Usuki Castle Town
Stroll through Usuki Castle Town and experience its rich history
Usuki Castle Town is a delightful area for walking while soaking in its historical and cultural atmosphere. The area is home to numerous historical sites.
The Usuki Castle ruins were once the site of a castle built by Sengoku-period warlord Otomo Sorin. The castle's stone walls are engraved with alphabet-like characters. Otomo Sorin, known as a Christian, included a chapel within the castle grounds, and it is said that a training site for Christians existed below the castle. Today, the castle has been dismantled, and the area has been transformed into Usuki Park, a popular relaxation spot for locals and a famous cherry blossom site in spring.
The Nioza Historic Path is a favorite spot for strolling and experiencing Usuki’s history. This narrow path is lined with numerous samurai residences, preserving the strong essence of the old castle town. This area is one of Usuki’s most iconic landscapes and has been selected as one of Japan’s 100 Urban Scenic Spots. Among these, the "Inaba Family Lower Residence" stands out as a noteworthy site. This samurai residence offers a glimpse into the lives of people from the past, featuring characteristic gates, entrances, large rooms, storehouses, and earthen walls.
Immerse yourself in the ambiance of this former castle town and enjoy its timeless charm.
* Please note that the text shown on this page includes machine translations.
Category
Notable Spots in the Area Around Usuki Castle Town
- Nioza Historic Road
- A popular walking spot that strongly retains the atmosphere of a castle town, with many samurai residences lining narrow alleys. Notable among these is the Inaba Family Lower Residence, where well-preserved buildings offer a glimpse into the lives of people from the past. Highlights include the distinctive gates and entrances of samurai residences, spacious rooms, storehouses, and earthen walls, providing plenty to see.
- Usuki Castle Ruins
- A castle built during the Sengoku period by the warlord Otomo Sorin, known for being a Christian. The castle once included a place of worship, and the town below reportedly housed a Christian training center. While the castle has since been dismantled, the area now serves as Usuki Park, a beloved spot for locals. In spring, the park becomes a famous destination for viewing cherry blossoms in full bloom.
- Usuki Samurai Residences
- The residential area surrounding Usuki Castle, the feudal lord's stronghold, features remnants of samurai residences, some of which are still preserved. Visitors can admire the architectural style characteristic of traditional Japanese homes, including stone-paved paths and white-walled estates. Walking through this area offers a chance to experience the culture and way of life of the past, with the beautifully maintained gardens being a particular highlight.
Basic Information
- Address (Japanese)
- 大分県臼杵市二王座、臼杵
- Address
- Nioza, Usuki, Usuki City, Oita
- Telephone Number
- 0972-64-7130（Usuki City Tourism Association）
- Car Park
- Municipal parking available (paid)
- Access
- [By car]
Approximately 10 minutes from Usuki IC on the Oita Expressway
[By train]
Approximately 15–17 minutes on foot from JR Usuki Station - Website
＊Information on facilities is subject to change. Please check each official website for the latest information.
