Kishiwada Castle is classified as a flatland castle (its layout: Rinkakushiki), and is located in Ōsaka. During the pre-modern age, it found itself within the borders of Izumi Province. It is associated with the Koide, Matsudaira (Matsui), Okabe clans. Dates in use: 1597 - 1871.

Fortifications had existed near the current site of Kishiwada castle since the 1300's when a fort was built by Takaie Nigita, nephew of Kusunoki Masashige. In 1585, after Toyotomi Hideyoshi conquered the region, the area was awarded to the Koide clan who then undertook construction of the castle we see today.

And, remaining from that time are the stone foundations of the Honmaru & the Ni-no-maru along with their surrounding moats. It is unfortunate that every building has been reconstructed. Most unfortunate though, is that the main tower isn't an exact replica of the original Tenshu.The most obvious difference being it was rebuilt with three stories instead of five.

An interesting feature of the castle is the unique Hachi Jin no Niwa rock garden which was completed around the same time as the buildings were reconstructed in the mid 1950's.

Timeline

1585	The Koide clan were transferred here & commenced construction of the castle.
1597	A five-story main tower was completed.
1619	The Matsui branch of the Matsudaira clan were transferred here.
1640	The Okabe clan were transferred here.
1827	The main tower burnt to the ground after being struck by lightning.
1871	The castle was decommissioned.
1954	A concrete, three-story main tower was built.
1969	The turrets & walls were rebuilt.

Historical recognition

Site	Prefectural Historic Site