Marugame Castle Guide: Exploring Japan’s Tallest Stone Walls | Family Trip to Kagawa & Shikoku Hidden Gem

1. Basic Data Before Your Visit

2. [Local Report] Capture Points & Father’s Insights

[Japan’s Highest Stone Walls: The Steep Slope of Mikaeri-zaka]

The hallmark of Marugame Castle is undoubtedly its stone walls, boasting a total height of approximately 60 meters—the highest in Japan. The “Mikaeri-zaka” slope leading to the Honmaru (inner bailey) is incredibly steep, putting your legs to the test with every step. The sheer pressure of these towering stone walls is something you can only truly appreciate by looking up from the base.

From a dad’s perspective, climbing is manageable with some determination, but “going down is scarier.” Your center of gravity shifts forward, and you feel the pressure on your knees with every brace. Compared to climbing Sendai Castle under the scorching summer sun where the goal felt endless, the distance here is shorter, but you must take each step carefully.

[Siege Simulation at Ote Ichino-mon! A Father-Son Defense Experience]

At the entrance of Marugame Castle, the “Ote Ichino-mon Gate” (an Important Cultural Property), we had a valuable experience. Luckily, the interior was open to the public, allowing us to see the “Ishi-otoshi” (stone-dropping chutes) structure used to target enemies directly below the gate.

We decided to try a siege simulation with Keigo. I stood below the gate while Keigo aimed from above in the stone-dropping position. Standing there, you realize how vulnerable the attackers were and how advantageous it was for the defenders. Keigo enjoyed it, saying, “I could definitely protect the castle from here!” as he channeled the spirit of an ancient samurai.

[Stone Walls vs. Keep: A Contrast of Peace and Scale]

A simple question arose: “The stone walls are so grand, so why is the castle (keep) so small?” In fact, the current keep was built during the stable early Edo period (1660). It wasn’t built for massive military power but prioritized ease of maintenance and respect toward the Shogunate—a “perfect solution for an era of peace.”

Going inside with Keigo, I realized this size is actually “just right.” While massive keeps can be exhausting just to walk through, Marugame’s keep is easy for children to climb, making it an excellent scale for families to feel close to history. The view from the top is spectacular, offering a panoramic view of the city that truly makes you feel like the Lord of the Castle.

3. Guide for Families with Children

• Keigo’s Reaction (8 years old): Initially overwhelmed by the high walls, he quickly warmed up to the gate defense roleplay and the compact keep. He was thrilled at the top, shouting, “I can see everything!”
• Dad’s Advice: Mikaeri-zaka is very steep. Please hold your child’s hand, especially on the way down, to prevent them from running. Sneakers are a must. Also, the stairs inside the keep are the original steep wooden design, so be ready to support your child during the climb.

4. Local Gourmet & Souvenirs

• Specialty: Marugame Uchiwa (Fans) You’ll see many in the castle gift shop. Marugame is the top producer of traditional fans in Japan, a craft with a long and proud history.
• Local Eats: You can’t visit Marugame without trying “Sanuki Udon” and “Honetsuki-dori” (Bone-in chicken). A hearty bowl of firm udon followed by the local savory chicken is the only way to truly complete your Marugame Castle adventure.

5. Recommended Nearby Spots

• Marugame City Museum: Great for diving deeper into the castle’s history and a reliable backup location for the 100 Castles stamp.
• Uchiwa-no-Minato Museum: Watch the traditional fan-making process; it’s a great educational stop for kids.
• Nakatsu Banshoen Garden: A beautiful daimyo garden associated with the Kyogoku clan, offering a different look at samurai culture.