Izushi Castle Site and Arikoyama Inari Shrine
Castles had been built in two previous locations before one was finally completed at the base of Mt. Ariko in 1604, at the beginning of the Tokugawa period. After the Tokugawa regime case to and end, in 1868 the castle building was demolished, but parts of it were reconstructed, including the sumi yagura (corner tower) in 1968 and the Tojo gate and bridge in 1994. The original stone walls and the moat surrounding the castle remain in place. Izushi Castle was built on a hill, and the castle site boasts wonderful views as well as a number of cherry trees, making it a beautiful spot to visit in the spring during sakura season.
Within the castle grounds is a flight of stone steps lined with approximately 40 red torii gates leading up to Arikoyama Inari Shrine, a peaceful place surrounded by ancient trees and lush greenery. The shrine is also an excellent lookout point from which to enjoy expansive views of the centuries-old layout of Izushi castle town.