Maruoka Castle, Fukui Prefecture’s Understated Fortress

By Kenneth Valencich / The Japan News

11:58 JST, July 16, 2025

Maruoka Castle in Sakai, Fukui Prefecture, is one of only 12 castles in Japan to retain the original structure of its main keep.

The castle grounds are compact, and the donjon has only minimal decoration.

This is the only Japanese castle with stone roof tiles. Even the shachihoko lion-headed fish decorations are carved stone.

The cherry blossoms are beautiful in spring, but the castle is appealing in all seasons. Depending on when you go, you can see camellia flowers, lush greenery or fluffy snow.