In 1615, the Tokugawa Shogunate issued the "One Castle per Domain" edict to curb the military power of regional lords. Hundreds of castles throughout Japan were forcibly destroyed as a result. A rare exemption from the edict, Shiroishi Castle was spared as the Date clan’s second castle. Although destroyed by fire in 1819, it was rebuilt four years later. In 1874, the castle buildings were demolished as Japan modernized. In 1995, its three-story keep and main gates were faithfully restored using traditional timber joinery, making Shiroishi one of the few castles in Japan rebuilt with authentic wooden construction methods. During construction, some 1,700 residents even inscribed their names and wishes on the roof tiles.

In the morning quiet, clad in samurai armor, look out at the sunrise from the top of Shiroishi Castle. Hear the castle’s legends, learn how it was built for defense, and take photos of this rare experience. Enjoy the same view samurai saw 400 years ago.