be Designated a National Historic Site; Iwasaki Museum Calls for Preservation and Utilization, Kagoshima

“要衝”出水城跡が国指定史跡に指定の見通し 岩崎美術館「保存・活用を」 鹿児島

Summary: The Cultural Council has recommended that Izumi Castle, a significant medieval mountain castle in Izumi City, Kagoshima Prefecture, be designated a National Historic Site. This strategic location, which lost its function due to the Edo Shogunate’s “One Castle Per Province” decree, has yielded important archaeological finds, including Satsuma ware. The Iwasaki Museum advocates for its preservation and utilization. If designated, it would be the 8th mountain castle in the prefecture to receive this status.

OKINAWA — CHATAN CASTLE

Chatan Castle and Nakagusuku Hantado Recommended for Additional National Historic Site Designation; Goshi no Matsu Natural Monument Designation to be Lifted - Ryukyu Shimpo

北谷城跡・中城ハンタ道 国史跡 追加指定へ 天然記念物 五枝のマツは解除 - 琉球新報

Summary: The Cultural Council has recommended to the Minister of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology that Chatan Castle in Chatan Town and Nakagusuku Hantado in Nakagusuku Village, both existing historic sites, be additionally designated as National Historic Sites. Concurrently, the designation of the Goshi no Matsu (Five-branched Pine) as a natural monument is to be lifted.

SAGA — NAGOYA CASTLE

The 45th National Castle Town Symposium Karatsu Convention | Nagoya Castle Museum Hall - Saga Shimbun

第45回全国城下町シンポジウム唐津大会｜名護屋城博物館ホール - 佐賀新聞

Summary: The 45th National Castle Town Symposium Karatsu Convention will be held, focusing on Nagoya Castle. The event includes a public program at the Nagoya Castle Museum Hall on July 3, 2026.

Jcastle Intelligence Desk is a curated digest of castle related news. Paid Subscriptions offer a premium perk to those who help support the infrastructure costs of hosting Jcastle.info.

📬 Submissions & Tips: Spot an excavation briefing (現地説明会) or key regional news we missed? Drop it in the comments and we’ll add it to the next newsletter or send out an alert for an upcoming event.

⚖️ Disclaimer: Summaries are synthesized from regional Japanese press releases and wire reports. Original article copyrights belong to their respective publishers. Some links may expire or be hidden behind paywalls after the digest is created. Articles are gathered, synthesized, and translated with automated scripts and tools. I review each digest before publishing but errors may be missed.

🏯 Explore More: The Guide to Japanese Castles

Sumoto Castle 500 Year Celebration Events

https://www.city.sumoto.lg.jp/soshiki/19/36388.html

Editor’s Note: In addition to the scheduled museum events, new multilingual signage has been installed across the castle ruins, along with special 500-year anniversary nobori flags. Personally, I will wait until the details for the Anōshū guided tour are finalized before making any plans.

Special Museum Exhibits

• Dates: July 7 (Tue) – September 6 (Sun), 2026

• Location: Awaji Cultural History Museum (洲本市立淡路文化史料館), 2nd Floor Exhibition Rooms.

• Access: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Last entry 4:30 PM). Closed Mondays.

• Admission: ¥500.

Live Lectures & Booking Windows

These events offer rare access to artifacts and expert breakdowns.

1. Live Gallery Guided Briefings: July 18 (Sat) & August 8 (Sat) at 10:30 AM

   • Guided lectures hosted directly by the Museum Director. No reservation required, ree with your standard ¥500 museum admission.

2. Special Lecture I: “Oda-Toyotomi Fortification Stonework and Sumoto Castle”

   • Date: July 25 (Sat), 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM

   • Web Registration opens Friday, June 26. Limited to 50 participants (先着順 — first-come, first-served). ¥500 fee includes materials and museum entry.

3. Special Lecture II: “Sumoto Castle’s Ishigaki Repair — Insights from Recent Archaeological Surveys”

   • Date: August 29 (Sat), 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM

   • Web Registration opens Saturday, August 1. Limited to 50 participants. ¥500 fee.

4. Autumn Masterclass Field Walk: “Three Generations of the Anōshū and Sumoto Castle’s Stone Wall Restoration”

   • Date: Autumn 2026 (Exact date TBA)

   • This outdoor field lecture will be led by Awata Junpoku (粟田純徳), the 15th-generation Master Stonemason of the legendary Anōshū (穴太衆). Full details yet to be finalized.

Editor’s Note: - This event calendar is updated on a monthly basis. Critical events, such as a new excavation briefing that occurs before the next update, will be sent as a separate News Alert item.

🏯 HOKKAIDO TOHOKU

AOMORI — NE CASTLE

第31回 史跡根城まつり

📅 Schedule: Oct 3, 2026 | 🏷️ Type: FESTIVAL

🏯 KANTO

KANAGAWA — VARIOUS

お城EXPO 2026 横浜

📅 Schedule: Dec 19, 2026 — Dec 20, 2026 | 🏷️ Type: EXPO

🏯 CHUBU

AICHI — NAGOYA / NAKAMURA

豊臣兄弟！ 名古屋中村 大河ドラマ館

📅 Schedule: Jan 24, 2026 — Jan 11, 2027 | 🏷️ Type: MUSEUM EXHIBIT

GIFU — ŌGA CASTLE

大桑城跡国史跡指定記念シンポジウム

📅 Schedule: Jul 25, 2026 | 🏷️ Type: SYMPOSIUM

GIFU — ŌGA CASTLE

特別展「大桑城跡国史跡指定記念展示」

📅 Schedule: Jul 25, 2026 — Aug 30, 2026 | 🏷️ Type: EXHIBITION

SHIZUOKA — SUNPU CASTLE

企画展「徳川家康と豊臣政権」

📅 Schedule: Oct 10, 2026 — Nov 29, 2026 | 🏷️ Type: EXHIBITION

FUKUI — FUKUI CASTLE / REGIONAL CASTLES

越前若狭お城フェス

📅 Schedule: Oct 31, 2026 — Nov 1, 2026 | 🏷️ Type: EXPO

AICHI — SHINSHIRO CASTLE / MOUNTAIN CASTLES

第33回全国山城サミット

📅 Schedule: Nov 28, 2026 — Nov 29, 2026 | 🏷️ Type: SYMPOSIUM

🏯 KANSAI

SHIGA — NAGAHAMA / ODANI / SHIZUGATAKE

豊臣兄弟！ 北近江長浜 大河ドラマ館

📅 Schedule: Feb 1, 2026 — Dec 20, 2026 | 🏷️ Type: MUSEUM EXHIBIT

NARA — KORIYAMA CASTLE

豊臣兄弟！ 大和郡山 大河ドラマ館

📅 Schedule: Mar 2, 2026 — Jan 22, 2027 | 🏷️ Type: MUSEUM EXHIBIT

SHIGA — SHINJŌ CASTLE / TAKASHIMA

テーマ展示「高島の戦国時代」

📅 Schedule: Apr 7, 2026 — Dec 27, 2026 | 🏷️ Type: MUSUEM EXHIBITION

KYOTO — FUKUCHIYAMA CASTLE

天守閣再建40周年記念特別展 Vol.1「天守閣再建前 今昔写真展」

📅 Schedule: Apr 11, 2026 — Jul 31, 2026 | 🏷️ Type: MUSUEM EXHIBITION

HYOGO — TAKEDA CASTLE

企画展「羽柴秀長と竹田城」

📅 Schedule: Apr 21, 2026 — Nov 29, 2026 | 🏷️ Type: MUSUEM EXHIBITION

OSAKA — OSAKA CASTLE

NHK大河ドラマ特別展「豊臣兄弟！」大阪歴史博物館

📅 Schedule: Jul 8, 2026 — Aug 31, 2026 | 🏷️ Type: MUSUEM EXHIBITION

OSAKA — OSAKA CASTLE

重要文化財 大阪城の櫓YAGURA特別公開 夏・乾櫓

📅 Schedule: Jul 18, 2026 — Aug 16, 2026 | 🏷️ Type: SPECIAL OPENING

SHIGA — AZUCHI CASTLE

企画展「秀吉の城」

📅 Schedule: Jul 18, 2026 — Sep 23, 2026 | 🏷️ Type: MUSEUM EXHIBIT

SHIGA — SAKAMOTO CASTLE

坂本城跡国史跡指定記念シンポジウム

📅 Schedule: Jul 26, 2026 | 🏷️ Type: SYMPOSIUM

OSAKA — VARIOUS

第五回 大阪・お城フェス2026

📅 Schedule: Aug 8, 2026 — Aug 9, 2026 | 🏷️ Type: EXPO

OSAKA — OSAKA CASTLE

重要文化財 大阪城の櫓YAGURA特別公開 秋・多聞櫓／千貫櫓

📅 Schedule: Sep 5, 2026 — Nov 29, 2026 | 🏷️ Type: SPECIAL OPENING

🏯 KYUSHU OKINAWA

KUMAMOTO — KUMAMOTO CASTLE

特別版 お城EXPO in 熊本2026

📅 Schedule: Oct 3, 2026 — Oct 4, 2026 | 🏷️ Type: EXPO

OKINAWA — SHURI CASTLE

首里城正殿の一般公開

📅 Schedule: Nov 23, 2026 | 🏷️ Type: SPECIAL OPENING

Jcastle Intelligence Desk is a curated digest of castle related news. Paid Subscriptions offer a premium perk to those who help support the infrastructure costs of hosting Jcastle.info.

📬 Submissions & Tips: Spot an excavation briefing (現地説明会) or key regional news we missed? Drop it in the comments and we’ll add it to the next newsletter or send out an alert for an upcoming event.

⚖️ Disclaimer: Summaries are synthesized from regional Japanese press releases and wire reports. Original article copyrights belong to their respective publishers. Some links may expire or be hidden behind paywalls after the digest is created. Articles are gathered, synthesized, and translated with automated scripts and tools. I review each digest before publishing but errors may be missed.

🏯 Explore More: The Guide to Japanese Castles

Editor’s Note: As a Kyoto resident, I’m always happy to see more attention paid to the castles of the mountainous regions of Kyoto. One of the articles today is about a new pamphlet from Kyotamba City highlighting 7 mountain castles worth visiting. I found the pamphlet online, and provided a link below. I’ve only been to Shuchi Castle from this list, so I’ve got some more sites to add to my very long “to visit” list.

Guidebook to the Seven Great Mountain Castles of Kyottamba

🏯 TOHOKU

AOMORI — SANNOHE CASTLE

5th Sannohe Castle Lecture Series: Understanding the Sengoku Period in Northern Oku and Eastern Japan from Castles

第5回三戸お城講座～城から読み解く北奥と東国の戦国時代

Summary: The 5th Sannohe Castle Lecture Series aims to deepen research into the National Historic Site Sannohe Castle and provide an enjoyable learning experience about the history of castles across Japan, focusing on the Sengoku period in Northern Oku and Eastern Japan.

MIYAGI — SENDAI CASTLE (AOBA CASTLE)

Signature Campaign Underway for a Historical Drama Featuring Date Masamune

伊達政宗公の大河ドラマ実現に向けた署名募集中！ - 柴田町

Summary: Shibata Town is collecting signatures to realize a historical drama about Date Masamune. The article notes that the sculptor Tatsuru Komuro, who created the first equestrian statue of Date Masamune at Sendai Castle (Aoba Castle), is also from Shibata Town, highlighting the town’s historical connection to Masamune.

KANTO

GUNMA — KIRYU CASTLE

“Rediscovering Tomo” (85): Kiryu Castle’s Stone Walls - Historical Nostalgia in Construction Methods and Reinforcement

《東毛再発見》（85）桐生城の石垣 工法や補強策に歴史ロマン

Summary: An article from “Rediscovering Tomo” series explores the historical nostalgia embedded in the construction methods and reinforcement strategies of Kiryu Castle’s stone walls.

KANAGAWA — NARUSE CASTLE

Exploring Naruse Castle, a Small Promontory Castle Overlooking the Onda River, Reveals the Essence of the Sengoku Period

恩田川を見下ろす小さな岬の城「成瀬城」、土塁も堀も消えた城跡を歩くことでわかる戦国時代の ...

Summary: An article discusses how walking the grounds of Naruse Castle, a small promontory castle overlooking the Onda River where earthworks and moats have disappeared, can reveal the true nature of the Sengoku period. The article emphasizes reading castle sites not as mere points but as integral parts of the terrain.

KANAGAWA — ODAWARA CASTLE

Odawara City to Hold Meeting on June 26th for Sengoku Period Development of Odawara Castle’s Goyomai Kuruwa

【小田原市】小田原城跡御用米曲輪戦国期整備検討部会6月26日開催 - 湘南人

Summary: Odawara City will hold a meeting on June 26th to discuss the Sengoku period development of the Goyomai Kuruwa at the historic Odawara Castle. Topics will include the direction of development, plans for flat areas, and archaeological survey plans.

TOCHIGI — KARASUYAMA CASTLE

Karasuyama Castle, a Historical Gem of Northern Kanto: Exhibition in Nasu-Karasuyama Showcases First Excavated Items in Prefecture

北関東屈指の歴史を誇る「烏山城」、往時の姿は？ 那須烏山で企画展、県内初出土品も紹介

Summary: Nasu-Karasuyama City is hosting a cultural property exhibition titled “What We Learned from Karasuyama Castle” at the Yamaage Kaikan in Kanai 2-chome. The exhibition features artifacts excavated from the National Historic Site Karasuyama Castle, including items discovered for the first time in the prefecture, offering insights into the castle’s historical appearance.

🏯 CHUBU

AICHI — NAGOYA CASTLE

Nagoya City Presents Ramp Installation Plan for Nagoya Castle’s Honmaru Karametebashi and Other Development Details

名古屋市 名古屋城本丸搦手馬出のスロープ設置案など示す - 建通新聞

Summary: On June 5th, the Nagoya Castle General Office of the Nagoya City Tourism and Culture Bureau held the 71st meeting of the Nagoya Castle Historic Site Overall Development Review Council’s Stone Walls and Buried Cultural Properties Subcommittee. The meeting outlined repair policies for Nagoya Castle and discussed tourism development, including a plan for installing a ramp at the Honmaru Karametebashi.

AICHI — NAGASHINO CASTLE

The Decisive Battle of the “Three Great Generals”!! Nagashino and Shitaragahara: A Turning Point in the Sengoku Period Witnessed by Hideyoshi and Hidenaga in “Toyotomi Brothers...”

“三英傑”揃い踏みの決戦!! “長篠・設楽原”は秀吉と秀長が見た戦国の転換点だった 『豊臣兄弟 ...

Summary: An article discusses the Battle of Nagashino and Shitaragahara as a turning point in the Sengoku period, as seen by Hideyoshi and Hidenaga. It includes a visit to Nagashino Castle, noting the availability of motorcycle parking for visitors to explore the site after filming.

GIFU — BODAIYAMA CASTLE

NHK’s “History Detective” to Feature Takenaka Hanbei of Tarui Town, Gifu, Exploring His “Tearful Bond” with Kuroda Kanbei

岐阜垂井町ゆかり竹中半兵衛の「歴史探偵」放送！黒田官兵衛との「涙の絆」に迫る！ - NHK

Summary: NHK will broadcast “History Detective,” a program focusing on Takenaka Hanbei, a historical figure associated with Tarui Town, Gifu Prefecture. The episode will delve into his “tearful bond” with Kuroda Kanbei and feature views of the Nobi Plain from Bodaiyama Castle, suggesting that Hanbei might have also overlooked the plain from this vantage point.

GIFU — TSURUOYAMA CASTLE

3D Data of “Yasaburo” Inscribed Eared Pot from Tsuruoyama Castle Released - Gifu Prefecture Official Website (Cultural Property Protection Center)

鶴尾山城跡「弥三郎」銘有耳壺の3Dデータを公開 - 岐阜県公式ホームページ（文化財保護センター）

Summary: Gifu Prefecture has released 3D data of a “Yasaburo” inscribed eared pot excavated from Tsuruoyama Castle. The data is available on the 3D data viewing site “Sketchfab.”

NAGANO — UEDA CASTLE

Ueda City Presents Letter of Appreciation to ETC Co., Ltd. for Donations to Ueda Castle Development and Club Activities

上田市がモーター・コイル製造、(株)イーティーシーに「感謝状」を贈る！ 「上田城跡整備事業と ...」

Summary: Ueda City presented a letter of appreciation to ETC Co., Ltd., a motor and coil manufacturing company, for its generous donations. The company’s president, Koichi Nishizawa (46), and chairman, Makoto Nishizawa (78), visited Ueda City Hall to receive the commendation from Mayor Tatsuya Saito. The donations, totaling 2 million yen (1 million each), will be used for Ueda Castle development and local club activities.

NIIGATA — FUSEGURO CASTLE

Sengoku Period Costumes Shine Amidst Fresh Greenery at Fuseguro Castle! Fuseguro Castle Opening Festival Prays for Regional Development

新緑の節黒城に戦国衣装が映える！地域の発展願う節黒城跡開山まつり - 十日町タウン情報

Summary: The Fuseguro Castle Opening Festival was held, where local residents dressed in Sengoku period costumes paraded along the mountain paths of Fuseguro Castle, a designated cultural property in Ueno, Tokamachi City, praying for regional development.

NIIGATA — HIRABAYASHI CASTLE

[Applications Open] Oshagiri Kaikan (Murakami City Local History Museum) History Lecture

【申込受付中】おしゃぎり会館（村上市郷土資料館）歴史講座 | Komachi Web広報

Summary: The Oshagiri Kaikan (Murakami City Local History Museum) is holding a history lecture focusing on Hirabayashi Castle, a National Historic Site. The lecture, led by Mr. Atsushi Ohno from the Murakami City Board of Education’s Lifelong Learning Division, will primarily discuss recent excavation findings. Applications are open until June 16th.

SHIZUOKA — NAGAKUBO CASTLE

Exhibition “Nagakubo Castle and its Era” to be Held

企画展「長久保城とその時代」を開催します - 長泉町

Summary: Nagaizumi Town will host an exhibition titled “Nagakubo Castle and its Era,” focusing on the medieval Nagakubo Castle in Shimonagakubo. The exhibition will use panels to explain the movements of various clans during the Sengoku period in the Sunto region.

TOYAMA — UOZU CASTLE

Enjoying the Sea Breeze and Famous Spots: Uozu Mirage Walk Tours Uozu Castle and More

潮風受け名所歩く 魚津でしんきろうウオーク、魚津城跡など巡る - 北日本新聞

Summary: The “Uozu Mirage Walk” event was held on June 7th, with participants aged 50 to 80 walking along the Shinshiro Road on the Uozu City coast, including a tour of Uozu Castle.

🏯 KANSAI

HYOGO — SASAYAMA CASTLE

Filming for the Movie “Kokurojo” Took Place in Tanba-Sasayama City!

映画「黒牢城」の撮影が丹波篠山市で行われました！ - PR TIMES

Summary: Filming for the movie “Kokurojo” was conducted in Tanba-Sasayama City. Sasayama Castle, known for its construction as a “Tenka Fushin” (nationwide construction project) led by Ikeda Terumasa with design by Todo Takatora, has served as a filming location for numerous dramas and movies.

HYOGO — ARIOKA CASTLE

Itami | Luxurious Cast Including Masahiro Motoki to Appear! Stage Greeting for the Movie “Kokurojo” at TOHO Cinemas to Commemorate Kansai Release

伊丹｜本木雅弘さんら豪華俳優陣が登壇！映画【黒牢城】関西公開記念舞台挨拶をTOHO ...

Summary: A stage greeting event for the movie “Kokurojo” will be held to commemorate its Kansai release, featuring a star-studded cast including Masahiro Motoki and Yuriko Yoshitaka. Arioka Castle, known as Japan’s first castle with a sōgamae (total enclosure) and the setting of the story, still has remnants and monuments within the city.

HYOGO — HIMEJI CASTLE

Himeji Castle Plaster Peels Off, Possibly Due to Typhoon No. 6 Damage to “Ho-no-Yagura” Outer Wall - Nishinippon Shimbun

姫路城のしっくい剝がれる 台風6号で被害か 重要文化財「ホの櫓」の外壁 - 西日本新聞

Summary: Plaster has peeled off a section of Himeji Castle, a World Heritage site in Himeji City, Hyogo Prefecture. The damage, discovered on June 4th, affected the outer wall of the “Ho-no-Yagura,” a designated Important Cultural Property, and is believed to have been caused by Typhoon No. 6, which passed through the Kinki region from early morning on the 3rd.

KYOTO — JURAKUDAI, FUSHIMI CASTLE

Kyoto City Archaeological Museum Early Special Exhibition for Reiwa 8: “Hideyoshi’s Kyoto Remodeling”

令和8年度京都市考古資料館前期特別展示 『秀吉の京都改造』

Summary: The Kyoto City Archaeological Museum will hold its early special exhibition for Reiwa 8 (2026), titled “Hideyoshi’s Kyoto Remodeling.” The exhibition will feature artifacts such as gilded roof tiles from Fushimi Castle (excavated from Momoyama Junior High School), showcasing Hideyoshi’s extensive urban development, including castles like Jurakudai and Fushimi Castle, which went beyond the traditional layout of Heian-kyo.

KYOTO — KYOTANBA’S 7 MOUNTAIN CASTLES

Guidebook for Kyotanba Town’s “7 Great Mountain Castles” Completed, Featuring Nearby Tourist Spots and Restaurants

京都府京丹波町の「7大山城」紹介するガイドブックできた 周辺の観光地や飲食店も掲載

Summary: The Kyotanba Town Board of Education in Kyoto Prefecture has created a 12-page A5-sized guidebook introducing the town’s seven great mountain castles. In addition to the history and highlights of the castles, it also lists nearby tourist attractions and restaurants.

KYOTO — FUKUCHIYAMA CASTLE

Unchanging Kyoto: Fukuchiyama Castle Keep “Pre-Reconstruction” Themed Walking Event

変わらないもの 京都・福知山城天守閣「再建前」テーマにまち歩きイベント - Yahoo!ニュース

Summary: A walking event in Fukuchiyama, Kyoto, focuses on Fukuchiyama Castle’s appearance before its reconstruction. Participants examine old castle town maps displayed inside the keep to understand the former extent of the castle and its surrounding town.

OSAKA — OSAKA HONGANJI CASTLE

Nobunaga Never Intended Azuchi to Be His Capital... What He Truly Desired, Even at the Cost of Ten Years, Money, and Subordinates

信長は首都を｢安土｣にするつもりはなかった…10年もの時間とカネと部下を失ってでも欲しかった ...

Summary: An article delves into Oda Nobunaga’s true intentions, suggesting he never planned for Azuchi to be his capital. It highlights that the medieval Honganji was not merely a religious power but a massive fortress, Osaka Honganji Castle, surrounded by moats, possessing formidable military and economic strength, effectively making it a de facto feudal domain.

SHIGA — NAGAHAMA CASTLE

You Too Can Become Lord of Nagahama Castle! Applications Open Today for “Sengoku History Exam ~ Hideyoshi Edition~”

あなたも長浜城の城主になれる！「戦国歴史検定～秀吉編～」本日より申込受付開始！

Summary: Applications are now open for the “Sengoku History Exam ~ Hideyoshi Edition~,” offering a special announcement from the Japan Castle Exam. The initiative includes the release of a new castle exam question book and a collaboration project with the movie “Kokurojo,” featuring many exciting plans.

SHIGA — AZUCHI CASTLE

This Year’s Excavation Survey Begins at Azuchi Castle, Aiming to Clarify East-West Passageway to Tenshudai in Omihachiman, Shiga

安土城跡で今年度調査 天主台東西の通路究明目指す 近江八幡 ／滋賀 - 毎日新聞

Summary: The “Great Reiwa Survey” at the National Special Historic Site Azuchi Castle (Omihachiman City and Higashiomi City, Shiga Prefecture) has commenced its annual excavation for this year on June 4th. The survey, which began in 2023 and is planned for 20 years, aims to uncover the true nature of the castle, specifically focusing on whether a passageway existed connecting the Ninomaru (second bailey) and the Tenshudai (main keep base).

SHIGA — SAKAMOTO CASTLE

Sakamoto Castle National Historic Site Designation Commemorative Symposium to be Held in Otsu on the 26th of Next Month

坂本城跡国史跡 指定記念シンポ 大津で来月26日 ／滋賀 - 毎日新聞

Summary: Otsu City will host a symposium on July 26th at the Lifelong Learning Center’s main hall in Honmaru-cho to commemorate the designation of Sakamoto Castle as a National Historic Site. The event will discuss future preservation and utilization strategies for the site.

🏯 CHUGOKU

OKAYAMA — BITCHU MATSUYAMA CASTLE, OMATSUYAMA CASTLE

Mountain Paths with Massive Stone Walls, a Solitary “Smallest” Keep, and Another Castle in the Forest... Tracing the Remains of Bitchu Matsuyama Castle, Where Yamanaka Shikanosuke Was Imprisoned

山道には石垣の大群、ポツンと現れた“最小”天守、森の中に“もう一つの城跡”も…山中鹿之介が ...

Summary: An article explores the remains of Bitchu Matsuyama Castle, known for its massive stone walls, a solitary “smallest” keep, and another castle site (Omatsuyama Castle) hidden in the forest. It traces the history of the castle where Yamanaka Shikanosuke was imprisoned, noting that the original Bitchu Matsuyama Castle was Omatsuyama Castle. The exploration includes descending a steep slope from the Kuruwa (bailey) to a dry moat, which is luxuriously constructed with stone walls.

OKAYAMA — TAKAMATSU CASTLE

Actors Including Sosuke Ikematsu (Hideyoshi) to Discuss “Water Attack” at Talk Event in Okayama City on July 5th

秀吉役・池松さんらが「水攻め」語る ７月５日に岡山市でトークイベント - 47NEWS

Summary: Okayama City and other organizations will host a talk event on July 5th featuring actors from the NHK historical drama, including Sosuke Ikematsu, who plays Hideyoshi. The event will discuss the “water attack” strategy, with Takamatsu Castle as its historical setting.

TOTTORI — YONAGO CASTLE

Tottori Castle Exploration (85): Yonago Castle (Yonago City) Captivates with New “Castle Scenery”

とっとりお城探訪（８５） 米子城 （米子市） 装い新たな「城景」で魅了 - 日本海新聞

Summary: Yonago Castle in Yonago City, Tottori Prefecture, is celebrating its 20th anniversary since being designated a National Historic Site. The article highlights its renewed “castle scenery” and mentions that municipal cultural property officials will introduce the castle’s attractions.

TOTTORI — YONAGO CASTLE

Feel the Breeze of Nakaumi and Enjoy the Sunset: Relaxation Terrace Completed in Yonago, Tottori

中海の風感じて 夕日の景色もどうぞ 鳥取・米子に憩いのテラス完成 - 朝日新聞

Summary: A new relaxation terrace has been completed in Yonago, Tottori, offering views of the Nakaumi lagoon and sunsets. The city plans to integrate this new facility with nearby Minatoyama Park and Yonago Castle to promote urban development.

🏯 KYUSHU OKINAWA

OITA — SAIKI CASTLE

Saiki Castle Hiking Trail Collapses Due to Typhoon, City Issues Entry Ban Due to Further Collapse Risk

佐伯城跡の登山道、台風の影響でのり面崩れる 「他に崩落の危険」市が立ち入り禁止

Summary: Due to the impact of Typhoon No. 6, a landslide occurred on a slope (approximately 2 meters high and 4 meters wide) along the “Wakamiya no Michi” hiking trail at the National Historic Site Saiki Castle in Saiki City. Fallen trees were also reported. The city has issued an entry ban due to the risk of further collapses.

OKINAWA — SHURI CASTLE

Old Photographs and Documents of Meiji-Era Shuri Castle and Post-War University on its Site Exhibited at University of the Ryukyus Library Until July 31st

明治期の首里城、戦後の跡地にあった大学…古写真と古文書を展示 琉球大図書館で7月31日まで

Summary: The University of the Ryukyus Library is hosting an exhibition until July 31st, showcasing old photographs and documents. The exhibition includes images of Shuri Castle’s Shoin and Sasunoma from the Meiji era, as well as photographs of the University of the Ryukyus, which was built on the castle site after the war.

OKINAWA — YARA GUSUKU CASTLE

Learn the History of Yara Gusuku Castle: Cultural Property Survey Exhibition in Kadena Town Until June 14th, Featuring Panels and Excavated Artifacts

屋良グスクの歴史学んで パネルや出土遺物を展示 嘉手納町で文化財調査速報展、6月14日まで

Summary: Kadena Town is hosting a cultural property survey exhibition until June 14th, showcasing the results of archaeological investigations conducted at Yara Gusuku Castle along the Hija River in Yara, Kadena Town, from 2023 to 2025. The exhibition features panels and excavated artifacts, offering insights into the castle’s history.

OKINAWA — NAKAGUSUKU CASTLE

Nakagusuku and Kitanakagusuku “Chōdē”: 80 Years Since Village Division by Base, Agreement Signed to Strengthen Exchange

中城と北中城「ちょーでー」 基地で分村８０年 協定締結、交流強化へ - 琉球新報

Summary: An agreement to strengthen exchange, known as the “Chōdē Village Agreement,” was signed between Nakagusuku Village and Kitanakagusuku Village on May 20th, with Nakagusuku Castle as a backdrop. This event marks 80 years since the villages were divided by the establishment of a military base.

SAGA — HIZEN NAGOYA CASTLE

We Want to Host the National Castle Town Symposium in Karatsu, Featuring the Historic Hizen Nagoya Castle!

歴史ある肥前名護屋跡を舞台に全国城下町シンポジウム唐津大会を開催したい！！

Summary: A crowdfunding campaign is underway to host the National Castle Town Symposium in Karatsu, with the historic Hizen Nagoya Castle as its stage. The campaign aims to celebrate the castle’s legacy and promote the region.

Jcastle Intelligence Desk is a curated digest of castle related news. Paid Subscriptions offer a premium perk to those who help support the infrastructure costs of hosting Jcastle.info.

📬 Submissions & Tips: Spot an excavation briefing (現地説明会) or key regional news we missed? Drop it in the comments and we’ll add it to the next newsletter or send out an alert for an upcoming event.

⚖️ Disclaimer: Summaries are synthesized from regional Japanese press releases and wire reports. Original article copyrights belong to their respective publishers. Some links may expire or be hidden behind paywalls after the digest is created. Articles are gathered, synthesized, and translated with automated scripts and tools. I review each digest before publishing, but errors may be missed.

🏯 Explore More: The Guide to Japanese Castles

🏯 TOHOKU

AKITA — Motodate Castle

Motodate Castle: Akita-Aomori Promotion Council Holds Research Presentation to Grasp Overall Picture

本館城 全体像を把握 秋田・青森「推進協」が調査報告会 - 毎日新聞

Summary: The Shirakami Eco-tourism Promotion Council, comprising nine municipalities in Akita and Aomori Prefectures surrounding the Shirakami Sanchi World Natural Heritage site, held a research presentation to grasp the overall picture of Motodate Castle and other castle sites in Happo Town, Akita Prefecture.

AOMORI — Hirosaki Castle

Hirosaki Castle Kawaraban Vol. 16 Issued

『弘前城かわら版』vol.16を発行しました。

Summary: The latest issue (Vol. 16) of “Hirosaki Castle Kawaraban” has been published, providing information on cultural property repairs, site maintenance, and highlights of Hirosaki Castle.

FUKUSHIMA — Mitsuashi Castle

Ishikawa Rotary Club Volunteer Cleanup Activity at Mitsuashi Castle and Iwatsutsukowake Shrine

市町村だより 石川 石川ロータリークラブの奉仕清掃活動|47NEWS（よんななニュース）

Summary: The Ishikawa Rotary Club conducted a volunteer cleanup activity at Mitsuashi Castle and Iwatsutsukowake Shrine in the town. Approximately 20 members participated in this mobile meeting.

YAMAGATA — Yamagata Castle

Yamagata City Local Museum to Host New Acquisitions Exhibition for Reiwa 8

令和8年度 『山形市郷土館 新収蔵品展』を開催します

Summary: The Yamagata City Local Museum, located in the southeastern corner of Kajo Park (Yamagata Castle), will host a new acquisitions exhibition for Reiwa 8 (2026). Opening hours may vary depending on other events.

🏯 KANTO

CHIBA — Chiba Castle

Chiba Castle: A ‘Modern Castle’ Housing a Museum, Photo Feature

町にそびえる「現代の城」 模擬天守に博物館 写真特集 - 時事通信

Summary: The Chiba City Folk Museum, affectionately known as Chiba Castle or Inohana Castle, is highlighted for its main building, a four-story, five-floor castle-style structure built of steel-reinforced concrete. Modeled after Odawara Castle’s keep, it stands as a modern castle that has become a symbol of the city, blending into the landscape.

CHIBA — Tateyama Castle

Chiba Prefecture: All Free Admission! Minamiboso’s Cherry Blossom Spots, Satomi Clan Castle, 2000 Azaleas. Enjoy Flowers and History...

【千葉県】すべて入園無料！ 南房総の桜の名所、里見氏の城跡、2000本のつつじ。花と歴史を ...

Summary: Chiba Prefecture offers several free-admission castle parks, including Tateyama Castle, built on the site of the Satomi clan’s residence, known for its cherry blossoms and historical significance. These parks allow visitors to enjoy both natural beauty and history.

TOKYO — Castle History Lecture Series

Musashino University Vice President Professor Kazunori Ishigami Produces Summer Lecture Series: “Buddhism Supporting Social Activities” and “Castles and Their History”

夏期の企画講座 武蔵野大学副学長 石上 和敬教授プロデュース 「社会活動を支える仏教 ... - 時事通信

Summary: Musashino University will host a five-part lecture series titled “Castles and Their History,” produced by Vice President Professor Kazunori Ishigami. This series will delve into the history of Japanese castles.

🏯 CHUBU

GIFU — Tsuruoyama Castle

Gifu Prefectural Cultural Properties Protection Center and Gifu Sekigahara Battlefield Memorial Museum Collaborative Exhibition Held

岐阜県文化財保護センター・岐阜関ケ原古戦場記念館連携展の開催

Summary: The Gifu Prefectural Cultural Properties Protection Center and the Gifu Sekigahara Battlefield Memorial Museum are holding a collaborative exhibition. It features “Complete Dissection of a Mountain Castle: From the Survey Results of Tsuruoyama Castle,” aiming to deepen understanding of buried cultural properties and interest in Gifu Prefecture’s historical culture.

TOYAMA — Matsukura Castle

Rice Paddy Art Rice Planting Experience in Uozu’s Kosugenuma, Best Viewed in Late July

稲作アート田植え体験 魚津・小菅沼７月末見頃に｜北日本新聞webunプラス

Summary: Rice paddy art, creating a goat image using different colored rice, is being cultivated near Matsukura Castle in Uozu, now in its 17th year. This initiative aims to raise awareness and momentum for the castle’s designation as a national cultural property.

🏯 KANSAI

HYOGO — Takeda Castle

Japan Sea NEWS Dive: Takeda Castle, the ‘Castle in the Sky’ Associated with Toyotomi Brothers, Tracing the Footsteps of the Tajima Province Invasion

日本海NEWSダイブ 豊臣兄弟ゆかりの天空の城「竹田城跡」 但馬国侵攻の足跡を追う

Summary: Takeda Castle in Asago City, Hyogo Prefecture, known as the “Castle in the Sky” or “Japan’s Machu Picchu” due to its appearance enveloped in a sea of clouds, is highlighted for its connection to Toyotomi Hidenaga, the younger brother and right-hand man of Toyotomi Hideyoshi. The article traces the history of the Tajima Province invasion.

HYOGO — Himeji Castle

Himeji Castle: World Heritage Search Ranking and Citizen Seminar Materials Released

日本の世界遺産検索ランキング【姫路城】AI時代の検索行動で見る、料金改定後の「白鷺城」への ...

Summary: Himeji Castle, a World Heritage site known as “White Heron Castle,” is featured in a search ranking analysis examining public interest following a price revision. Separately, the Himeji City Castle Research Center has released distribution materials for its “Himeji Castle Tour” citizen seminar, which includes an updated and revised guide to the appeal of Himeji Castle’s stone walls.

HYOGO — Miki Castle

Drone Footage of Miki Castle, Site of Siege, Released on City’s YouTube Channel Inspired by NHK Taiga Drama “Toyotomi Brothers!”

NHK大河ドラマ「豊臣兄弟！」にあやかれ…兵糧攻め舞台のドローン映像、市のYouTubeで公開

Summary: Drone footage of Miki Castle, the site of a tragic siege, has been released on the city’s YouTube channel. This initiative aims to promote local history, inspired by the NHK Taiga drama “Toyotomi Brothers!”. The city hopes this will be a good opportunity to raise awareness of its history.

HYOGO — Arikoyama Castle

Hidenaga Edition Castle Stamp Appears, Drawing Attention from Taiga Drama “Toyotomi Brothers!” Exciting Castle Tour in Toyooka and Izushi

大河ドラマ「豊臣兄弟!」で注目 秀長版御城印が登場 豊岡・出石でわくわく城巡り - 神戸新聞NEXT

Summary: A special Hidenaga-themed castle stamp (Goshuin) has been released in Izushi, Toyooka, inspired by the NHK Taiga drama “Toyotomi Brothers!”. Arikoyama Castle, built by the Yamana clan in 1574, became Hidenaga’s castle after its fall during the Tajima invasion. The castle stamp was produced by the “Yamana Clan Castle Preservation Society.”

KYOTO — Tanba Mountain Castles

Unnamed Mountain Castles in Kyoto’s Tanba Region May Be a ‘Treasure Mountain’ for Locals, Attracting Fans Nationwide Through Resident Maintenance

京都に密集する無名の山城、地元を救う「宝の山」かも 住民整備で全国からファン来訪の城も

Summary: In the Tanba region of Kyoto Prefecture, efforts are underway to utilize the numerous medieval mountain castles as local resources. Following maintenance by residents, castle enthusiasts from across Japan, including Kyushu and Chubu regions, have visited these sites.

OSAKA — Osaka Castle

Emerging from Underground! Hideyoshi’s Unrivaled Osaka Castle: The Battles and Castles of the Toyotomi Brothers ⑤

地下から出現！ 秀吉が築いた天下無双の大坂城 豊臣兄弟の戦いと城⑤ - 朝日新聞

Summary: Osaka Castle, built by Hideyoshi, is highlighted as an unparalleled fortress. The article describes how Hideyoshi mobilized approximately 50,000 people for its construction, utilizing a “wari-bushin” system where vassals were assigned sections of the work. The castle was a formidable stronghold, surrounded by a 2-kilometer square Sōgamae (outer bailey).

SHIGA — Sakamoto Castle

Foundation Stones of Main Bailey Stone Wall Discovered at Akechi Mitsuhide’s Sakamoto Castle, Advancing Understanding of its Structure

明智光秀の坂本城跡で石垣の基底石を発見、本丸の南辺確定か 城郭構造の解明進む

Summary: Foundation stones for a stone wall, believed to be part of the main bailey’s southern edge, have been discovered on land at Sakamoto Castle, built by Akechi Mitsuhide on the shores of Lake Biwa. This significant find, which includes tiles excavated simultaneously, is expected to advance the understanding of the castle’s structure. Historically, much of the ‘phantom castle’s’ remains were thought to lie beneath the lake, only emerging during low water levels.

SHIGA — Sakamoto Castle

Sakamoto Castle National Historic Site Designation Commemorative Symposium to be Held on July 26, Reiwa 8

【令和8年7月26日】坂本城跡国史跡指定記念シンポジウムを開催します - 大津市

Summary: A symposium will be held on July 26th to commemorate the national historic site designation of Sakamoto Castle. The event will feature a keynote speech by Tetsuo Owada on the historical value and appeal of Sakamoto Castle, discussing the significance of the discovered remains and the castle’s cultural and tourism impact on the region.

SHIGA — Nagahama Castle

Maibara City, Shiga Prefecture, to Host a Series of History Lectures Related to “Toyotomi Brothers!” with Experts Discussing Associated Castles like Nagahama Castle

滋賀県米原市で「豊臣兄弟！」ちなんだ連続歴史講座 専門家が長浜城など関連する城郭を語る

Summary: The Maibara City Board of Education in Shiga Prefecture will host a four-part history lecture series starting in June, inspired by the NHK Taiga drama “Toyotomi Brothers!”. Experts will discuss castles related to Toyotomi Hideyoshi and his brother Hidenaga, including Nagahama Castle.

SHIGA — Azuchi Castle

Azuchi Castle: Reflections on Nobunaga’s Innovation and Ongoing Excavation for Environmental Improvement

大自在（５月２６日）安土城跡 - 静岡新聞

Summary: An essay reflects on Azuchi Castle, imagining its former grandeur and the immense power of Oda Nobunaga, its builder. It notes that this innovative castle did not appear suddenly but was influenced by nearby castle structures. Additionally, this year’s budget has been approved for environmental improvement projects, including excavation work at the castle’s Tenshudai (keep base) area.

WAKAYAMA — Wakayama Castle

Castle Stroll: A Journey Through History (8) Wakayama Castle, Built by Hidenaga and Becoming a Tokugawa Gosanke Castle, by Castle Writer Sachiko Hagiwara

(お城さんぽ。～歴史を巡る旅=8)和歌山城 秀長が築き、徳川御三家の城に 城郭ライター 萩原さちこ

Summary: Wakayama Castle is featured in a historical travel series, detailing its construction by Toyotomi Hidenaga and its subsequent role as a castle for one of the Tokugawa Gosanke families. The article also mentions the restored Gomon Bridge.

WAKAYAMA — Shingu Castle

Shingu Castle’s Main Approach Restoration and Publicization of Newly Designated Areas

新宮城跡「大手道」を復元 追加指定区域を公有化へ、市長が方針示す、和歌山 - Yahoo!ニュース

Summary: The mayor of Shingu City, Wakayama Prefecture, has announced a policy to restore the “Otedo” (main approach) of Shingu Castle and to publicize newly designated areas of the national historic site. Shingu Castle is a modern castle located on the south bank of the Kumano River estuary, with construction beginning after the Battle of Sekigahara by Asano Yoshinaga, and later becoming a castle of the Kishu Tokugawa family under Tokugawa Yorinobu.

🏯 CHUGOKU

TOTTORI — Yonago Castle

Yonago Castle’s Unique Stones Featured in ‘Omoroishi’ Panel Exhibition

米子城跡の奇岩、写真で紹介 コンベンションセンター オモロ石パネル展 - 日本海新聞 NetNihonkai

Summary: A panel exhibition titled “Yonago Castle Omoroishi Panel Exhibition” is being held at the convention center, showcasing photographs of unique rocks from Yonago Castle, including the “Taiishi” (sea bream stone) found within the stone walls of the keep base. The exhibition highlights the rich variety of stones, from natural Sengoku period rocks to processed stones from the early modern castle era, which are highly regarded by castle fans and historians.

🏯 SHIKOKU

KAGAWA — Marugame Castle

Special Exhibition “Sanuki People’s Kitchen” to be Held in Kagawa Prefecture, Featuring Marugame Castle Excavation Survey

企画展「讃岐人の台所」を開催します。 - 香川県

Summary: Kagawa Prefecture will host a special exhibition titled “Sanuki People’s Kitchen: The History of Kagawa’s Kitchens from an Archaeological Perspective.” Additionally, a themed exhibition will showcase the results of the excavation survey at Marugame Castle (Otemachi District).

🏯 KYUSHU OKINAWA

FUKUOKA — Fukuoka Castle

Excavation Survey at Fukuoka Castle’s Keep Base: City Aims to Restore and Preserve for Future Generations

「福岡城の姿を復元して後世まで継承していきたい」国史跡・福岡城跡「天守台」で発掘調査

Summary: Fukuoka City is expanding its excavation survey of the Fukuoka Castle keep base, a national historic site. Starting from May 29th, this year’s survey will cover an additional 100 square meters inside the keep base, in addition to the ongoing excavation of the outer 60 square meters. The site was opened to the public before the commencement of this year’s excavation, with the city aiming to restore and preserve the appearance of Fukuoka Castle for future generations.

OKINAWA — Zakimi Castle

Jissei Omine’s Pursuit of “Beauty”: Pottery Exhibition in Yomitan Until the 21st of Next Month

大嶺實清さん 追求した「美」 読谷で陶芸企画展 来月２１日まで - 琉球新報

Summary: A special exhibition titled “Jissei Omine’s Works of Formative Art” featuring potter Jissei Omine (92) from Nago City, is being held at the Zakimi Castle Yuntanza Museum, a World Heritage site in Yomitan Village, until the 21st of next month.

OKINAWA — Nakagusuku Castle

Off-Grid Accommodation Project and Inter-Village Partnership at Nakagusuku Castle, Okinawa

INNFRAが沖縄の世界遺産でオフグリッド宿泊実証、新リゾート市場創出へ | ニュース 2026年 5月

Summary: INNFRA is conducting a demonstration project for off-grid accommodation at Nakagusuku Castle, a World Heritage site in Okinawa, aiming to create a new resort market. The accommodation offers views of Nakagusuku Castle and includes a deck space with a pool and shower. Separately, Nakagusuku Village and Kitanakagusuku Village signed a comprehensive partnership agreement at the castle, with mayors expressing hopes for mutual enjoyment and steady progress in their collaboration.

OKINAWA — Katsuren Castle

Experiencing the “Tradition and Future” of Tourism: Okinawa Christian University Students Explore Ways to Convey Okinawa’s Charm at Katsuren Castle

観光の「伝統と未来」体感 キリスト教学院大観光文化学科１年 沖縄の魅力伝える方法探る 勝連 ...

Summary: Roof tiles, a rare discovery for Gusuku castles in Okinawa, have been found at the second bailey of Katsuren Castle. Associate Professor Jun Abe of Okinawa Christian University’s Department of Tourism and Culture explained the significance of the find to first-year students, who are exploring ways to convey Okinawa’s charm.

Jcastle Intelligence Desk is a curated digest of castle related news. Paid Subscriptions offer a premium perk to those who help support the infrastructure costs of hosting Jcastle.info.

📬 Submissions & Tips: Spot an excavation briefing (現地説明会) or key regional news we missed? Drop it in the comments and we’ll add it to the next newsletter or send out an alert for an upcoming event.

⚖️ Disclaimer: Summaries are synthesized from regional Japanese press releases and wire reports. Original article copyrights belong to their respective publishers. Some links may expire or be hidden behind paywalls after the digest is created. Articles are gathered, synthesized, and translated with automated scripts and tools. I review each digest before publishing but errors may be missed.

🏯 Explore More: The Guide to Japanese Castles