Toyotomi Hidekatsu ruled Gifu castle from 1591 until his death in 1592. He was the son of the younger sister of Toyotomi Hideyoshi (1537–1598) and was married to Oda Nobunaga’s niece, Oeyo (1573–1626). An able warrior, Hidekatsu repeatedly distinguished himself in battle, and was previously awarded with Tamba Kaneyama Castle in Kyoto, and Kofu Castle in Yamanashi.
In early 1591, Hidekatsu was made master of Gifu Castle. A little over a year later, however, under orders from Hideyoshi, Hidekatsu and the samurai of Gifu Castle set off to Korea to assist Hideyoshi’s planned Korean Invasion. Hidekatsu fell ill during the sea crossing and died on Geoje Island, southeast of Busan. Following the death of Hidekatsu, Gifu Castle was given to Oda Hidenobu (1580–1605).