Otsu Castle Ruins

Otsu Castle Ruins (大津城跡), once a formidable fortress standing proudly on the shores of Lake Biwa, was constructed in 1586 by Asano Nagamasa, a devoted retainer of Toyotomi Hideyoshi. Initially called Sakamoto Castle, it was later relocated to Otsu, where it expanded into a massive stronghold with a surrounding castle town. This area, now part of the modern Hamaotsu district, was strategically significant throughout the region’s history, offering a commanding view of the lake and surrounding lands, which made it a crucial military site during feudal Japan.

Following the Battle of Sekigahara, the castle was dismantled and moved to Zeze, with many of its materials, including those from its main keep, repurposed to build Hikone Castle. Today, all that remains of this once-mighty fortress is a stone monument near Otsu Port, serving as a silent reminder of its historical importance. Despite the castle’s ruins, a visit to the site offers a captivating glimpse into the region’s past and the role it played in shaping the local history and culture.