ABOUT
About this spot
Odani Castle Ruins in Nagahama City, Shiga Prefecture, is a spot full of historical romance, preserving the tragic story of Azai Nagamasa, who ruled northern Omi in the Warring States period, and his wife Oichi. Counted among Japan's Five Great Mountain Castles, the entire 495-meter Mt. Odani was fortified, and earthworks and stone wall remains showing the high level of civil engineering of the time are still strongly preserved today. The recommended way to enjoy it is to prepare at the "Odani Castle Sengoku History Museum" at the foot of the mountain, then climb the hiking course. By visiting the Bansho site, the main enclosure site and the Ohiroma site, said to be where Nagamasa and Oichi spent their last days, you can feel firsthand the lives of the samurai of the time and the tense situation. The view from near the summit is also wonderful, with a spectacular panorama of Lake Biwa, Chikubu Island and Mt. Ibuki far in the distance. The nature is rich in every season, and in the fresh green and autumn foliage seasons in particular, you can enjoy a historical stroll and a scenic hike at once. From a quiet visit to historic sites alone to an active holiday with family and friends, it offers a valuable experience to a wide range of generations.
Last updated March 30, 2026