Spectacular Castle Mountain Stroll with the Mighty "Thousand-Man Killer" Stone Wall
About this spot
The ruins of the Nobeoka domain's castle, now developed as Shiroyama Park, with the main attraction being the massive 19-meter-tall stone wall known as the "Thousand-Man Killer" (千人殺し). According to legend, removing a single cornerstone would cause the entire wall to collapse and topple a thousand enemies at once—a bold tale that inspired its name. Viewed from directly below, the way it towers and cuts across the sky is awe-inspiring. The walking paths stretching from the second citadel to the main keep are cradled in greenery, and from the highland you can see all the way to Nobeoka city and the Hyuga-nada Sea. At the bell tower on the summit, a bell keeper still rings the bell by hand at set times, and the sound of the "Shiroyama Bell" is listed among Japan's 100 Best Soundscapes—a source of pride for Nobeoka. The castle mountain stroll is an opportunity to savor both the stone wall and this celebrated bell tone.
Tips
The path to the main keep involves uphill sections and stone steps, so sturdy walking shoes are essential. Remember to stay hydrated in summer. The stone wall is most impressive when viewed from directly below, but some areas are off-limits, so follow the directional signs. The site is also known as a famous cherry blossom viewing spot.
Best time to visit
Approximately 1 hour. The soft morning light accentuates the stone wall's shadows and contours, making it an ideal time for photography.
Access & map
〒882-0813 Miyazaki Prefecture, Nobeoka City, Higashi-honshooji
Model course featuring this spot
Nobeoka: Nobeoka Castle Ruins and the Birthplace of Original Chicken Nanban - Taste and Castle Mountain Stroll
Miyazaki
Explore features & model courses
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