The castle is nicknamed 'Kasumiga-jo' or 'Mist Castle' because it appears to float in the mist during the spring cherry blossom season.
The original wooden structure has survived multiple earthquakes, including a major tremor in 1948 that caused the keep to collapse; it was later rebuilt using 80% of the original timber.
Unlike many other castles that feature white plaster, the exterior of the keep is primarily wood, emphasizing its historical construction methods.
The steep stairs inside the keep are positioned at a 65-degree angle, requiring visitors to use handrails to ascend safely.
The roof tiles, made from local volcanic ash stone, turn a distinct dark grey or blue hue when wet.
The castle grounds contain a monument dedicated to O-shizu, a one-eyed woman who legend suggests was buried alive in the foundation to stabilize the wall.
It is one of the few castles in Japan that retains its original, pre-Meiji Restoration wooden architectural integrity.
The castle grounds function as a designated historical park that hosts the annual Maruoka Castle Cherry Blossom Festival.
Maruoka Castle is one of only twelve Japanese castles featuring an original, surviving tenshu (keep) built in the Edo period or earlier. Constructed in 1576 by Shibata Katsutoyo under the orders of Oda Nobunaga, it is the oldest existing wooden castle tower in Japan. The three-story, three-level structure utilizes heavy stone roof tiles called shakudani stones, which are resistant to Fukui's heavy winter snowfall. The interior features extremely steep, narrow wooden stairs designed for defensive purposes during a siege. The castle is officially designated as a National Important Cultural Property. Located atop a small hill, the keep provides panoramic views of the surrounding Sakai plains. The surrounding park area is known for housing approximately 400 Yoshino cherry trees. The structure is one of the few remaining examples of the 'nosura-zumi' style of stone wall construction, which uses unhewn stones.
From the park paths during cherry blossom season, looking upward to capture the keep framed by flowers.
Wear sensible, non-slip footwear as the interior wooden stairs are exceptionally steep and worn smooth.
Avoid carrying large backpacks inside the keep, as the narrow passageways and low ceilings make maneuverability difficult.
Visit the onsite historical museum located at the base of the hill to view artifacts discovered during restoration efforts.
Do not attempt to climb the internal stairs quickly; they are steep and can be slippery.
You must remove your shoes before entering the castle keep; socks are highly recommended.
