land near a castle; area below a castle
Refers to the area directly surrounding or at the foot of a castle, often implying the territory under the castle's influence.
The rural landscape spreading out below the castle is beautiful.
Often used in the compound 城下町 (じょうかまち) to refer to a town that developed around a castle. As a standalone word, it can still carry this meaning, especially in historical contexts.
See also: 城下町 (じょうかまち)
This castle town was once bustling with samurai and merchants.
Hikone developed as the castle town of the Ii clan.
Many samurai lived in the area surrounding the castle.