Hirosaki Castle keep to be hand-pulled back to original position
Approximately 1,800 volunteers are using the traditional hikiya technique to move the 360-tonne structure in northern Japan, a process scheduled to conclude by the end of August 2026.
In a significant exercise of traditional engineering, approximately 1,800 participants in northern Japan have begun manually pulling the 360-tonne keep of Hirosaki Castle. The operation utilises the hikiya technique, a method that involves placing the entire structure on rollers to facilitate movement without the need for dismantling.
The relocation is part of a broader restoration effort following the initial move of the keep in 2015. At that time, the structure was shifted to allow for repairs to its earthquake-damaged stone wall. The current campaign aims to bring the keep closer to its original position, effectively reversing the temporary displacement required for the earlier construction work.
According to France 24 International, the participants involved in the physical labour were selected through a lottery system. This selection process underscores the communal nature of the project, relying on a large cohort of volunteers to manage the weight and momentum of the historic building.
The moving efforts are scheduled to continue until the end of August 2026. While the timeline suggests a specific conclusion date, the project remains an ongoing logistical challenge that requires sustained coordination among the selected participants.
The use of hikiya highlights a preference for traditional methods in heritage restoration, allowing the structural integrity of the keep to be maintained during transit. By avoiding disassembly, the project minimises the risk of damage to the historical fabric of the castle.
As the keep is drawn closer to its original site, the operation serves as a testament to the collaborative governance and community involvement required to manage large-scale infrastructure projects in Japan.
