Nobunaga’s Mountain Fortress & Matenose Hiking Route
##Introduction
Gifu Castle is a historic mountain castle famous as the base of Oda Nobunaga, who declared his vision of national unification under the slogan “Tenka Fubu.”It is also closely connected to Toyotomi Hideyoshi and his brother Toyotomi Hidenaga, making it an important site in late Sengoku history.I actually climbed the castle using the Matenose hiking route, not the ropeway, and explored the summit keep, stone walls, pagoda, garden, castle stamp, and goshuin-style castle seal.This guide covers highlights and practical visitor tips.
##Historical Importance of Gifu Castle
Gifu Castle stands on top of Mt. Kinka and served as a key stronghold during the Sengoku period.From this castle, Nobunaga expanded his power and promoted his “Tenka Fubu” policy.Because of this, the castle is considered one of the symbolic sites of Japanese unification history.The area later became important to the Toyotomi administration as well.
##Climbing via the Matenose Route (Hiking Experience)
Instead of taking the ropeway, I chose the Matenose hiking course.
Features of this route:
★Short but very steep
★Rocky terrain
★Requires proper shoes
★Strong “castle attack” feeling
★Great for active travelers
If you want a real mountain-castle experience, this route is highly recommended.
##The Main Keep and Summit Stone Walls
At the summit, the castle keep offers a wide panoramic view over the Nōbi Plain.
Highlights include:
★Mountain-top defensive layout
★Remaining stone wall structures
★Strategic elevation
★Excellent observation position
★Realistic mountain fortress atmosphere
It helps visitors understand why this site was militarily powerful.
##Stone Walls Around the Second Gate Area
Near the Second Gate ruins, you can see impressive stone wall remains.
Look for:
★Different stone stacking styles
★Repair traces
★Defensive angles
★Layered construction periods
Great photo spots for castle fans.
##Three-Story Pagoda and Garden Area
At the foot area of the mountain, there is a beautiful three-story pagoda and garden zone.
This area is:
★Scenic and photogenic
★Easier walking terrain
★Suitable for families
★Good before or after the climb
It adds cultural and visual value to the visit.
##Castle Seal & Stamp
Gifu Castle offers:
★Castle seal (goshuin-style)
★Japan Top 100 Castles stamp
Collectors should not miss these items.
They are popular among castle travelers.
👇️ You can also purchase it here
【楽天市場】金色御城印★裏面も金色の豪華な御城印 登城記念 【御城印ハガキサイズ 3519 岐阜城】オリジナル御城印 人気100城 金之助: 金之助商店 TOUKA 御朱印帳 ギフト金色御城印★裏面も金色の豪華な御城印 登城記念 【御城印ハガキサイズ 3519 岐阜城】オリジナル御城印 人気100城 金之助item.rakuten.co.jp
##Access
Location: Gifu City, Gifu PrefectureAccess options:
★Ropeway to near the summit
★Multiple hiking trails
★Matenose route for experienced walkers
Allow extra time if hiking up.
##Conclusion
Gifu Castle is one of the most historically important mountain castles in Japan.Climbing via the Matenose route gives a powerful sense of Sengoku-era strategy and terrain.With summit views, stone walls, cultural spots, and collectible stamps, it is well worth visiting for both history lovers and active travelers.
Read the full Japanese guide here:
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