The History of Muya Castle
Origins and Early Lords
The castle’s origins are believed to date back to an early period, and it is said to have served as a residence of the Ogasawara clan. However, the details of its founding remain uncertain. In later years, the Shinomiya clan, retainers of the powerful Miyoshi clan, became its lords.
In 1582, during the Sengoku period, Chosokabe Motochika advanced into Awa Province, the historical name for much of present-day Tokushima Prefecture. Muya Castle was defended by Mashita Hida-no-kami, who served under Chosokabe.
Muya Castle Under the Hachisuka Clan
In 1585, following Toyotomi Hideyoshi’s campaign to bring Shikoku under his control, Hachisuka Iemasa became the new ruler of Awa Province. A network of nine castles, known collectively as the Awa Nine Castles, was established to support the defense and administration of the domain. Muya Castle was among them and served as one of the supporting castles of Tokushima Castle.
Masatada Masuda later served as the castle’s appointed caretaker. The castle was eventually abandoned in 1638, following the shogunate’s one-castle-per-domain policy, which required the abolition of additional castles within each domain.
What Remains Today
Castle Ruins and the Replica Keep
Traces of the castle’s enclosures and stone walls remain at the historic site. The hill where the ruins stand has been developed as Myoken-san Park, a public park that combines historical interest with green spaces and seasonal scenery.
Near the summit stands a three-tiered replica castle keep. This structure was built for tourism and is not part of the original Muya Castle. Nevertheless, its distinctive silhouette has become a recognizable feature of the hill and a landmark for visitors exploring the park.
From Museum to Community Facility
The replica keep was formerly used as the Tokushima Prefectural Torii Ryuzo Memorial Museum. The museum commemorated Torii Ryuzo, an anthropologist and archaeologist born in Naruto City who became known for his research into human societies and cultures.
In November 2010, the museum relocated to Tokushima Bunka-no-Mori Park in Tokushima City. The former museum building was subsequently renovated and reopened in March 2016 as a community facility called Toride Naruto.
Toride Naruto: A Community and Cultural Facility
The name “Toride Naruto” combines a reference to the Torii family name with the Japanese word toride, meaning a fortress or stronghold. The name expresses the hope that the facility will serve as a stronghold for the local community and its residents.
The building is a four-story reinforced-concrete structure designed in the style of a three-tiered castle keep. It has a total floor area of 449.86 square meters and stands 17.5 meters tall.
Facilities and Views
Inside, visitors can find meeting rooms available for public use and a gallery for community exhibitions. The building also serves an important practical purpose as an evacuation shelter during disasters.
The observation area on the top floor provides panoramic views of Naruto City and the surrounding sea. On match days for Tokushima Vortis, the local football team, the building may be illuminated in the team’s signature blue, adding a distinctive touch to the evening landscape.
Explore Myoken-san Park
Myoken-san Park occupies the former grounds of Okazaki Castle, also known as Muya Castle. Located in Hayasaki, Muya-cho, Naruto City, the park offers a combination of historic castle remains, natural scenery, and cultural attractions.
Myoken Shrine
Near the summit of Mount Myoken, Myoken Shrine remains an important place of worship for the local community. Its peaceful setting adds a spiritual dimension to a visit to the former castle grounds.
Naruto Gallé Forest Museum
The area has also been associated with the Naruto Gallé Forest Museum, which features works by Émile Gallé, the celebrated 19th-century French glass artist. The museum has added an artistic dimension to the area’s historical and natural appeal. Visitors should check current operating information before planning a visit.
A Famous Cherry Blossom Destination
Myoken-san Park is well known for its cherry blossoms. In spring, the park attracts visitors who come to enjoy hanami, the traditional Japanese custom of viewing cherry blossoms with family and friends.
The combination of flowering trees, historic remains, and elevated views makes the park a pleasant place for a seasonal stroll and a relaxing break during a sightseeing trip to Naruto.
Former Facilities in the Park
The park once housed the Atsu Museum, which closed on November 4, 2001. The Tokushima Prefectural Torii Ryuzo Memorial Museum also operated here before moving to Tokushima Bunka-no-Mori Park in Tokushima City in November 2010.
How to Get to Muya Castle Ruins
By Train and Bus
From JR Naruto Station on the Naruto Line, the site is approximately a 15-minute walk. Alternatively, take a Naruto City bus to the Myoken-san Park bus stop and walk for about five minutes.
By Car
The site is approximately a 10-minute drive from Naruto Interchange on the Kobe-Awaji-Naruto Expressway. Parking is available, making the area convenient for visitors traveling by car.
Experience the History and Scenery of Naruto
Muya Castle and Myoken-san Park offer an engaging introduction to the history and culture of Naruto City. Visitors can discover the story of a former strategic castle, explore surviving traces of its fortifications, and enjoy the park’s seasonal beauty.
Toride Naruto adds a contemporary community dimension to the historic setting, with its observation area offering views across the city and sea. Whether you are interested in Japanese castle history, spring cherry blossoms, or scenic viewpoints, this hillside destination is a worthwhile stop during a visit to Tokushima Prefecture.