Furumiya Castle, Japanese castle ruins in Shinshiro, Japan
Furumiya Castle is a Japanese castle site in Shinshiro where stone foundations and earthen ramparts remain visible on elevated terrain. The layout demonstrates how Hirayama construction methods incorporated the natural slope as part of the defensive design.
General Baba Nobuharu established the castle in 1571 under the command of warlord Takeda Shingen during a period when powerful clans were rapidly expanding their territories. This founding marked a key moment in the military reorganization of the Aichi region.
The layout reveals how builders used the land itself as a defensive tool, positioning structures to control views across the surrounding valleys. Walking through the site, visitors can sense why this location mattered for controlling movement in the region.
Wear sturdy shoes when exploring, as the ground is uneven with various fortification remains that need careful footing. The pathways are marked but require attention to your steps at all times.
The site gained official recognition in 2017 as one of Japan's top 100 castles, affirming its enduring historical importance. This designation draws attention to its role in understanding 16th century military architecture and regional strategies.
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