Nakatsu Castle — Attraction in Nakatsu

Perched gracefully beside the Oita countryside, Nakatsu Castle is a charming and modest samurai-era fortress steeped in history.

First Impressions: The castle stands on a small hill next to a picturesque moat, surrounded by lush greenery—a perfect backdrop for calming strolls and reflective moments. It’s compact yet well-preserved, evoking a clear sense of Japan’s feudal past.

Architecture & History: Built in the early 17th century by the Ogasawara clan, Nakatsu Castle is one of just a few surviving original wooden castles in Japan. Its elegant main keep (tenshu) rises three stories high, offering a quaint look into Edo-period design.

Inside the Castle: The small museum inside provides fascinating insights into the castle’s legacy—displaying samurai armor, weapons, and historical documents. Though the exhibits are primarily in Japanese, foreign language pamphlets make it easy for visitors to grasp their significance.

The View: Climbing to the top floor rewards you with a pleasant view of Nakatsu City, the serene moat, and surrounding forests. It’s a peaceful panorama that truly feels like a step back in time.

Visitor Experience: The setting is laid-back, with few tourists, allowing for an intimate exploration. You can easily walk or cycle around the moat, enjoying both historical architecture and nature. Benches and shaded areas are scattered around—ideal for a quiet moment with a book or snack.

Accessibility & Amenities: • Access: A short, scenic 15-minute walk from Nakatsu Station. • Facilities: Restrooms and a small souvenir shop on site; cafés and convenience stores are close by. • Fee: Very reasonable entrance fees, with discounts for children...

There is free parking, but this visit is not for those who are handicapped. Otherwise,, it is worth the time and effort to see it. The admission is very reasonable. The way the castle is made is totally different than European castles and is more akin to a guard tower than anything else.

If you go, be sure to go behind the stairs of every level. There are hidden things hard to see on nearly...

大分県中津市にある中津城は、黒田官兵衛によって築城が始められ、細川忠興によって完成された名城です。海に面して建てられたため、別名「扇城」や「水城」とも呼ばれています。現在の天守は昭和39年に再建されたもので、内部は奥平家や中津の歴史に関する資料館となっています。最上階からは中津市街地や周防灘を一望でき、城の歴史を感じながら美しい景色を楽しめます。城の周辺は福澤諭吉旧居や記念館もあり、歴史散策にも最適なエリアです。豊かな歴史と文化に触れることができる中津城で、特別な時間をお過ごしください。

Nakatsu Castle, located in Nakatsu City, Oita Prefecture, is a famous castle whose construction was started by Kuroda Kanbei and completed by Hosokawa Tadaoki. Built facing the sea, it is also known as "Ogijo" (Fan Castle) or "Mizushiro" (Water Castle). The current keep, reconstructed in 1964, houses a museum dedicated to the history of the Okudaira family and Nakatsu. From the top floor, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the Nakatsu city area and the Suo Sea, appreciating the castle's history alongside the beautiful scenery. The area around the castle is also perfect for historical walks, with the former residence and museum of Yukichi Fukuzawa nearby. Please spend a special time at Nakatsu Castle, where you can experience rich history...