Komine Castle is one of the most important historic landmarks of Shirakawa, located about 500 meters north of JR Shirakawa Station. The castle was built by skillfully utilising the natural hills and terrace landforms along the southern bank of the Abukuma River, forming a hirayama-style castle (a castle built on a hill within a flat area). The elevation difference of about 15 meters between the main bailey and the secondary bailey contributed to its strong defensive design. The origins of Komine Castle date back to the mid-14th century, and it was later extensively renovated in the early Edo period, when it was developed into a kakukaku-style layout (a stepped arrangement of multiple enclosures) reinforced with impressive stone walls. Because of its strategic position and solid construction, the castle played an important role as a gateway guarding the southern entrance to the Tohoku region. In 1868, during the Boshin War, the castle was destroyed by fire, but preservation and restoration efforts began in the late 20th century. The three-story turret was reconstructed in wood in 1991, followed by the main gate in 1994, based on historical drawings and archaeological research, and today the site is maintained as a historic park admired for its stone walls and seasonal scenery, especially cherry blossoms in spring. Adjacent to the castle grounds stands the Komine Castle History Museum, a visitor-friendly guidance facility that introduces the castle’s history through models, panels, and visual displays. A highlight is the immersive VR theater, where Edo-period Komine Castle is recreated on a 270-degree screen, allowing visitors to experience the scale and atmosphere of the castle in an easy-to-understand way. Nearby, the Ninomaru Chaya offers a relaxing place to dine or take a break while enjoying views of the castle grounds. The menu features local specialties, including the popular Shirakawa Daruma Burger, making it an enjoyable stop during a walk around the ruins. Together, Komine Castle, its history museum, and Ninomaru Chaya provide a well-balanced cultural experience that combines history, scenery, and local food, offering visitors an accessible and memorable introduction to Shirakawa’s heritage.

© Sébastien Raineri