Maruoka Castle

Castle

Prefecture

Fukui

Type

Castle

N/A

0 reviews

Train Access

About This Destination

One of Japan's 12 original castles, Maruoka has the oldest surviving castle tower in the country.

Maruoka Castle is the only original castle keep remaining in the Hokuriku region and is widely considered the oldest surviving castle tower in Japan, dating back to 1576. The compact three-story tower sits atop a small hill and features distinctive stone-weighted roof tiles designed to withstand heavy snowfall. The castle grounds are famous for cherry blossoms in spring, with roughly 400 trees drawing visitors from across the region. The steep interior stairways give an authentic feel of feudal-era castle life. The castle is open 8:30 to 17:00 and a small museum at the base provides historical context.

Location

Prefecture: Fukui

Address: Sakai, Fukui, Japan

Nearest Station: Maruoka

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Visitor Information

Credit Cards: Unknown

Food Options: Soba noodle shops and cafes near castle grounds; Fukui-style oroshi soba recommended

Official Website

Access

Fukui, Japan

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get to Maruoka Castle?

From Fukui Station, take a Keifuku bus about 40–50 minutes to Maruoka Castle. By car it's about 15 minutes from the Maruoka IC.

What is special about Maruoka Castle?

Its compact keep is one of Japan's twelve original surviving keeps, long claimed as the oldest, with rare stone roof tiles that withstand Hokuriku winters and steep, ladder-like stairs inside.

What are the entry fee and the best season?

Admission is around ¥450 for adults and it is open roughly 8:30–17:00. In early April the surrounding park's 400 cherry trees frame the keep, the 'Kasumigajo' (mist castle) at its most beautiful.

Nearby Destinations

♨️

Awara Onsen 7.9km

More in Fukui Coast

🎯 Tojinbo Cliffs ♨️ Awara Onsen

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