Hitotsuyanagi Castle, Japanese castle in Yamanaka, Japan
Hitotsuyanagi Castle is a mountain fortress in Yamanaka built on a hilltop with stone foundations and earthen fortifications that cover the slope. The site contains level terraces where buildings once stood, connected by pathways that still follow the original layout.
The fortress was built in the late 1500s when regional lords constructed fortifications to defend their lands during Japan's period of internal conflicts. It served as a defense point for the territory and those who lived under its protection.
The castle site represents the feudal architecture of Japan's military past, reflecting the organizational structure of samurai society in Yamanaka.
The site is accessible on foot with information signs explaining the layout and features of the fortification. Wear sturdy shoes since the terrain is uneven and slopes can be steep in places.
The remaining foundation stones and earthworks demonstrate the engineering methods used by Japanese castle builders to integrate natural terrain defenses.
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