Marugame Castle (丸亀城)

Flow of the course

About this spot

One of Japan's twelve existing castle keeps, this is a castle renowned for its stone walls. The stone walls stacked in four tiers from the inner moat to the castle keep boast one of the highest total heights in Japan. The curve—gentle at the base and becoming increasingly vertical toward the top—is praised as the "fan's gradient." The Mikaeri Slope leading from the main gate to the castle keep is such a steep incline that you cannot help but want to turn back; yet upon reaching the Third Bailey, you are rewarded with a view spanning the city of Marugame, the Seto Inland Sea, and the beautifully conical Sanuki Fuji (Mt. Iino) (讃岐富士). Despite its modest size, the elegant wooden castle keep retains the original features of its steep interior staircases and thick beams, allowing you to fully experience the wonder of historical sightseeing.

Tips

The municipal parking lot near the main gate is convenient. The Mikaeri Slope is quite steep, so comfortable walking shoes are essential. The interior staircases of the castle keep are very steep, so use the handrail and descend slowly. The stone walls are most impressive when viewed from below at an upward angle.

Best time to visit

Approximately 2 hours. In the afternoon, the Seto Inland Sea side is brightly lit, offering pleasant views from the castle keep.

Access & map

〒763-0025 Kagawa Prefecture, Marugame City, Ichiban-chō