Shibata Castle
Shibata Castle is a historic site located in Shibata City, Niigata Prefecture. It was built in 1598 by Hidekatsu Mizoguchi, the first lord of the Shibata Domain.
The castle is a flatland structure utilizing the Kajikawa River as an outer moat on its northern side. Its layout features a central honmaru (main enclosure) surrounded by the furumaru (old enclosure) to the north and the ninomaru (second enclosure) to the south, with a sannomaru (third enclosure) further south.
Unlike castles primarily designed for warfare, Shibata Castle was built to promote regional economic development. During the Edo period, it served as the administrative center of the Shibata Domain.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Year Built | 1598 |
| Founder | Hidekatsu Mizoguchi |
| Other Names | Ayame Castle Funagata Castle |
| Cultural Designations | National Important Cultural Property National Scenic Spot One of Japan’s Top 100 Castles |
| Tenshu (Main Tower) | Exists but not open to the public |
| Admission Fee | Free |
| Opening Hours | April to October: 9:00 am AM ~ 5:00 am PM November: 9:00 am AM ~ 4:30 am PM |
| Closed | Closed during winter (December to March) |
| Nearest Station | JR Hakushin Line/Uetsu Main Line Shibata Station (25 - minute walk) Taxis are available at the station (Distance: approx. 2.9 km, Travel Time: approx. 8 minutes, Fare: about 1,200 yen) |
| Parking | Free parking available (Details provided at the end of this article) |
| Location | 6 - 4-80 Otemachi, Shibata City, Niigata Prefecture, 957 - 0052 |
The Rational Elegance of Namako Walls
Shibata Castle’s most distinctive feature is its namako walls, adorning the turrets and the main gate.
Namako walls are constructed by arranging flat tiles and filling the gaps with plaster in a semi-cylindrical shape, resembling sea cucumbers (namako) and giving the wall its name. This traditional Japanese technique is often seen on storehouses and some castles, particularly in the Hokuriku region.
The black and white contrast of the namako walls at Shibata Castle creates an exquisite geometric pattern. The combination of the square tiles and semi-cylindrical plaster produces a striking visual effect.
The use of namako walls on the castle’s gates and turrets not only enhances their aesthetic appeal but also provides practical benefits like bullet resistance, waterproofing, and fire resistance. This ingenious blend of beauty and functionality demonstrates a highly efficient construction method.
The namako walls on Shibata Castle are limited to about human height, likely to enhance water resistance in the snowy Hokuriku region. Other castles featuring namako walls, such as Kanazawa Castle in Ishikawa Prefecture, Matsumoto Castle in Nagano Prefecture, and Goryokaku in Hokkaido, are also located in snowy areas.
Renowned for their beauty, the namako walls of Shibata Castle’s old ninomaru corner turret are designated as a Registered Tangible Cultural Property of Japan.
When visiting Shibata Castle, be sure to take a close look at these walls—a highlight of the site.
Seasonal Charm: Spring, Summer, and Autumn
Shibata Castle is closed to visitors from December to March due to safety concerns related to snow and snow removal.
During the accessible seasons, the castle offers a variety of landscapes in spring, summer, and autumn, allowing visitors to appreciate its beauty throughout the year.
In spring, the contrast between the cherry blossoms and the white walls of Shibata Castle creates a vibrant and warm atmosphere. The best time to view the cherry blossoms is from early to mid-April.
In summer, the lush greenery and vibrant blue sky provide a striking contrast with the castle’s white walls, creating a dynamic and refreshing view.
In autumn, the castle is surrounded by the tranquil hues of colorful autumn leaves, offering a serene and contemplative experience.
A Glimpse of the Modern Self-Defense Force
Today, Shibata Castle shares its grounds with the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force’s Shibata Garrison. From the castle’s turrets, you can view the military base, a unique sight in Japan.
This unusual combination of historical and modern elements gives visitors the opportunity to see a rare juxtaposition of a historic castle and a military base.
Fans of the famous Japanese sci-fi novel “Samurai Self-Defense Force,” which features a time-traveling military unit, may find Shibata Castle reminiscent of the novel’s setting.
The Main Gate
The main gate, located on the south side of the honmaru, is a turreted gate designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan.
This grand entrance served as the formal gateway to the castle, welcoming the lord and important guests with its dignified presence.
Adorned with the namako walls mentioned earlier, the geometric patterns created by the combination of black and white stones add to the gate’s beauty.
Reconstructed in 1732, the current gate features robust wooden textures and intricate carvings that showcase the craftsmanship of the era.
The main gate is two stories tall and can be explored from the inside.
On the second floor of the gate, exhibits detail the restoration efforts of the three-story turret and Tatsumi turret.
Passing through the main gate offers a sense of stepping back in time to the Edo period. Visitors are greeted by a statue of Hidekatsu Mizoguchi, the first lord of Shibata Domain.
The Old Ninomaru Corner Turret
Located on the southwest corner of the ninomaru, this two-story turret, built in 1598, retains its original form and is designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan.
The turret features namako walls, which required precise craftsmanship to construct.
Visitors can enter the turret and experience its sturdy structure, which has withstood the test of time for over 400 years.
While minimal exhibits are displayed inside, the turret’s atmosphere provides a tangible sense of history.
Tatsumi Turret
The Tatsumi turret, situated on the southeast corner of the honmaru, is a two-story structure reconstructed in 2004 using traditional methods. It has been designated an Important Cultural Property of Japan.
This faithful reconstruction highlights the high standards of modern architectural techniques, offering a contrast to the 400-year-old ninomaru corner turret.
Inside, various exhibits provide insights into the castle’s historical context.
The Three-Story Turret
The three-story turret, located at the center of the honmaru, is effectively the castle’s tenshu (main tower). It was reconstructed in 2004 and is designated an Important Cultural Property of Japan.
While the turret is inaccessible to the public as it is within the Self-Defense Force base, the closest view can be obtained by walking along the path from the Shibata Castle Park parking lot.
Free Parking
Visitors traveling by car can park for free at either the “Shibata Castle Park Parking Lot” or the “Aines Shibata Parking Lot.”
To get the best view of the three-story turret, the Shibata Castle Park Parking Lot is recommended for convenience.
Shibata Castle Park Parking Lot 6-4-80 Otemachi, Shibata City, Niigata Prefecture, 957-0052
Aines Shibata Parking Lot 4-5 Otemachi, Shibata City, Niigata Prefecture, 957-0052
Please refrain from parking in the small lot to the east of the main gate, as it is reserved for visitors with disabilities under Niigata Prefecture’s policy.
A Living Monument of 400 Years
Shibata Castle stands as a proud witness to over 400 years of history. Its enduring elegance captivates visitors and showcases the craftsmanship of bygone eras.
Each season brings unique charm to the castle grounds, with cherry blossoms in spring, verdant greens in summer, autumn leaves, and the serene beauty of a snow-covered landscape in winter.
The intricate details of the castle’s turrets and gates reflect the traditional artistry of Japan, leaving a lasting impression on all who visit.
Shibata Castle is more than a historic structure; it is a testament to Japan’s rich culture and history. Its timeless beauty continues to inspire, making it a must-visit destination in Niigata.
