Takayama Castle Ruins

Designated as a historical site by the prefecture, the Takayama Castle ruins are a significant part of the Hida region's history. This castle once served as the residence of the Kanamori clan, who ruled over Hida. Built on Castle Mountain at an elevation of 686.6 meters, the ruins still preserve remnants like enclosures, moats, and earthworks.

Unfortunately, the castle was demolished in 1695 by the Kaga Clan when Hida became a "Tenryō" (territory directly controlled by the shogunate). Those who are curious about what the castle might have looked like can visit the "Hida Takayama Town Museum" where a restored model of the castle is displayed. According to the model, the castle had a palace-like, non-militaristic style, featuring a two-tiered, three-story watchtower.

Had it still existed, it goes without saying that the castle would have been included in the list of Japan's 100 most famous castles. It would have undoubtedly served as a symbolic presence not just for Takayama City but for the entire Hida region. Had the castle been restored, its majestic form would have been visible from various points in Takayama's Soramachi area, providing an even more comforting retreat for residents.

In this way, the Takayama Castle ruins are not just historical relics but sites teeming with untold possibilities and impacts on the community. They are places where we can contemplate both the lost history and the potential futures that might have been.