The Stone Sentinel: My Solo Visit to Marugame Castle, Kagawa

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Soaring from a towering stone base in the heart of Marugame City, Marugame Castle is a masterpiece of engineering and one of Japan's twelve original castles. It boasts the highest stone walls of any castle in the country, creating a formidable and awe-inspiring presence. For a solo traveler, it's a compact, powerful fortress that offers a challenging climb, rich history, and some of the most breathtaking views in Shikoku.

My Solo Itinerary:

· Morning – The Great Wall & The Ascent: I started by standing at the base of the castle's legendary "Kame-no-Ishigaki" (Turtle Stone Wall), marveling at its immense, curved slope. The climb up the steep stone steps through the gates felt like a true samurai's approach. Reaching the main bailey at the top was a reward in itself. The main keep is small but perfectly formed, housing a museum of samurai artifacts and offering a commanding 360-degree view of the Seto Inland Sea, the Great Seto Bridge, and the Sanuki plains.
· Afternoon – Park Strolls & Udon Pilgrimage: I explored the peaceful Kameyama Park surrounding the castle base. Afterwards, I embarked on a solo culinary quest: Marugame is in Kagawa Prefecture, the undisputed Udon Kingdom. I found a local shop to master the art of eating Sanuki Udon—the perfect, chewy noodles in a delicate broth.
· Evening – Sea Breezes & Castle Silhouettes: I took a short train to the nearby port to feel the sea breeze and see the castle's silhouette against the evening sky. I reflected on my day over a simple, satisfying dinner, perhaps another bowl of udon or fresh local seafood.

Why Marugame Castle is Perfect for Solo Travelers:

· An Architectural Marvel: The sheer scale of the stone walls is a humbling and unforgettable sight.
· Compact & Efficient: You can experience the castle's essence in a few hours, making it a perfect half-day trip.
· A Physical Accomplishment: The climb is steep but short, giving you a real sense of achievement.
· The Ultimate Udon Experience: The castle visit pairs perfectly with exploring Japan's best udon noodle culture.

Tips for Your Visit:

· 🚶 The castle is a 10-minute walk from JR Marugame Station.
· 🍜 Don't be shy in an udon shop—many are self-service. Just point, order, and enjoy!
· 💧 Bring water, especially in summer, as the climb is strenuous.
· 📸 The best photo spot is from the base, looking up at the towering stone walls and the keep.

Marugame Castle is a testament to sheer willpower, built of stone and spirit. It’s a powerful, no-frills samurai experience that stands tall and proud.

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#solojapan #marugamecastle #kagawa #japanesecastle #stonewalls
#sanukiudon #shikokutravel #soloadventure