5 Recommended Tourist Spots in Sekigahara Town – A Fascinating Glimpse into the Battle of Sekigahara

Sekigahara Town is famous for the decisive battle of the “Battle of Sekigahara.” The town is bustling with historical sites such as battlefields and the camp ruins of the Western Army commander Ishida Mitsunari, attracting many Sengoku history enthusiasts. The town is also home to museums and theme parks that explore the history of Sekigahara, offering interactive experiences that engage both the mind and body with the events of the past. In this article, we introduce 5 popular tourist spots in Sekigahara Town.

1. Sekigahara Wonderland

Sekigahara Wonderland is a theme park that re-creates the Battle of Sekigahara with more than 200 life-size statues of warriors and foot soldiers. Inside its indoor armory and armor museum, you can see rare armors worn during the battle. It also displays the charms of the period, including the talismans and helmets used by the foot soldiers, conveying even the minutiae of that era.

Outdoors, throughout the vast grounds, statues re-creating scenes from the battle are displayed, resembling a movie set when viewed from afar. Search for your favorite warrior such as Ishida Mitsunari, Tokugawa Ieyasu, or Otani Yoshitsugu as you explore. You can also visit actual battle sites to feel the weight and depth of history. Among these, the ruins of the camp of the Western Army commander, Ishida Mitsunari, are particularly popular. From there, you can get a panoramic view of Sekigahara, and the camp ruins of the Eastern Army commander, Ieyasu, are also visible. You might be surprised at how close the two camps are.

Sekigahara Wonderland is enjoyable even for those who aren’t well-versed in history, as it serves as both a museum and a walking facility with audio guides. It also features a ninja house called “Ninnin Castle” with a trick door and other curiosities, making it fun even for young children.

2. Sekigahara Limestone Cave

Sekigahara Limestone Cave is a cave with an opening into the village. It is a popular tourist spot visited by families, couples, and local residents alike. The cave is accessible by stroller and wheelchair, which is a great advantage. Inside, the cave is cool with a small stream flowing through it; the water temperature remains around 12°C even in summer. As you venture deeper into the cave, you can see rainbow trout swimming in the stream and even fossils of ancient organisms such as the “Sea Lily,” dating back approximately 500 million years, discovered during excavation.

The natural limestone cave, formed over tens of thousands of years, offers both thrills and captivating beauty with its colors and shapes that are simply mesmerizing. While bats also inhabit the cave, they are usually not encountered during the day, so there is little risk if you visit before dusk. In spring, you can enjoy the blooming of su-dare cherry blossoms and wisteria, in summer the lush greenery, and in autumn, the leaves begin to change color, making it one of the most beautiful times to visit. In winter, the cave transforms into a white wonderland.

3. Gifu Sekigahara Battlefield Memorial Hall

The “Gifu Sekigahara Battlefield Memorial Hall” is an interactive facility opened in October 2020 (Reiwa 2) that provides an easy-to-understand and in-depth look at the famous Battle of Sekigahara, the decisive battle for the fate of Japan.

On the first floor, you will find a “Ground Vision” area featuring a giant screen on the floor, and a theater with an oval screen 13 m wide that projects dynamic battle scenes with great impact.

The second floor is dedicated to exhibits and a Sengoku experience corner. By donning a battle surcoat and helmet, you can transform yourself into a Sengoku warlord and take commemorative photos.

On the fifth floor, a glass-walled observation room offers a 360-degree panoramic view.

In the annex, the restaurant-cafe and shop offer menus and goods inspired by the Battle of Sekigahara. There are plenty of souvenirs for fans of Sengoku warlords, such as family crests in magnet form.

The historical information about Sekigahara can be found in the extensive tourist information section on the first floor. You can also move between exhibits and the History and Folklore Learning Center via a corridor without having to step outside.

4. Sekigahara Town History and Folklore Learning Center

The Sekigahara Town History and Folklore Learning Center is a facility where you can learn broadly about the local history and heritage of Sekigahara Town.

Exhibits are organized into six eras, from prehistoric (Jomon) times to the modern postwar period, showcasing the history and events of Sekigahara Town. There are also interactive displays that let you experience the lifestyle and tools used since the Meiji era.

On the first floor, there is a corner where you can freely read books about the Battle of Sekigahara while taking a break.

5. Eco Museum Sekigahara

Eco Museum Sekigahara is a natural history museum where you can learn about the nature of Sekigahara Town through quizzes and panel displays. The museum features several taxidermied animals, realistically re-created natural settings, interactive ladders, movable specimens, and models—allowing both children and adults to engage actively.

Additionally, there is a high-definition corner, an area dedicated to forest life, and a library. You can see, hear, and touch the natural wonders of Sekigahara for free. Next to the museum, there is also a themed facility focused on the health foods and history related to sesame, so be sure to visit both.

◎ Summary of Tourist Spots in Sekigahara Town, the Decisive Battle Site

When exploring Sekigahara Town, you’ll find that walking through an actual battlefield is incredibly fascinating. Even if you don’t have an in-depth knowledge of history, exploring the area on foot will offer a refreshing change of pace. For history buffs, walking the grounds and looking at the armor of the Sengoku warlords, exclaiming “They used to wear armor like this!” or “They fought right here!” will provide a sense of genuine surprise. Visit the various museums and historical sites, and be sure to immerse yourself in the rich historical and natural heritage of Sekigahara Town.