🗺️ Ninjo Castle忍城址

Ninjo Castle, located in Gyoda City, Saitama Prefecture, is said to have been built in the latter half of the 15th century by the Narita clan, who ruled the area at the time. The castle was designed to take advantage of the surrounding rivers and marshlands, and despite being attacked multiple times, it was never breached, gaining a reputation that spread throughout the country. Particularly during the late Sengoku period, Ninjo Castle earned the nickname "Floating Castle" for successfully defending against the water assault from Toyotomi Hideyoshi's army, which aimed to unify the nation. Today, it frequently appears in various novels, television shows, and movies. Although many of the original structures have been lost over time, visitors can still explore the main bailey earthen ramparts, the stones used for the castle walls known as "kanchi stone," and the Kōraimon gate, among other buildings. The "Gosan-dai Yagura," a keep constructed during the Edo period, has been rebuilt and is open for interior visits. From the observation room at the top of the Gosan-dai Yagura, one can enjoy a panoramic view of the streets of Gyoda. Additionally, there is a "Ninjo Reception Team" in the vicinity of the castle, which welcomes tourists dressed as Sengoku period warriors in armor. Besides performing dances, they also take photos with visitors, and if you're lucky during a stroll around the castle, you might encounter the reception team.

A famous castle that has never been breached during times of war. From the top floor of the御三階櫓 (tenshu), one can overlook the interior scenery. The outer area of the castle has been renovated into Mizumachi Park, which is renowned as a cherry blossom viewing spot. While touring the castle, you might encounter the "Ninja Castle Reception Team" dressed in armor. Inside the castle, there is also the Gyoda City Local Museum, where you can learn about the history of Gyoda.