Gujo Hachiman Castle

Gujo Hachiman Castle, located in the city of Gujo in Gifu Prefecture, Japan, is a historically significant and visually striking structure. Gujo Hachiman Castle was originally built in 1559 by Endo Morikazu, a samurai lord of the Sengoku period.

The castle was strategically located on Mount Hachiman to control the surrounding area and provide a strong defensive position. Despite this, the castle was centre stage for a significant conflict in the early 1600s, as neighbouring clans attempted to besiege it.

The original structure was dismantled in 1871 during the Meiji Restoration. The current reconstruction, completed in 1933, was one of the earliest examples of modern rebuilding of traditional Japanese castles. The castle structure was further refurbished in early the near 2020’s, to bring the old structure up to modern building safety standards. Unlike most reconstructions of Japanese castles, the Gujo Hachiman Castle was rebuilt using wood instead of concrete, as is commonly seen today.

One of the castle’s most notable attractions is the panoramic views offered from this mountaintop stronghold, which include views of the town, the river, and the surrounding mountain range.

Hours and Admission

Hours: 8:00am - 6:00pm (June to August)
Hours: 9:00am - 5:00pm (March to May and September & October)
Hours: 9:00am - 4:30pm (November to February)
400JPY
Average Time Spent: 20-30 minutes
Official Website

Accessing Gujo Hachiman Castle

Guji Hachiman Castle is located on a hill-top in the centre of Gujo Town.

It is recommended for those driving taking advantage of the free parking lot at the castle grounds. It should be noted however that the road to the castle is very narrow and windy. As such, only experienced drivers should attempt to drive up the hill. Larger vehicles such as mini-vans may not be able to get up the hill. There is another free carpark at Shiroyama Park, and about a 10 minute walk from the carpark to the castle.

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