Japan’s first-ever opportunity to stay overnight in an authentic castle drew great attention to Ōzu Castle in Ōzu City, Ehime Prefecture. But castle stay (or Shirohaku) is not simply about spending the night in a castle. It offers an immersive Castle Stay experience, where guests can fully enjoy both the castle and the surrounding town by engaging with the historical and cultural value of these cultural properties. Following Ōzu Castle, new Castle Stay experiences have been launched at Marugame Castle in Marugame City, Kagawa Prefecture, and Fukuyama Castle in Fukuyama City, Hiroshima Prefecture, further raising interest and attention.

 

— Want to learn more about Castle Stays?

— What are the features and differences of the three castles offering Castle Stay experiences?

— How can I make an inquiry?

This article provides in-depth information on Castle Stays, including the appeal of the experience, the unique features and differences of each castle’s stay plans, frequently asked questions, and the reservation process. We invite you to read through and discover this one-of-a-kind travel experience.

 

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Contents

1. What is “Castle Stay”?
2. Learn about the castles where you can stay
3. Frequently Asked Questions about Castle Stay
4. Reservation Process
5. Experience a One-of-a-Kind Journey with Castle Stay

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What is “Castle Stay” (Shirohaku)? — Staying Overnight in a Castle

 

 

As the name suggests, Shirohaku means staying overnight in a castle. It is also called a Castle Stay. In European countries such as France, the UK, and Germany, former noble castles have long been utilized as accommodation facilities. However, in Japan until recently, castles were primarily preserved only for conservation purposes.

Against this backdrop, the Castle Stay initiative began in 2017. Since 2020, the Japan Tourism Agency has been promoting this concept as part of the “Utilization of Historical Resources through Castle and Temple Stays” project, aiming to attract inbound tourists with unique cultural experiences. Not only does Castle Stay contribute to raising the profile of the towns and revitalizing tourism, but it also helps preserve valuable cultural assets by encouraging active use rather than passive viewing, thereby passing these important resources on to future generations.

 

 

Learn About Castles Available for Stay

 

Having introduced the concept of Castle Stay, we will now introduce three castles where Castle Stay is actually offered.

 

-Ōzu Castle Castle Stay

 

①History of Ōzu Castle

 

Ōzu Castle, located in Ōzu City, Ehime Prefecture, is one of only five castles nationwide with a wooden reconstructed main keep. After the Meiji era began, most buildings within the castle grounds were demolished, and due to aging, the main keep was also dismantled. However, among wooden reconstructed main keeps, Ōzu Castle was fortunate to have many valuable historical materials preserved. Thanks to protection and donation efforts by local residents, the castle was restored over a period of about ten years and reopened in 2004.

To faithfully recreate the original construction, traditional techniques were revived. This project made a significant contribution to preserving Japan’s ancient wooden architectural culture and passing down craftsmanship skills. As a result, it received the Monozukuri Nippon Grand Award, and the techniques used were registered as UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage.

 

②Contribution to the Local Community

 

A portion of the revenue from Ōzu Castle Castle Stay is allocated to the maintenance and preservation of the cultural property. Besides supporting the upkeep and repairs of the facility, it also contributes to the preservation of local intangible cultural assets such as kagura (traditional Shinto theatrical dance) and the teppotai (gun corps). Additionally, the meals provided feature locally sourced ingredients. By involving many local community members in its operation, the Castle Stay program actively contributes to the Ōzu region.

 

③Staying at Ōzu Castle Castle Stay

 

Ōzu Castle Castle Stay is not just an ordinary overnight experience in a castle. It offers a living history experience based on historical facts, including a reenactment of the arrival of the first lord of Ōzu Castle, Sadayasu Katō, in 1617, celebratory gunfire using authentic Edo-period matchlock firearms, and moon-viewing sake drinking at the existing Kōran Yagura turret, which is an Important Cultural Property. Guests can truly experience what it was like to be a lord.

Additionally, the program offers extensive opportunities to enjoy the entire town of Ōzu. Exclusively for Castle Stay guests, breakfast is served at Garyū Sansō, a nationally designated Important Cultural Property, along with a wide range of customizable programs. Options include river rafting on the Hijikawa River, cultural heritage tours of Ōzu, and more, all tailored to guest preferences.

Enjoy a luxurious time at Japan’s first-ever Castle Stay in a wooden reconstructed main keep at Ōzu Castle.

For more details on Ōzu Castle, click here.

 

 

-Marugame Castle Castle Experience　

 

①History of Marugame Castle

 

Once a prosperous castle town, Marugame is home to Marugame Castle, which boasts over 400 years of history since its construction. It is one of the twelve remaining original castle keeps in Japan and is also listed among Japan’s Top 100 Castles. Only three castles nationwide still have both their original keep and main gate, and Marugame Castle is the only one where the taiko (drum) at the Taiko-mon gate sounds every hour throughout the year, making it a uniquely valuable castle.

The keep itself is one of the twelve surviving original wooden keeps, preserving its form since its initial construction, and has been designated a National Important Cultural Property. The Kyōgoku family, lords of Marugame Castle who governed this land for over 200 years, trace their distinguished lineage back to the Kamakura period and laid the foundation for modern-day Marugame. With its beautiful stonework and the highest stone walls in Japan, the castle is also known as the “Castle of Stone Walls.”

 

②Contribution to the Local Community

 

The Marugame Castle Castle Experience aims to contribute to cultural and regional sustainability and serve as a driving force to revitalize Marugame City. Through tourism, it enhances the appeal of Marugame’s historical resources and helps ensure the sustainable inheritance of its history and culture for future generations. Therefore, as much as possible, local products are used and local people are involved in the operation, thereby contributing to the local economy.

 

③Staying at Marugame Castle Castle Experience

 

Castle Experience offers a one-of-a-kind immersive journey that transcends time, set against the backdrop of Marugame Castle and other valuable cultural assets. This luxurious accommodation plan allows guests to fully enjoy Marugame Castle, which features one of Japan’s twelve remaining original keeps—the oldest wooden keep in Shikoku—as well as the original main gate and masterfully crafted high stone walls, considered the finest example of Japanese stonework.

Among Castle Stay programs, this experience offers a particularly rich variety of activities. Guests can participate in traditional Marugame uchiwa (paper fan) making, senchadō (Japanese tea ceremony) workshops, and many other programs that showcase the unique charm of Kagawa and the Setouchi region.

While reflecting on the history of the castle lords, you are invited to indulge in the rich cultural heritage deeply rooted in Marugame.

 

For more details on Marugame Castle, click here.

 

 

-Fukuyama Castle Castle Stay

 

①History of Fukuyama Castle

 

Built in 1622 (Genna 8) by Katsunari Mizuno, the first lord of the Fukuyama Domain, Fukuyama Castle is a rare example of a Japanese castle that can be viewed up close from a Shinkansen platform. Within the castle grounds, various structures remain, including the main keep, Tsukimi Yagura (moon-viewing turret), and O-yudono (bath house). Among them, Fushimi Yagura and Sujigane Gomon are designated National Important Cultural Properties.

After the 1873 (Meiji 6) Castle Abolition Ordinance, the castle came under the jurisdiction of Hiroshima Prefecture, but the main keep fell into ruin. However, local citizens maintained a strong sense of attachment to Fukuyama Castle, and restoration work on the main keep and Fushimi Yagura was carried out through public donations. Fukuyama Castle is truly a castle sustained by its citizens.

②Contribution to the Local Community

 

In 2022 (Reiwa 4), to commemorate the 400th anniversary of Fukuyama Castle’s construction, extensive renovation work was carried out, and the castle reopened to the public. The main keep’s iron-plated exterior, originally installed for defensive purposes and unique among Japanese castles, was faithfully restored — making Fukuyama Castle the only one in the country with this feature.

In addition, the Fukuyama Castle Museum inside the keep was completely renewed to focus on exhibits showcasing the history of Fukuyama Castle and the Fukuyama Domain. The museum has transformed from a traditional display-based facility into an interactive, entertainment-oriented experience, offering activities such as spear-thrust racing and matchlock rifle shooting simulations.

③Staying at Fukuyama Castle Castle Stay

 

At Fukuyama Castle Castle Stay, guests become the lord of the castle for a day. You can fully enjoy the historical buildings and cultural properties within Fukuyama Castle Park, along with valuable assets such as the intangible cultural heritage and traditional performing arts carefully preserved by Fukuyama City. One of the highlights of the stay is the O-yudono bathhouse, where you can experience a sauna-style bath designed to reflect the Edo period. Relax like a castle lord of the past.

Beyond the castle grounds, the city of Fukuyama still preserves wonderful townscapes and traditions such as Noh performances, Tomonoura, and the Kannabe Honjin (former lodging for feudal lords). In addition to the basic itinerary centered within Fukuyama Castle Park, a variety of programs are available, allowing you to customize your own unique castle lord experience.

 

For more details on Fukuyama Castle, click here.

 

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We have prepared a comparison chart highlighting the features and differences among the three Castle Stays: Ōzu Castle, Marugame Castle, and Fukuyama Castle.

 

– Castle Stay Content Comparison Chart: Ōzu Castle / Marugame Castle / Fukuyama Castle –

〈Basic Information〉

※Click the image to enlarge.

 

〈Additional Content〉

※Click the image to enlarge.

 

 

 

Frequently Asked Questions about Castle Stay

 

Q. If a guest requests customization, can arrangements be made to accommodate their wishes?

A. Yes, we will do our best to accommodate such requests. However, please note that depending on the nature of the request, some arrangements may not be possible due to cultural property preservation guidelines.

 

 

Q. How many people are required to make a reservation for the experience?

A. Reservations can be made starting from 2 guests.

 

 

Q. Until when can I confirm my reservation?

A. In principle, we accept inquiries starting from one month prior to your desired reservation date.

 

 

Q. Can you accommodate dietary restrictions?

A. Yes, we can accommodate dietary restrictions.

 

 

Q. Is there a minimum or maximum age limit for participants?

A. There is no specific age limit. However, please note that some areas within the castle may have steep steps or uneven surfaces.

 

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If you have any other questions or inquiries, please feel free to contact us using the forms below.

 

For Ōzu Castle Castle Stay, click here.

For Marugame Castle Cartle Experience, click here.

For Fukuyama Castle Castle Stay, click here.

 

 

 

Reservation Process

 

①Inquiry

Please contact the VMG General Inquiry Desk (0120-210-289), or submit an inquiry through the contact form for Ōzu Castle, Marugame Castle, or Fukuyama Castle (available at the bottom of the website). When making your inquiry, please indicate your desired date and number of guests. We will check the availability of the facility and activities and contact you with the details. In principle, please contact us between one month and two weeks prior to your desired check-in date.

(Reservation deadlines: For Ōzu Castle Castle Stay and Fukuyama Castle Castle Stay, reservations must be made at least 2 weeks in advance; for Marugame Castle Castle Experience, at least 1 month in advance.)

②Itinerary Confirmation and Agreement

The itinerary may vary depending on weather, season, and other conditions. After prior consultation with you, we will finalize the plan.

 

③Fee Confirmation

Once the date, number of guests, and itinerary have been determined, the fee will be finalized and a provisional reservation will be confirmed. (Please note that additional charges may apply later depending on any additional requests.)

 

④Reservation Procedure

Within one week of the provisional reservation, please review the accommodation agreement, sign the consent form, and pay 10% of the confirmed fee.

 

⑤Reservation Confirmation

Your reservation will be officially confirmed upon receipt of the deposit payment. The remaining balance, minus the deposit, must be paid no later than 21 days prior to your check-in date. (Any additional charges incurred will be settled at check-out.)

 

 

A Unique Travel Experience with Castle Stay

 

Although called “Castle Stay,” the ways to stay and the experiences offered vary by castle, each with its own unique charm.

Staying overnight in a proud Japanese castle is by no means a simple feat. Even if you don’t stay overnight, at Ōzu Castle, we offer Castle Dining—a chance to enjoy a meal while admiring the castle up close. For those interested in initiatives that make use of castles, our concierge is ready to introduce personalized ways for you to enjoy these experiences.

Why not spend a one-of-a-kind time staying in Japan’s valuable castles and experiencing the cultural significance they hold?

ーWant to learn more about Castle Stay?

Click here for the General Inquiry Desk.

 

ーWant to hear more about a specific castle?

For Ōzu Castle Castle Stay, contact us here.

For Marugame Castle Castle Experience, contact us here.

For Fukuyama Castle Castle Stay, contact us here.