飯田城
Iida Castle
Overview
Iida Castle in Nagano Prefecture sits on a terrace above the Tenryū River in the Ina Valley, surrounded by the South and Central Alps. Originally built around 1394–1428 by the Sakanishi clan, it became a key Takeda domain fortress before passing through multiple lords in the Edo period. The castle ruins now house the Iida City Museum, with several original gates surviving. The Ina Valley nurtured a sword culture focused on practical, durable blades suited to its mountain warriors, with strong connections to Takeda and Tokugawa military traditions.
Connection to Swords
Iida Castle's sword heritage is shaped by Takeda Shingen's systematic patronage of swordsmiths in Kai and Shinano Provinces. Takeda warriors were renowned for their cavalry, which demanded the finest, most durable blades. The legend of Shingen's 'Raikirimaru' and the storied swords of the twenty-four Takeda generals remain celebrated in sword lore. The Ina Valley's quality iron sands and Tenryū River water provided ideal conditions for forging steel, producing South Shinano blades known for practical strength. Successive Edo-period lords — Wakisaka, Hori, and Ii clans — each brought notable sword collections to Iida. The Iida City Museum holds regional swords and armor tracing the area's martial heritage.
Highlights
- Iida City Museum (on the honmaru site; nature, history, and culture of South Shinano)
- 400-year-old weeping cherry tree ('Lady of the Castle')
- Three surviving castle gates from the Edo period
- Views of the South and Central Alps flanking the Ina Valley
- Iida mizuhiki cord craft (nationally designated traditional craft)
- Tenryūkyō Gorge (Tenryū River scenic boat trips)
* Opening hours and admission fees are subject to change. Please check the official website before visiting.
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