A historical journey exploring Takeda Castle, associated with Toyotomi Hide-naga, is trending due to the NHK historical drama 'Toyotomi Brothers!'

Takeda Castle, where Toyotomi Hidenaga first served as the overall commander.

In the 5th year of Tenshō (1577), Kinoshita Koichiro (later Toyotomi Hidetaka), under the command of Toyotomi Hideyoshi, served as the commander-in-chief for the siege of Takeda Castle in the campaign to pacify Tajima. This is considered Hidetaka's first major military command and became an important battle that led to his later achievements as a renowned general.

After the conquest of Takeda Castle, Hide-naga took on the role of castle governor and established a foundation for governance in Tajima. The grand stone walls that remain today were completed by later lords, including Akamatsu Hirohide, but they convey the history of Hide-naga's insight into the importance of this location, which elevated it to the forefront of the Sengoku period.

Walking while imagining the bond between brothers and the growth of Hidenaga as depicted in the drama, the scenery of the Takeda Castle ruins will show a different expression.

Recommended for fans of "Toyotomi Brothers!"
Pilgrimage sites

Takeda Castle Ruins

The ruins of the ancient castle, located at an elevation of about 353 meters, are known as one of Japan's premier mountain castles. Although the main keep does not exist, the beautifully preserved stone walls, which boast one of the largest scales in the country, allow visitors to imagine the strategies and movements of soldiers during the time of Hidenaga's conquest.

Within the castle, please feel the atmosphere of the Sengoku period as you explore areas such as the main keep, the South Chijō, and the second bailey.

Rikuyun Gorge

This is a popular viewpoint where you can see the ruins of Takeda Castle from the front. In the early mornings from autumn to early winter, a sea of clouds spreads out, allowing you to see the fantastical scenery of the 'castle in the sky'.

Although it may not be recorded as a historical fact, the view from this high point, imagined as Hidechika gazing at Takeda Castle and contemplating its capture, is a unique pleasure for history fans.

Ikuno Silver Mine

The Ikuno Silver Mine, located about 30 minutes by car from Takeda Castle, flourished as one of Japan's leading mines and was an important entity that supported the economic foundation of the Toyotomi regime since the Sengoku period.

While visiting the tunnel, you can touch upon the history that supported the unification of the nation not only from a military perspective but also from an economic one. By visiting Takeda Castle along with it, you will be able to feel the era of the Toyotomi brothers in a more three-dimensional way.

A base for historical travel
"Takeda Castle Town Hotel EN"

If you want to leisurely explore the ruins of Takeda Castle, I recommend the 'Takeda Castle Town Hotel EN' located in the castle town.

The hotel is located within walking distance from JR Takeda Station and has good access to the ruins of Takeda Castle. During the sea of clouds season, it is easy to ascend the castle early in the morning, allowing you to enjoy the fantastical scenery unique to Takeda in the morning.

In a charming space that makes use of a traditional townhouse in a historic castle town, you can also enjoy a relaxing time after a stroll. Please enjoy a special day reflecting on the romanticism of the Sengoku period, along with dishes made from seasonal ingredients from the local Tajima region.

If you were moved by Hidenaga's activities in the historical drama 'Toyotomi Brothers!', why not visit the ruins of Takeda Castle and experience its history firsthand? You are sure to encounter the charm of the Sengoku period that the drama cannot fully depict.