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GUJO HACHIMAN IS home to a fine feudal castle that sits
on a hill overlooking the valley and the town. The original castle, which
has since been rebuilt, was built in 1559 by feudal lord Endo Morikazu.
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Gujo Hachiman
Castle |
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A
short hike up to the castle gives visitors a spectacular view of the town
and surrounding valley, and is a pleasant, quiet place to sit and relax. |
| View from Gujo Hachiman castle |
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location on Mount Hachiman was chosen as the rivers surrounding the town
formed a natural moat protecting both the castle and a small area at the
foot of the mountain below the castle where the town is. |
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Castle Autumn night view |
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For
three hundred years the castle served as a lookout and home to 19 generations
of feudal lords and their families. |
| Castle roof detail |
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| Most castles in Japan are
surrounded by cherry trees and are especially beautiful in the Spring. Gujo
Hachiman castle is surrounded by maple trees, which make Autumn the best
season in which to visit. |
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Castle gate |
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The Maple Leaf Festival held
in November includes tea ceremony and koto demonstrations in a
colourful setting overlooking the town. |
| Gujo Hachiman Castle Autumn view |
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