Maruoka Castle was built in 1576 by Katsutoyo Shibata. He is a nephew of famous feudal warlord Katsuie. The castle tower is said to be the oldest existing castle tower in Japan. The roof is covered with approximately 6,000 stone tiles made of shakudani stone.
The castle was selected as one of the 100 best cherry blossom viewing spots in Japan, and the Someiyoshino cherry trees are beautiful. It is also known as “Kasumiga-jo” (castle in a haze), which is said to come from the fact that when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom, the castle appears to be floating in a haze.
Also Maruoka, where the castle is located, holds the “Shortest Letter in Japan” contest, which attracts attention from all over the country.
