Nihonmatsu Castle
Nihonmatsu Castle is one of the 100 Fine Castles of Japan.
Strategically located on a major trading route the Castle has a long history of battles.
Built originally in the 1500's, replacing a fortification established in the 1300's, the site of the original Castle was right on top of a hill, pretty much out of sight from most sides.
It was abandoned in the mid 1600's and rebuilt at the base of the hill. In the 1860's Boshin War it was the site of the Battle of Nihonmatsu. Then in 1872 it was demolished and the area turned into a park.
All that remains of the original castle are the impressive walled earthworks. Climbing to the top offers spectacular views of Mt Adatara, the volcano that looks down over the city, and it's also one of the places people go to see the first sunrise of the year, something you should do if you want a good year!
In 1982 repairs were made to the walls and a gatehouse and turret built.
These now form the entry from the carpark and once you're inside there's a large flat field, a pond and the start of several paths that will all eventually take you to the castle remnants at the top.
The slopes around the castle are covered with trees that fill the hills with blossom in the Spring while in Autumn the leaves turn all shades of yellow through to red.
At these times at night the paths are lit up with lanterns, there are stalls selling food and drinks, and lots of people strolling around soaking it all in.
Once a year, in October, the Castle hosts the Chrysanthemum Festival, featuring not only huge chrysanthemum bushes, but also life-size figurines with garments made from the flowers.
At the main entrance to the castle is a group of statues depicting the Nihonmatsu Boys who fought and died in defence of the castle during the Boshin War.