The castle was built using stone transported from the ruins of the older Yoshida Koriyama Castle.
The base of the donjon, or 'tenshukaku,' is still visible as a stone foundation at the foot of the mountain.
The name 'Shizuki' translates to 'Moon-pointing' or 'Moon-gazing' castle.
During the Edo period, Hagi was a major center for scholars and activists who eventually spearheaded the Meiji Restoration.
The castle grounds contain approximately 600 cherry trees, making it a prominent local location for hanami in spring.
Hagi Castle, also known as Shizuki Castle, was established in 1604 by Mori Terumoto as the administrative center of the Choshu Domain. Unlike many Japanese castles, it was built at the base of Mount Shizuki rather than on a mountain summit, strategically protected by the Sea of Japan and the Hashimoto River. While the original five-story donjon was dismantled in 1874 following the Meiji Restoration, the site remains preserved as Shizuki Park. The landscape retains the original stone walls, moats, and the inner gate, surrounded by water on three sides. It is a designated National Historic Site. The area is heavily forested, featuring cherry trees and mossy stone remnants that define the castle’s footprint. The grounds maintain a layout reflective of Edo-period urban planning. Visitors can walk the perimeter of the former inner bailey and climb the path up the mountainside to the former observation point.
The stone bridge leading into the park, framed by the moat and reflecting the stone walls.
Wear comfortable footwear as the path up to the mountain observation point is unpaved and involves stairs.
Bring mosquito repellent during the summer months due to the dense vegetation and water proximity.
Combine your visit with a walk through the adjacent Horiuchi District to see preserved samurai residences.
Do not mistake the modern city area for the historical Horiuchi castle town; prioritize walking the outskirts of the park for better views of the moat.
Remain on designated paths to protect the moss and vegetation; refrain from climbing or sitting on historic stone walls.
