Kururi Castle

Kimitsu, Japan

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Kururi Castle in Kimitsu, Japan, originated in the early 16th century, built by the Mariyatsu clan, descendants of the Takeda family. It is a mountaintop castle with a history of strategic importance during Japan’s Sengoku period, notably contested between the Satomi and Hojo clans.

The castle was expanded and renovated during the Edo period by Matsudaira Tadamasa, shifting some structures to lower ground to form a castle town. Kururi Castle is known as the "Rain Castle" due to legendary frequent rains that occurred during its construction.

Although the original wooden structures have not survived, the main keep was reconstructed in concrete in 1977 and now functions as a museum showcasing local history and samurai weaponry. The castle offers panoramic views and combines characteristics of both mountain and lowland castles, reflecting its layered military and cultural past.