🗺️ Shiroishi Castle白石城

Shiroishi Castle, located in Miyagi Prefecture, completed the restoration of its wooden tenshu (keep) in 1995. It is generally believed that the original Shiroishi Castle existed during the late Sengoku period, but due to a lack of historical materials, the construction date and builder cannot be determined. According to records, during the Edo period, it served as the residence of the Katakura clan, a vassal of the Date clan, and remained until the Meiji period. However, following the surrender in the Boshin War, Shiroishi Castle was handed over to the new government forces and was demolished in the 7th year of Meiji (1874). The restored tenshu perfectly recreates a simple yet majestic aesthetic. The top floor, the third level, also serves as a lookout tower, offering excellent views of the natural scenery of Shiroishi. Visitors can pay to wear samurai armor and take commemorative photos inside the castle (reservation required), which is popular not only among Japanese tourists but also attracts many foreign visitors. The castle also features a history museum that displays a one-fifth scale three-dimensional model of Shiroishi Castle and the surrounding castle town.

A rare wooden reconstructed tenshu in Japan. The view from the highest level of the tenshu is excellent. It is the only castle in Japan where you can wear samurai armor and take photos inside the castle (reservation required). It is recommended to also visit the Historical Exploration Museum nearby.