Site of Toyotomi Hideyoshi's Myokenji Castle

The Site of Toyotomi Hideyoshi’s Myokenji Castle is marked by a stone monument in central Kyoto, commemorating the temporary castle that Toyotomi Hideyoshi built as his political headquarters before the construction of Jurakudai.

In 1587, Hideyoshi established a fortified residence within the grounds of Myokenji Temple as he consolidated his control over Japan. From this site, he governed Kyoto, received feudal lords and official envoys, and directed important political affairs during the final stage of Japan’s unification.

Although no original structures remain today, the monument preserves the memory of this important chapter in Kyoto’s late Sengoku-period history.

History

Following his successful Kyushu Campaign in 1587, Toyotomi Hideyoshi strengthened his political authority by constructing a castle within the grounds of Myokenji Temple in Kyoto.

Known as Myokenji Castle, it served as his official residence and administrative headquarters until the completion of the grand Jurakudai Palace in 1588. Many important political meetings and diplomatic receptions took place here, reflecting Hideyoshi’s growing power as Japan’s unifier.

After Jurakudai was completed, the castle was dismantled, and Myokenji Temple was eventually relocated to its present site in northern Kyoto. Today, only the commemorative stone monument marks this historically significant location.

Highlights

Hideyoshi’s First Kyoto Headquarters

Before Jurakudai was completed, this site served as Hideyoshi’s political base in Kyoto.

Center of National Unification

Important political decisions and meetings with feudal lords were held here during Japan’s unification.

Historic Monument

The stone marker commemorates a castle that played a key role in the late Sengoku period.

Link to Jurakudai

Myokenji Castle represents the transition to Hideyoshi’s later grand palace, Jurakudai.

Hidden Piece of Kyoto History

Standing quietly in the modern city, the monument reveals an often-overlooked chapter of Kyoto’s past.

Visit Tips

Although no castle structures survive, this site can easily be combined with visits to other nearby historical landmarks associated with Kyoto’s medieval and early modern history.

Nearby attractions such as Nijo Castle, Shinsen-en Garden, the Site of the Kan’in Imperial Palace, Honno-ji Temple, and the Former Kyoto Prefectural Government Building offer a deeper understanding of Kyoto’s historical development.