CHIBA

Tateyama Castle and Shiroyama Park

A Historic Hilltop Journey Through Samurai Legends and Seasonal Beauty

Experience the perfect blend of history and nature at Shiroyama Park, where Tateyama Castle stands, built on the ruins of the former castle site, over beautiful seasonal gardens and harbor views in southern Chiba Prefecture.

Culture & Arts Nature & Views

Access

Get a glimpse into Japan's warrior past and enjoy the breathtaking beauty of nature throughout the year.

Located on the former grounds of the Satomi clan's fortress, Shiroyama Park wraps around the base of Tateyama Castle, which commands panoramic views of both the southern Boso Peninsula and the Miura Peninsula. The three-story castle, built in 1982, houses the unique Hakkenden Museum, dedicated to a 106-installment epic novel series that romanticizes the Satomi warriors' legendary exploits. This colorful saga, written by Kyokutei Bakin, is considered the longest-running novel series in Japanese history and could even be considered an early predecessor to modern manga and anime.

The Satomi clan established and shifted their strongholds among several castles in the southern Boso Peninsula during Japan’s tumultuous warring states period (1467–1590). They ultimately ruled from Tateyama Castle for over twenty years (1591–1614), defending this strategic position overlooking the vulnerable entrance to Edo Bay. Unlike many castles that relied on complex defensive walls, Tateyama Castle made full use of its elevated terrain as its strongest defense, forcing potential invaders uphill and making the fortress difficult to attack. Today, climbing the same slope rewards visitors with spectacular 360-degree views—the Pacific Ocean to the west, mountain ridges stretching to the east, and the Miura Peninsula visible across Tokyo Bay.

Beyond the castle, Shiroyama Park delights throughout the seasons. Famous across Chiba for cherry blossoms in early spring, the park is also home to camellias, plums, and azaleas, all blossoming at different times of the year. At the base, a cozy cafÃ© and grassy field welcome visitors. There are two paths leading from the base of the hill to the summit, and both connect directly to the castle. From the top, visitors can enjoy views of the city and Kagami-ga-Ura, a calm, mirror-like bay known for its beautiful clarity. On clear days, Mount Fuji can also be seen on the horizon. In the park, visitors will find a traditional Japanese garden and a small museum, with access to the castle available as well. The tea house hosts traditional tea gatherings several times a year.

Whether you're drawn by the warrior history, seasonal blooms, or simply the tranquil beauty of traditional Japanese gardens, Shiroyama Park offers a fulfilling escape from Tokyo, taking you to Tateyama Station in just about two and a half hours. From Tateyama Station, a local bus will take you there in about 10 minutes; get off at “Shiroyama Park-mae.”

Photo courtesy of Tsukahara Landscape Institute co.,Ltd

Address

362 Tateyama, Tateyama City, Chiba Prefecture

Phone number

+81-470-22-8854

Contact

tsp-info@tsukahara-li.co.jp (Shiroyama Park Management Office)

Business hours

Tateyama Castle / Main Museum Building: 9:00 a.m. – 4:45 p.m. (last admission at 4:30 p.m.)
Shiroyama Park: Open daily, 24 hours / Management Office: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. (closed December 29–31)

Holiday

Mondays (open if Monday is a national holiday, closed the following day), and New Year’s holidays.

WEB site

https://tateyamacastle.jp/

Digital Map