Shirakawa Castle (Komine Castle) was heavily damaged during the Boshin War (also known as the Meiji Restoration), and was restored in the 1990s.
Komine Castle's restoration marked the first time in over 120 years that a restoration had been attempted on a triple turret (yagura) structure. Blueprints from the late Edo Period were used as references for the repair of this structure.
As a result of using these blueprints, it was possible to restore the castle almost exclusively using wood construction techniques. This amazing architecture, along with the extraordinary techniques used to make the stone wall around the castle, make this castle extremely special. There is also an exhibition hall on site.
| Website | http://shirakawa315.com/eng/shirakawa_komine_castle.html |
|---|---|
| Contact |
Shirakawa Tourism and Local Products Association shirakawakankou@shirakawa-22-1147.jp |
| Best Season | All Year |
| Opening Hours |
Entry into the castle is possible during the hours below. Apr. to Oct.: 9:30 AM - 5:00 PM | Nov. to Mar.: 9:30 AM - 4:00 PM Closed between Dec. 29 and Jan. 3 Closed between Dec. 29 and Jan. 3 |
| Parking | Available |
| Entrance Fee | Free |
| Access | Kakunai, Shirakawa, Fukushima 961-0074 View directions |
|---|---|
| Getting there | By Car: 10 min from Shirakawa Chuo Smart Exit (ETC only), or 15 min from Shirakawa I.C. exit on the Tohoku Expressway. By Train: 5 min walk from Shirakawa Station on the JR Tohoku Main Line; 10 min by taxi from Shin-Shirakawa Station (JR Tohoku Shinkansen) |
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