Tsu Castle Ruins (Oshiro Park)

Located in central Tsu City, Mie Prefecture, the Tsu Castle Ruins (Oshiro Park) are in an area that once thrived as a castle town. Today, it’s a beautiful park cherished as a relaxing spot for locals.

In 1580, Tsu Castle was built by Nobukane, the younger brother of Oda Nobunaga, a leading warlord of the Sengoku period. It was later extensively renovated by Todo Takatora, known as a master castle builder. You can enjoy remains such as the main keep base and turret bases, as well as stone walls from each era, from the Sengoku period to the Meiji period.

Inside the park, a calm Japanese garden and a vibrant Western-style garden sit side by side, with beautiful seasonal scenery throughout the year. In spring, the contrast between moss-covered stone walls and cherry blossoms is especially striking, and the park is also known as one of Tsu City’s best cherry blossom spots. Another highlight is how it shows different looks year-round, with hydrangeas in early summer and autumn foliage in fall.

A horseback statue of Todo Takatora is also on display, letting you feel the presence of this great castle builder. Be sure to take photos to remember your visit.