ABOUT
About this spot
Kanayama Castle Ruins (Nitta Kanayama Castle) in Ota City, Gunma Prefecture, are known as a mountain castle built in the Sengoku period that makes extensive use of stone walls, which is extremely rare in Kanto. Designated a national historic site, it lets you see up close the advanced civil engineering of the time, including sturdy stonework and mysterious stone-built ponds called "Hi no Ike" and "Tsuki no Ike." A well-maintained hiking trail leads to the castle ruins around the summit of Mt. Kanayama, at an elevation of about 236 meters, making it perfect for a weekend walk that doubles as exercise or a solo trip. Surrounded by rich nature along the way, once you reach the main enclosure site, the vast Kanto Plain spreads out below, and on a clear day you may even see Mt. Fuji and Tokyo Skytree, a truly overwhelming panoramic view. It is a spot even families with children can enjoy like a picnic, in addition to history fans. At the foot of the mountain, the "Kanayama Castle Ruins Guidance Facility," designed by Kengo Kuma, lets you learn in detail about the castle's structure and history, and stopping by before your visit lets you enjoy exploring the ruins more deeply. Come feel the force of the stone walls that have survived through the ages and the refreshing air at the summit.
Last updated March 29, 2026