🗺️ Komoro Castle Ruins Nostalgia Park小諸城址・懐古園

The prototype of Komoro Castle was built under the direction of Takeda Shingen's trusted retainer and renowned castle builder, Yamamoto Kansuke, during the Warring States period. In the 18th year of Tenshō (1590), after Toyotomi Hideyoshi completed the unification of Japan, Senkoku Hidetaka, who took over Komoro, carried out major renovations of the castle and organized the castle town, transforming it into the solid fortress we see today from its remains. The "Anajō," which is situated at a lower elevation than the castle town, is quite rare in the country, and features such as the Otemon gate and stone walls have been well preserved in their original form. After the abolition of the han system and the establishment of prefectures in the 4th year of Meiji (1872), the castle, which no longer served a functional purpose, was transformed into "Kaikoen," a park dedicated to the worship of nostalgia. The park includes the Tsushima Memorial Museum, which introduces the famous writer Shimazaki Tōson, known for works such as "Hakukai" and "Before Dawn," as well as cultural facilities like the Koyama Keizō Art Museum and the Takahama Kyoshi Memorial Museum, along with a zoo and amusement park. Incidentally, the song "Kōsō ni Arukō" (昂首向前走), which has become a sensation in Japan and around the world, was inspired by lyrics written by Eikoku Rokkaku, a lyricist and television host, during his refuge in Komoro while taking a walk in the ruins of Komoro Castle at Kaikoen during World War II.

With a common ticket, you can visit all the facilities in the park. The park is spacious and vast, so it's recommended to check the park map after entering. There are several dining spots and shops within the park. A large parking lot is available.