Shibata Castle

What it is

• It was the administrative center of the Shibata Domain.
• Its alternative name is Ayamejo.
• It is the only castle ruin in Niigata with existing structures.
• The site is mostly a Japan Ground Self-Defense Force base.

What to see

• Part of the main keep and some turrets are still standing.
• The Honmaru Omotemon (main gate) is a cultural property.
• The former Ninomaru Sumiyagura is a cultural property.
• The castle used the Kajigawa River as an outer moat.
• The site is maintained as Shibata Castle Park.

When to go

• It is known as a cherry blossom viewing spot.

Notes written by Japan Gems from facts in Japanese Wikipedia.