Castle & Palace · Azuchi / Omi-Hachiman

Kannonji Castle Ruins 観音寺城跡

Vast mountain castle of the Rokkaku clan covering Mt Kinugasa, with early large-scale stone walls.

HoursAlways open (Kannonshoji route 8:00-17:00)

PriceVia Kannonshoji Temple: ¥500

Getting thereJR Azuchi Station, about 1 hr hike; or car to Kannonshoji

Time needed2-3 hours

Best timeAutumn

AddressAzuchicho Ishidera, Omihachiman, Shiga 521-1331

About

Kannonji Castle, seat of the Sasaki-Rokkaku clan, spread across the whole of Mt Kinugasa and is said to be Japan's largest mountain castle. Its stone walls predate Azuchi. Most visitors hike up via Kannonshoji Temple. One of the 100 Fine Castles of Japan.

Highlights

100 Fine Castles of Japan
Early stone walls
Combine with Kannonshoji Temple and Azuchi

Tips

Entry via Kannonshoji side: 500 yen temple fee, 8:00-17:00
Good walking shoes needed

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Kannonji Castle Ruins 観音寺城跡

About

Highlights

Tips

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