Sasayama Castle

Constructed in 1609 by order of Tokugawa Ieyasu, this site served as the administrative center for the local domain. The castle was designed by Ikeda Terumasa and Todo Takatora as a strategic stronghold, though it functioned more as a government hub than a military fortress. While most of the original buildings were dismantled during the Meiji Restoration, the area is now protected as a National Historic Site.

The Great Study (Oshoin) stands as a significant architectural reconstruction within the grounds. Originally completed in 1609 and destroyed by fire in 1944, the building was rebuilt in 2000 based on historical photographs and records. Its large-scale traditional design is noted for its similarity to the Ninomaru Palace at Nijo Castle. The interior now serves as a museum dedicated to the history of the region.

The complex retains its historical layout, including well-preserved moats and stone walls, despite the fact that a main castle tower was never erected. The grounds are open to the public as a park and were listed among Japan's Top 100 Castles in 2006.