The castle was designated as a National Treasure in 1936, but this status was revoked after the original structure was destroyed by air raids in 1945.
The 1595 renovation of the castle was directed by the warlord Ito Sukeyoshi, who added a four-story keep.
During the Battle of Sekigahara, the castle was the strategic headquarters for the Western Army before they moved to the battlefield.
The castle is nicknamed 'Kyoro-jo' or 'Bison Castle' due to its distinct architectural style.
The current museum collection includes original documents related to the Tokugawa shogunate's administration of the region.
Ogaki Castle is a four-story reconstruction of a 16th-century fortress, originally built to serve as the stronghold of the Ogaki domain. The current structure, completed in 1959, serves as a museum housing artifacts from the Battle of Sekigahara. It is historically significant for its role in the 1600 conflict, where it acted as a base for Ishida Mitsunari's Western Army. The interior exhibits feature Samurai armor, weapons, and historical documents detailing the local lord's governance. The building utilizes reinforced concrete construction while maintaining the exterior aesthetic of the Edo-period original. It stands within Ogaki Park, which retains some of the original stone walls and moats. Visitors can access an observation deck on the top floor that provides views of the surrounding Gifu plains.
From the park paths during cherry blossom season, capturing the castle keep reflected in the moat.
Visit the top floor observation deck early in the day to get the clearest views of the Ibuki Mountains.
Combine your visit with a walk through the surrounding park, which is particularly notable during the cherry blossom season.
Check the museum's display rotations, as Samurai armor sets are occasionally swapped to preserve the materials.
Do not attempt to climb on the exterior stone walls as they are historic remnants and protected.
Closed on Tuesdays and during the end-of-year holidays.
Remove shoes at the entrance and store them in provided lockers; do not touch the armor or fragile artifacts.
