Ishigakiyama Ichiya Castle: Experience Toyotomi Hideyoshi’s Strategic Mind and Overwhelming Resources

1. Basic Data for Your Visit

2. [Field Report] Capture Points & Dad’s Insights

[Experience Hideyoshi’s Perspective]

The greatest highlight of this castle is seeing the world through Hideyoshi’s eyes. While the modern landscape is filled with buildings and trees, making it difficult to spot Odawara Castle (I’ve circled it in red in the image below—try zooming in!), the strategic advantage is undeniable.

The moment I finally caught sight of Odawara Castle, I felt a chill imagining the despair the Hojo clan must have felt, being watched from here every single day. Hideyoshi built this full stone-walled fortress in just 80 days using massive mobilization, effectively crushing the enemy’s will to fight. Looking up from Odawara and looking down from Ichiya Castle—experiencing both perspectives reveals that the Siege of Odawara wasn’t just about troop numbers, but a clash of information resolution and psychological warfare.

[The Passion of the Era Dwelling in the Stone Walls]

Though no buildings remain, the rugged “Nozura-zumi” (unprocessed stone stacking) walls still radiate the power of the past. Looking at the massive boulders, I couldn’t help but wonder if these were the very stones brought here 400 years ago under Hideyoshi’s command. As the first castle in the Kanto region built entirely with stone walls, Hideyoshi’s strategy of “showing off” his power is embedded in every single rock.

3. Family & Kids Guide

• Keigo’s (8) Reaction: After a long day of “castle sieges,” he was getting a bit tired, but a visit to “Yoroizuka Farm” immediately refreshed him. Rather than history, he was more interested in the swing set overlooking the ocean.

• Dad’s Pro-Tip (The Exit Strategy): The tourist bus is convenient for the return trip, but check the timetable! The last bus is around 3:30 PM, so don’t get too relaxed or you’ll be stranded. The volunteer guides on the bus often provide commentary, turning travel time into a learning experience.

4. Castle Touring Companions (Lunch & Souvenirs)

• Food: We had soft-serve ice cream at Yoroizuka Farm. Keigo and I went for the classic “Milk,” while my wife chose “Pudding.” Enjoying sweets while gazing at the ocean during the Golden Week holidays was truly special.
• Souvenirs: I bought a lovely Mother’s Day gift at Yoroizuka Farm. Including the ice cream, the total was under 10,000 yen—a very satisfying purchase!

5. Recommended Nearby Spots

• Must-Visit Pair: Odawara Castle. This is the target for your “siege.” If you first experience the Hojo clan’s love for their people at Odawara Castle, the shock of Hideyoshi’s new organizational model of “separation of warriors and farmers” (Heino-bunri) will feel even more profound.