This castle was Date Masamune’s base of operations for about 10 years before he built Sendai Castle. Following Masamune’s move to Sendai Castle, it was called Iwadeyama Stronghold, and was ruled by the kindred Iwadeyama Date clan. The lush green castle grounds are very spacious and nice to slowly walk around. The standing statue of Date Masamune was originally in Sendai Castle, however, in 1964 the equestrian statue was rebuilt in Sendai castle and Date’s standing statue was moved to Iwadeyama Castle. Also, the area around the castle can get quite snowy in the winter so make sure to check the weather before you visit!

Photograph provided by Tourism Division, Miyagi Prefecture Government